Best baby food utensils

4 Best Baby Utensils + Feeding Tips from an OT

Inside: Our OT shares her top picks for baby utensils, plus she explains when to introduce them to your child and how to do it.

Your baby is starting solid foods, congratulations! We know that this is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. You’re learning about what their first foods should be, what’s important in a high chair, what the best utensils for babies are, and so much more!

When shopping for baby utensils, there are a few things you should keep in mind. In this article, our occupational therapist talks about the best baby utensils, how to introduce them to your little one, and when your baby should start using them.

Article contents:
When babies start using utensils
What to do if utensils make your baby gag
Tips for introducing utensils to babies to help them self-feed
What to do if your baby refuses to use utensils
Our list of the best utensils for baby
Getting babies interested in foods
More expert advice on starting solid foods

When can babies start using utensils?

Some children may be ready to use utensils as early as 6 months with assistance. They may also be ready to practice with a baby cup. By 10 to 12 months, most babies are ready to use spoons on their own. (1)

Utensils can be safely introduced to babies with supervision and by using appropriately-sized baby utensils.

Related: Starting solids and not sure where to begin? Find out the top 25 first foods for baby recommended by our pediatric dietitian.

What if baby utensils make my baby gag?

A gag reflex is the body’s natural response to protect itself. In the first few months of a child’s life, their gag reflex can be triggered by food that the child is learning to experience for the first time.

Around six or seven months though, their gag reflex can start to diminish and allow the baby to experience more foods and food textures. (2)

Related: Learn the difference between gagging and choking in our article about common choking hazards for babies and toddlers.

If the child expresses gag reflexes while using cutlery, try to remain calm. Some baby utensils do have a lip to stop the spoon or fork from going too far into the baby’s mouth.

However, those spoons aren’t essential if the child is being supervised, which they should be when eating!

Related: Picky eating doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of toddlerhood. Sign up for our free picky eating guide to start your baby on the right path.

Tips for introducing baby utensils for self feeding

Introducing utensils to your baby or toddler might feel a little nerve-racking. Here are our top tips for when you start to give your baby spoons, forks or other utensils to help them self-feed.

1. Offer babies utensils with thicker handles

Babies need something they can hold onto, so spoons and forks with big and thick handles are good for them when they start out.

When your baby has gotten the hang of holding cutlery and is ready to move on, you can transition to toddler utensils with a slimmer handle.

Related: Did you know that iron is an important nutrient for babies? Learn tons of iron-rich foods to serve your baby.

2. Pre-load food onto the utensil to help your baby eat

Pre-loading a baby utensil means that you scoop the food onto the spoon or fork yourself before offering it to your child.

Placing a pre-loaded spoon on your child’s tray or baby plate makes it easier for new eaters to feed themselves.

3. Give your baby a second (or third!) utensil

Offering your child more than one utensil to hold on to or play with while eating can help improve their chances of using the utensil to self-feed.

It also may help them from getting distracted while eating.

Related: Does your child like to throw food? We can teach you how to end toddler food throwing.

4. Prepare for the mess your baby will make when learning to use utensils

Independence can be messy and that’s OK. Babies are still developing their motor skills and they are bound to spill and drop food.

Here are a few tips to help you deal with the mess:

Look into getting a splat mat for the food that falls to the floor.
Serve small portions of food.
Clean as you go.
Breathe! Even with doing all the above, it can still be messy.

Read our blog for more tips on how to manage messy eaters and messy mealtimes.

What if my baby refuses to use utensils?

If your baby prefers to use their hands, that is OK too! Children often continue to use their hands to eat for many years.

When your baby uses their hands to eat, whether they are using a raking grasp or a pincer grasp, it helps their body learn more about foods. This is a good thing! It can even help prevent picky eating in the future.

In the meantime, keep offering utensils when appropriate.

Need help with older kids? Learn how to teach your toddler to use utensils.

Food play can be a great way to get your baby interested and comfortable with new foods. It can be helpful to create a routine for food play when your child is first learning to eat. Get our ebook Food Play Every Day for ideas!

Our favorite baby utensils

Walk around any baby store section and you will surely come across an aisle with as many baby utensils options as the eye can see. There are so many great utensils for babies!

For toddler spoon, fork and cutlery set recommendations, check out our top utensils for toddlers and kids.

