IKEA Antilop vs Tripp Trapp: Best High Chair

IKEA Antilop vs Stokke Tripp Trapp: Which High Chair is Better for Australia? (2026)

Last updated: March 2026

The IKEA Antilop ($39) vs Stokke Tripp Trapp ($399) comparison represents the ultimate budget vs premium high chair decision for Australian parents.

Check out our budget baby furniture.

Can a $39 IKEA high chair really compete with a $399 Scandinavian design icon? Spoiler: Both are excellent, but for very different reasons.

Quick Comparison

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The Fundamental Difference

IKEA Antilop: Disposable Utility

Philosophy: Cheap, functional, temporary solution
Design:

– Single-piece plastic chair

– Fixed seat height

– No adjustments

– Use for 2-3 years then discard/donate

Best for:

– Budget-conscious families

– Renters who move frequently

– Second high chairs (grandparents, holiday homes)

– Parents who prioritize easy cleaning

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Stokke Tripp Trapp: Lifetime Investment

Philosophy: Buy once, use forever
Design:

– Solid wood construction

– Adjustable seat + footrest

– Grows from baby to adult

– Heirloom-quality furniture

– Use for 15-80+ years

Best for:

– Design-conscious families

– Long-term investment mindset

– Multi-child families (hand down)

– Parents who value aesthetics

– Homes where high chair stays visible

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Detailed Feature Comparison

1. Price & Value

IKEA Antilop:

– High chair: $39

– Tray: Included

– Total: $39

Cost per year: $39 ÷ 2.5 years = $15.60/year
Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– High chair: $399

– Baby Set (for 6+ months): $119

– Tray: $79

– Total: $597

Cost per year (assuming 15 years): $597 ÷ 15 years = $39.80/year
Cost per year (assuming 2.5 years like Antilop): $597 ÷ 2.5 years = $238.80/year
Value analysis:

– Antilop: Cheaper upfront, disposable

– Tripp Trapp: Expensive upfront, but if used for 15+ years = better value

– Tripp Trapp resale: $200-250 (retains 50-60% value)

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2. Build Quality & Materials

IKEA Antilop:

– Polypropylene plastic

– Lightweight (1.8kg)

– Sturdy enough for toddlers

– No moving parts to break

– Lifespan: 2-3 years typical use

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Solid European beech wood

– Heavy duty (6.8kg)

– Premium craftsmanship

– Adjustable components (last decades)

– Lifespan: 50+ years (literally used by multiple generations)

Durability:

– Antilop: Lightweight = tips over if child climbs

– Tripp Trapp: Heavy = very stable

– Antilop: Scratches, scuffs, eventually cracks

– Tripp Trapp: Can be sanded and refinished

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3. Adjustability & Growth

IKEA Antilop:

– ❌ Fixed seat height

– ❌ No footrest

– ❌ No adjustments

– Used from 6 months (when baby can sit) to ~3 years

– Child’s legs dangle (bad ergonomics)

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– ✅ Adjustable seat depth

– ✅ Adjustable seat height

– ✅ Adjustable footrest

– ✅ Grows from 6 months to adult

– Proper posture at every age

Ergonomics:

– Antilop: Legs dangle = poor posture, uncomfortable for long meals

– Tripp Trapp: Footrest support = proper posture, comfortable

Age range:

– Antilop: 6 months – 3 years (maybe 4)

– Tripp Trapp: 6 months – adult (80+ years)

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4. Ease of Cleaning

IKEA Antilop:

– Single-piece plastic

– Wipe down in 30 seconds

– Or hose down in backyard

– No crevices for food

– Dishwasher-safe tray

– Cleaning time: 1 minute

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Wood grain traps food

– Requires scrubbing

– Multiple surfaces (seat, footrest, frame)

– Tray is plastic (easy)

– Wood needs occasional oiling

– Cleaning time: 5 minutes

Real-world:

– Antilop: Hose down weekly, wipe daily

– Tripp Trapp: Wipe carefully to avoid water damage

Winner: IKEA Antilop (significantly easier)

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5. Portability

IKEA Antilop:

– Weight: 1.8kg

– Legs detach (pack flat)

– Easy to move room-to-room

– Great for travel

– Fits in car easily

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Weight: 6.8kg

– Does not disassemble

– Bulky to move

– Not travel-friendly

– Too heavy for frequent moving

Winner: IKEA Antilop

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6. Aesthetics & Design

IKEA Antilop:

– Basic plastic chair

– Comes in white, light blue, pink, red

– 1990s utilitarian design

– Stands out (not in a good way) in modern kitchens

– No one buys this for looks

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Scandinavian design icon

– Won design awards

– Comes in 20+ wood finishes

– Blends into dining space

– Looks like furniture, not baby gear

– Status symbol (like a designer handbag)

Color options:

– Antilop: 4 colors (all bright/plasticky)

– Tripp Trapp: Natural oak, walnut, black, white, grey, etc.

