Top High Chair Recommendations
Best Picks for Feeding Seats for Babies
When it is time for parents to begin feeding their baby solids, the high chair becomes a very important piece of kitchen furniture. With numerous models of high chairs on the market, it can be hard to sift through and find quality, durable feeding seats. These selections are based upon ease of use, safety, and budget.
Graco Contempo 3A00
The Graco Contempo 3A00 is a Consumer Reports best pick. This high chair received excellent ratings in both safety and ease of use. Added benefits to the Contempo include a converting 5/3 point harness, vinyl surface that wipes clean, and the slimmest collapsed measurements for storage. This manufacturer's suggested price is approximately $100.
Though the earlier version of the Contempo (3800) had been issued a recall, this newer model has addressed the issue the older model had with the seat collapsing while in use.
Fisher Price Healthy Care
Though the Fisher Price Healthy Care was not reviewed by Consumer Reports, it is the top recommendation from Denise and Alan Fields, authors of Baby Bargains [Windsor Peak Press 2008]. The authors raved about the safety features, ease of use, and how easy it is to clean. The harness straps, tray, and toys can all be tossed in the dishwasher for cleaning and sanitization. It does not get much simpler than that.
The price range can vary on the Fisher Price Healthy Care ($80-$100) depending on the model purchased. Parents may want to think about spending the extra money on the ruffle-free versions, as the added flair can actually trap food particles and become a cleaning nightmare.
Chicco Polly
Some families may possibly find the above selections a little two "cutesy" to fit with their dining room decor. Chicco, known for its Italian flair in design, may be a more stylish and contemporary model. Consumer Reports gave it a "very good" rating for safety and "excellent" rating for ease of use. Like the Contempo, it has a 5-point harness and easy wipe clean surface.
In addition to the higher price tag ($110-$130) it also has the downside that the dishwasher safe tray may be a bit too big to even fit in the dishwasher. Poor planning on the part of Chicco, but its stylish design may have parents overlooking the oversight.
These models of high chairs have been well-reviewed by parents and consumer groups for their noted safety features and for how well the function. Parents (and babies) will likely be pleased with one of these high chair options.
For further reading, parents may find High Chair Buying Guide: What to Look for When Purchasing a High Chair helpful.
References:
Baby Bargains. Denise and Alan Fields. Windsor Peak Press, 2008.
Consumer Reports Website
