The IKEA ANTILOP high chair has been called the world’s most famous budget high chair — and for good reason. In an age where baby gear routinely crosses the $150 to $400 range, the ANTILOP continues to dominate with a price tag that stubbornly stays between $20–$25. It’s the kind of product parents recommend in mom groups, daycare centers swear by, and restaurants buy in bulk. With its minimalist shape, featherlight frame, and almost indestructible build, the ANTILOP has grown from a simple IKEA staple into a global parenting phenomenon.
But is it still worth buying in 2025, especially as new competitors and upgraded baby-safety standards emerge? This review breaks down everything you need to know: features, drawbacks, safety notes, accessories, cleaning tips, and comparisons with high-end alternatives like the Stokke Tripp Trapp. By the end, you’ll know exactly whether the IKEA high chair fits your lifestyle — or if you should consider an upgrade.
IKEA High Chair Overview
The IKEA ANTILOP is a lightweight, molded-plastic high chair consisting of three main components: the plastic seat, detachable tray, and four steel legs. It’s IKEA’s flagship high chair, known for its practicality and wide global availability.
Product Specifications (ANTILOP Model)
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Seat Material: Polypropylene plastic
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Leg Material: Powder-coated steel
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Harness: 3-point buckle harness
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Weight Limit: 33 lbs (15 kg)
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Recommended Age: 6 months to 3 years
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Tray: Removable, dishwasher-safe
Available Models: ANTILOP vs BLÅMES
While the ANTILOP remains the star of the show, IKEA also introduced the BLÅMES, a slightly more stylish alternative with a sleeker silhouette and integrated footrest. However, the ANTILOP remains significantly cheaper and more available.
Price Comparison (2025)
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ANTILOP Seat: $19.99–$24.99
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Tray: $6–$10 depending on region
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BLÅMES Model: $39.99–$49.99
Where to Buy
The ANTILOP is sold:
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In IKEA stores worldwide
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Online via IKEA.com
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Through retailers like Amazon (pricing varies)
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Second-hand via Facebook Marketplace (common and affordable)
Availability is generally excellent — though the white tray often sells out first.
Key Features & Design
The beauty of the ANTILOP lies in its simplicity. No fabric, no complicated hinges, no elaborate recline systems — just a sturdy plastic seat with attachable legs.
Simple 3-Piece Construction
The high chair includes:
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A molded plastic bucket seat
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Four steel legs that pop in
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A removable tray
Assembly takes under 2 minutes and doesn’t require tools.
Materials & Build Quality
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The plastic seat is BPA-free, smooth, and non-porous.
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The steel legs create a stable, lightweight frame.
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The tray clips securely but can be stiff.
Safety Features
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3-point harness: Enough for older babies, but not as secure as a 5-point.
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Wide base: Helps prevent tipping.
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No fabric pieces: Reduces bacterial buildup.
Dimensions & Footprint
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Height: 37 inches
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Seat Width: 15 inches
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Weight: Just 7.9 lbs
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Footprint: Wide stance — important to consider in small kitchens.
Age Range
Suitable from 6 months to 3 years, though younger infants may need cushions due to the deep bucket seat.
Pros (What Parents Love)
Parents across the world consistently praise the ANTILOP for several standout reasons:
Unbeatable Affordability
Finding a high chair under $25 in 2025 is almost impossible — yet the ANTILOP continues to offer premium practicality at a budget price.
Extremely Easy to Clean
No cracks, no fabric, no weird grooves. A simple wipe removes 90% of messes instantly.
Fast Assembly
Snap in the legs and you’re done. Perfect for grandparents or travel.
Lightweight & Portable
You can carry it with one hand while holding your baby in the other.
Stackable
Many parents with multiple kids stack these chairs to save space.
Dishwasher-Safe Tray
A lifesaver for messy meals like spaghetti, carrot puree, and oatmeal.
Durable & Long-Lasting
It rarely breaks and can survive years of daily use.
Restaurant Friendly
Because it’s widely used in public spaces, babies feel familiar and comfortable feeding in it.
Cons (What’s Missing)
Despite its cult following, the ANTILOP is far from perfect.
No Footrest
This is the most common complaint. Proper foot support reduces choking risk and improves posture.
Only a 3-Point Harness
A 5-point harness is safer for younger infants.
