Let me tell you, as a parent who’s been through the trenches of baby gear, the Stokke Tripp Trapp is a game-changer. This isn’t just a high chair—it’s a piece of furniture that grows with your child from infancy to, well, forever.
Its sleek Scandinavian design, sturdy build, and versatility make it worth every penny. Whether you’re starting solids or helping your toddler join family dinners, this chair delivers.
Trust me, you’ll want this in your home for the long haul—it’s an investment in comfort, style, and conection.
My Journey With The Stokke Tripp Trapp
When my first child, Emma, was about five months old, I started dreading mealtimes.
Our old high chair was a clunky, plastic monstrosity that took up half the kitchen and was impossible to clean.
Emma would slump awkwardly, her little feet dangling, and I’d wince every time she flung food across the room.
I knew I needed something better, so I turned to the Stokke Tripp Trapp after hearing other parents rave about it.
Spoiler alert: it transformed our dining experience.
From the moment I unboxed it, I was smitten. The beechwood frame felt solid, almost like a piece of heirloom furniture, and the soft white finish I chose blended seamlessly with our dining room. Assembly took me about 15 minutes—no swearing required, which is a win for any sleep-deprived parent.
The chair came with the Baby Set and harness, and I added the optional tray for convenience. Adjusting the seat and footplate to fit Emma was intuitive, and I loved how she could sit upright, her feet firmly planted, looking like she was ready to negotiate a boardroom deal instead of mashing avocado.
The first time we used it, Emma seemed thrilled to be at the table with us. No more isolation in a bulky high chair—she was part of the action. I’d catch her mimicking my husband’s fork movements, and it felt like she was truly part of our family dinners.
The chair’s design let us pull it right up to the table, fostering that connection Stokke emphasizes. Over the next few months, as Emma grew, I adjusted the seat and footrest to keep her comfortable.
Now, at three years old, she climbs into it herself, and it’s still her throne at the table. Honestly, it’s been a lifesaver, and I can’t imagine our home without it.
The Pros of The Stokke Tripp Trapp
- Ergonomic Design That Grows with Your Child
The Tripp Trapp’s biggest strength is its adjustability.
You can tweak the seat and footplate to fit your child from six months to, theoretically, adulthood.
I’ve moved the footrest up and down as Emma’s legs grew, ensuring she’s always supported properly.
This isn’t just about comfort—it promotes good posture, which is crucial for developing spines. I noticed Emma sits straighter in this chair compared to the floppy posture she had in our old one.
The ability to customize the height also means she’s always at the perfect level to join us at the table, making mealtimes feel inclusive.
- Sturdy and Timeless Construction
This chair is built like a tank. The solid beechwood frame feels indestructible, even after Emma’s enthusiastic banging with spoons. I’ve heard stories of families using their Tripp Trapp for decades, passing it down to younger siblings or even grandchildren.
The design is timeless, too—no cartoonish colors or dated patterns. I went for a neutral white, but the range of colors, from sunny yellow to sleek black, lets you pick something that vibes with your home. It’s not just a high chair; it’s a piece of furniture you won’t hide when guests come over.
- Easy to Clean (Mostly)
As a parent, you know messes are inevitable. The Tripp Trapp’s smooth wood surface is a breeze to wipe down with a damp cloth. Food splatters? No problem. The Baby Set and tray are dishwasher-safe, which is a godsend when you’re dealing with pureed sweet potato explosions.
The only hiccup is the harness, which I’ll get to later, but overall, cleanup is quick. I’ve never found hidden crumbs lurking in crevices, unlike some other chairs I’ve tried.
- Safety Features That Deliver Peace of Mind
Safety is non-negotiable, and the Tripp Trapp nails it. The five-point harness keeps wiggly babies secure, and the extended gliders on the base prevent tipping, even when Emma tries to channel her inner gymnast.
The chair’s sturdy build means it doesn’t budge, no matter how much she squirms. I’ve never felt nervous about her safety, which is more than I can say for some flimsier chairs we’ve encountered at friends’ houses.
