What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall involving specific high chairs manufactured and distributed by Clark Associates under their Lancaster Table & Seating brand. This action, announced on February 23, 2023, targets a particular line of seating furniture designed for young children, specifically those high chairs that have demonstrated structural vulnerabilities during use. The scope of this recall is precise and limited to products made in China. If your high chair was manufactured in the United States or any other country, it is not part of this specific safety alert.
The affected items are Lancaster Table & Seating brand high chairs available in a variety of aesthetic finishes to match different home decors. Consumers may have purchased these units in black, mahogany, natural wood tones, or walnut finishes. The product line includes both fully assembled models and ready-to-assemble kits that required consumer construction upon delivery. While the visual appearance might vary based on personal preference, the underlying structural issue remains consistent across all affected models.
To identify whether your high chair is part of this recall, you must examine the labels located on the product itself. A "Made in China" designation or similar phrasing will be printed on the warning label found on the front of the seatback. Additionally, a product label located on the underside of the seat bottom will contain the crucial model number information. It is important to note that only high chairs with these specific manufacturing origins and labeling characteristics are subject to this recall.
The specific model numbers included in this recall are 164HIGHCBK, 164HIGHCKDBK, 164HIGHCMO, 164HIGHCKDMO, 164HIGHCNAT, 164HIGHCKDNT, 164HIGHCWN, and 164HIGHCWN. These alphanumeric codes are printed directly on the label found on the underside of the seat bottom. Clark Associates does not currently provide an exact total number of units sold globally in this specific batch within the provided facts, but they have confirmed that these particular models were sold through various retail channels. The affected products were widely distributed and can be found in homes across the country where parents sought sturdy seating solutions for their infants and toddlers.
Understanding exactly what was recalled is the first step toward ensuring your child’s safety. By cross-referencing the model numbers on your product label with the list provided above, you can determine immediately if your high chair is one of the units that needs to be addressed. This clarity allows you to move forward with confidence, knowing precisely which items require attention and which are safe for continued use.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about a product recall due to structural failure, it is important to understand exactly what is happening mechanically before the accident occurs. In this specific case involving Lancaster Table & Seating high chairs, the core issue is not a minor wobble or a loose screw that can be tightened at home. The CPSC has identified that these high chairs can simply break while in use. This is a critical distinction because it implies a fundamental failure of the product’s integrity under normal load conditions. When a high chair breaks during operation, the primary mechanism of injury is a fall from an elevated position.
To understand why this is so dangerous, we must look at the physics of a toddler in a high chair. These chairs are designed to elevate young children to table height so they can eat with the family. This elevation, typically around 24 to 30 inches off the ground, creates significant potential energy. If the structural components fail—whether through cracking, snapping, or collapsing—the child falls from that height. For a toddler, whose bones are still developing and who lacks the coordination to break their fall effectively, a fall from this height can result in serious injuries. These may include concussions, fractures of the arms or legs, and in worst-case scenarios, head trauma.
The fact that three reports have already been received where children fell after the chairs broke underscores the unpredictability of this hazard. You might assume that a high chair is sturdy because it is made of wood or metal, but structural failure can happen due to manufacturing defects in joints, leg connections, or seat supports. Once the structure gives way, there is no time for reaction. The child falls directly onto the floor below. While no injuries have been reported in this specific batch so far, the risk is inherent in the design flaw itself. A broken high chair does not just stop working; it becomes a projectile that drops a vulnerable human being.
It is also worth noting that these chairs were sold in both assembled and ready-to-assemble forms. In ready-to-assemble products, the strength of the final product relies heavily on the precision of the manufacturing and the quality of the materials used during assembly. If the material itself is flawed or if the joints are not robust enough to handle the dynamic weight of a moving child, the chair can fail even if it was assembled correctly according to instructions. This is why the hazard is considered severe: it is not necessarily user error that causes the break, but a latent defect in the product’s ability to perform its basic function safely.
