Starting around 6 months or so, your baby’s high chair will become a regular go-to for snack and meal times. Depending on the model, it can even be used through their toddler years. This means that whichever high chair you choose, it will most likely get a lot of (heavy, messy) use during your child’s first years.
When choosing the best high chair for your family, there are several factors you’ll want to consider, says Joan Muratore, test program leader for babies and healthy living here at Consumer Reports.
• Does it fit your budget? This is the most important factor for many parents. “High chairs in our ratings range from $30 up to $600 or more, with an average of about $220,” says Muratore.
• Does it fit your space? Consider how much space you have in your kitchen, dining area, or any room where you’ll be using your high chair. “You may not want, or have space for, a large, bulky high chair,” says Muratore.
• Will it grow with your child? “Consider whether you want a chair that can continue to be used as your child grows—as a booster, a toddler chair, or even an adult chair. Or do you want just a basic high chair and you’ll buy a booster when you need it?” Muratore says.
• Is it easy to clean? “The busier the design of a high chair, the more difficult it tends to be to clean,” says Muratore. “If there’s a seat pad, make sure it’s machine-washable, as food and other messes are virtually guaranteed to get on the pad.” And don’t overlook the tray. “Look for a chair that has a tray insert that covers the entire tray below and can be put into the dishwasher for cleanup,” she says.
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