- Versatility Beyond the Baby Years
What sets the Tripp Trapp apart is its longevity. With the Newborn Set, you can use it from day one, letting your baby chill at eye level during meals. Once they outgrow the Baby Set, it transforms into a toddler chair, then a big-kid chair, and even an adult seat (it holds up to 242 pounds!).
Emma’s still using hers at three, and I can see her sitting in it for homework in a few years. It’s like buying one chair for life.
The Cons of The Stokke Tripp Trapp
- Hefty Price Tag
Let’s not sugarcoat it—the Tripp Trapp is expensive.
The base chair costs around $319, and if you want the Baby Set, tray, or cushions, you’re looking at another $50 to $150.
For budget-conscious parents, that’s a tough pill to swallow.
I justified it by thinking of it as a long-term investment, but I get why some might balk.
If you’re on a tight budget, you might wonder if a $30 IKEA chair could do the job just fine for the early years.
- Fiddly Harness Straps
The five-point harness is secure, but it’s a pain to clean. Removing it for washing feels like solving a puzzle designed by a sadist. I’ve spent way too much time wrestling with the straps to get them off, and they’re not machine-washable, so I’m stuck soaking them in soapy water.
For baby-led weaning parents like me, where messes are a daily event, this is a real drawback. I often skip the harness now that Emma’s older, but for younger babies, it’s a necessity.
- Assembly and Adjustments Take Effort
While assembling the chair wasn’t terrible, adjusting the seat and footplate as your child grows requires an Allen key and some patience. It’s not a quick process—think 10 minutes of loosening and tightening screws.
I’ve gotten used to it, but when Emma had a growth spurt, I found myself wishing for a tool-free system. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s not as user-friendly as I’d hoped.
- Optional Tray Limitations
The optional tray is handy, but it’s not perfect. It’s a bit small, and suction plates don’t always stick well due to the tray’s slightly textured surface.
I also found it tricky to snap on and off at first, though I got the hang of it. If you plan to use the chair at the table without the tray, this isn’t an issue, but for parents who rely on trays, it’s worth noting.
Tips For Your Stokke Tripp Trapp
- Regular Wipe-Downs for the Wood
To keep the Tripp Trapp looking pristine, wipe it down after every meal. I use a damp cloth with a touch of mild dish soap for sticky spots, followed by a dry cloth to prevent water marks.
The beechwood is treated with a varnish that’s free of harmful chemicals, so it’s durable, but avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the finish. I’ve noticed that quick cleanups prevent food from settling into the wood grain, keeping it looking new.
- Tackling the Harness
The harness is the trickiest part to clean. Since it’s not machine-washable, I fill a bowl with warm, soapy water and let the straps soak for a few minutes. A soft brush helps scrub off stubborn stains, and then I pat them dry with a towel and let them air-dry overnight.
It’s tedious, but doing this once a week keeps them fresh. If you’re in a rush, spot-clean with a damp cloth, but don’t let food build up—it gets gross fast.
- Checking Screws and Stability
Every few months, I check the screws on the chair to ensure they’re tight. Emma’s roughhousing hasn’t loosened anything yet, but it’s a good habit to prevent wobbling.
Also, inspect the extended gliders on the base—they’re crucial for stability but can wear down over time. If they’re damaged, you can order replacements from Stokke’s website. A quick once-over keeps the chair safe and steady.
- Storing Accessories Properly
If you’re not using the tray or Baby Set, store them in a dry place to avoid scratches or warping. I keep mine in a closet, wrapped in a soft cloth to protect the plastic.
If you have the Newborn Set, make sure it’s clean before storing, as milk or spit-up can leave stains. Proper storage means you can reuse or resell these accessories later.
- Protecting the Finish
The Tripp Trapp’s wood can scratch if you’re not careful. I avoid dragging it across the floor and use felt pads under the legs to protect my hardwood. If you notice minor scratches, a furniture polish designed for wood can help.