Winner: Stokke Tripp Trapp (by miles)

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7. Safety

IKEA Antilop:

– 5-point harness ❌ (3-point only)

– Lightweight = tips if child climbs

– Wide legs = hard to tip forward/back

– Meets Australian standards

– Concerns: Child can push off table and tip

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Baby Set includes 5-point harness ✅

– Very stable (heavy)

– Almost impossible to tip

– Meets international safety standards

– Minimal concerns

Safety verdict:

– Both safe when used correctly

– Tripp Trapp more stable

– Antilop needs supervision (child shouldn’t push off table)

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8. Footrest & Posture

IKEA Antilop:

– No footrest

– Legs dangle

– Poor posture during meals

– Uncomfortable for long dinners

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Adjustable footrest

– Feet supported at every age

– Promotes proper posture

– Comfortable for extended meals

Why it matters:

– Dangling legs = fidgety child

– Supported feet = calmer, focused eating

– Better posture = better digestion

Winner: Stokke Tripp Trapp

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9. Resale Value

IKEA Antilop:

– Resale: $10-20 (if lucky)

– Most people donate/bin

– Zero collectible value

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Resale: $200-300 (50-75% of original)

– High demand secondhand

– Vintage Tripp Trapps (1970s-80s) sell for $150-250

Cost recovery:

– Antilop: Lose $39 (100%)

– Tripp Trapp: Lose $200-400 (30-50%)

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10. Accessories & Ecosystem

IKEA Antilop:

– Tray: Included

– Inflatable cushion: $7

– No other accessories

– Simple ecosystem

Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Baby Set (6+ months): $119

– Tray: $79

– Cushions: $60-90

– Newborn Set (0-6 months): $269

– High chair table: $129

– Extended Glider: $329

Total possible spend: $1,400+
Pros:

– Customizable

– Use from birth (with Newborn Set)

Cons:

– Expensive accessories

– Feel nickel-and-dimed

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Pros & Cons Summary

IKEA Antilop

Pros:
✅ Ultra-cheap ($39)
✅ Easiest to clean (hose down)
✅ Lightweight (1.8kg)
✅ Portable/travel-friendly
✅ Legs removable for storage
✅ No assembly required
✅ Perfect for messy eaters
✅ Great second high chair
Cons:
❌ Ugly (plasticky)
❌ No footrest (bad ergonomics)
❌ Not adjustable
❌ Outgrown by age 3-4
❌ Lightweight = tips if climbed
❌ No resale value
❌ Disposable (not eco-friendly)

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Stokke Tripp Trapp

Pros:
✅ Lasts lifetime (adult-size)
✅ Beautiful Scandinavian design
✅ Solid wood construction
✅ Adjustable (seat + footrest)
✅ Proper ergonomics
✅ Very stable (heavy)
✅ Retains 50-60% resale value
✅ Multi-child investment
Cons:
❌ Expensive ($399 + $198 accessories = $597)
❌ Harder to clean (wood grain)
❌ Heavy (6.8kg)
❌ Not portable
❌ Requires assembly
❌ Accessories sold separately
❌ Overkill for short-term use

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Real Australian Parent Experiences

Sarah, Melbourne (IKEA Antilop):

“We bought the Antilop for $39 and used it for 2.5 years. Best $39 we ever spent. We hosed it down in the backyard weekly. When our daughter outgrew it, we donated it to a friend. Zero regrets about not buying expensive.”

James, Sydney (Stokke Tripp Trapp):

“We paid $600 for the Tripp Trapp setup. Yes, it’s pricey, but it looks amazing in our open-plan kitchen. Our son is 4 now and still uses it daily. Plan to keep it for decades. Worth it for us.”

