Highchairs & Feeding for Beginners

In depth

Choosing your first highchair – and the accessories to go with it – can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot of technical language thrown around, and it's easy to get caught up in fancy features you might not actually need. Let’s break down the key things to consider when buying your first highchair for your little one, focusing on what will genuinely make a difference for a new parent. The most important factor is stability; a wobbly highchair isn't just annoying, it's dangerous. Look for models with wide bases and sturdy legs – you’ll want something that won’t tip over when your baby starts leaning or attempting to stand up. Many have adjustable feet so you can compensate for uneven flooring.

Seat height is another critical element. Newborn babies need a very low seat, often requiring you to lower the tray completely. As they grow, you'll need to raise the seat to bring them closer to table height, and eventually, many highchairs allow you to adjust the seat height independently of the tray. Don’t immediately focus on multi-position reclining seats; these can be bulky and complex to adjust, especially when your hands are full with food. A simple, upright seat is perfectly adequate for the initial months. Consider what you’ll be feeding your baby – purees require a low tray, while lumpier foods will need a higher one to prevent spills.

The tray itself deserves careful thought. Many highchairs come with trays that attach magnetically or clip onto the frame. These are convenient but can sometimes feel flimsy and may not accommodate larger portions of food. A detachable tray is generally more versatile – you can use it on your own table for snacks, take it outside, or add an extra one if needed. Pay attention to the material; a wipe-clean plastic tray will save you countless hours scrubbing. Don’t worry too much about trays with integrated cutlery holders at this stage; these tend to collect crumbs and are often awkward to clean.

Accessories like footrests and toy trays can be added later, once you know if your baby will spend significant time in the highchair. Initially, a simple, detachable footrest is best – it’s easy to attach and remove as needed. Toy trays, which attach to the side of the highchair to distract your little one, are often more useful for older babies who can focus their attention for longer periods. Again, these aren't essential at first; you can always introduce them later if they prove beneficial.

Now, let’s talk about safety features. Most highchairs meet UK safety standards, but it's worth checking that the harness is easy to adjust and secure. The harness should be snug – you shouldn’t be able to slip a magazine underneath it – but not so tight that it restricts your baby's movement. Look for adjustable straps and padded five-point harnesses for added security. Remember that no highchair is completely foolproof, so always supervise your baby closely while they are in the seat.

Finally, consider the overall footprint of the highchair. Highchairs can take up a significant amount of space, particularly larger models with reclinable seats. Measure the area where you plan to use it before making a purchase – you’ll want enough room for your baby to comfortably sit and play without bumping into furniture. Things like crumb trays are often advertised as essential, but realistically, a quick wipe-down after each meal is usually sufficient. Focus on stability, adjustability, and ease of cleaning when choosing your first highchair; these features will serve you best in the early days of feeding your baby.