Baby self feeding utensils

6 Best Baby Spoons 2022

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When your baby starts eating solid foods, you'll need a bunch of reliable baby spoons. They're tailored to your baby's needs and will make mealtimes safer, more fun, and less messy. We analyzed reviews in the BabyCenter Community and combined their recommendations with our editors' research and experience to discover parents' most-recommended baby spoons. Read on to find out which baby spoons parents think are best for older babies, best for travel, and more.

Best baby spoon for self feeding

Olababy Training Spoon

Photo credit: Amazon

These sprout-shaped spoons help your baby learn how to feed himself independently. Safety and functionality are key components of Olababy's design. The soft silicone tip is very gentle on your baby's gums, meaning he won't hurt himself while trying to take his first bites. The spoon's flexibility makes it easier for your baby to scoop up food. And the wide, easy-to-grip base stands upright to avoid touching surfaces. Added bonus: These double as teethers, and you can put them in the freezer first for added soothing power.

Heads up

Some parents say that the spoon is too flexible and that their baby only used it as a teether.

Parents say

"I've bought a few different kinds, but the Olababy training spoons are the easiest for my little one to use. They look like leaves and are soft. He can get them in his mouth easily. "

Specs

Recommended age: 6 months and up
100 percent food-grade silicone
Dishwasher safe

Best spoon for parent-led feeding

Munchkin Soft-Tip Infant Spoon

Photo credit: Amazon

These spoons are made with you and your baby in mind. The rounded tip and shallow spoon bowl provides a safe and gentle feeding experience. Parents love the ergonomically designed handle that has a nice, long reach. Each pack comes with spoons in a variety of cheerful colors, and there are enough that you won't mind if a few end up on the floor.

Heads up

Some parents say the spoon holds too much food for babies just starting on solids, so don't overload each bite. On the plus side: This is a spoon that your child can grow into.

Parents say

"The Munchkin spoon is my favorite! I received several different kinds at my showers, and the Munchkin is by far the best. I don't use any of the others."

"I have some Munchkin spoons and they're a good size for her mouth. They're all very brightly colored, and I feel like that makes her more interested in eating."

Specs

Recommended age: 3 months and up
BPA- and phthalate-free plastic
Top-rack dishwasher safe

Best spoon and fork for baby

NumNum Pre-Spoon GOOtensils

Photo credit: Amazon

The GOOtensils spoon set includes both a stage one starter spoon and a stage two spoon. The stage one "pre-spoon" is designed help your baby get used to holding a spoon (it can serve as a teether, too). The stage two spoon is for babies who are ready for thicker foods. Parents say these spoons help with baby-led weaning because they're totally flat – rather than using a more-complicated scooping motion, babies can just dip the spoon in food. The spoons also have thick, contoured handles so they're easier to hold.

Heads up

Some parents say that their baby only liked to use these spoons as a teething toy. Others say these are too complicated, and that a regular baby spoon works just fine.

Parents say

"I used GOOtensils with my first and loved them, but they have limited use. They're perfect for things like oatmeal, mashed potatoes, yogurt, guacamole, and other thicker foods for babies who are too young to do the whole scooping thing. But that's about it. But they served that purpose and my daughter loved dipping them in her food. It allowed her to explore utensil skills early."

Specs

Recommended age: 6 to 18 months
100 percent food-grade silicone
Dishwasher safe

Best silicone baby spoon

ezpz Mini Utensils

Photo credit: ezpz

Made by ezpz (say it out loud!), this adorable mini utensil set is made to meet the developmental needs of older babies. The tip allows for easy scooping or piercing, and the handle has a nonslip grip and easy-to-hold shape. Three sensory bumps on the spoon and fork help your baby learn when to stop, to decrease gagging and choking.

Heads up

These utensils can get stained easily. To avoid this, wash them right away – or soak them in baking soda and warm water to remove stubborn stains.

Parents say

"I recommend ezpz! We've tried different spoons since he started solids, and he has the best control by far with these."

Specs

Recommended age: 12 months and up
100 percent silicone
Dishwasher safe

Best baby travel spoon

OXO On-the-Go Feeding Spoon

Photo credit: Amazon

Feeding on the go is convenient with this spoon-and-case duo that neatly fits into your diaper bag or purse. The storage container is made of plastic, which makes it easy to hand wash or wipe down. The spoon has a soft silicone tip that you can also use to wipe extra food from your baby's mouth.

Heads up

Some parents say that the plastic container is prone to cracking or breaking.

