Glass baby feeding bowls
The Best Non-Toxic Dinnerware For kids
Skip to content The Best Non-Toxic Dinnerware For kidsThe Best Non-Toxic Dinnerware For Kids Of All Ages
From bowls and spoons for babies to silicone feeding mats for toddlers to tempered glass and enamelware for older kids, we’ve found the best safe, non-toxic alternatives to plastic dinnerware. Set your table worry-free with a roundup of fun, colorful and non-toxic dinnerware options for kids.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Plastic dinnerware may seem like the best choice if you have a strong-willed toddler, but it isn’t the best option if you worry about harmful chemicals leaching from the plastic. When food is heated on plastic plates and in plastic bowls, the plastic can leach harmful chemicals into the food. There are plenty of safe, non-plastic dinnerware options for kids that look cute on the table and won’t break if thrown. From babies to toddlers to kids, we’ve found the best non-toxic kids dinnerware for every stage of feeding.
Materials To Avoid In Kids Dinnerware
Plastic: Why risk letting your kids eat off plastic plates and bowls that may leach chemicals? BPA is a known endocrine disruptor, and even if a plastic bowl or plate is labeled “BPA-free”, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s any safer. It may contain other bisphenols, such as BPS, which have the same harmful properties as BPA, and even bisphenol-free plastics may contain other endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
Melamine: Melamine dishes seem to be everywhere, featuring a smooth hard plastic surface that’s difficult to break. They’re often used as children’s plates and for outdoor dining. Melamine is combined with formaldehyde and heated to create melamine resin, which is molded into colorful plates and bowls. Melamine is also used in some bamboo plates as a binder (check with the brand).
If acidic or hot food is placed on a melamine dish (or if the melamine plate is microwaved), melamine can leach from the dish into the food, and has been detected in urine of those eating off melamine plates.
Best Materials For Kids Dinnerware
Silicone: Look for food-grade silicone. Unlike plastic, silicone is a non-reactive, non-toxic material. Silicone is unbreakable and oven safe (up to 350°F), microwave, dishwasher, & freezer-safe. Silicone is mainly made up of oxygen and silicon (present in sand and glass).
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is unbreakable and will not leach harmful chemicals into your food. Stainless steel cannot be microwaved, and the material can get dents in it, but is otherwise indestructible. Stainless steel snack and lunch containers are great options for on-the-go and school lunches.
Plant-Based: Made of renewable plant materials like bamboo, corn or sweet potatoes.
Look for plant-based dinnerware without melamine-based binders and lead-based colorants.
Glass: Tempered glass is very sturdy, but not entirely unbreakable. It’s a great non-toxic dishware option for older kids. Tempered glass can be microwaved and is oven (check with manufacturer), dishwasher and freezer safe.
Enameled Dishware: Made from porcelain-coated steel. Check that the glaze meets regulations for lead and cadmium. Stovetop, dishwasher and freezer safe. Very sturdy, but not entirely unbreakable.
When my kids were babies and just starting with pureed foods, I would hold a Pyrex glass custard cup and feed them. As they transitioned to feeding themselves, dishes got tipped and spilled and thrown on the floor, so unbreakable bowls were the best choice at this stage. There are some very cute non-toxic dinnerware options for toddlers that have suction cup bottoms to keep the dish in place. Non-toxic bowls and plates that hold food come in materials like stainless steel, bamboo, silicone or glass with a silicone suction on the bottom.
Most kids that are beyond the toddler stage can handle food served on strong tempered glass plates and enamelware. Plant-based dishware is also a good option since it’s hard to break.
Whether you’re in the market for bowls and spoons for babies, silicone feeding mats for toddlers or tempered glass and enamelware for older kids, look below for the best safe, non-toxic alternatives to plastic dinnerware.
Avanchy
Avanchy makes baby bowls, baby plates, baby spoons and baby forks, all made from sustainable, eco-friendly materials. Avanchy baby dishes are made with organic bamboo and food grade stainless steel with silicone, they are non-toxic, earth-friendly, BPA, BPS, PVC, Lead, and Phthalate free. Their stylish products are designed with safety in mind, and the suction cup plates and bowls stay in place, reducing spills and making meal time less messy.
Avanchy Bamboo Training Plate Set– Comes with a baby bowl, baby plate and 2 spoons.
The bowl and plate have a non-slip silicone suction bottom. Lead Safe, No Added Formaldehyde, BPA + BPS Free, No Known Harmful Phthalates, PVC Free, No Known EDCs. Ages 4-72 months.
