You’ll want a stable, sturdy model that can stand up to spilling, kicking, and regular cleaning for at least a year (some babies can’t bear to sit in a high chair after that). A chair with a tray that can be released with one hand is also a plus. Picture your baby occupying your other arm while you’re opening and closing the tray; it’s just one of the many physical feats you’ll be asked to master as a parent.
A high chair usually consists of a frame of molded plastic or metal tubing and an attached seat with a safety belt and a footrest. There are still a few old-fashioned wooden high chairs out there with a removable tray or arms that lift the tray over a baby’s head, although they aren’t always as comfortable for babies as the modern, form-fitting models on the market now, and most of them aren’t certified as meeting the latest safety standards. You’ll also find a few hybrid units, which can double as a swing or convert into other types of gear, such as a chair for an older child or a play table. (more…)