Parents say

"OXO feeding spoons are the best, hands down. The design has no edges, and our baby loves to bite down on them when he's teething."

Specs

Recommended age: 6 months and up
Silicone, stainless steel, plastic
Dishwasher safe

Best heat sensing baby spoon

Munchkin White Hot Safety Baby Spoons

Photo credit: Amazon

Equipped with a heat sensor, the spoon tip turns white if your baby's food is too hot (110 degrees F or above). If the tip remains the same color, the food is safe for your baby to eat. These Munchkin spoons are made of polypropylene and are free of BPA and phthalates.

Heads up

Keep an eye on the color-change function, as it may weaken over time.

Specs

Recommended age: 3 months and up
Polypropylene
Top-rack dishwasher safe

What are baby spoons?

Baby spoons are a must-have when your baby is ready to start eating solid food, usually between 4 and 6 months old. They have a shallow spoon bowl so your baby won't get too big of a bite. They're made with a soft material, such as silicone or plastic, that's gentle on your baby's gums and budding teeth. And the handles are designed to be easier for you or your baby to hold.

Choosing the right spoon depends on how you plan to feed your baby. Some parents prefer to spoon feed (also known as the traditional feeding method), while others experiment with baby-led weaning (meaning your baby takes the lead in feeding herself).

Traditional feeding spoons have longer and slimmer handles that make it easier for you to serve bites to your baby. Spoons for baby-led weaning make it easier for your baby to feed himself, with short, round handles and sensory bumps to help him learn not to put the spoon too far into his mouth. Note: If you're not sure of your feeding approach or want to combine methods, buy baby-led weaning spoons – they can be used for both methods.

When do babies feed themselves with a spoon?

You can give your baby a spoon soon after starting solids, around 6 months. But don't expect your baby to get the hang of it until 12 to 18 months.

Between 4 and 6 months, your baby learns to bring her hands to her mouth while holding items such as food or toys. She should be able to open her mouth to a spoon held in front of her and use her lips to take food off the spoon. If you give her a spoon to hold, remember that this stage is about encouraging exploration. Let your baby take the lead – you're giving her an opportunity to work on developing motor skills.

Between 12 and 18 months, using a spoon to self-feed will become easier and easier. Your baby will become more adept at using spoons, forks, and cups – and will probably be primarily self-feeding by the second birthday. (If you have any concerns about your baby's progress, talk to your child's doctor.)

Was this article helpful?

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Brenna Howsepian

Brenna Howsepian is a registered dietitian based in Northern California.

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15 Best Baby Spoons For Self-Feeding In 2023

Spoons that are precisely designed for those adorable little hands to self-feed.

All products recommended on MomJunction are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

If you want your little one to feed independently, we have created a list of the best spoons for babies to help you choose the right one. When you switch your child to self-feeding, you need colorful and interesting utensils to keep your child engaged for long. As they try pureed vegetables or solid food, they also need the right spoons to make the feeding process comfortable. These spoons are brightly colored and are made from baby-friendly materials for hassle-free eating. They are shallow compared to standard spoons, as babies can take in small quantities of food at a time. Designed with ergonomic handles, they can easily help your child grab the spoon. They can help your child transition to standard spoons.

However, choosing a baby spoon is not an easy task. Just like any other baby product, you have to be careful because the wrong spoon will make eating difficult and may also injure your child’s delicate mouth and gums. Such mishaps can make your baby disinterested in self-feeding. Available in multiple sizes, colors, shapes, and designs, our list has you covered. You can take a look at the products listed below to choose a spoon that fits your child’s needs. So, read on to learn more.

Top Picks

Best Spill-Free Self-Feed Baby Spoon: Beaba 360

Best Bulb Baby Spoon With Protective Cover: Boon Squirt

Best Gum-Safe Baby Spoon For Teething: Munchkin Baby Spoon

Best Gum-Safe Baby Spoon For Teething: SpuniBaby Spoons

Best Baby Spoon For Left-Handed Babies: Nuby Baby Spoons

Best Dishwasher-Safe Baby Spoon: BabyBjorn Baby Spoon

Best Stainless Steel Baby Spoon: Oxo Tot Feeding Spoon

Best Baby Spoon For Self-Feed Training: Chicco First Spoon

Best Flexible And Soft Baby Spoon: Olababy 100% Silicone Soft-Tip Training Spoon

Best Dual-End Baby Spoon For Teething: PrimaStella Silicone Rainbow Chew Spoon Set

15 Best Baby Spoons In 2023

Quality, colors, price – there is so much to consider when it comes to buying a spoon for your little one. Here are best baby spoons in the market today – each with its own unique USP!

