High chairs are an essential piece of furniture for parents with young children. They are designed to provide a safe and secure place for babies and toddlers to sit while they eat, play, or interact with their surroundings. High chairs are typically elevated from the ground, allowing children to sit at the same level as adults and making it easier for parents to feed or interact with their children.
The primary role of a high chair is to ensure the safety of the child while they are sitting and eating. High chairs are designed with various safety features, such as a sturdy base, secure straps, and a harness to keep the child in place. This helps to prevent accidents such as falls or tipping over the chair.
High chairs also provide a comfortable and convenient place for children to eat. They typically have a tray that can be easily removed for cleaning, and many models have adjustable height and recline features to accommodate children of different ages and sizes. This makes it easier for parents to feed their children and for the child to learn to feed themselves.
Overall, high chairs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and comfort of young children during meal times. Parents need to choose a high-quality, safe, and reliable high chair to ensure the well-being of their child.
This guide provides parents with information and guidance on selecting the best high chair for their child based on their specific needs and requirements. We will provide an overview of the different types of high chairs available and the features and factors to consider when purchasing. Additionally, we will offer tips on ensuring the high chair is safe and comfortable for your child and how to maintain and clean it properly. By the end of this guide, parents should better understand what to look for when choosing a high chair and make an informed decision that meets their family’s needs.
Our Top Picks
BEST OVERALL: Stokke Clikk High Chair
MOST COMFORTABLE HIGH CHAIR: Graco DuoDiner DLX 6 in 1 Convertible High Chair
STURDIEST: Peg Perego Siesta High Chair
BEST HIGH CHAIR FOR SMALL SPACES: Joovy Nook High Chair
BEST BUDGET: The Ingenuity Beanstalk Baby to Big Kid 6-in-1 High Chair
BEST CONVERTIBLE HIGH CHAIR: Maxi-Cosi Moa 8-in-1 Highchair
BEST MODERN HIGH CHAIR: Lalo The Chair Convertible 3-in-1 High Chair
BEST FOR TODDLERS: Ergobaby Evolve Baby Essentials Portable High Chair
BEST DESIGN: Munchkin 360 Cloud High Chair
The Importance of Baby Monitors
High chairs are essential pieces of baby equipment crucial in ensuring infants’ and toddlers’ safety, comfort, and development. Here’s a brief introduction to the importance of high chairs:
- Safety and Security: High chairs are designed with safety features such as harnesses and secure straps to keep babies and young children stable and upright. This reduces the risk of falling or sliding off the chair during meals, minimizing potential accidents and injuries.
- Mealtime Convenience: High chairs provide a designated space for feeding babies and toddlers. They allow children to sit at the same height as the dining table, making it easier for caregivers to feed them and interact during mealtime. This promotes positive eating habits and social development.
- Proper Posture and Development: High chairs support a child’s posture during mealtime. This encourages them to sit up straight, essential for their physical development, including strengthening core muscles and improving overall posture.
- Mess Management: High chairs are equipped with trays and surfaces that can be easily cleaned. This helps contain food spills and messes, making mealtime more manageable and reducing the need for extensive clean-up after each feeding.
- Independence and Learning: High chairs allow children to explore and interact with food, utensils, and tableware. This independence fosters fine motor skills, self-feeding abilities, and a sense of autonomy as children learn to feed themselves.
- Family Bonding: High chairs promote family togetherness during mealtime. Allowing the child to sit at the table with the rest of the family encourages bonding, social interaction, and the development of good eating habits through observation and participation.
- Versatility: Many high chairs are adjustable and can grow with the child. They can be adapted to accommodate different stages of a child’s development, from infancy to toddler years. Some high chairs can even be converted into booster or regular chairs, making them a cost-effective investment.
In summary, high chairs are indispensable for parents and caregivers of infants and toddlers. They provide a safe and comfortable space for mealtime, facilitate proper posture and development, help manage messes, encourage independence, and promote family bonding. These versatile baby equipment are valuable to any home with young children.
