High Chair brand review: Ingenuity

Web site: KidsII.com

Kids II, parent company of Ingenuity, is perhaps best known for some of their other brands, especially Baby Einstein. They have been recently expanding into gear, including the Ingenuity brand of high chairs and boosters.

Ingenuity’s full feature high chair is the Trio 3-in-1. Riffing off the popular Graco Blossom, the Trio transitions from a full size high chair into a booster seat or a “toddler smart chair,” similar to the Blossom’s “youth chair.” But at a mere $99 (online for as little as $69), the Ingenuity is quite a bargain compared to the Blossom, which can run as much as $190. Two other versions are the Deluxe (just a fabric upgrade) and the Trio Wood 3-in-1 with a wood base ($160)

The Trio doesn’t quite have as many features as the Blossom: it doesn’t fold nor is it height adjustable. But the Trio comes with a 3-position recline, infant bolster, 4-position one-hand removable tray and dishwasher safe tray.The seat pad is machine washable too.

Parents seem happy for the most part with the Trio. Some complained that the wheels aren’t that great—it’s a pain to roll the high chair around. Others wished it folded down–the footprint of the high chair is pretty big, so it gets in the way even in a large kitchen. In fact, some readers noted they tripped over the legs occasionally. Finally, the seat is pretty small for some kids who may outgrown it quickly.  But for the price and flexibility, most readers seem pretty happy with the Trio.

Ingenuity’s ChairMate High Chair (pictured at left) is a full feature seat that straps onto a dining room chair, much like the Fisher Price Space Saver. The ChairMate costs $60 to $75 and features four height positions, dishwasher safe tray and tray insert and recline feature. Parents note the seat is easy to clean and use although it won’t fit just any dining room chair. Some complaints have surfaced that the tray is too close to baby and makes for a tight fit. Others complained that even in the upright position, the seat is too reclined.

Finally, Ingenuity makes a booster seat for use on the floor or attached to a chair called the Baby Base 2-in-1. The seat has a soft foam insert and the tray can be stored underneath and washed in the dishwasher. For toddlers, the seat pad is removable for more room. There is only a three point harness on the Baby Base. Cost: $35 to $45. One concern: baby may be able to tip forward in the seat while sitting on the floor. Be sure to read the directions carefully and use the safety strap.

Overall, Ingenuity gets pretty good marks from parents for all three of their high chair/booster options. If you have the space and don’t need to fold the chair, the Trio is a decent option. The ChairMate isn’t quite as impressive as the Fisher Price Space Saver, but it does cost less. The Baby Base is just okay.

Rating: B