1. Best Spill-Free Self-Feed: Beaba 360

4.6

Image: Beaba

BUY ON AMAZON | $6.95

The Beaba 360 is a great spoon for when your baby is learning to self-feed. Its unique design ensures zero spillages. This spoon will help your little one transition to a regular spoon without any hassle. Free of lead, and phthalate, the spoons are 100% safe for your baby. Watch this video to understand how this spoon works.

Pros

Suitable for on the go
Curved design for better grip
Comes with a protective case
Goes gentle on the gums

Cons

Some may find the spoon slippery

Price at the time of publication: $6. 95

Buy on Amazon

2. Best With Protective Cover: Boon Squirt

Price at the time of publication: $11.45

Buy on Amazon

Perfect for moms on the go! This spoon dispenses one bite at time. It comes with an easy to clean bulb that can hold up to 3 ounces of baby food. So, next time you’re going on a long ride, just pack some baby food in this ‘spoon with a bulb’ and you’ll be good to go! Don’t worry about cleaning the spoon in between feeds. The spoon comes with a protective cover that keeps the spoon clean. Before buying, have a look at this video for more details

Pros

PVC-free
Dispenses one bite at a time
Food-grade silicone
Phthalate-free

Cons

Portion may be too small for older babies
May generate vacuum when food is stored

Related: 10 Best Toddler Forks To Encourage Independent Eating In 2023

3.

Best For Teething: Munchkin Baby Spoon

Buy on Amazon

A crowd favorite, Munchkin spoons are a safe bet. Made with BPA free products, the spoons come in a range of colors, making them perfect for fussy babies and toddlers. Munchkin baby spoons are gentle on the gums. So, you can easily use them as teethers too. Watch this video to know more about this spoon.

Pros

rounded spoon bowls
Dishwasher safe
Comfortable to hold
Ergonomically designed

Cons

May not rest when placed in a bowl
Some might find the spoons a bit heavy

4. Best Gum-Safe Baby Spoon For Teething: SpuniBaby Spoons

Price at the time of publication: $16.99

Buy on Amazon

If you are looking for something unique, Spuni will be the best bet! Its patented design makes feeding times non-messy and easy. Spuni spoons are BPA, BPS, Phthalates and PVC free. They come with an ergonomically designed handle that fits both adult and baby hands.

Pros

Suitable for first-time feeding
Patented design
Imported material and design
Top rack dishwasher-safe

Cons

May be prone to damage if sanitized
May not sterilizer-friendly

Related: 15 Best Suction Bowls For Babies And Toddlers In 2023

5. Best Baby Spoon For Left-Handed Babies: Nuby Baby Spoons

Price at the time of publication: $7.53

Buy on Amazon

Finally, a product that works for your left hander! Nuby baby spoons are perfect for both left and right handed babies. Beautiful colors and designs make them a favorite among young babies. These spoons are dishwasher safe and easy to clean – just what a busy mom needs.

Pros

Soft edges
Long grip handle
Senses temperature
Suitable for purees

Cons

May be a little deep for six months old babies
Colors may fade over time

[ Read : Nuby Squeeze Feeder Review ]

6. Best Dishwasher-Safe : BabyBjorn Baby Spoon

Price at the time of publication: $17.99

Buy on Amazon

These spoons are made especially for tiny hands! The BabyBjorn baby spoons help your baby master her fine motor skills. Dishwasher safe, these spoons are easy to clean and maintain. If you are a working mom, go ahead invest in some BabyBjorn spoons!

Pros

Complies with safety standards
Suitable for working moms
Top rack dishwasher safe
Imported

Cons

Plastic may peel away over time
May be prone to scratches

Related: 21 Best Ice Cream Scoops For Perfectly Sized Servings In 2023

7.

Best Stainless Steel: Oxo Tot Feeding Spoon

Price at the time of publication: $15.99

Buy on Amazon

These spoons are BPA, phthalate and PVC free. Easy on your baby’s gums, the Oxo Tot Feeding spoons are made of stainless steel, making them durable. The shape of the spoons is perfect for scooping out food. Not as exciting or colorful as the other products on this list, but with Oxo, you can be sure of quality.

Pros

Comes with a protective covering
Suitable for transitioning to solid food
Scratch-proof design
Sturdy construction

Cons

May not be dishwasher safe
Silicone may be prone to breakage

Did you know?

