Which folding high chairs are the best?

The last thing you need is a big, bulky high chair that takes up a lot of space. Luckily, many folding high chairs are simply sturdy, feature-rich, and stylish like traditional models that can be easily tucked away when not in use.

When it comes to choosing a folding high chair, you’ll want to consider all of the different features and limitations before making a purchase. Some, like the Graco EveryStep 7-in-1 Highchair, offer multiple configurations, allowing them to be used throughout toddlerhood and beyond.

What to know before buying a folding high chair

Convertible Folding High Chairs

Folding high chairs are more practical than traditional chairs because they can easily be stored away when not in use without taking up much space. If you’re looking for something more versatile to grow with your child, you might want to consider a folding convertible high chair. Depending on the model, these can be used in up to seven different configurations, including a booster seat, toddler chair, and even a step stool.

Maximum capacity

Each folding high chair has a maximum safe weight limit. For most, this is between 40 and 60 pounds. Those that are convertible often have different weight capacities in different configurations. For example, it can only support 40 pounds in high chair mode, but can support 60 pounds in booster mode.

Mass

Most people buy folding high chairs for their convenience. They want to be able to hide them when not in use. That means you’ll likely be picking it up and moving it around regularly. For this reason, the weight of the chair must be taken into account. Some models can weigh as little as 10 pounds, but others can weigh 40 pounds or more, making them difficult for some people to grasp. There are also portable folding high chairs designed for on the go. Some of them weigh only 2 pounds, but they usually have a sleek design with few features, so they won’t do as well as an everyday home high chair.

Features To Look For In A Quality Folding High Chair

Harness

Most collapsible high chairs have some type of harness to keep your baby securely in place. The most common is a 3-point harness, but some models come with a 5-point harness for even more security. At the very least, collapsible high chairs will have a post or crotch strap to prevent babies from slipping out.

Padding

You want your baby to be comfortable sitting in their high chair. For this purpose, it is better to look for a model that has padding. If you go for one that doesn’t have padding, you might want to consider buying some separately and putting it on the chair.

Seat cover

If you buy a high chair with a seat cover, it should be aesthetically pleasing, durable and easy to maintain. Look for a model with a removable, machine-washable cover. It should also be stain resistant and easy to clean between washes.

Meal tray

Most folding high chairs have a meal tray for your baby. Depending on the model, it can be permanently attached or removable. There are also models that have an attached tray but a removable insert. The tray should be sturdy, adjustable so you can position it closer or farther for your baby, and if it’s removable, it’s dishwasher safe.

Adjustability

As with the tray, the high chair itself should have some level of adjustability. This includes both the overall height of the chair and the tilt. Some models have up to seven levels of height and tilt adjustment, while others may not.

How much you can expect to spend on a folding high chair

As with most baby products, folding high chairs can be quite expensive. They tend to cost at least $75 on the low end and upwards of $250 or more on the high end.

Folding high chair FAQs

At what age can my child start using a high chair?

A. Most experts recommend waiting until a child is at least 6 months old before putting them in a high chair. That said, every baby develops at a different rate. Wait until your baby can sit up on his own before putting him in a high chair, even if it’s only 7 or 8 months old.

Are there any certifications I should look for in a high chair?

A. As of July 3, 2010, all high chairs sold in the United States must meet standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. There are also voluntary tests where manufacturers can have their high chairs approved by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. A JPMA seal shows that the high chair in question is considered one of the safest models.

What is the best folding high chair to buy?

Folding High Chair Top

Graco EveryStep 7-in-1 High Chair

What do you want to know: This super versatile high chair can grow with your child through toddlerhood and beyond thanks to its seven configurations, the latest of which is a step stool for children up to 7 years old.

What you will love: It can be used simultaneously as a booster seat and a stool for two children of different ages, and it is easy to fold in seconds when not needed.

What you should consider: Tray can sometimes be difficult to detach and reattach

Or buy: Sold by Amazon and Bed Bath & Beyond.

Top folding high chair for the money

Ingenuity SmartServe 4-in-1 High Chair

What do you want to know: Although reasonably priced, this high chair still offers four configurations for versatile use.

What you will love: It has a 5-point harness system so even squirmy babies can’t get out of it. In addition, its top has been cleverly designed with a small sliding drawer to store utensils.

What you should consider: It has two wheels which, although convenient for moving it around, do not lock into place.

Or buy: Sold by Amazon and Buy Buy Baby.

Worth checking out

Baby Jogger City Bistro High Chair

What do you want to know: One of the most compact models when folded but extremely sturdy when in use, this high chair is one of the best options for those with very limited storage space.

What you will love: Its fabric is machine washable and stain resistant, which should make it look great. Plus, the thick padding will keep your baby comfortable at all times.

What you should consider: It has only one configuration.

Or buy: Sold by Amazon and Bed Bath & Beyond.

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Brett Dvoretz written for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their buying decisions, saving them time and money.

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