Different Types of High Chairs
High chairs come in various types, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Here’s a list and explanation of different kinds of high chairs available in the market:
Traditional High Chair:
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- Description: Traditional high chairs are the most common type and have been a household staple for many years. They typically consist of a standalone chair with a tray, safety harness, and adjustable height options.
- Advantages: They are sturdy, provide a dedicated space for feeding, and often have multiple adjustable features to accommodate growing children.
- Considerations: Traditional high chairs can take up more space and may not be as easily portable as other types.
Convertible High Chair:
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- Description: Convertible high chairs are designed to adapt as a child grows. They can transform into different configurations, such as a high chair, booster seat, or regular chair.
- Advantages: These high chairs offer long-term value, as they can be used from infancy through the toddler years and beyond.
- Considerations: They can be more expensive than traditional high chairs, but the investment pays off in versatility.
Space-Saving High Chair:
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- Description: Space-saving high chairs are designed for smaller homes or kitchens. They typically attach to a regular dining chair or clip onto a table.
- Advantages: They save floor space, are suitable for apartments or small kitchens, and still provide a secure elevated seat.
- Considerations: Some designs may have fewer features than traditional high chairs.
Travel High Chair:
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- Description: Travel high chairs are lightweight and highly portable, making them ideal for use in restaurants, traveling, or at friends’ homes.
- Advantages: They are easy to fold and transport, ensuring your child has a safe and clean place to eat when away from home.
- Considerations: They may not be as feature-rich as standard high chairs.
Booster Seat:
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- Description: Booster seats are not traditional high chairs but are essential for transitioning toddlers to the family dining table. They secure a regular dining chair to boost a child’s height.
- Advantages: They help children sit comfortably at the table, promote social interaction, and are space-efficient.
- Considerations: Booster seats are typically used for older toddlers and preschoolers.
Hook-On High Chair:
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- Description: Hook-on high chairs or clip-on high chairs attach to the edge of a table. They are convenient for dining out or when space is limited.
- Advantages: They are compact, portable, and allow children to eat at a standard table with the family.
- Considerations: Some designs may not be suitable for all table types, and children must be supervised using them.
Multi-Function High Chair:
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- Description: Multi-function high chairs have additional features like infant recline options, multiple height adjustments, and the ability to convert into a rocking chair or play seat.
- Advantages: These high chairs offer versatility and functionality, accommodating a range of ages and activities.
- Considerations: They can be bulkier and more expensive than straightforward high chair types.
Foldable High Chair:
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- Description: Foldable high chairs can be folded down for compact storage when not in use. They are ideal for those with limited storage space.
- Advantages: They save space and are convenient to store or transport.
- Considerations: Some foldable designs may be less sturdy than traditional high chairs.
Wooden High Chair:
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- Description: Wooden high chairs have a more traditional and elegant appearance, typically made from sturdy wood.
- Advantages: They are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and can complement home decor.
- Considerations: Wooden high chairs may require more maintenance and be heavier than others.
When selecting a high chair, consider your space, budget, and your child’s specific needs. Each type of high chair has its advantages and considerations, so choose the one that best fits your family’s lifestyle.
Key Features to Look for in a High Chair
Selecting the right high chair for your child is essential to ensure their safety, comfort, and convenience. Here are some key features to look for when choosing a high chair:
- Safety Harness: A high chair should have a secure safety harness to keep your child safely in place during meals. A 5-point harness is often considered the safest option, securing the child at the shoulders, waist, and between the legs.
- Stability: Ensure the high chair is stable and won’t tip over easily. Look for a broad, sturdy base with non-slip, rubberized feet to prevent movement on various surfaces.
- Adjustable Height: A high chair with adjustable height settings is helpful to accommodate different table heights or to adapt as your child grows. Some high chairs offer multiple height options.
- Reclining Feature: High reclining chairs benefit younger infants who cannot sit up straight. This feature allows for an early introduction to solid foods and easy bottle feeding.