Encouraging the baby to self-eat food of different tastes and textures can promote a healthy relationship with food.

8. Best Baby Spoon For Self-Feed Training: Chicco First Spoon

Price at the time of publication: $23. 0

Buy on Amazon

Chicco first spoon is the perfect spoon to teach your baby to self-feed. It is specially designed to make self-feeding easier and non-messy. A little on the costlier side? Yes, but the Chicco spoons are worth the investment!

Pros

Angled tip
Soft-touch design
Ideal size
Does not have sharp edges

Cons

Might be a little shallow to hold enough food
Not suitable for left-handed children

Related: 13 Best Wooden Spoons In Different Shapes And Finishes In 2023

9. Best Flexible And Soft Baby Spoon: Olababy 100% Silicone Soft-Tip Training Spoon

Price at the time of publication: $14.95

Buy on Amazon

This spoon for babies also doubles up as a teether. The spoon is made from food-grade silicone and does not contain any harmful chemicals. It is also flexible and soft, which means it will not hurt or irritate the gums of the baby no matter how much they gnaw at it. The scoop of the spoon is designed to pick any baby food item.

Pros

100% toxin-free material
Can be placed upright
Free of sharp edges
Ergonomically-designed

Cons

May be prone to cracks upon usage

Quick tip

Cooling the silicone spoon in the freezer and then feeding the baby with it can reduce your child’s teething-related pain and discomfort.

10. Best Dual-End Baby Spoon For Teething: PrimaStella Silicone Rainbow Chew Spoon Set

Price at the time of publication: $9.99

Buy on Amazon

The PrimaStella Rainbow Set is an excellent tool for introducing solids to your baby. The spoon comes with two ends, one for dipping and the other for scooping, and the texture is super-soft and flexible. Moreover, the spoons, made of 100% food-grade silicone, are easy on your little one’s gums and free of additives, lead, BPA, PVC, and phthalates.

Pros

Lead-free
Safety tested
Textured end works for teething
Suitable for baby-led weaning

Cons

Spoon may be too deep
Head might be a little thick

11. Best Ergonomic: PandaEar Baby Silicone Soft Spoons

Price at the time of publication: $7.95

Buy on Amazon

These colorful, child-friendly spoons by PandaEar are made of food-grade silicone and are free of BPA, lead, phthalates, PVC, and other toxic chemicals. The spoons are available in a set of six and are ergonomically designed to scoop sufficient food for every bite with minimal effort.

Pros

Gum-friendly and soft
Dishwasher-safe
Shallow design to prevent choking hazards
Travel-friendly

Cons

May not be stain-resistant
May have a peculiar taste

12.

Best Eco-Friendly Silicone Baby Spoon: Tommee Tippee Explora Feeding Spoons

Buy on Amazon

These are designed with chunky handles that offer an easy grip, a wide spoon base to take an easy scoop and hold food rightly. Your baby can easily feed by herself using this spoon. They are microwave, dishwasher, and sterilizer safe, and are also BPA free. They are available as a set of five and are suitable for seven-month babies and above.

Pros

Suitable for small hands
Easy to wash
Bright and fun colors
Prevents spilling food on clothes

Cons

Tip may be too wide
Some may find the handle a bit short

Remember

You should supervise all meal times involving cutlery, as babies may not have perfected hand-eye coordination and can accidentally poke themselves.

13. Best Eco-Friendly Silicone Baby Spoon: Sperric First Stage Baby Infant Spoons

Buy on Amazon

These brightly colored spoons with a contoured handle are ergonomically designed for easy grip and encourage your little ones to self-feed. Furthermore, the spoons are made of eco-friendly silicone and help scoop food items such as purées and cereal.

Pros

Teething-friendly
Does not scrape the gums
Flexible
Colorful spoons

Cons

May not be dishwasher safe
Sanitizing the spoons in a steamer may make it prone to melting

14. Best For Temperature Check: Dr. Brown’s Designed to Nourish TempCheck Spoons

Price at the time of publication: $5.99

Buy on Amazon

Available in a set of four, these colorful spoons ensure safe feeding by changing color when the food is too hot. The spoons turn clear if the temperature is higher than 105℉. They are made of 100% safe silicone and are soft and soothing for tender gums.

Pros

Dishwasher- and sterilizer-safe
Free of BPA
Flexible and shallow scoop
Long handle
Elevated spoon rest to prevent mess

Cons

May be difficult to scoop slightly hard food
Spoon may fall out of the bowl at times

15.

