If you’re about to start solids, chances are you’ve already Googled “best high chair” and asked every group chat for recommendations. And like thousands of families, you probably landed on the IKEA Antilop high chair. Honestly? We get it, we love it too. It’s sturdy, lightweight, easy to clean, and at a fraction of the cost of other high chairs, it’s become a cult favourite worldwide.
But here’s the thing: while the Ikea Antilop is a brilliant base on its own, it doesn’t give your baby the full ergonomic support they need for safe, comfortable, and confident mealtimes. The good news? With a few clever high chair add-ons, you can transform your Antilop into the ultimate feeding setup.
Why Ergonomics Matter More Than You Think
When babies are learning to eat, their bodies are doing a lot of new work, sitting upright, chewing, swallowing, and coordinating movements. How they sit in the high chair can make all the difference.
Here’s why:
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Footrest: Without one, little legs dangle, which makes it harder to stabilise the body. A footrest helps your baby sit at the recommended 90:90:90 angle (hips, knees, ankles all at 90°). This posture supports safer chewing and swallowing, while also making mealtimes calmer.
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Cushion: Especially in the early months, babies can be a little wobbly. A supportive cushion keeps them snug and upright, so they can focus on exploring food instead of sliding around.
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Placemats & leg wraps: These might seem like extras, but they add both function and ease. A non-slip placemat helps keep plates in place (handy when you’re dealing with a curious little food thrower), while leg wraps add durability and style.
Think of it this way: a more ergonomic setup doesn’t just look good, it sets your baby up for mealtime success.
What Parents Notice When They Upgrade
We hear it all the time from families who’ve “glowed up” their Antilop:
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Their baby sits taller and calmer.
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Chewing and swallowing feels smoother.
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Mealtimes become less about the mess, and more about the moment.
The IKEA Antilop high chair is one of the best affordable options out there, and with a few small tweaks, you can make it even better. That’s exactly why we created our High Chair Glow Up Bundle, complete with a footrest, cushion, leg wraps, silicone placemat, and of course, the award-winning Catchy. One kit, everything you need to make mealtimes easier, safer, and a whole lot less messy.
Because mealtimes aren’t just about food. They’re about comfort, confidence, and connection, for your little human and for you.