These are the options we consider to be among the best baby utensils.

1. NumNum Pre-Spoon GOOtensils baby spoons

We like these spoons because they’re easy to pre-load for babies, and they have thick, contoured handles designed to fit in your baby’s hand.

2. Bumkins Silicone Chewtensils baby fork and spoon set

This baby spoon and fork set also act as teethers for teething babies. They’re dishwasher safe and they can be boiled for sterilizing and deep cleaning.

3. EZPZ Tiny Spoon set for baby-led weaning

With thick, non-slip handles and a narrow spoon to fit perfectly in baby’s mouth, these baby spoons are great for self-feeding.

4. Olababy Soft-Tip Training Spoon Set

Besides looking adorable, this set of baby training spoons allows your baby to scoop food at any angle. They can also be placed upright to help keep them clean while feeding your baby.

Get baby interested in eating foods

Sometimes when you try to force a child to eat a new food, they refuse. That’s why food play can be helpful.

Food play allows your baby to see, smell, touch and taste food in a low-pressure environment. Seeing, smelling and touching foods helps their bodies’ learn about foods, and once they learn about them, they’re more likely to try them.

Check out our ebook Food Play Every Day to get tons of food play ideas for your baby today!

More expert advice on starting solid foods

Concerned about toxic heavy metals in baby food? Here’s what you need to know.
Do you know about the Division of Responsibility in feeding? It’s one of the most important things to learn about feeding children.
Meal and snack routines are helpful for kids and help keep parents sane. Start one as soon as you begin solids.
Once you and your child are ready, here’s how to wean your toddler from the breast or bottle in 6 steps.
Are you giving your baby a vitamin D supplement? Learn all about vitamin D for kids, including how much infants need and where to get it.
Got questions about milk? Our pediatric dietitian dives in and shares the best milk for toddlers, babies and kids.
When your baby turns 12 months old, you’ll probably be wondering what do one-year-olds eat anyways? We got you covered.

References

https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/mealtime/fingers-spoons-forks-cups.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554502/

The 15 Best Baby Utensils: Which Ones Do Babies Need?

Do Babies Need Baby Utensils?

Babies have softer, more sensitive gums and small mouths. So, it makes sense to get them baby utensils that are designed to fit their mouths and keep their gums safe.

Baby spoons, forks, cups, plates, and bowls should be safe and free from toxic chemicals, including BPA (bisphenol-A), BPS (bisphenol-S), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), heavy metals (lead, cadmium, etc. ), and phthalates.

Do Babies Need Special Spoons?

Yes. Big, stainless steel spoons might be too big and hard for their small mouths and sensitive gums.

Many baby spoons have a protective shield that prevents your little one from choking due to pushing the utensil too deep into their mouths.

Our Top 15 Picks For The Best Baby Feeding Utensils

Best Baby Plates

Loulou Lollipop Silicone Suction Snack Plate ($20) – Silicone plate with cute animal prints and shapes

EZPZ Mini Mat ($22.49) – All-in-one silicone plate and placemat

Ahimsa Balanced Bites Stainless Steel Plates in Rainbow ($46 for two plates) – Pediatrician-designed, stainless steel plate with a lifetime warranty

Best Baby Bowls

Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowls ($9.39 for a pack of three) – Budget-friendly baby bowl with a large suction base

SKIP HOP Easy-Grab Bowls ($10. 20 for a pack of two) – Unique comfort-grip handle and measurement markings in the bowl

Best Baby Utensil Sets

Nuby Garden Fresh Mash N’ Feed ($7.99) – Entire set lets you prepare, store, and feed from the same bowl

Avanchy Baby Bamboo Stay Put Suction Bowl + Spoon ($19.99) – Eco-friendly organic bamboo and silicone utensil set

UpwardBaby Feeding Supplies For Toddlers ($29.97) – Complete feeding set that promotes BLW (baby-led weaning)

BABYBJÖRN Baby Feeding Set ($29.99) – Elegant feeding set with plate design that helps make scooping easier

Best Baby Spoons

NumNum Pre-Spoon GOOtensils ($13 for two pre-spoons) – Dual-stage, flat-head pre-spoon set that doubles as teethers