Best For Six-Month-Olds: NUK First Essentials Rest Easy Spoons

Price at the time of publication: $3.99

Buy on Amazon

NUK brings you these Rest Easy spoons designed to keep germs off the spoon and prevent messy tables. They feature a spatula edge that helps wipe food away from the baby’s mouth. This set includes six colorful spoons for easy feeding and is suitable for children aged six months and above,

Pros

BPA-free
Dishwasher-safe
Soft tip is gentle on the teeth and gums
Easy to hold

Cons

May get stained easily
May be a bit too deep for some children

One of the best things about having a baby is the shopping you get to do! All those cute baby products vying for attention is a dream come true for many women. But buying a good quality baby spoon is not just about splurging money; it is about teaching your baby the joy of eating. So, stock up on some cute spoons. They will surely add a dash of color to your kitchen!

Why Trust MomJunction?

We have curated a list of some of the best spoons available in the market for your baby after careful research and going through customer reviews. The article is written keeping in mind the needs and wants of mothers when they are looking forward to feeding their little ones using a baby spoon but do not know how to choose one that suits their little ones.

1. When should babies feed themselves with a baby spoon?

Babies around six months can swallow pureed food safely without choking. When they are around ten to 12 months, they feel comfortable using baby spoons by themselves (1).

2. How do I teach my baby to feed themselves using a baby spoon?

Load the bowl with their favorite puree or cereals. Give them the baby spoon that offers a good grip. Let them practice holding the spoon and feeding themselves.

3. What kind of spoon is best for a baby?

A spoon made from BPA-free material with no sharp edges and a good grip is ideal for your little one. Ensure that the handle is short enough for the baby to hold comfortably.

4. Is self-feeding good for babies?

Self-feeding helps your little one be independent, build fine motor skills, develop hand-eye coordination, and control the food that goes into their mouth (2). Self-feeding may be challenging at the initial stages, but with practice, your little one will start to enjoy self-feeding and the independence that comes with it.

One of the best ways to encourage your baby to eat independently or wean them from breastfeeding is by giving them colorful and ergonomic spoons. These spoons listed here are designed for babies to make mealtime more comfortable and fun. They are also high-quality products made of durable and safe materials and are gentle on your little one’s gums. So, bring home a colorful spoon and make eating semi-solid or solid foods fun for your munchkin.

References:

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

Fingers Spoons Forks and Cups
https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/mealtime/fingers-spoons-forks-cups.html
Toddler development: Learning to feed themselves
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/toddler-development-learning-to-feed-themselves

checklist from a pediatrician for parents - article on TCHK

Like most children's devices, utensils for babies should first of all make life easier for parents. It is much more reasonable, for example, to buy a plastic plate than to collect glass fragments from the floor several times a day. And it’s safer to give a plastic mug to a child so as not to run after him, insuring family china.

And yet, in this matter, as in everything else, you should know the measure: do not buy too much and do not delay the transition to the usual "adult" plates and cutlery. Pediatrician Ekaterina Volkova spoke about the basic rules for using children's dishes.

Benefits of special baby dishes

Safety. Smooth shapes and the absence of sharp elements will protect the child from accidental injuries, and unbreakable material will allow you not to worry about the fact that the baby will drop the dishes and get hurt by splinters.
Hygienic. The child in the first years of life should have separate dishes. If you choose a special children's kit, it will be easy to track that only the baby uses it.
Convenience. Children's tableware is light and unpretentious in use, you can easily take it with you, for example, for a walk. Many models are as ergonomic as possible and are equipped with details that facilitate the feeding process (suction cups, valves and non-spill pockets, rubberized handles, non-slip bottom, temperature indicator).
Design. Bright colors, favorite characters from fairy tales and cartoons will surely attract the attention of the child. With such dishes, it will be easier to seat him at the table and persuade him to finish eating soup or porridge in order to get to the picture at the bottom.

Pros and cons of different materials for baby dishes

Plastic is the most common material. It is lightweight, impact resistant and inexpensive. Plastic utensils can have a variety of shapes and colors, perform any task. It is important to carefully study the label - not every plate or plastic mug can be put in the microwave and washed in the dishwasher. In this case, it is better to take dishes from trusted world brands. They have certificates that guarantee that products during active use will not be damaged and will not emit harmful substances. The disadvantage of plastic utensils is that they are not environmentally friendly. Try to properly dispose of it after use or hand it over to collection points.