No Adjustability
No height changes, no recline, no adjustable tray.
Tray Is Difficult to Remove
You must pull with force, especially when new.
Only Available in White
Stains wipe away easily, but customization is common.
No Cushion Included
Small babies often slump without additional support.
Wide Leg Stance
Parents frequently bump into the legs.
Safety Considerations
IKEA follows ASTM F404 high chair safety standards, but smart usage is essential.
Footrest Importance
A footrest improves:
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Stability
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Digestion
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Posture
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Safety during swallowing
Many experts note that dangling feet can increase choking risk because it destabilizes the core.
Harness Usage
Always buckle the 3-point harness. Without it, babies can climb out or stand.
Stability
The wide leg design reduces tipping, but also increases floor space usage. Always place the chair on level ground.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Daily Cleaning
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Wipe with warm soapy water
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Dry with microfiber cloth
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Use a toothbrush for the crevice where tray meets seat
Removing Stains
Carrot, tomato sauce, and turmeric can temporarily stain plastic.
Solutions:
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Baking soda paste
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Diluted bleach wipe (rare use)
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Sun exposure to lighten stains naturally
Dishwasher Safety
Only the tray is dishwasher-safe; the seat should be hand-cleaned.
Long-term Durability
Even after years of use, the legs rarely warp and the plastic seat maintains structure.
Must-Have Accessories & Hacks
The ANTILOP’s simplicity invites endless customization.
Footrest Options
Popular brands in 2025:
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Yeah Baby Goods
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Nomi-style Amazon footrests
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Adjustable bamboo footrests on Etsy
Support Cushions
Essential for younger sitters. Options include:
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IKEA’s own support cushion
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Waterproof padded covers from Etsy
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Silicone liners for easy cleaning
Placemats
Silicone placemats designed specifically for the ANTILOP tray prevent sliding.
Leg Wraps / Customization
Parents often wrap legs in:
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Wood-pattern contact paper
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Black/white vinyl for a modern look
DIY Ideas
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Name decals
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Custom cushions
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Painted metal legs (non-toxic paint only)
IKEA High Chair vs Competitors
vs Stokke Tripp Trapp
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Tripp Trapp: $299+, wooden, grows with child
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ANTILOP: $25, plastic, no adjustability
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Verdict: Tripp Trapp is superior ergonomically, but ANTILOP wins on price and cleaning ease.
vs Stokke Clikk
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Clikk: $199, aesthetic, includes footrest
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ANTILOP: 1/10th the price, easier to clean
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Verdict: ANTILOP is better for budget families; Clikk suits design-focused parents.
vs Target/Kmart Alternatives
Many copies exist but tend to be heavier, harder to clean, or pricier.
vs Premium Brands ($200–$500)
Incredibly adjustable but often difficult to clean due to fabric and hinges.
Who Should Buy This High Chair
Best for:
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Budget-conscious families
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Minimalist households
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Parents wanting a second/travel chair
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Grandparents needing occasional-use seating
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Homes with limited cleaning time
Should consider alternatives:
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Parents wanting a footrest included
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Babies who need ergonomic, posture-friendly seating
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Families preferring premium design aesthetics
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Those wanting long-term adjustable chairs
Real Parent Reviews & Experiences
Thousands of parents praise its:
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Affordability
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Ease of cleaning
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Simplicity
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Familiarity for babies
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Durability
Common complaints include the stiff tray, lack of footrest, wide legs, and the deep bucket seat causing slouching. Still, many parents report using the same ANTILOP for multiple children over 5–7 years without issues.
Conclusion
The IKEA High Chair remains one of the best value high chairs in 2025, delivering unmatched practicality at a nearly unbelievable price. While it lacks the adjustability and ergonomic features found in premium models, the ANTILOP excels in the areas that matter most to everyday families: ease of cleaning, durability, simplicity, and universal availability. For budget-conscious parents or anyone seeking a reliable feeding chair without unnecessary frills, the ANTILOP remains an excellent value. With the right accessories, it can even rival far more expensive alternatives.
Rating: 4.6/5 — Outstanding value for money.
If you’re looking for a safe, easy-to-clean, minimalist high chair that doesn’t break the bank, the IKEA ANTILOP remains one of the smartest purchases you can make in 2025.