- Ease of Cleaning: High chairs can get messy, so look for models with easy-to-clean materials. Removable, machine-washable seat cushions or trays and smooth, wipeable surfaces make cleaning a breeze.
- Tray Adjustability: Check if the high chair’s tray is adjustable or removable. A flexible tray can be positioned at different distances from the child for optimal comfort. Some high chairs have removable trays for easy cleaning and to allow your child to sit directly at the dining table.
- Foldability: If you have limited space or need to transport the high chair frequently, a foldable design is convenient for storage and travel.
- Footrest: A footrest can provide added comfort for your child by allowing them to rest their feet and legs, which can promote good posture and support their growing bodies.
- Wheels: Some high chairs come with wheels for easy mobility, making it easier to move the chair around or store it when not in use.
- Materials and Safety Standards: Ensure the high chair is made from safe and non-toxic materials. Look for high chairs that meet safety standards and certifications in your region.
- Convertible Features: Some high chairs can convert into booster seats, regular chairs, or other valuable configurations, providing long-term value as your child grows.
- Portability: If you plan to use a high chair outside your home, consider the portability of the chair. Some high chairs are designed for travel or dining out and can be easily transported.
- Storage Pocket or Basket: High chairs with storage pockets or baskets are convenient for keeping bibs, baby wipes, and utensils within reach during mealtime.
- Aesthetics: High chairs come in various designs and colors. Consider one that fits your home decor or personal style preferences.
- User-Friendly Features: Some high chairs have additional features like one-hand tray removal, adjustable seat recline, or built-in toy trays to entertain your child during mealtime.
- Weight Capacity: Be aware of the weight capacity of the high chair to ensure it can accommodate your child as they grow.
Before making a purchase, it’s essential to thoroughly research and test the high chair to ensure it meets your specific needs. It provides a safe and comfortable dining experience for your child.
What to Avoid when Buying a High Chair
When buying a high chair for your child, there are several things you should avoid to ensure safety and practicality. Here’s a list of what to avoid:
- Unstable High Chairs: Avoid high chairs that are unsafe or unstable. They can pose a significant safety risk and increase the likelihood of tipping over.
- Missing or Defective Safety Harness: Never purchase a high chair with a safety harness or a defective one. The safety harness is crucial for keeping your child secure in the chair.
- Sharp Edges and Protruding Parts: High chairs with sharp edges, rough surfaces, or protruding parts can be hazardous to your child. Ensure that the high chair is free of such design flaws.
- Toxic Materials: Avoid high chairs made from materials that could harm your child’s health. Check for certifications and ensure the materials are safe and non-toxic.
- Complex Assembly: Clear high chairs with complicated or confusing assembly instructions. An elaborate setup process can lead to mistakes and an unsafe chair.
- Lack of Adjustability: High chairs need adjustable features, such as height, recline, or footrest, to accommodate your child’s changing needs as they grow.
- Noisy and Hard-to-Clean Surfaces: High chairs with loud, hard-to-clean surfaces can be a nuisance and make mealtime unpleasant. Choose chairs with smooth, easy-to-clean materials.
- Poor Weight Capacity: Ensure that the high chair can support your child’s weight as they grow. Avoid chairs with low weight limits.
- Uncomfortable Design: High chairs lacking cushioning or uncomfortable seating may not be enjoyable for your child, making mealtime challenging.
- Inadequate Safety Standards: Avoid high chairs that do not meet safety standards and certifications in your region. These standards are in place to ensure the chair’s safety features.
- Excessive Price for Features: Be cautious of high chairs with unnecessary features that drive up the price. Consider your specific needs and budget.
- Overly Complicated Features: High chairs with excessively complicated or unnecessary features can make operation and maintenance challenging. Choose a chair that suits your requirements.
- Incompatible with Your Space: Ensure that the high chair fits well in your dining area and is compatible with your available space. Avoid chairs that are too large or too small for your needs.
- Lack of User Reviews: It’s generally a good idea to avoid high chairs with no or very few user reviews. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the chair’s performance and user satisfaction.