Bumkins Silicone Chewtensils ($15.95 for spoon and fork) – Training spoon with thick handles

Munchkin Gentle Scoop Silicone Trainer Spoon ($5. 79 for two spoons) – Budget-friendly training spoons with choke guards that double as a spoon rest

Dr. Brown’s Silicone Starter Spoon ($4.99 for one spoon) – Cute turtle-designed spoon that doubles as a teether

SKIP HOP Easy-Fold Travel Spoons ($8.99 for two spoons) – Travel-friendly spoons with built-in cases

Best Cups

EZPZ Tiny Cup ($11.49) – Soft silicone, topple-resistant baby cup

Continue reading to learn more about these baby utensils.

Loulou Lollipop Silicone Suction Snack Plate

(source: louloulollipop.com)

Price

What Makes It Special

Silicone plate with cute animal prints and shapes
Available in these differently colored designs: lion (rust), rhinoceros (gray), alligator (green), elephant (blue), and bunny (peach)
Suction base that sticks to most high chairs and tables to prevent spills and slippages
Easy to clean and dishwasher safe (top rack only)
Freezer safe
Microwave safe

Key Features

Material: Soft silicone

Product Safety: Free from toxic chemicals such as lead, cadmium, PVC, and phthalates

Certifications: ASTM 917 (American Society for Testing and Materials) safety regulations and CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) standards

Warranty: Three months

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some designs have lots of nooks and crannies that might eventually collect grime and food residues if not properly cleaned.

EZPZ Mini Mat

(source: ezpzfun.com)

Price

$22.49

What Makes It Special

All-in-one plate and placemat
Hypoallergenic
Non-porous surface that can help inhibit bacterial growth
Smile design to help promote a positive mealtime experience
Available in different colors: sage, blue, coral, gray, lime, blush, pewter, and aqua
Features three compartments for different food types to encourage a well-balanced meal
Fits most highchair trays
Suction base to keep it in place and prevent tipping or slipping
Stable base promotes self-feeding (such as in BLW) and develops fine motor skills
Portable, compact, lightweight design
Comes with a reusable bag that makes it easier to simply put the product in your diaper bag for dining out or traveling
Dishwasher safe
Microwave and oven safe (up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit)
The brand claims that this product doesn’t wear, fade, or corrode.

Key Features

Material: 100% food-grade silicone

Product Safety: Free from toxic chemicals such as BPA, BPS, PVC, and phthalates

Certifications: Silicone materials are 3rd-party quality tested (FDA approved and CPSC certified)

Warranty: Three months (limited warranty)

Product Recall

None

Cons

The placemat base might be too large for some high chairs.
Some parents complain about this product retaining the scent and taste of dishwashing soap.

Ahimsa Purposeful Plates

(source: ahimsahome.com)

Price

Two plates – $46
Four plates – $86
Eight plates – $160

What Makes It Special

Pediatrician-designed plate
Non-porous and inert to help prevent the growth of bacteria and other pathogens
Unbreakable
9-inch stainless steel plates that your child can use as they grow
Universal plate design for everyone in the family
Available in three different colors: classic, rainbow, and iridescent blue
Dishwasher safe
Lifetime warranty

Key Features

Material: Stainless steel

Product Safety: Free from PVC, BPA (and all bisphenols), phthalates, melamine, and lead

Warranty: Lifetime

Product Recall

None

Cons

Unlike the other baby plates on our list, this doesn’t have a suction base.

Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowls

(source: munchkin.com)

Price

Pack of three – $9.39

What Makes It Special

Budget-friendly baby bowl
Suction base keeps it in place on your baby’s high chair tray
Large suction base, nearly as wide as the bowl for stability
Comes in a pack of three differently sized, differently colored bowls: purple, green, and blue
Microwave safe
Dishwasher safe (top rack only)

Key Features

Material: BPA-free plastic

Product Safety: Free from BPA and phthalates

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some parents complain about the base’s poor suction capacity.

