High chairs can be a parent’s dream come true while preparing dinner or putting away items from a “relaxing” trip to the market. Little do parents know, there are many things to think about while searching for the perfect high chair.
Pattern, color and style can be enticing to the consumer but it is best to look beyond that. Avoid chairs that have many cracks and crevices near the tray and seat, which can make it difficult for the type A personality to clean with the shop vac.
The big debate is a vinyl versus cloth seat, especially the cloth edging & piping. Look for a well upholstered seat that will not tear or puncture easily. If you choose cloth, can the seat be easily removed for a proper cleaning in the washer and dryer or would you rather spot clean instead with vinyl? Your baby is in that seat for many snacks and meals so how often do you want to be reinstalling the chair cover? I know I would rather be reading a book to my son or on a play date rather than doing extra loads of laundry. Food for thought, no pun intended!!
Now let’s get to the nuts and bolts of a high chair, safety. Look for JPMA, Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (jpma.org) certified high chairs. Each year, thousands of children are treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with high chairs and 4 to 5 deaths occur every year when babies “submarine” under the tray. A passive restraint WILL alleviate the problem which is a plastic post under the tray and is best if it is attached to the seat versus the tray. When you take the tray off, the child then cannot slide out of the seat. Also, a safety harness with multiple straps around the hips and between legs, similar to a 5-point harness system you will see in infant car seats and boosters, can stop your child from falling below the tray.
A seat that reclines is a nice option for infants to get them in and out easier and for bottle feeding. never feed a child solid food in a reclined position as it can be a choking hazard. Check for a wide, stable base to deter tipping and do not place the chair close to a wall because they can kick the chair over. Ouch!!
If you have a “busy” baby or toddler, a kick-guard on the release or a push release button will eliminate the tray being kicked across the kitchen. Climbing out of the chair can be another issue parents will face soon enough. A seat depth between 5 to 7 inches is acceptable for the climber in your home, and a tray height less than 8 inches should work for most babies to reach their Cheerios.
About the Author: Shawn Kiraly Corry is the owner of Blue Skye Baby, a baby planning consultation firm that helps expectant mothers get prepared for their new arrival. She lives in Ohio with her husband and two young boys and she is passionate about keeping our babies and children safe.
To learn more, check out the Mom’s Talk Guide to Raising Happy & Healthy Kids – Tips and resources address nutrition, exercise, sleep, routines, and much more.
