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The 10 Best Portable High Chairs to Buy in 2021

Portable high chairs are suitable for traveling, restaurants, and saving space at home. Here are the best ones to buy in 2020...

Best overall portable high chair: Fisher-Price SpaceSaver High Chair

Best high-end portable high chair: Joovy Nook High Chair

Best budget portable high chair: Chicco Caddy Hook-On Chair

Best lightweight portable high chair: Cosco Simple Fold High Chair

Best portable high chair for minimal spaces: Summer Pop ‘n Sit Portable Highchair

Things to consider before buying a Portable high chair

1. Safety

Safety should be a priority when buying any type of high chair. Like many products, high chairs are also scrutinized by bodies such as the ASTM ( American Society for Testing and Materials). Tests for stability and durability are conducted by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JMPA) to ensure your baby is safe.

Although these societies may give you a certain sense of assurance, we recommend that you go for high chairs with additional safety features. Luckily, many manufacturers prioritize safety, so there are many options to choose from. For portable high chairs, make sure that the wheel lock is in place. Also, a five-point safety harness to hold your child, a crotch post, and folding areas should be minimized to reduce risks for pinching.

When considering buying a portable high chair, prioritize the ones with the most safety features first.

2. Features

Once the safety of the portable high chair is sorted, you should now focus on the features and functionalities that would be best for you. Special features will make the high chair suitable for different home environments, while also considering the development of the child.

Here are some of the features you should consider when buying a portable high chair:

2.1. Foldability

If you have minimal space, you would want to go for high chairs that fold. A high chair that folds is more portable and convenient for travel as it can be carried around while occupying the least space.

2.2. Adaptability to your baby’s growth

To make sure that you save in the long run, buy a portable highchair with settings to adjust according to your child’s growth. A high chair that grows with your child will still be usable when he/she turns 2-3 years.

2.3. Removable components

This feature makes it easier to clean parts of the high chair, such as the trays. It also will simplify getting your baby in the right position during mealtime. Some will also come with a removable seat insert.

2.4. Comfortability

You should make sure that the seat is as comfortable as possible. It is easier to feed a comfortable baby. So consider the padding used.

2.5. Age of your little one

Your baby’s age will determine the type of high chair that you get. Tall children benefit from taller high chairs that you place closer to the table. Older children who are relatively heavier benefit from booster seats.

2.6. Weight of your child

Since we are focusing on portability, you need to pay close attention to the weight it can carry. Some chairs can carry your child’s weight from when they are 6 months till they are toddlers, while some have weight limits.

Top 10 best portable high chairs

Best overall portable high chair

Fisher-Price SpaceSaver High Chair

Description

The Fisher-price space saver is suitable for both babies and toddlers. It grows with your baby as a high chair. And once your baby is old enough to climb on adult chairs on their own, they are used as a booster seat. With three adjustable heights, the fisher-price space saver ensures that your child can reach any table. It is also easy to assemble and disassemble.

The Fisher-price space saver checks all the safety boxes. It has the JPMA certificate meaning it meets ASTM standards for safe and quality high chairs. The maximum weight it can hold is 50 pounds. The 5-point safety harness will keep your little one in place.

The eating tray is made of BPA free plastic. In the case of food spills, the tray contains the food to avoid messes. The fabric on the Fisher-price space saver is soft on your baby’s skin. It can be easily washed by running it through the washing machine.

The versatility of the Fisher-Price high chair sets it apart from the competition. It has 2 height settings, 4 different tummy comfort positions, and 3 different reclining positions. All of these features are achieved while keeping the high chair small and lightweight.

Fisher-Price SpaceSaver High Chair

What We Like

  • It can be used as a high chair and a booster seat.
  • Numerous adjustable position setting for safety and comfort.
  • Machine washable and dishwasher safe
  • Compact for easy storage
  • Affordable price

What We Don't Like

  • It is not foldable

Best high-end portable high chair

Joovy Nook High Chair

Description

The Joovy Nook is a premium high chair with a stylish modernized design. The tray swings so it can be operated with one hand when placing your child on the high chair. The tray ensures your baby is comfortable no matter their size; it can be adjusted to 4 different positions. The chair can be folded flat hence can be easily stored in the closet and easy to carry. It is also made from BPA-free materials.

