How to Choose a High Chair
When looking for a suitable High Chair for your child it can be confusing to say the least! Most new parents find it comforting to nurse their newborn in their arms for the first few months. However, when your baby hits the 4–8 month mark, they’ll likely be too active to feed safely in your lap. That’s the time to start thinking about a high chair. Bubs n Grubs offers many models, styles and brands. The choice comes down to what will be the safer, more convenient and most comfortable high chair for your little one and your home.
High Chair Safety
When buying any furniture for babies and toddlers, safety is the number one concern. Consider your child’s age, size and activity level. A suitable chair will seat your child comfortably and keep them secure so they can’t stand up or slide out.
All high chairs we offer include a harness system (waist and crotch straps) and/or a crotch bar to keep children seated. Trays help position baby but should never be relied on as the only restraint. When your baby is seated, use the harness and tray together, never leave a child unattended in a high chair.
The Construction of High Chairs
A good high chair should be stable so it doesn’t move around while your child is in it. Look for a wide base to resist tipping. Many models we stock can be adjusted for height and recline-always ensure all adjustments are locked before placing your child in the chair.
Materials: We offer models in timber, plastic, metal or combinations. Choose something durable, easy to clean (wipable surfaces, removable covers) and that fits your space and décor.
There are several types of high chairs…
Basic metal or plastic-frame highchairs
Simple, lower-cost high chairs. Some include dishwasher-safe trays and a raised lip to catch spills. They’re lightweight and many fold for storage. Cheaper options may offer less padding and less mess protection.
Full-featured highchairs
Include padded seats, quality wheels for moving around the house, detachable trays with dishwasher-safe covers, height and recline adjustments and, in some cases, 360° rotation for easier feeding.
Hook-on highchairs
Seats that clamp to suitable tables. These hook-on chairs can free up floor space and are portable. Some rotate 360° so baby can face you while feeding. Always check your table’s strength and lip thickness and follow the product’s installation instructions.
Timber or Wooden highchairs
High Chair Convenience
Toddlers are busy, so convenience features matter. Consider removable dishwasher-safe tray inserts for quick clean-up, lockable wheels to move between the kitchen and dining area, one-hand recline/height adjustments. Compact folding is handy if you’re tight on space or travel frequently.
What to Look For (Quick Checklist)
- Harness: A secure 5 point or 3 point harness that’s easy for you to adjust but hard for baby to undo.
- Stability: Wide base, low centre of gravity and tip resistant design.
- Locking wheels: Smooth rolling with reliable wheel brakes.
- Tray design: Easy on/off, raised edge, dishwasher-safe insert.
- Adjustability: Height, recline and footrest positions that grow with your child.
- Cleanability: Minimal dirt traps, wipe clean surfaces, removable covers.
- Compliance: Designed to the Australian high chair standard (see below) and used as per the manual.
Standards & Guidance (Australia)
We only offer brands that invest in safety. When comparing high chairs, look for designs built to the Australian standard and follow official guidance:
- High chairs: Australian Standard AS 4684 (High chairs-Safety requirements) – overview and guidance via Product Safety Australia (search “high chairs” for current advice).
- Using high chairs safely: See Product Safety Australia – Kids furniture safety for practical tips on setup, restraint use and supervision.
Helpful FAQs
When can my baby start using a high chair?
Most babies are ready when they can sit with good head and trunk control, usually around 4–6 months. Always follow the product manual for minimum age/weight guidance and use the harness correctly.
Is a 5-point harness necessary?
A 5-point harness offers the most secure positioning. At a minimum, use the harness supplied by the manufacturer and never rely on the tray alone to restrain a child.
Are hook-on high chairs safe?
They are safe when used exactly as directed on suitable, sturdy tables of compatible thickness. Avoid glass, pedestal or unstable tables. Check clamps before every use.
Can I use a second-hand high chair?
Yes, if it’s complete, undamaged and the harness, buckles and frame are in good condition. Clean thoroughly and check that it aligns with modern safety guidance and the product manual.
How do I prevent tip-overs?
Always use the harness, keep the chair on level ground, lock wheels when stationary and keep your child from pushing against benches or walls. Don’t let siblings climb or hang on the chair.
Safety Disclaimer
This content is general information for Australia. Always follow your product manual and relevant Australian guidance, supervise your child at all times when in a high chair.
Choosing a high chair from the Bubs n Grubs Baby Store is easy when you know what you’re looking for. Safety comes first, then construction and convenience. We focus on ensuring customers choose the right product for their specific needs the first time.
And don’t forget-our product professionals are experts at matching products to your lifestyle. Pop in, call the team, browse our range below.
Check out the huge range of High Chairs from Bubs n Grubs here.
Check out the sale prices we’ve just released right here!
Talk Soon,
Frank
About the Author
Frank is a founding owner of Bubs n Grubs. He is also the sole author of the Bubs n Grubs Baby Blog. He has been personally evaluating baby products & testing them before offering them to our customers since 2009. In addition, he is consistently giving manufacturer’s feedback & product development advice, reviewing & getting customer feedback. He has been doing this since the business started in 2009. He is proud to be one of the rare baby store owners in Australia who regularly engages with customers in store. Frank values the constant feedback and regularly seeks it out. He has been featured on the Morning Show & the Today Show on Channel 7 and Channel 9 and is a recognised expert in baby products as a result.