SKIP HOP Easy-Grab Bowls

(source: skiphop.com)

Price

Pack of two – $10.20

What Makes It Special

Set includes two bowls and two lids
Ergonomic and unique comfort-grip handle for parents to hold the bowl during feeding easily
Space-saving stackable design
Available in combinations of teal and gray or coral and gray
Features standard and metric measurement markings for estimating the amount of food your baby eats
Microwave safe but don’t microwave with the lid on
Freezer safe
Dishwasher safe (top rack only)
Can match or coordinate with other SKIP HOP baby utensils

Key Features

Material: BPA-free plastic

Product Safety: Free from BPA and phthalates

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some parents complain about food residue easily getting stuck inside the bowl.

Nuby Garden Fresh Mash N’ Feed Set

(source: amazon.com)

Price

Set with food masher, bowl, and spoon – $7.99

What Makes It Special

Includes a food masher, bowl with lid, and spoon so that you can prepare, mash, store, and feed from the same bowl
Textured bowl interior to help with efficient mashed purée preparation
Non-slip base
Available in different combinations: white and blue, red and green, white and green, orange and green, or teal and green
Microwave sterilization safe
Dishwasher safe (top rack only)

Key Features

Material: BPA-free plastic

Product Safety: Free from BPA

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some parents complain that the food masher and textured bowl are difficult to clean and are prone to getting food residues stuck to the holes or ridges.

Avanchy Baby Bamboo Stay Put Suction Bowl + Spoon

(source: avanchy.

com)

Price

$19.99

What Makes It Special

Plastic-free baby utensil set
Hypoallergenic and non-toxic
Organic bamboo handle with a silicone tip for the spoon
Organic bamboo with a silicone suction ring for the bowl
Removable non-slip silicone ring for interchanging with stainless-steel Avanchy baby bowls
Ergonomically designed handle
Transition-friendly silicone spoon that’s gentle on your baby’s mouth and gums
Suitable for baby-led weaning, infant feeding, or toddler self-feeding
Fits most high chair trays

Key Features

Material: Eco-friendly organic bamboo and silicone

Product Safety: Free from BPA, BPS, lead, and phthalates

Product Recall

None

Cons

Handwashing only; not dishwasher safe
Some parents complain that the bamboo bowl is prone to cracking and the ring base doesn’t have good suction strength.

UpwardBaby BLW Feeding Supplies For Toddlers

(source: upwardbaby.com)

Price

Complete baby utensil set – $29.97

What Makes It Special

Baby utensil set that comes with a silicone suction bowl, three food-catcher bibs, an anti-spill cup, and three shallow spoons
Unbreakable silicone cup
Waterproof bibs with pouches for catching crumbs, spills, and messes
Safety spoons have anti-choking cross-handle shields and fat handles to fit your baby’s hand
Soft silicone teething spoons
Dishwasher safe
Microwave safe
Freezer safe
The brand claims that its silicone products won’t stain.

Key Features

Material: 100% safe silicone

Product Safety: Free from BPA, lead, and phthalates

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some parents complain that the bib doesn’t stay in place due to faulty buttons and has pouches that don’t stay open to catch messes.

BABYBJÖRN Baby Feeding Set

(source: babybjorn.com)

Price

Set with plate, toddler fork and spoon, and cup – $29.99

What Makes It Special

Stylish set that includes a plate, spoon, fork, and cup
Sturdy plate with a trefoil design that can make scooping food easier for your baby
Easy-to-grip spoon to fit your baby’s little hands
Stable cup with a large base to avoid tipping over
Grip-friendly cup
Plate also has an anti-slip strip at the base
Available in different colors: powder pink, powder green, powder yellow, and powder blue
Smooth and easy to clean
Dishwasher safe

Key Features

Material: BPA-free, certified food-safe plastic – ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) for the inner plate; PP (polypropylene) and TPE (thermoplastic elastomers) for the rim, baby cup, fork, and spoon

Product Safety: Free from BPA, PVC, and other toxic substances

Product Recall

None

Although BabySwede LLC recalled BABYBJÖRN feeding spoons due to choking risks in December 2016, the recall involved a different spoon design from those used in this feeding set. (1)

Cons

Pricier than other feeding sets on our list
Some parents complain that the plate is prone to scratching.