For deeper marks, contact Stokke for touch-up varnish. Keeping it away from direct sunlight also prevents fading, especially for vibrant colors like red or yellow.
Comparing The Stokke Tripp Trapp To Other Brands
- Stokke Tripp Trapp Vs. Stokke Clikk High Chair
I took the Stokke Clikk on a family trip, and it’s a lighter, more portable cousin to the Tripp Trapp.
Priced around $189, it’s a budget-friendly option from Stokke, assembling in under a minute with no tools.
Its large tray and easy-to-clean plastic surface were great for quick meals, but it’s designed for kids up to age three, unlike the Tripp Trapp’s lifelong use.
The Clikk’s plastic frame feels less premium, and Emma seemed less supported without the Tripp Trapp’s adjustable footrest.
For travel or short-term use, the Clikk shines, but the Tripp Trapp’s durability and versatility make it my go-to for home.
- Stokke Tripp Trapp Vs. Maxi-Cosi Moa
The Maxi-Cosi Moa, around $250, caught my eye for its modular design, transforming from a high chair to a booster seat or toddler chair.
I tested it at a friend’s house, and its tool-free adjustments were a breeze compared to the Tripp Trapp’s Allen key tweaks.
The Moa’s tray is spacious, and its lightweight frame is easy to move.
However, its plastic-heavy build feels less sturdy, and it only supports kids up to five years old.
The Tripp Trapp’s solid beechwood and lifelong adjustability outshine the Moa for long-term value, though the Moa’s simplicity suits parents who prioritize ease over durability.
- Stokke Tripp Trapp Vs. Mockingbird High Chair
The Mockingbird High Chair, priced at $230, is a strong contender I tried at a playdate.
Its five-point harness and adjustable footrest kept Emma secure, and the tool-free height adjustments were faster than the Tripp Trapp’s.
The Mockingbird’s modern look is appealing, but its plastic components don’t match the Tripp Trapp’s heirloom-quality wood.
It’s designed for kids up to age five, not adulthood, so it lacks the Tripp Trapp’s longevity.
For parents wanting a balance of affordability and functionality, the Mockingbird is great, but the Tripp Trapp’s timeless design and durability win for me.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, if you value longevity and quality. The Tripp Trapp’s adjustability, durability, and ability to blend into your home make it a solid investment. It’s expensive, but I’ve used it for three years with no signs of wear, and it’s still Emma’s favorite seat. For parents on a budget, a cheaper chair might work for the baby years, but the Tripp Trapp’s versatility and resale value justify the cost for me.
No, the Tripp Trapp isn’t designed for sleeping. It’s a high chair meant for supervised mealtimes or activities. The upright position and harness aren’t suitable for safe sleep, and there’s a risk of slumping or tipping. I’ve let Emma nap briefly in it during a meal, but I always moved her to a crib for proper sleep. Stick to a bassinet or crib for naps.
I haven’t stopped! Emma’s three now, and she still uses it daily. The Baby Set came off around 18 months when she started climbing in herself, and I adjusted the seat to fit her growing frame. I know families who’ve used it for kids up to eight or older, and I plan to keep it for Emma’s homework years or pass it to a future sibling.
The Mockingbird High Chair is my top pick for an alternative. It’s more affordable at $230, has a solid five-point harness, and converts easily to a toddler chair. While it lacks the Tripp Trapp’s premium wood and lifelong use, it’s functional and stylish for the price. I found it easier to adjust than the Tripp Trapp, but it doesn’t have the same heirloom quality.
Why The Stokke Tripp Trapp Is A Game-Changer?
If you’re looking for a high chair that’s more than just a place to park your kid during meals, the Stokke Tripp Trapp is it. It’s a stylish, sturdy, and versatile addition to your home that grows with your child and elevates family time.
Despite the price and a few quirks, it’s been a cornerstone of our daily life, and I’d buy it again in a heartbeat. Get one—you won’t regret it.