- Neglecting User Feedback: Respond to user feedback and complaints about the high chair. If there are consistent safety or usability issues mentioned, consider other options.
By avoiding these pitfalls when buying a high chair, you can help ensure that your child’s mealtime experiences are safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.
Top High Chair Recommendations
Graco DuoDiner DLX 6 in 1 Convertible High Chair
The Graco DuoDiner DLX 6 in 1 Convertible High Chair is a versatile and cost-effective high chair that can be converted into a toddler or booster seat as your child grows. It features a 5-position height adjustment, a 3-position recline, and a 3-position adjustable footrest, allowing you to customize the chair to your child’s needs.
The high chair also has a one-hand removable tray and a dishwasher-safe insert for easy cleaning. The tray can be adjusted with one hand and has a built-in cup holder and storage compartment. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable, making it easy to clean up after messy meals.
The Graco DuoDiner DLX has a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety. It also has a compact fold for easy storage when not in use.
The Graco DuoDiner DLX 6 1 Convertible High Chair is an excellent option for parents looking for a versatile, cost-effective high chair to grow with their child. It has received excellent user reviews and is priced around $130, making it an affordable option for families on a budget.
Peg Perego Siesta High Chair
The Peg Perego Siesta High Chair is a premium and versatile high chair that offers a range of features and benefits to meet your child’s needs.
The high chair features a comfortable and adjustable seat, a 5-position recline, and a 9-position height adjustment, allowing you to customize the chair to your child’s needs. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.
The high chair has a dishwasher-safe tray and a removable cushion for easy cleaning. It also has a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety.
The Peg Perego Siesta High Chair can be used as a recliner, a high chair, or a chair for older children. It has a compact fold for easy storage when not in use.
Overall, the Peg Perego Siesta High Chair is a premium and versatile option for parents looking for a high-quality high chair that offers a range of features and benefits to meet their child’s needs. It has received excellent user reviews and is priced around $300.
Joovy Nook High Chair
The Joovy Nook High Chair is a compact and affordable option with several features to meet your child’s needs.
The high chair features a swing-open tray that can be adjusted with one hand and a removable dishwasher-safe tray insert for easy cleaning. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable.
The high chair has a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety. It also has a compact fold for easy storage when not in use.
The Joovy Nook High Chair is priced around $120, making it an affordable option for families on a budget. It has received excellent user reviews for its compact size, easy-to-clean features, and overall functionality.
Overall, the Joovy Nook High Chair is an excellent option for parents looking for a compact and affordable high chair with several features to meet their child’s needs. It may not have as many features as some of the more expensive high chairs, but it offers excellent value for the price.
The Ingenuity Beanstalk Baby to Big Kid 6-in-1 High Chair
The Ingenuity Beanstalk Baby to Big Kid 6-in-1 High Chair is a versatile and affordable high chair that can be converted into six modes to grow with your child.
The high chair features a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.
The high chair can be converted into six modes, including a traditional high chair, a booster seat, a toddler chair, and more. It also has a dishwasher-safe tray with a removable insert for easy cleaning.
The Ingenuity Beanstalk Baby to Big Kid 6-in-1 High Chair has a compact fold for easy storage when not in use. It also has a reclining seat and an adjustable footrest for added comfort.
Overall, the Ingenuity Beanstalk Baby to Big Kid 6-in-1 High Chair is a versatile and affordable option for parents looking for a high-quality chair to grow with their children. It has received excellent user reviews and is priced around $120.
Maxi-Cosi Moa 8-in-1 Highchair
The Maxi-Cosi Moa 8-in-1 Highchair is a versatile, adjustable high chair with several features to meet your child’s needs.
The high chair features a 5-position recline and a 9-position height adjustment, allowing you to customize the chair to your child’s needs. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.
The high chair has a dishwasher-safe tray with a removable insert for easy cleaning. It also has a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety.