NumNum Pre-Spoon GOOtensils

(source: amazon.com)

Price

Set of two pre-spoons (different stages) – $13

What Makes It Special

Dual-stage set
Textured surface that doubles as a teether to soothe your baby’s gums
Thick handle for a secure fit in little hands
Flat head design
Stage One pre-spoon lets your baby grab just enough food with the dimples
Stage Two pre-spoon captures and holds food in the channels
Dishwasher safe

Key Features

Material: Premium food-grade silicone with nylon

Product Safety: Free from PVC, BPA, or phthalates

Certification: Meets US and EU (European Union) safety standards

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some customers complain that the upper (head) part can separate from the rest of the spoon.
Babies can’t use Stage Two for foods with a thinner consistency.
They might be prone to discoloration.

Bumkins Silicone Chewtensils

(source: bumkins.com)

Price

Toddler fork and spoon set – $15.95

What Makes It Special

Training spoon with thick handles for easy gripping by tiny hands
Spoon doubles as teether with teething nubs on the back
Different colors and designs are available: light blue, dark blue, jade green, fuchsia pink, baby pink, and marble gray
Ideal for self-feeding and baby-led weaning
Dishwasher safe (top rack only)

Key Features

Material: Silicone

Product Safety: Free from BPA, BPS, PVC, phthalates, cadmium, and lead

Certification: CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008) compliant

Product Recall

None

Cons

They can be pricey.
Some parents complain about the toddler fork being too soft to pick up any food as intended.

Munchkin Gentle Scoop Silicone Trainer Spoon

(source: amazon.com)

Price

Two spoons – $5.79

What Makes It Special

Budget-friendly spoons
Training spoons with choke guards (double as a spoon rest)
Soft silicone material that’s gentle on your baby’s mouth and gums
Available in sets with two colors: pink and purple or light blue and light green
Ideal for self-feeding and baby-led weaning
Dishwasher safe

Key Features

Material: Food-grade silicone

Product Safety: Free from BPA

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some parents complain that the clear plastic material can stain easily.

Dr. Brown’s Silicone Starter Spoon

(source: drbrownsbaby.com)

Price

One piece – $4. 99
Two pieces – $7.99 (price on Amazon)

What Makes It Special

Cute turtle design
Soft, shallow spoon bowl
Doubles as a teether
Textured arms can massage your baby’s sore gums
Ring shape makes it easy for little hands to hold
Dishwasher safe (top rack)
Sterilizer safe
Microwave safe
Freezer safe

Key Features

Material: 100% silicone material

Product Safety: BPA-free

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some parents complain that the unique design makes it difficult for babies to use as a spoon.
The handle is also heavier than the head, making it easier to fall over or out of your baby’s food bowl.

SKIP HOP Easy-Fold Travel Spoons

(source: amazon.com)

Price

Two spoons – $8.99 (price on Amazon)

What Makes It Special

Travel-friendly spoons with built-in cases
Stay-clean folding design
Can coordinate with other SKIP HOP baby utensils
Dishwasher-safe (top rack only)

Key Features

Material: BPA-free plastic

Product Safety: Free from BPA and phthalates

Product Recall

None

Cons

Although you can sterilize with baby bottles, they can’t be put in a microwave sterilizer.

EZPZ Tiny Cup

(source: ezpzfun.com)

Price

$11.49

What Makes It Special

Hypoallergenic
Soft silicone protects your baby’s gums and developing teeth
Designed to fit your baby’s mouth and hands
Helps promote self-feeding and fine motor skills
Safe for use with cold, warm or hot foods and liquids (SAFETY WARNING: make sure to check that your baby’s food isn’t too hot by testing them on your inner wrist)
Non-slip silicone grip
Interior angle provides an even flow for safe drinking
Weighted base with tactile bumps to provide topple resistance
The brand claims that this product doesn’t wear.
Dishwasher safe

Key Features

Material: Silicone

Product Safety: Free from BPA, BPS, PVC, and phthalates

Product Recall

None

Cons

Some parents complain that their cups have a terrible smell, which allegedly doesn’t come off with repeated washing.

