Mothercare Highchair (Owls)

Product Information

It seems like only yesterday you were shopping around for the best breast pump or baby bottles for feeding your little one, now they're ready to graduate to sitting at the table and eating solid foods. But there's more to weaning than just making sure there's an Ella's pouch in your changing bag at all times, and thankfully Mumsnetters are on hand to help you navigate this messy time.

Once your little one is out and about, exploring the world with curious eyes and a wondrous smile, you want to be a part of every experience. Be it your angel’s first steps, or smile, or even a magical giggle, you want to witness it all. So why should meal-time be any different, right? After all, having meals together is said to strengthen the bond between families. I had a mimzy highchair and it was fab, but it was recommended to me as little one has hip dysplasia and its really wide. It could be a pain to clean but all the padding comes off and goes in the washing machine which I used to do once a week (normally Sunday after dinner and then it would be dry by Monday dinner time after nursery)."(Recommended by Mumsnetter ItsSnowJokes) Our verdict It can be used with the newborn set from birth, the baby set from six months (sitting unaided) and after three years or 15kg until adulthood and beyond, so it's great if you need a piece of furniture that will last and can be used by every member of the family. We also like that the tray is dishwasher-safe for particularly messy mealtimes! It's expensive but with a thriving second-hand market you should get a high resale value when you're finished with it.And if you’re worried about your little champ sliding off, then don’t be. Mothercare ensures that their baby high chairs are designed to be completely safe, with soft harnesses to keep your baby secure. These harnesses are also present on our bouncers.

Type: Plastic freestanding highchair with two size trays for growing child | Materials: Metal; plastic; foam seat insert | Suitable from: Birth | Harness: Yes | Wheels?: No What we love We spend hours researching, speaking to parents, analysing data and listening to experts before we test out the products on our shortlist. We asked Charlotte Stirling-Reed what features bewildered first-time parents might watch out for, here are her top tips:Five products were then awarded a Mumsnet Best badge – these are the products that we feel offer the best value for most parents. We also gave honourable mentions to three others. When it’s time to start weaning, a baby highchair or booster your little one loves can help make the change in routine fun. Bright colours and playful patterns can spark baby’s imagination, while classic wooden highchairs blend in beautifully with modern kitchens and dining rooms.

Type: Freestanding chair which converts from baby seat to a highchair | Materials: Faux-leather; fabric; BPA-free plastic | Suitable from: Birth | Harness: Yes | Wheels?: Yes What we love For older babies and toddlers, a familiar chair often signals ‘mealtimes’ to them, allowing them to eat free from distraction and out of harm’s way. How long will I need a highchair for?They are also, of course, the most expensive – and be aware that, in this group in particular, you’ll need to pay extra for everything except the chair frame itself (including newborn accessories, baby seats, trays and even safety harnesses), so make sure this is included in your budget. A multifunctional highchair is a step-up in functionality and price. It has been designed to include features that make life easier or that adjust the chair to suit your child.