Understanding this mechanism helps clarify why the remedy involves immediate cessation of use and return of the product. There is no simple fix for a structural break hazard because you cannot reliably predict when the next joint will fail. The only way to eliminate the risk of the fall is to remove the elevated platform entirely from your home. By understanding that the danger is a sudden, unpredictable collapse rather than a gradual wear-and-tear issue, consumers can appreciate the urgency of the recall and take action without delay.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk in this recall consists of young children who use the recalled Lancaster Table & Seating high chairs. These products are specifically designed for toddlers and infants during their early developmental stages, a period when mobility increases rapidly but balance and judgment remain underdeveloped. When a high chair fails structurally, the consequences are immediate and severe because the child is elevated above the ground, often with limited ability to brace themselves or escape the situation independently. The fall hazard described in the CPSC report—where the chairs break while in use—creates a direct pathway for injury that is particularly dangerous for this demographic.
It is important to understand why young children are disproportionately vulnerable to this type of mechanical failure. Toddlers are naturally active and unpredictable; they lean forward to reach for food, twist to look at parents, or shift their weight suddenly as they grow more confident in their movements. A high chair must withstand not just static weight but these dynamic, unpredictable forces. When the frame or joints fail under such stress, the child falls from a significant height relative to their small stature. Even though no injuries have been reported in the three incidents documented by Clark Associates so far, the potential for head trauma, broken bones, or other serious physical harm is inherent in any fall from an elevated feeding seat.
While the children are the direct victims of the hazard, parents and caregivers also bear a significant burden of risk. This includes the psychological stress and anxiety associated with discovering that a product intended to keep their child safe has failed. Furthermore, caregivers are often responsible for assembling these ready-to-assemble units or managing the logistics of returning them. The risk extends to anyone who purchases or handles these chairs, including family members, friends, or second-hand buyers, as the defect is not dependent on usage patterns but on the manufacturing origin and structural integrity of the unit.
The recall notes that only high chairs manufactured in China are affected. This geographic distinction is crucial because it isolates the risk to a specific supply chain batch rather than implying that all Lancaster Table & Seating products or all high chairs from every manufacturer are unsafe. However, for those who own these specific models—identified by their "Made in China" labels on the seatback and underside of the seat bottom—the risk is real and present until the product is properly disposed of or replaced. The fact that the chairs were sold both assembled and ready-to-assemble means that the potential for a compromised structure exists regardless of whether the owner built it themselves or received it pre-assembled, as the underlying material or construction flaw originates from the manufacturing process.
Finally, while this recall does not mention specific vulnerabilities related to elderly users, it is worth noting that high chairs are generally intended for pediatric use. Therefore, the risk profile for adults using these chairs is negligible in terms of mechanical failure causing falls, as adults are less likely to be seated in a manner that triggers the specific breakage points identified in the child-use context. The focus remains squarely on protecting the youngest and most fragile users who rely entirely on the equipment for their physical safety during meals.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own a high chair from Lancaster Table & Seating, specifically under their Lancaster brand, it is important to verify whether your unit is part of this specific recall before taking any action. The scope of this recall is quite precise, targeting only those high chairs manufactured in China. To determine if your chair falls into this category, you must look for specific manufacturing labels and origin markers that are affixed directly to the product itself.
The first step in identification is checking the finish of the chair, as these recalled units come in several distinct aesthetic options. Your high chair will have one of the following finishes: black, mahogany, natural, or walnut. While the color alone does not confirm the recall, it helps narrow down the visual match. More importantly, you need to inspect the physical labels attached to the frame. There are two critical locations where you will find the necessary information. First, check the front of the seatback for a warning label. Second, look at the underside of the seat bottom for a product label. Both of these labels contain the vital data required to confirm the recall status.