Summary & Recommendations

You can choose any of the baby utensils above, depending on your needs. Here are our recommendations:

Best Baby Plates

Choose Loulou Lollipop Silicone Suction Snack Plate ($20) if:

You prefer a silicone plate with cute animal prints and shapes

Choose: EZPZ Mini Mat ($22.49) if:

You want an all-in-one silicone plate and placemat

Choose Ahimsa Balanced Bites Stainless Steel Plates in Rainbow ($46 for two plates) if:

You prefer a pediatrician-designed, stainless steel plate with a lifetime warranty

Best Baby Bowls

Choose Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowls ($9.39 for a pack of three) if:

You want a budget-friendly baby bowl with a large suction base

Choose SKIP HOP Easy-Grab Bowls ($10.20 for a pack of two) if:

You want one with a unique comfort-grip handle

You prefer to have measurement markings in the bowl

Best Baby Utensil Sets

Choose Nuby Garden Fresh Mash N’ Feed ($7. 99) if:

You want an entire set that lets you prepare, store, and feed from the same bowl

Choose Avanchy Baby Bamboo Stay Put Suction Bowl + Spoon ($19.99) if:

You prefer an eco-friendly organic bamboo and silicone utensil set

Choose UpwardBaby Feeding Supplies For Toddlers ($29.97) if:

You prefer a complete feeding set that promotes BLW (baby-led weaning)

Choose BABYBJÖRN Baby Feeding Set ($29.99) if:

You want an elegant feeding set with a plate design that helps make scooping easier

Best Baby Spoons

Choose NumNum Pre-Spoon GOOtensils ($13 for two pre-spoons) if:

You need a dual-stage, flat-head pre-spoon set that doubles as teethers

Choose Bumkins Silicone Chewtensils ($15.95 for spoon and fork) if:

You want a training spoon with thick handles

Choose Munchkin Gentle Scoop Silicone Trainer Spoon ($5. 79 for two spoons) if:

You prefer budget-friendly training spoons with choke guards

Choose Dr. Brown’s Silicone Starter Spoon ($4.99 for one spoon) if:

You like the cute turtle-designed spoon that doubles as a teether

Choose SKIP HOP Easy-Fold Travel Spoons ($8.99 for two spoons) if:

You need travel-friendly spoons with built-in cases

Best Cups

Choose EZPZ Tiny Cup ($11.49) if:

You need a soft silicone, topple-resistant baby cup

Some of the sets above also have baby-friendly cups.

FAQs

When Are Babies Ready To Feed Themselves?

Some babies might be ready to feed themselves at four months through baby-led weaning.

However, first, make sure that your baby shows signs of readiness and that you have your pediatrician’s approval before giving solid foods to babies younger than six months of age.

When Should I Give My Baby Utensils?

When to give your baby utensils depends on their development and interests.

Some babies might be interested in using a spoon at six months old. But you can also continue letting them use their hands for feeding until they develop and improve their fine motor skills.

Which Utensil Is The Best For Your Baby?

Plates and bowls are often the first utensils to use with your baby, especially with baby-led weaning.

Why Should Babies Use A Spoon During Mealtimes?

Mastering the spoon helps reduce messes during mealtime and introduces your baby to proper table manners.

Are Silicone Spoons Better?

Yes. Silicone spoons are hypoallergenic and usually free from toxic chemicals such as BPA, BPS, PVC, phthalates, and heavy metals.

How Do I Introduce A Spoon To My Baby?

The best approach is to teach them by example and let them copy your movements.

When Should My Baby Drink From A Cup?

Babies can begin drinking from a cup held by a caregiver at six months of age. They can gradually learn how to pick up the cup and drink on their own.

How Many Baby Utensils Do I Need?

Two to three baby spoons are ideal for each feeding session, especially if they’re still learning to hold and use one. Once your baby is more adept at feeding themselves, you aren’t likely to need more than one per meal.

Why Do Babies Use Silver Utensils?

Bacteria don’t thrive on silverware. Due to their antibacterial properties, silver utensils are preferred by some parents. (2)