The Maxi-Cosi Moa 8-in-1 Highchair can be converted into a toddler chair or booster seat as your child grows. It also has a compact fold for easy storage when not in use.
Overall, the Maxi-Cosi Moa 8-in-1 Highchair is a versatile and adjustable option for parents looking for a high-quality, high chair with several features to meet their child’s needs. It has received excellent user reviews and is priced around $200.
Lalo The Chair Convertible 3-in-1 High Chair
The Lalo The Chair Convertible 3-in-1 High Chair is a modern and stylish high chair that can be converted into three different modes to grow with your child.
The high chair features a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.
The high chair can be converted into three modes: a traditional high chair, a toddler chair, and a play chair. It also has a dishwasher-safe tray with a removable insert for easy cleaning.
The Lalo The Chair Convertible 3-in-1 High Chair has a compact fold for easy storage when not in use. It also has a modern, sleek design that complements any home decor.
Overall, the Lalo The Chair Convertible 3-in-1 High Chair is a stylish and versatile option for parents looking for a high-quality, high chair to grow with their child. It has received positive user reviews and is priced around $250.
Stokke Clikk High Chair
The Stokke Clikk High Chair is a modern and minimalist high chair that offers simplicity and ease of use.
The high chair features a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.
The Stokke Clikk High Chair is designed to be assembled in just one minute without any tools. It also has a dishwasher-safe tray with a removable insert for easy cleaning.
The high chair has a compact fold for easy storage when not in use. It also has a modern, sleek design that complements any home decor.
Overall, the Stokke Clikk High Chair is a simple and easy-to-use option for parents looking for a high-quality, high chair that is easy to assemble and clean. It has received positive user reviews and is priced around $170.
Ergobaby Evolve Baby Essentials Portable High Chair
The Ergobaby Evolve Baby Essentials Portable High Chair is a compact, portable high chair designed for on-the-go use.
The high chair features a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.
The Ergobaby Evolve Baby Essentials Portable High Chair is designed to be lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and store. It also has a removable tray with a built-in cup holder for convenience.
The high chair can be used on any standard chair, making it a versatile option for travel or dining out. It also has a modern, sleek design that complements any home decor.
Overall, the Ergobaby Evolve Baby Essentials Portable High Chair is a convenient and portable option for parents looking for a high-quality, high chair that can be used on the go. It has received positive user reviews and is priced at around $70.
Munchkin 360 Cloud High Chair
The Munchkin 360 Cloud High Chair is a modern, versatile high chair with several features to meet your child’s needs.
The high chair features a 5-point harness and a sturdy and stable base to ensure your child’s safety. The seat pad is also removable and machine washable for easy cleaning.
The Munchkin 360 Cloud High Chair has a unique swivel seat that rotates 360 degrees, allowing your child to reach and interact with their food and surroundings quickly. It also has an adjustable footrest and a removable tray for added convenience.
The high chair has a compact fold for easy storage when not in use. It also has a modern, sleek design that complements any home decor.
Overall, the Munchkin 360 Cloud High Chair is a versatile and modern option for parents looking for a high-quality high chair with unique features. It has received positive user reviews and is priced around $200.