On the warning label located on the front of the seatback, you will find printed text indicating the country of origin. Look specifically for the phrase "Made in China" or similar wording such as "made in ____." If the chair was manufactured elsewhere, it is not subject to this specific safety notice. Next, turn your attention to the product label on the underside of the seat bottom. This label holds the model number, which is the most definitive identifier for this recall. The recalled models are exclusively part of the 164HIGH series. You should look for any of the following specific model numbers printed clearly on that underside label:
- 164HIGHCBK
- 164HIGHCKDBK
- 164HIGHCMO
- 164HIGHCKDMO
- 164HIGHCNAT
- 164HIGHCKDNT
- 164HIGHCWN
- 164HIGHCWN
Please note that these high chairs were sold both in fully assembled form and as ready-to-assemble kits. The format in which you purchased the chair does not change the identification process; the labels remain the same regardless of assembly status. If your chair matches the "Made in China" origin marker on the warning label and bears one of the eight model numbers listed above on the underside product label, it is part of this recall. If you cannot find these specific labels or if the model number does not match the list, your high chair is likely not affected by this specific safety issue.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Lancaster Table & Seating high chair that matches the description in this recall, your immediate priority is safety. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Clark Associates have identified a structural failure risk that could cause the chair to break while a child is seated in it. Because of this fall hazard, the very first step you must take is to stop using the recalled high chairs immediately. Do not attempt to use them for any purpose, even if they appear to be in perfect condition from the outside. The internal failure that leads to breaking may not be visible, and continuing to place a child’s weight on these units puts them at unnecessary risk.
Once you have removed the chair from your home or business, you need to initiate the remedy process. You have two primary avenues for resolution: returning the item to a physical location or contacting Clark Associates directly for a replacement or refund. If you prefer to handle this in person, you can return the high chairs to any Restaurant Store location. These stores are located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, or Maryland. This option is ideal if you live near one of these states and wish to resolve the issue face-to-face with store staff who can guide you through the return process.
For those who do not live near a Restaurant Store in the specified states, or who prefer to manage the recall remotely, you can contact Clark Associates directly. You have several ways to reach them: call 800-285-8172 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; email them at highchairs@lancastertableandseating.com; or visit their dedicated recall page at www.lancastertableandseating.com/recall. Additionally, you can find information and instructions by visiting https://www.therestaurantstore.com or https://www.webstaurantstore.com and clicking on the "Safety Recall" link located at the bottom of the page.
Whether you choose to return the chair physically or contact Clark Associates for a free replacement (in the form of a store credit) or a refund, there is a critical final step regarding disposal. You will be asked to submit a photo of the dismantled or destroyed product before your remedy is finalized. This step is essential to ensure that the recalled items are properly removed from circulation and cannot be accidentally used again by someone else. Please follow the specific instructions provided by Clark Associates or the Restaurant Store regarding how to safely dismantle and dispose of the chair, and remember to keep a copy of the photo for your records until the process is complete.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you own one of the recalled Lancaster Table & Seating high chairs, the good news is that Clark Associates has established a clear and accessible path to resolve the issue without costing you anything. The company is offering two primary remedies: a free replacement unit or a refund in the form of store credit. It is important to note specifically that the refund will not be issued as a direct cash payment or check, but rather as credit that can be used at their retail locations. This distinction matters if you were hoping for immediate liquidity, but it does provide significant flexibility for future purchases if you plan to buy other dining furniture from these brands.
To initiate this process, you have two convenient routes depending on your location and preference. If you live in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, or Maryland, you can simply take the high chair back to any Restaurant Store location. This physical return option is often the most straightforward for those who prefer face-to-face service and do not want to deal with shipping logistics. For consumers outside of this specific geographic region, Clark Associates provides a direct mail-in remedy. You will need to contact them to receive instructions on how to properly dispose of or send back the product. This ensures that the defective chairs are handled safely and do not end up in landfills where they could pose a risk to others.
Regardless of which remedy you choose, there is a mandatory step in the process: you must provide proof that the high chair has been dismantled or destroyed. Clark Associates will ask you to submit a photograph of the dismantled or destroyed product before they release your replacement or store credit. This requirement is standard in safety recalls to prevent recalled hazardous items from being resold, donated, or given away by well-meaning individuals who might not realize the danger. By requiring this photo, the agency ensures that the specific units known to be broken are permanently removed from circulation. It may feel like an extra step, but it is a crucial safeguard for other families’ safety.