The soft leatherette material for your baby’s comfort is easy to wipe. The removable eating tray is machine washable, and the back piece can be cleaned easily once detached. Its feet are equipped with padding to avoid slipping. It has a 5- point safety harness to hold your baby in place.

Joovy Nook is one of the most expensive chairs that you will find in the market. Its price is justified when you consider the high-quality materials used, from the classy leatherette to the high-quality plastic. Therefore, it is suitable for parents who are willing to spend more on a high quality high that can be used on the go.

Joovy Nook High Chair

What We Like

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Easy to use
  • 5 -point safety harness to hold your baby in place
  • Foldable for easy storage
  • The legs are rubber tripped for additional stability and floor protection.

What We Don't Like

  • It is expensive

Best budget portable high chair

Chicco Caddy Hook-On Chair

Description

The Chicco Caddy hook-on-chair is unlike any other high chair as it eliminates bulkiness with how it functions. It comes with a hook that connects it directly to the table. It is one of the easiest portable travel high chairs to use. You just have to connect the high chair to the table using the 5.5″ clamp that will hold it firmly in place. It comes with a 5-point harness to hold your child in place.

Kids can use it from 6 months to 3 years.

This high chair folds flat for easy storage, and its lightweight nature makes it suitable for use on the go. The Italian-woven fabric is machine washable, and the removable tray can be easily cleaned through the dishwasher. The rubberized arms ensure no marks are left on your kitchen table or the restaurant table.

Although the Chicco Caddy is one of the best high chairs for portability, it becomes useless in places where there lacks a table to attach it. So it is limited to home and restaurant use. Parents who like to eat out with their babies should consider this option.

Chicco Caddy Hook-On Chair

What We Like

  • Hook-on design for eating on the go
  • Machine washable and dishwasher safe material
  • Premium Italian woven fabric
  • Can be hooked onto home kitchen tables too

What We Don't Like

  • It cannot be used independently if a table lacks

Best lightweight portable high chair

Cosco Simple Fold High Chair

Description

The Cocso simple fold chair has a simple design, which makes it easy to set up at home and on the go. Though it is portable, it is built tough. The plastic legs are certified by JPMA and meet safety standards and regulations. Unlike many portable travel high chairs, the Cosco simple fold chair comes in full size. Regardless its full size does not take anything from its portability.

It folds flat and can be easily stored or placed in the car for use on the go. As a plus, its lightweight nature makes it very suitable for travel.

It has a reinforced plastic leg and a 3-point safety harness for safety. For comfort, the chair comes with a leg rest. It grows with your child. This is made possible by the adjustable tray to three different positions. The tray is easy to clean with the use of a washcloth.

Generally, this is one of the best options for portable high chairs out there. Most portable high chairs have to sacrifice some features, but Cosco does not. Therefore, it should be suitable for parents who prefer and want to enjoy the benefits of traditional high chairs on the go.

Cosco Simple Fold High Chair

What We Like

  • Folds flat for easy storage
  • Made with durable materials
  • Has a leg rest to ensure comfort for your child
  • Full-sized portable travel high chair
  • Comes in different patterns

What We Don't Like

  • Components are not machine washable
  • Not suitable for outdoors

Best portable high chair for minimal spaces

Summer Infant Pop ‘n Sit Portable Highchair

Description

Summer infant pop n sit has a simple foldable camping design. It comprises soft fabric that will be soft on your baby’s sensitive skin and a BPA free eating tray. The dishwasher safe tray is removable in case you need to clean it.

This chair can be compactly folded and comes with a carry bag if you need to carry it. The summer infant pop high chair can be easily assembled. The chair can be used both indoors and outdoors. If you want to use it on a regular chair, it has safety straps to hold the booster seat in place. And has a 3-point safety harness to keep the baby safe and in place.

Cleaning has been made easier in this high chair since all the components come off except the support plastic, which can be wiped. The fabric can be removed and ran through a washing machine.

This high chair can be used with children from 6 months old to 4 years. Even with all these features, this high chair comes at a really affordable price. Therefore, it is suitable for parents who want a portable travel high chair that will grow with their child.