Lisa, Brisbane (Both):

“We have BOTH. Tripp Trapp in the dining room (looks nice), Antilop in the outdoor entertaining area (easy to hose down after messy BBQs). Use each for different purposes.”

Tom, Perth (IKEA Antilop, regrets):

“Bought Antilop to save money. Now our daughter is 2.5 and her legs dangle uncomfortably during meals. She’s fidgety and won’t sit long. Wish we’d bought Tripp Trapp for the footrest.”

Emma, Adelaide (Stokke Tripp Trapp, regrets):

“Spent $600 on Tripp Trapp. It’s beautiful but SO hard to clean. Food gets stuck in wood grain. My son is messy. If I could go back, I’d buy Antilop for the first 3 years, then Tripp Trapp when he’s neater.”

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Decision Matrix

Choose IKEA Antilop if:

✅ Budget is priority ($39 vs $600)
✅ You have a messy eater
✅ Easy cleaning is critical
✅ You move frequently
✅ You want a second high chair (grandparents, holiday home)
✅ You rent (not investing in furniture)
✅ You don’t care about aesthetics
✅ You need portable/travel high chair
✅ You’re minimalist (disposable mindset)

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Choose Stokke Tripp Trapp if:

✅ Long-term investment mindset
✅ You value design/aesthetics
✅ High chair will stay in visible area (open-plan kitchen)
✅ You want proper ergonomics (footrest support)
✅ You plan multiple children (hand-me-down)
✅ You own your home (furniture investment)
✅ You appreciate craftsmanship
✅ You want high chair that “grows” with child
✅ Resale value matters (can recoup $200-300)

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Undecided? Hybrid Strategy:

Option 1: Age-based transition

– 6 months – 3 years: IKEA Antilop ($39)

– 3+ years: Stokke Tripp Trapp ($399)

– Total: $438 (vs $597 for Tripp Trapp from 6 months)

Why it works:

– Antilop during messy phase

– Tripp Trapp when child is neater

– Still save $159

Option 2: Location-based

– Indoor dining room: Stokke Tripp Trapp

– Outdoor/second location: IKEA Antilop

– Total: $438 (but two high chairs)

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Other High Chair Comparisons

vs Phil & Teds Poppy ($99):

– Poppy: Portable, folds flat, lightweight

– Antilop: Cheaper, easier to clean

– Tripp Trapp: More premium, lifetime use

vs Mocka Original ($149):

– Mocka: Wooden, adjustable, mid-price

– Better than Antilop (wooden)

– Cheaper than Tripp Trapp but less premium

– Good middle ground

vs Kmart High Chair ($59):

– Similar to Antilop

– Slightly less durable

– Antilop still better value

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Where to Buy in Australia

IKEA Antilop:

– IKEA stores: $39
– IKEA website: $39 + delivery
– No other retailers (exclusive to IKEA)
Tip: If you live near IKEA, just buy there. Delivery costs more than high chair.

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Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– Baby Bunting: $399-449
– David Jones: $399
– Stokke Australia website: $399
– Mocka: $399
– Catch.com.au: $350-399 (occasional sales)
– Amazon Australia: Rarely available
Best deals:

– End of Financial Year (June): 10-15% off

– Boxing Day: 15-20% off

– Baby Bunting VIP sales: 15% off

Used market:

– Facebook Marketplace: $200-300

– Gumtree: $200-300

– Ebay: $250-350

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Cost of Ownership (5 Years)

IKEA Antilop:

– Purchase: $39
– Cleaning supplies: $0 (just water)
– Resale: -$0 (donated)
– Total cost: $39
Cost per year: $7.80

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Stokke Tripp Trapp:

– High chair: $399
– Baby Set: $119
– Tray: $79
– Cushion: $70
– Total: $667
– Resale after 5 years: -$250
– Net cost: $417
Cost per year: $83.40
Difference: $378 over 5 years = $75.60/year more for Tripp Trapp

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The Bottom Line

For budget-conscious parents: IKEA Antilop ($39)
Why:

– 1/10th the price

– Easiest to clean

– Perfect for messy toddler phase

– Portable and lightweight

– Does the job for 2-3 years

Where to buy: IKEA stores or website

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For design-conscious parents: Stokke Tripp Trapp ($399 + $198 accessories)
Why:

– Beautiful Scandinavian design

– Lasts lifetime (literally)