Silicone is a safe material from which many baby accessories are made: pacifiers, teethers, toys, dishes. He does not beat and almost does not give in to children's teeth, is not afraid of high temperatures and washing in the dishwasher. High-quality silicone does not emit harmful substances and does not react with food. The downside is that the dishes are quite thick. In addition, there is a risk of falling for unscrupulous manufacturers who use harmful dyes and chemicals. It is important to pay attention to the service life of silicone utensils and the rules for caring for them.

Bamboo is a lightweight and fairly durable material. Bamboo tableware is beautiful and safe. However, the cymbal may not withstand a strong blow and still break. Another important point is that such dishes cannot be used in the microwave and it is better not to wash them in the dishwasher, as they can be deformed from prolonged contact with water.

glass and ceramic are safe in composition, but break easily and may injure a child. They are best used when the children grow up or when an adult is still feeding the baby himself, who does not have the opportunity to reach the plate. Pay attention: there should be no chips or cracks on the dishes. Say goodbye to broken plates without regret, and even more so do not give them to children: a tiny piece of glass or enamel can get into the esophagus and damage internal organs.

Metal is not the best option for children's dishes. It heats up quickly and cools down for a long time, the child can get burned. Leave metal bowls and cups for hiking.

Wood is a safe and environmentally friendly material, but it is not suitable for children's dishes: dishwasher and microwave are contraindicated for wood. In addition, over time, it will accumulate germs, dirt and harmful substances.

What dishes to buy for a baby: a checklist for parents

1. Spoon. She will be needed in 4-6 months for the introduction of complementary foods and for medication. The first is better to take a silicone spoon. It is not too deep, hypoallergenic and safe for baby's delicate gums. However, some mothers prefer silver or plastic - this is also quite acceptable if used carefully. However, you should not “flirt” with silicone and plastic spoons. It is better for a child to learn to eat on his own with metal appliances. Spoons can be a special small size, but the more they resemble real "adults", the better.

2. Plug. It will come in handy closer to the year or to the moment when the child begins to actively learn to eat on his own. In addition to its direct purpose, it will also help develop coordination, manual dexterity and fine motor skills. Give preference to metal appliances with rounded teeth. They are easier to use, easier to clean, and more durable than plastic ones.

3. First plate. She appears after the spoon at the same time when the baby tries the first complementary foods. It is better to start with a small plate, since the portions are also small at first. Later, when the menu becomes diverse, two more plates will be needed - deep for the first courses and flatter for the second.

There are plates on sale with a rubberized base that prevents slipping on the table, which is convenient for a baby and an adult. The option when the bottom of the plate is attached to the countertop with a suction cup is not so straightforward. On the one hand, it securely fixes the plate, making it stable. On the other hand, in order to move such a plate, you will have to make an effort, and from a sudden movement, the contents can splash on the table and floor. However, this option is good when you need to give your child chopped fruits or berries, that is, something that is convenient to eat with your hands.

4. Non-spill cup. This is the bottle-to-cup transition where the baby is trying to drink a liquid that flows freely (as opposed to a breast or a bottle with a nipple that must be sucked on to get the contents). Someone needs it for 2-3 months. Some have been using it for a year or more.

The cup usually has two handles, so it is convenient for the baby to get used to drinking on his own. The main difference between a drinking bowl and a mug is that it has a lid, thanks to which the liquid will not spill. The lid can be with a straw, with a silicone or plastic spout, with interchangeable nozzles. The choice is yours, or rather, your child's. Most often, you have to buy several options so that the baby can choose the one that suits him best. Remember: the more complex the design of the drinker, the more difficult it is to wash it well. Some parents skip the sippy stage and go straight to the regular cup.

5. Cup. Her turn will come after the drinker (or instead). Someone masters the cup as early as 8–10 months, someone closer to 1.5 years. In any case, the cup must meet two main criteria - to be comfortable and safe. She can have two handles or one, 100–150 ml is enough in volume so that it is not difficult and convenient for a child to hold her. By kindergarten age, as a rule, the baby calmly copes with small ceramic cups and glasses.

Seven golden rules for caring for children's dishes

Wash immediately after meals to prevent bacterial growth.
Dry upside down and do not put wet dishes in the cupboard, otherwise there is a risk that residual water will dry out or also become a source of bacteria.
Do not wipe the dishes with a towel to avoid leaving dust and fluff on them. Dry naturally or use paper towels.
Periodically pour boiling water over dishes to disinfect them.
Use only safe, certified detergents or do not use them at all - first foods can be easily washed off with plain hot water.
Do not allow other family members to use baby's utensils.
If possible, store children's dishes separately from adults.

