In 1996 grandfather Johan Buitendach was on baby-sitting duty for his 7-week-old grandson Daniëll. Daniëll was a curious child and wanted to be able to look around and engage with his surroundings, but was unable to do so as he was too young to sit upright. Johan propped him up with some pillows, which initially was a great solution, until little Daniëll tilted to one side…. And then, Grandpa Johan – an inventor and toolmaker – had a brainwave.
Using a large piece of polystyrene, Johan crafted a freestanding seat with a circular design, featuring leg mouldings, a gently rounded crotch bar, a backrest and side handles. This seat, placed on the floor, made it possible for Daniëll to sit perfectly upright. The Bumbo Baby Seat was born.