Symptoms
- Tray slides side to side after being attached
- Tray doesn't click into its locked position
- One side locks but the other doesn't
- Tray falls off with light pressure or bumping
Likely causes
- CommonDried food or debris in the tray's locking trackFood buildup in the slide channels is the most common reason a tray won't seat and lock fully.
- CommonTray not aligned evenly on both sides before pushing inPushing one side in before the other can cause it to catch at an angle and feel stuck without locking.
- PossibleWorn or broken locking tabs on the trayThe small plastic tabs that click into place can wear down or crack after heavy daily use.
- PossibleChair arms slightly bent or spread from stressIf a child pushes hard against the tray repeatedly, the chair's arms can flex slightly out of position.
- PossibleTray adjustment lever left in the wrong positionChairs with multiple tray depth settings can have a lever that needs to be in a specific position for full locking.
What to do
- Remove the tray completely and clean out the sliding track on both sides with a brush and warm soapy water, then dry fully.
- Check the high chair's tray-adjustment lever or button and confirm it's in the correct position for locking.
- Reinsert the tray evenly on both sides at the same time rather than pushing one side in first.
- Listen and feel for a click on both sides individually, then gently try to slide the tray to confirm it's locked.
- Inspect the small locking tabs on the tray's underside for cracks or wear compared to a similar chair if you can.
- Check the chair's arms are still parallel and not visibly bent or splayed outward.
- If the tray still won't lock evenly after cleaning, contact the manufacturer about a replacement tray, since these are often sold separately.
Tools and parts
- Small brush
- Warm soapy water
High chair traySearch: “high chair replacement tray for your model”
When to call a pro
For a cracked locking tab or bent chair arm, contact the manufacturer for a replacement tray or chair part rather than trying to repair the plastic.
Safety
Use caution
Don't use a high chair with a tray that doesn't lock securely; a loose tray can shift or detach with a child pushing against it.