Other Baby Utensil Brands & Products To Try

Ahimsa Balanced Bites Stainless Steel Plates in Rainbow
Bumkins Silicone Grip Toddler Dish in Marble
Yiveko Suction Plates
Blissbury Silicone Baby Plate
Green Sprouts Baby Learning Plate Made from Silicone
Wee Sprout Suction Plates with Lids
Bella Tunno Get in my Belly Suction Bowl
Lalo Suction Bowl
NUK Mash & Serve Bowl with Masher to Prep and Serve Baby Food
Wild and Stone Baby Bamboo Bowl and Spoon Set
Avanchy 5-Pack Infant Bamboo Spoons
Avanchy Stainless Steel Spoons
Baby K Self-Feeding Bamboo Baby Spoons
BEABA First Stage Baby Utensil Feeding Spoon Set
Bella Tunno Wonder Spoons
Boon SQUIRT Silicone Food Dispensing Spoon in Mint
Cosy Casa Baby Utensils
Cute Stone Baby Utensils
Easyeah Baby Spoon & Fork Set
EZPZ Tiny Spoons
Eztotz Self-Feeding Baby Utensils
First Essentials by NUK Kiddy Cutlery Spoon Set
Grabease First Self-Feeding Baby Utensils
Monee Silicone Spoons
MUNCHKIN Soft-Tip Infant Spoons
Munchkin White Hot Infant Spoons
Novos Baby Utensils with Travel Case
Novos Upgraded Baby Utensils
Nuk Rest Easy Spoons
Olababy Training Fork + Spoon Set
Oxo Tot Fork & Spoon Set
PrimaStella Silicone Rainbow Chew Spoon
Re-Play Toddler Feeding Spoon and Fork Set
Ryan & Rose Spoon and Fork
Sperric Toddler Utensils Baby Spoons And Forks Set
Termichy Baby Utensils
The First Years Take & Toss Infant Spoons (16-pack)
Tiny Thumbs Silicone Baby Spoons

Other Baby Feeding Essentials

High chair
Bibs
Diaper bag (for bringing baby utensils, infant formula, or baby snacks while on the go)

REFERENCES

(1) https://www. cpsc.gov/Recalls/2006/babyswede-llc-recalls-babybjorn-feeding-spoons-due-to-choking-hazard

(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27894512/

TOP 10 best utensils for babies

The first utensils can appear in a baby in the first months of life: even if he is breastfed, breast milk can be frozen in reserve in special containers. Over time, the set of items for food becomes more and more diverse. First there are bottles for milk, mixtures, water, medicines, then plates and bowls, non-spillable mugs and cups are added to them. As a result, by 12 months, the functionality of children's dishes is compared with the functionality of an adult - only it looks much brighter, more attractive and seductive. After all, the main purpose of these kitchen items is to teach the child to eat independently. Not only artists, but also psychologists and nutritionists are working on the design of children's dishes - and all in order to make the process of learning a little gourmet enjoyable and interesting. nine0003

Today we have prepared a rating of the best tableware for babies, based on expert assessments of experts and reviews of real customers. Our recommendations will help you make the best choice for your requirements and desires.

Photo: http://kiddysoul.ru

Canpol Babies dinner set (4/401)

Photo: https://market.yandex.ru

Canpol Babies plastic dining set. Canpol plastic dining set art. 4/401 is recommended for children over 1 year of age. The dishes can be used in the microwave (without lids) and washed in the dishwasher (on the top shelf). Set includes: deep plate (270 ml), shallow plate, cup (170 ml), spoon, fork. Made from durable and safe plastic. Children from 12 months. nine0003

Canpol Babies dinner set (4/401)

Advantages:

workmanship
design
security
usability

Philips AVENT container SCF135/06

Photo: https://market.yandex.ru

The Philips Avent milk formula dispenser is a necessary accessory for feeding on walks and on trips, as it allows you not to take the whole can of formula with you. Allows you to store three previously measured portions of dry milk formula in separate sections. To start feeding, simply open the dispenser spout and pour the mixture into a bottle of chilled boiled water. Remove the inner compartment for use as a bowl or container. All parts can be sterilized, heated in the microwave and washed in the dishwasher. nine0003

Philips AVENT container SCF135/06

Advantages:

workmanship
design
security
usability

BabyBjorn set (0781)

Photo: https://market. yandex.ru

New BabyBjorn tableware in pleasant pastel colors. Its advantage is that all its elements are adapted for small children's hands. The process of self-feeding is now simple even for the smallest. A stable plate that is difficult to tip over, comfortable cutlery with short handles and a cup are all designed to make it easier and more fun for your child to eat without the help of adults. nine0003

BabyBjorn cookware set (0781)