Summer Infant Pop ‘n Sit Portable Highchair

What We Like

  • Folds for portability
  • Low center of gravity great for outdoors
  • Easy to open and close
  • Machine washable and dishwasher friendly
  • Strong nylon for durability

What We Don't Like

  • The tray can be difficult to remove
  • The straps make hooking it to a chair difficult

Graco Blossom 2-in-1 Convertible High Chair

Description

The Graco Blossom is convertible. It can be used as a high chair or a booster seat. This is made possible by the removable plastic legs. Once removed, they can be stored underneath the chair. For comfort, it has 3 different reclining positions, which can be easily changed. This makes it suitable for 6-month-old babies and above.

It also stands out in the amount of weight it can hold. Unlike most high chairs with a weight limit of 40 pounds, the Graco blossom holds up to 60 pounds.

The fabric is easy to wash. However, the tray is not dishwasher safe; this can make it difficult to wash. Due to its features, this chair is also very bulky compared to other portable high chairs. Another thing to note is that the backrest is not straight; it does not provide your baby’s right posture, especially to aid in swallowing. It also lacks a leg rest, which should provide additional comfort.

Even though it is not the best option for portability purposes due to its space, it is one to use in the long run. Older children who cannot reach the table can use it without worrying about the weight limit.

Graco Blossom 2-in-1 Convertible High Chair

What We Like

  • Can be used as a booster or a high chair
  • Has 3 reclining positions for comfort
  • Can carry more weight than other high chairs
  • 5-point harness for security

What We Don't Like

  • Bulkier than other portable high chairs
  • It is not dishwasher safe

The First Years On-the-Go

Description

The first year on the go is an inflatable and lightweight booster seat that is suitable for travel. It comes with a simple design that is easy to set up. Once the zipper is undone, it self-inflates, giving your child a 3.5-inch boost bringing your child closer to the table during mealtime.

Once you are done, it easily deflates and folds up into a compact laptop-like bag making it convenient for portability. It comes with a 3- point harness to safely hold your child in place. The pocket at the back of the seat can be used for carrying accessories such as bibs and burp cloths.

However, the base of this booster seat is not stable, especially for lighter kids. This means that you would have to monitor your child when on the booster seat closely. Its fabric is also not machine washable. But it is relatively easy to wipe out normal day to day stains that are not brightly colored.

In general, it is not the best option out there compared to the features that other high chairs bring. Nevertheless, due to its affordable price and ease of packing, it is suitable for parents who desire a compact option.

The First Years On-the-Go

What We Like

  • It is suitable for travel
  • Has straps to tightly hold it to a chair
  • Adjustable seat belt with a T-strain to hold your baby
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight nature makes it good for travel

What We Don't Like

  • It is not easy to clean
  • Its base is not stable

Baby Bjorn High Chair

Description

The Baby Bjorn is a small high chair with a sleek ergonomic design. It comes with a well-placed tray which is closely fitted close to the child to provide additional restraint. The design reduces the amount of food that would spill out of the tray. The Baby Bjorn is made of eco-friendly materials. It uses BPA and PVC free materials. It comes with a 3 point harness for safety.

It is easy to clean due to the few amount of cracks and crevices. The removable tray can be washed in the dishwasher. This high chair can be folded down to only 10 inches wide. This makes it suitable for homes with minimal spaces and also a good option for travel.

It can be transformed into a toddler chair once your baby has outgrown the high chair. With a weight limit of 30 pounds, it can be used by babies from 6 months to 3 years.

The downside of this high chair is the height maximum limit. It is set at 38 inches, which most children will surpass before 36months. The chair will be uncomfortable since the leg rest is stationary. The backrest also does not support your little one’s whole back.

A good option overall for portability due to its size, although not suitable for parents who want a traditional size high chair.

Baby Bjorn High Chair

What We Like

  • Cozy ergonomic design for comfort
  • Folds down to only 10 inches wide
  • Convertible into a toddler chair
  • Can be used from 6 months to 3 years
  • Easy to clean

What We Don't Like

  • Its leg rest cannot be adjusted
  • It is too small

Mountain Buggy Pod

Description

The Mountain buggy pod is a hook-on high chair. It comes with aluminum clamps, which are tightened on the table by twisting. It comes with an aluminum frame, and the fabric is zippered, making it very portable.