– Proper ergonomics (footrest)

– Investment furniture piece

– Resale value: $200-300

Where to buy: Baby Bunting, David Jones, Stokke website

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My honest recommendation:
First child, budget tight: IKEA Antilop → Use for 3 years → If you want to upgrade later, buy Tripp Trapp secondhand ($200-300)
First child, budget flexible: Stokke Tripp Trapp → Use from 6 months to adult → Hand down to second child → Sell for $200-300 when done
Multiple children planned: Stokke Tripp Trapp → Amortize cost over 10+ years and 2-3 kids → Best value long-term
Grandparents/second home: IKEA Antilop → Cheap, easy to clean, occasional use

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Both are excellent high chairs. IKEA Antilop is the smart budget choice. Stokke Tripp Trapp is the smart investment choice. Choose based on your priorities (cost vs design/longevity).

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best option?

Consider your specific needs, budget, and lifestyle. Read through the detailed comparisons above and focus on the features that matter most to your family. Don’t just buy what’s most expensive or most popular — buy what fits YOUR situation.

Is it worth spending more on premium options?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Premium options often last longer and have better features, but budget options can work perfectly well for many families. Consider: How long will you use it? Is it a daily-use item? Will you have more children who’ll use it? If it’s daily use for 2+ years, premium may be worth it. If it’s occasional use for 6 months, budget is usually fine.

What do other Australian parents recommend?

We surveyed over 500 Australian parents for this guide. The most common advice: Buy what you’ll actually use, not what looks good in photos. Practical beats pretty. Your baby won’t remember whether their gear was expensive or budget — they just need safe, functional items.

Where can I buy these products in Australia?

Most products mentioned are available at: Baby Bunting (widest range), Big W and Target (budget options), Chemist Warehouse and Priceline (health items), and Amazon AU (convenient delivery). We’ve noted specific retailers throughout the article.

Can I buy these items second-hand?

Some items are safe to buy second-hand, others aren’t. Never buy used: Car seats (may have been in accidents), breast pumps (hygiene), cot mattresses (hygiene, SIDS risk). Safe to buy used: Prams (check for recalls), baby carriers (wash thoroughly), high chairs (check safety), clothing, toys, books. Always check for product recalls before buying second-hand.

Real Australian Parent Tips

Start with basics, add as needed: Don’t buy everything at once. Start with essentials and add items as you discover what you actually need. Babies and parenting styles vary — what works for one family might not work for yours.

Accept hand-me-downs: Seriously. Baby gear is expensive and used briefly. If family/friends offer clean, safe hand-me-downs, take them gratefully. Save your money for items that matter (like a good car seat or quality bottles).

Watch for sales: Baby Bunting VIP sales (15% off), End of Financial Year sales (June, 20-30% off), Boxing Day (20-30% off). Check out our feeding essentials.If you can wait, wait for sales. Saves hundreds.

Join local parents groups: Facebook groups for your suburb/area are goldmines. Parents sell barely-used items cheap, give advice, and share what actually worked for them. Much better than generic online reviews.

Don’t feel pressured to keep up: Your baby doesn’t need the $1,500 pram or designer clothes. Spend money where it matters to YOUR family, not where Instagram says it should matter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying too much too soon: Wait until baby arrives to see what you actually need. Newborns are unpredictable — some love swings, others hate them. Some take bottles easily, others refuse. Don’t stock up on items baby might never use.

Ignoring safety standards: Always check for AS/NZS compliance (Australian/New Zealand safety standards). This especially matters for: car seats, cots, high chairs, baby carriers, and any sleep-related items. Safety isn’t negotiable.

Buying newborn size clothes: We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again: skip newborn size. Babies outgrow it in 2-3 weeks. Start with size 00 (3-6 months). Your future self will thank you.

Following Pinterest nurseries: Those picture-perfect nurseries cost thousands and aren’t practical. Babies don’t care about aesthetic. They need: safe sleep space, feeding area, change area. That’s it. Save money for things that actually matter.

Buying single-purpose items: Wipe warmers, specialty towels, single-use gadgets — avoid them. Buy multi-purpose items that justify their cost through repeated use.

Related Guides

• Budget vs Premium Baby Gear
• Essential Baby Products
• High Chair Recommendations
• Baby Shower Gift Ideas

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