Advantages:

workmanship
design
security
usability

Oogaa Plate Train & Plane

Photo: https://market.yandex.ru

Silicone dining utensils are made from high quality silicone approved in Europe for food contact. This silicone does not release chemicals, is non-toxic and does NOT contain PVC or phthalates. The set consists of a colored 250 ml bowl and 2 spoons. And no more fragments, debris and noise, if suddenly such a bowl accidentally topples over. Free of BPA and harsh chemicals, easy to clean. Suitable for dishwasher, microwave, freezer and oven. nine0003

Oogaa Plate Train and plane

Virtues:

workmanship
design
security
usability

Munchkin container Catch cookies (11401)

Photo: https://market.yandex.ru

A container for snacks and small pieces of food with a magic lid is a great solution to feed your baby on the go. The soft petals of the lid allow the child to get pieces of food on their own, but do not allow the contents to crumble. The mission of Munchkin, an American company with a 20-year history, is to rid the world of boring and mundane products, to look for smart innovative solutions that turn mundane tasks into an experience that brings pleasure. nine0003

Munchkin container Catch cookies (11401)

Advantages:

workmanship
design
security
usability

Munchkin set Colored cups (11259)

Photo: https://market. yandex.ru

A set of 2 training cups with removable lids Munchkin from the Splash line will make feeding fun and exciting thanks to a bright design. The comfortable, push-on training lid will keep fluid out if your little one is playing. Cups are very convenient for children's hands when the baby is just learning to drink from an adult cup. Cups nest inside each other for compact storage. Can be washed in the dishwasher. For children from 18 months. nine0003

Munchkin set Colored cups (11259)

Advantages:

workmanship
design
security
usability

Lubby Classic (13952)

Photo: https://market.yandex.ru

The special shape of the lid allows you to keep the feeding device hygienic while traveling. The suction cup prevents the plate from moving freely on the table. The lubby set refers to after-use items. In this direction, bright, dynamic colors are used - purple, red, yellow, green. The heroes of this direction are funny and funny space traveler dinosaurs who will become friends to the child in his discoveries. nine0003

Lubby Classic (13952)

Pros:

workmanship
design
security
usability

Chicco Stay Warm plate 6 m+

Photo: https://market.yandex.ru

The Chicco Stay Warm plate allows you to keep food warm for a long time, so your baby can eat slowly, and you don't have to worry about the food getting cold and not tasty. The plate has an ergonomic design, a silicone non-slip surface and a special insert so that the baby does not burn his fingers. A special hot water tank allows you to maintain the temperature of food for a long time during feeding. Special recess for a spoon. Silicone coating on the bottom of the plate. nine0003

Chicco Stay Warm plate 6 m+

Advantages:

workmanship
design
security
usability

Eco Baby dinnerware set Bamboo fiber ladybug

Photo: https://market. yandex.ru

Drinking bowl with a straw - so beautiful and bright, every kid will be delighted to look at it. Such a cup is comfortable to hold in your hands, and the liquid does not spill from it. It is made of eco-friendly material - just what your baby needs! The bowl is made from bamboo fibre. Due to this, it has high strength. Bamboo fiber is an environmentally friendly material, safe for children and adults. nine0003

Eco Baby cookware set Bamboo fiber ladybug

Advantages:

workmanship
design
security
usability

Beaba Meal Set

Photo: https://market.yandex.ru

A new silicone set of feeding utensils from the French brand Beaba. The plates have suction cups to attach to the table (or high chair) to prevent them from falling off. Thanks to the comfortable shape, the baby can easily eat. The Beaba set includes dishes for babies and parents who are just starting weaning, as well as for independent babies over a year old. Made of soft elastic silicone, which is not dangerous for the baby and comfortable for parents (does not break or make noise). nine0003

Beaba Meal Set

Advantages:

workmanship
design
security
usability

This concludes our review of baby utensils. We hope that the information provided, collected by our experts, was enough for you to purchase good dishes. Enjoy the shopping!

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checklist from the pediatrician for parents - article on TCC

Like most children's devices, dishes for babies should 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. nine0003

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 lack 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. nine0045
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). nine0045
Design. Bright colors, favorite characters from fairy tales and cartoons are sure to attract the attention of a 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. nine0003

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. nine0003

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. nine0003

Metal is not the best choice 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. nine0003

2. Plug. 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. nine0003

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. nine0003

4. Non-spill cup. This is the bottle-to-cup transition where the baby tries 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. nine0003

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.