These rules apply both to special children's dishes and when the child eats from ordinary plates and uses ordinary spoons. Try to label and store them separately so as not to expose the fragile organism to additional contact with "adult" bacteria.

First crockery. Difficulties of choice | Diapers, pampers, diapers, napkins with home delivery in Kyiv and Ukraine

A caring and loving mother, striving to give her baby only the best, has no compromises. The question of the first dishes is no exception.

This choice should be approached responsibly, because with the first dishes the baby develops eating habits, rules of behavior at the table. And, most importantly, the dishes should be safe for the baby and not harm his body.

We have carefully monitored offers on the children's tableware market and collected feedback from experienced mothers in order to help you make the right choice.

Material

Glass

Glassware is environmentally friendly and safe. Modern children's dishes are made, for the most part, from red-hot, i. e. unbreakable glass. It is worth remembering that its impact resistance is rather arbitrary, and if it falls on a tiled floor, for example, the dishes will break. Splinters can injure the baby or get into other food.

Glassware can be offered to a child after 3 years, when he has already learned how to handle a plate and understands the danger of splinters from broken glass.

Porcelain, faience

Cookware made from these materials is safe and resistant to hot temperatures. Having broken, porcelain / faience crumbles into large pieces without sharp edges, which cannot be hurt. It is worth noting that such dishes are quite heavy for a baby under 3 years old.

Many unscrupulous manufacturers add melamine to earthenware dishes. It reduces the cost of production, but is dangerous for the child's body. When heated, melamine releases dangerous formaldehyde. Ask about the composition of the product before buying.

Plastic

Children's tableware is made of soft or hard plastic.

Soft plastics are silicone, various elastomers. Solid - polypropylene. Soft plastic is comfortable for the baby, does not injure his gums. Hard plastics are tougher but less prone to scratches, which can harbor dirt and germs.

Plastic utensils are light and easy to use.

Poor quality plastic may release harmful substances when heated. Be sure to read the instructions and rules for using the cookware. If the dishes are not intended for hot food, refrain from contacting them with high temperatures.

Disposable plastic utensils are unacceptable for baby feeding.

Mom's advice. To minimize the risk of the plate falling off the table, use a rubber mat under the plate. Food in plastic containers cools down very quickly. Keep this in mind when feeding your baby.

Enamelware

Enamelled plate or cup will never break and is quite convenient on the road. But it is worth remembering that the metal is very hot, and touching a plate of hot soup or a cup of tea, the baby can get burned.

Such utensils must not be used after the slightest chipping of the enamel. Through chips, heavy metal compounds enter the food, which are dangerous for the child's body.

Plate

The first plate is an event for the baby. After all, now he has his own dishes, like mom and dad.

The assortment of children's plates is unusually large. For the first feeding, it is worth, nevertheless, to give preference to high-quality plastic dishes. The volume of the plate should contain a portion of the baby. The high walls of the dishes will not allow the contents to spill and will help the baby to collect the right amount of food in a spoon.

A plate for a restless baby must be stable. To increase stability, manufacturers often complete cymbals with rubber rims on the bottom. This rim makes it difficult to slide on the table and allows the plate to stay in place. The trefoil-shaped bottom also provides stability to the plate. The suction cup ensures maximum reliability. With the help of a classic suction cup at the bottom of the plate, it is firmly attached to any smooth surface.

While the baby is still spoon-fed and only plans to eat on its own, a plate with handles that is comfortable to hold with one hand will be convenient for the mother.

Food in plastic dishes cools down quickly, and as a result of long persuasion to eat a couple more spoons or due to the natural slowness of the baby, he has to eat up the food that has already cooled down. In this case, it would be useful to buy a heated plate, which has a chamber for hot water at the bottom. The high temperature of the water keeps the food in the plate warm. Having stopped the choice on such a plate, securely close the hot water compartment, protecting the baby from burns.

The sectional plate is useful when the baby's meal will consist of several dishes. Such a cabinet will save space on the table and reduce the amount of dirty dishes. In addition, the original serving of dishes will interest the baby and increase appetite.

For travel and outings, the plate with lid is ideal. Such a model will not only facilitate feeding on the road, but also serve as a convenient container for food. Often such plates are equipped with a spoon, the storage of which in the container allows it to remain clean and ready to feed the baby in any conditions.

Special food containers are very convenient on the road. They are usually quite compact, and can, if necessary, replace the plate on a walk and on a journey.