It weighs only 2.2 pounds, but its sturdy design holds up to 37 pounds. This high chair can not be placed in a washing machine, though its simple design makes it simple to clean by hand. It can be folded down and placed in a diaper bag. This makes it easy to move around with, especially if you love to eat out.

Some parents have complained that the leg holes are too small. It will be uncomfortable for kids with thick thighs, or if you are trying to put your baby on the high chair with shoes on. The zipper also has to be monitored as it can unzip unexpectedly. Also, the aluminum clamps will only fit on tables up to 1.8″ thick. So you should double-check your kitchen table specifications before buying.

Overall it is a good option for uses on the go due to its affordable price and features.

Mountain Buggy Pod

What We Like

  • Clamps into tables for indoor and outdoor use
  • Compact fold to fit in diaper bags
  • Has a shoulder harness system
  • Strong aluminum clamps with nonslip grip pads
  • Holds up to 37 pounds

What We Don't Like

  • Legs holes are too small
  • It can only be cleaned by hand

Ciao! Baby Portable High Chair for Travel

Description

The Ciao portable chair offers the benefits of normal high chairs but on the go. Since it is meant for outdoors, it is made from nylon to withstand environmental factors. The nylon tray is wrapped with vinyl material which is easy to wipe. It can be put up and taken down easily. This high chair folds down into a compact square, which is easy to carry around.

For safety, it comes with a 5 point harness to hold down your baby. Since it is made of nylon, you won’t have to worry about BPA, unlike plastic high chairs.

Ciao portable chair can be used in the back yard or camping. Though, due to its high center of gravity, it is not suitable for windy areas to avoid tipping over.

Therefore, this is the best option for parents who need an outdoor chair that can be easily carried around.

Ciao! Baby Portable High Chair for Travel

What We Like

  • Suitable for outdoor usage
  • Folds for easy storage
  • Made with durable nylon
  • Spacious tray with a cup holder
  • Five-point harness for baby’s safety

What We Don't Like

  • Cannot be used with dishwasher or washing machine
  • It has a high center of gravity hence the possibility of tipping over

FAQs about portable high chairs

Do I need a portable high chair?

If you prefer eating out and travel a lot, Yes. Portable high chairs make it possible for you to eat comfortably with your child in the restaurant without having to carry him/her on your lap. Also, if you travel a lot, you want to invest in a portable high chair that you can carry around so that you do not have to buy one every time.

What should I look for in a portable high chair?

  • Foldability

A chair that folds down is a plus for portability. Even the bulkiest chairs can fold down depending on the design. This will economize on space and will be overall easy to carry around. Most foldable chairs come with their carry bags for convenience.

  • Weight

You do not want to be walking around with a heavy chair from one place to another. Some manufacturers make chairs as light as 2.2 pounds. Even with their low weight, they can carry 37-pound children.

What is the difference between a 3- point harness and a 5-point harness?

The 3-point harness has three strap points, 2 on the shoulder, and one between the legs. A five-point harness has five strap points with two on the shoulders, two on the hip area, and one between the legs. Which one is better? They both offer protection, but many parents prefer the 5 point harness for extra protection. When choosing types of harnesses, you should also consider comfort.

What type of portable high chair is better?

It depends on the household’s needs. For hook on chairs with clamps, you first need to ensure that your table is thick enough. The product will always specify.

You should get a hook on chairs for restaurant purposes. Also, if you prefer a lighter option, this is the right one for you.

Most hook-on high chairs come with removable fabric that can be easily washed by hand.

The other option is the traditional chair and booster seats. They come in the full size of high chairs, though they are designed to reduce bulkiness for portability. There are some great options that are convertible too. For booster seats, once the baby outgrows it, they can still be used as normal toddler chairs.

What are BPA and PVC free materials?

BPA stands for bisphenol A. It is an industrial chemical that is used to make plastics. Plastics used to make baby products should be BPA free according to safety guidelines. Some research has shown that BPA may seep into food hence posing a danger to your baby.

PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. It is basically synthetic plastic. PVC contains dangerous chemicals such as lead, cadmium, phthalates, and organotins. As most products are standardized before getting into the market, you don’t need to worry too much. They are many chairs made of nylon or even leatherette, so there are different options just to be on the safe side.

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