Contacting Clark Associates is straightforward and designed to be accessible. You can reach their support team by phone at 800-285-8172 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to send your photo electronically, you can email them directly at highchairs@lancastertableandseating.com. Additionally, you can navigate to their dedicated recall page at www.lancastertableandseating.com/recall for detailed instructions. If you purchased the item through The Restaurant Store or WebstaurantStore, you can also visit those websites and click on "Safety Recall" located at the bottom of the page to find further guidance. Take your time with this process; the company is there to help you transition away from a dangerous product safely and efficiently.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using the recalled Lancaster Table & Seating high chairs. Perhaps your toddler has grown attached to this specific seat, or maybe you are simply tired of the logistical hassle of dismantling furniture and shipping it back. You might look at the chair and see nothing visibly wrong with it. It stands upright. The legs are straight. The tray is secure. When there are no obvious cracks in the wood or loose screws visible to the naked eye, it is easy to convince yourself that the product is still safe for daily use. However, ignoring a structural integrity issue is rarely a harmless delay; it is an active gamble with your child’s safety.
The core danger here is not a sharp edge or a small choking hazard, but a sudden, catastrophic failure of the chair’s structure. The CPSC recall notes that these high chairs can break while in use. When a high chair fails under the weight and movement of a growing toddler, the result is almost invariably a fall from height. High chairs are designed to elevate a child significantly above the floor. A fall from this height can lead to serious head trauma, fractures, or other significant injuries. While the manufacturer has reported three incidents where children fell because the chairs broke, they have noted that no injuries were reported in those specific cases. This is fortunate, but it is not a guarantee of future safety. Injuries from falls are often unpredictable; a slight shift in angle, a different floor surface, or a momentary distraction can turn a minor tumble into a medical emergency.
Furthermore, relying on the current condition of the chair is flawed because structural weaknesses can be internal or develop over time. The recall affects units with specific finishes and models manufactured in China, indicating that the defect may be tied to the manufacturing process or materials used in those batches rather than wear and tear. A chair might feel stable today but succumb to stress fractures tomorrow after repeated use. By continuing to use the product, you are exposing your child to a known mechanical failure point that has already caused falls for other families. The risk is not just about the current state of the object, but about the inherent instability built into its design.
Choosing to ignore the recall also means missing out on the remedy offered by Clark Associates. You are given two clear paths: a free replacement in the form of store credit or a full refund. By keeping the defective chair, you are essentially paying for a safety risk that could have been resolved at no cost to you. The inconvenience of taking a photo and disposing of the item is minor compared to the potential physical and emotional toll of treating an injury. Prioritizing the recall process ensures that your child’s environment remains safe and that you are not relying on a product that has been officially deemed unreliable for holding a human being.
Staying safe: broader tips
While specific product recalls are an essential layer of protection, they are reactive measures that address issues after a potential problem has been identified. True safety for your family relies on proactive habits and general best practices that prevent accidents before they occur. When it comes to high chairs and similar seating for young children, the environment you create is just as important as the equipment you buy. One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, steps is ensuring that the high chair is placed on a stable, level surface. Even a high-quality chair can become unstable if positioned on a rug that slips, a slightly uneven floorboard, or near a wall where a child might push off to try and stand up. Always check the four legs for wobble before buckling your child in, and keep the area around the base clear of toys, cords, or other tripping hazards that could destabilize the unit.
Another vital practice is regular inspection and maintenance. Over time, plastic components can become brittle from sunlight exposure, metal bolts can loosen from the vibration of active children, and fabric straps can fray. Establish a monthly routine where you tighten all visible screws and inspect the harness system for any signs of wear or damage. If a part feels loose, cracked, or compromised, do not wait for a recall notice to act; remove the product from use immediately. This vigilance extends beyond high chairs to other furniture as well. Young children are naturally curious and climbative, so always anchor heavy furniture like bookshelves, dressers, and televisions to the wall using appropriate anti-tip kits. A falling cabinet is a leading cause of serious injury in homes with toddlers, and securing these items takes only minutes but provides immense peace of mind.
Furthermore, never rely solely on the safety belt or harness as your primary restraint. These devices are designed to keep a child from sliding out, not to hold them in if they climb or lean excessively. Always use the five-point harness correctly, ensuring straps are snug against the body but not twisted. Additionally, teach older siblings and guests to never leave a child unattended in a high chair, even for a second. If you need to step away, place the child on a safe, flat surface like the floor with a barrier nearby, or take them with you. Finally, stay informed about product safety by registering your purchases with the manufacturer whenever possible. This ensures that if a safety issue is discovered later, you can be notified directly. You can also periodically check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website for the latest recall alerts, helping you stay ahead of potential hazards in your home.