High Chair Comparison Table
Specification Table
Model | |||||||||
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Brand | Stokke | Graco | Peg Perego | Joovy | Ingenuity | Maxi-Cosi | Lalo | Ergobaby | Munchkin |
Color | Cloud Grey | Mathis | Arancia | Jet | Gray | Essential Graphite | Blueberry | Natural Wood | White |
Material | Wood, Plastic | Polyurethane | Faux Leather | Metal | Rubber | Beech Wood, Wood, Plastic | Wood, Beech Wood, Plastic, Rubber | Wood | |
Item Weight | 10.1 Pounds | 21.5 Pounds | 20.9 Pounds | 15.4 Pounds | 11.34 pounds | 15.85 Pounds | 10 Pounds | 23 Pounds | 15.84 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 15"D x 23"W x 16.5"H | 24.25"D x 28.25"W x 43.25"H | 29.75"D x 23.75"W x 41.5"H | 32.28 x 23.62 x 41.34 inches | 30.12 x 23.11 x 43.98 inches | 20.5 x 15.1 x 13.75 inches | 24.5"D x 24.5"W x 33"H | 31"D x 23"W x 35.4"H | 28"D x 28"W x 40"H |
Maximum weight | 15 Kilograms | 45 Pounds | 50 Pounds | 11.34 pounds | 50 Pounds | 30 Pounds | 50 Pounds | 33 Pounds | |
Is portable | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | |
Age Range | Baby | Baby | Baby | Baby | Months to years old | Months to years old | Months to years old | Months to years old |
How to Use a High Chair Effectively
Using a high chair effectively ensures your child’s safety, comfort, and positive mealtime experiences. Here are some tips on how to use a high chair effectively:
- Assemble the High Chair Properly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble the high chair correctly. Ensure that all parts are securely attached and that the chair is stable.
- Place the High Chair on a Stable Surface: Position the high chair on a flat, stable surface to prevent it from tipping over. Make sure it’s away from any hazards or obstacles.
- Use the Safety Harness: Always secure your child with the safety harness, typically a 5-point harness, to prevent them from slipping or standing up in the chair. Check that the saddle is snug but not too tight.
- Adjust the High Chair for Proper Fit: Adjust the height and recline of the high chair to ensure your child is sitting comfortably with their feet flat on the footrest (if applicable) and their arms reaching the Tray or table.
- Attach the Tray Securely: If the high chair has a tray, ensure it’s attached securely. Ensure enough space for your child to sit comfortably and access their food.
- Maintain Good Posture: Encourage your child to sit straight in the high chair. Good posture promotes healthy physical development.
- Stay Nearby: While your child is in the high chair, stay close by to monitor them, especially if they are eating. This allows you to respond quickly if they need assistance.
- Keep the Area Clean: High chairs can get messy. Use a bib to catch spills, and ensure the Tray or table is clean before placing food on it.
- Offer Age-Appropriate Foods: Provide age-appropriate foods that your child can handle safely. Cut or prepare food into small, manageable pieces to reduce the risk of choking.
- Encourage Self-Feeding: As your child grows, encourage self-feeding by providing utensils and allowing them to explore and eat independently. This promotes fine motor skills and independence.
- Be Patient: Mealtimes in a high chair can be messy and unpredictable. Be patient with your child, and make mealtime a positive and enjoyable experience.
- Limit Distractions: Minimize distractions during mealtime. Turn off the TV and put away toys that may distract your child from eating.
- Maintain Hygiene: Clean the high chair regularly, especially after messy meals. Wipe down the Tray, seat, and safety harness. Many high chairs have removable and machine-washable components for easy cleaning.
- Transition Gradually: When your child outgrows the high chair, transition them to a booster seat or a regular dining chair. This helps them become more independent at the table.
- Supervise and Ensure Safety: Never leave your child unattended in a high chair. Accidents can happen quickly, so always supervise them and ensure the chair is safe.
Using a high chair effectively is not only about safety but also about fostering a positive mealtime environment. It’s an opportunity for bonding and teaching your child healthy eating habits.
Conclusion
It’s essential to consider the most important features to you and your child, such as adjustable height and recline, a comfortable seat, and easy-to-clean materials. However, it’s also important to consider whether these features are worth the additional cost.
Ultimately, the goal is to choose a high chair that provides a safe and comfortable place for your child to sit and eat while also fitting within your budget. By balancing features, functionality, and affordability, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and preferences.
If you’re in the market for a high chair, it’s essential to consider the recommended products mentioned earlier in this guide. These high chairs have received excellent user reviews and offer a range of features and benefits to meet different needs and preferences.
By considering these recommended products, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific needs and preferences while also ensuring that you choose a high-quality, high chair that provides a safe and comfortable place for your child to sit and eat.
References:
https://time.com/
https://www.babylist.com/
https://www.parents.com/
https://nymag.com/