The bright design of the plate will increase the baby's interest in food, allow him to stay longer at the table and, accordingly, eat a few more spoons. Modern children's utensils are both funny-shaped toy plates and educational aids that help the baby learn counting, letters and other useful knowledge.

Even classic plates with a picture on the bottom are an effective incentive to quickly eat porridge and get to the coveted image.

Check with your retailer for microwave and dishwasher compatibility.

At the same time, do not abuse the "toy" of dishes. Products with built-in balls, a lot of protruding elements do not stimulate the baby to eat, but are unnecessarily distracting. The kid should clearly distinguish between the process of playing and eating. Awareness of this grain will save you from deliberately scattering food, turning over plates and other unacceptable behavior at the table.

Mom's advice. Check the stability of the design on the plate. It happens that even reputable manufacturers “sin” with poor-quality application of an image that is unstable or “peeled off” upon contact with hot.

Spoon

When choosing the first spoon, the silicone spoon should be preferred.

The soft material won't hurt sensitive inflamed gums, because weaning coincides with baby's teething, when any inaccurate touch causes soreness on the gums. In addition, soft silicone spreads in the mouth, allowing the baby to eat all its contents without much difficulty.

While the baby is not yet ready to master self-feeding with a spoon, a spoon with a long handle will be useful. The convenient long handle is convenient for mother feeding the baby and makes it easy to get the contents from a deep jar or container.

The size of the spoon also matters. Too large a spoon can injure the baby, and a baby can choke on a large amount of food. A small spoon for a grown baby is also unacceptable. Eating with too small a spoon, the baby will get tired faster and leave the table.

Thermosensitive spoons are able to change their color when exposed to high temperatures. It is worth remembering that for the correct display of the degree of heating of the dish, the spoon needs time up to 60 seconds. Determine for yourself if the dish is too hot for the baby. The color-changing spoon will help determine if the food is too cold during feeding, and will amuse the baby with its magical property.

Mom's advice. Save the silver spoon for later. No matter how the grandmother insists on feeding the baby with the spoon she gave, remember that hard metal can cause pain when it accidentally presses on the inflamed gum, where the teeth are just being cut. In addition, the disinfectant properties of a silver spoon are highly questionable. Even a thin film of silver oxide, which appears on silver products, reduces its antiseptic properties to nothing.

Fork and knife

After a year when the baby has mastered the science of eating from a spoon, you can offer him a fork and a knife. Safe children's devices do not pose a danger to the baby, they have non-sharp edges and teeth. A set of cutlery for a baby will teach a child table manners, table etiquette and help to cope with a cutlet or other food more efficiently than a usual spoon.

So that the baby can hold the device securely and successfully bring its contents to the mouth, choose options with rubber pads on the handles. Rubber patches on the spoon or fork prevent them from slipping out of unsteady handles.

Cup

The baby begins to eat complementary foods and gradually weans the pacifier. An indispensable assistant at this stage will be a drinking bowl.

Modern sippy cups are non-spill cups, which are the transitional stage between the nipple and the cup, and when the lid is removed, they turn into a classic cup.

Cup with silicone spout as close as possible to the bottle and teat. Its soft nose is also elastic and takes the necessary shape in the baby's mouth.

A cup with a rigid spout is already quite different from a teat. It is also protected from accidental spillage, but the hard spout introduces the baby to a slightly different way of getting liquid, bringing it closer to the "adult" cup.

Some children prefer a straw cup where the baby drinks through a straw with a built-in spill valve.

The next step is the non-spill cup, which allows the baby to control the flow and drink directly from the cup without the aid of a spout or straw. The baby can drink from any edge of the cup without fear of spilling the contents. Having learned to control the flow, the baby can safely call himself an adult and drink from a classic cup.

Mom's advice. Opt for a cup with handles. Better if there are two. Holding the cup with two handles, the baby will quickly learn to handle it. This is especially true during walks and travels, when kids love to drink tea slowly, sitting comfortably in a stroller.

Sets

Sets of children's dishes are relevant when it is difficult to make a choice. The manufacturer has already selected a plate, cutlery and a cup for you, saving you time and unnecessary trouble. In addition, bibs are often included in the kits, which are a nice addition to the set and allow the baby to stay clean while eating.

Remember that the set is tailored for a child of a certain age and you will definitely need to complete it with at least one more spoon and cup.

Care of dishes

Even high-quality dishes can become dangerous if they are washed with poor-quality products.