Avanchy Stainless Steel Bowl With Suction– The stainless steel feeding bowl is made of double wall non-heat transferring food grade #304 stainless steel and comes with a suction cup bottom and air tight lock lid for storage and travel. 100% environmentally friendly. Plastic, BPA, PVC, lead and Phthalate free. Made from stainless steel and food-grade silicone. Age 6 months +.
Avanchy Silicone Baby Spoons– For babies 4+ months and younger, these infant feeding spoons feature 100% food safe silicone spoon heads with a non-toxic bamboo spoon handle for easy use to support a safer mealtime.
Beaba
Beaba makes a whole range of French baby-related products, including the Beaba Babycook Neo Glass Babyfood Maker, a steam cooker and blender for making baby food.
Beaba Glass Meal Set– The Beaba Glass Meal Set is a collaboration between two French brands, Beaba & Duralex. This eco-friendly, microwavable, freezer- and dishwasher-safe set includes pieces that are made for little hands. This feeding set is independently-tested: Lead Safe, BPA + BPS Free, No Known Harmful Phthalates, Undetectable Levels of Heavy Metals, PVC Free. The set includes a Duralex glass & suction base plate, bowl, and suction sleeve cup, for an easy mealtime with fewer mishaps. Made from high-grade tempered glass made by Duralex in France. Sleeve material is TPE. Plate has a high rim to help baby scoop food and suction pads fix plate and bowl to the table or tray. Age 4-36 months.
EZPZ
ezpz is a mom-owned business based on safe and independent eating, and 100% non-toxic food-safe silicone suction feeding mats are their specialty.
ezpz products are 3rd party quality tested, and ezpz has won numerous awards and accolades. Their products are designed for babies, toddlers and preschoolers and are microwave, dishwasher and oven safe (up to 350 degrees). Free of BPA, BPF, BPS, PVC, lead, cadmium and phthalates. The non-porous surface helps inhibit bacterial growth, and the silicone is bendable and flexible and doesn’t fade or corrode.
ezpz Toddler Placemat
ezpz Mini Mat
ezpz Silicone Training Cup
ezpz Tiny Bowl
ezpz Silicone Training Cup With Straw
Weesprout
Weesprout is a family-owned business that makes healthy and safe mealtime products for kids. They use 100% food grade silicone in their silicone-based products that are dishwasher, microwave and freezer safe, and feature an extra strong suction base and leakproof and airtight lids. All Weesprout products are BPA, PVC, & Phthalate-free.
The glass cups and food storage containers are made from high grade food-safe glass that is microwave, freezer, & dishwasher safe.
Weesprout Glass Cups With Silicone Lids
WeeSprout Silicone Suction Sectioned Plates
Weesprout Silicone Suction Bowl
Weesprout Silicone Baby Food Storage
Weesprout Glass Babyfood Storage Jars
Elk & Friends, January Moon & Pyrex
Elk & Friends– Elk & Friends Glass Baby Food Jars borosilicate glass baby food jars are microwave, oven and dishwasher safe. The lids are food-grade silicone and leakproof.
January Moon Feeding Set– Made with premium and non-toxic materials, this set includes a fork, spoon, and coordinating clip – all which double as gum-soothing teethers! Made from 100% food-grade silicone, FSC certified birch, Japanese rope, and safety compliant metal. Birch is 100% biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Cleans easily with soap and water (Feeding Sets should not be washed in a dishwasher. Age 3+.
Pyrex Glass Custard Cups– Durable high-quality tempered glass. Resists stains and does not absorb food odors or flavors. Dishwasher, freezer, microwave and preheated-oven safe.
Bobo & Boo
Bobo & Boo is a mom-owned company with a mission is to produce quality, eco-friendly children’s dishes that are stylish, functional and affordable. Made from natural, renewable and sustainable materials, these colorful bamboo and plant-based children’s dishes are non-toxic to people and the planet alike. Bobo & Boo products are free from BPAs and melamine, which means zero toxins and nasties. Dishwasher and microwave safe.
Bobo & Boo Kids Dinnerware Set– Features food-safe PLA-based plates, cups and bowls. PLA is a bioplastic made using a plant-based resin created from renewable fibers extracted from crops like corn and sweet potatoes and is compostable.
Haware
Virtually indestructible, this stainless steel kid’s dishware is made of high quality 18/8(304) stainless steel. This reusable dinnerware is perfect for daily use, is easy to care for and is dishwasher safe. Stainless steel cannot go in the microwave!
Kids Stainless Steel Plates
Kids Stainless Steel Bowls
Kids Stainless Steel Cups
Kids Stainless Steel Utensils
Crow Canyon
Established in 1977, Crow Canyon is a family-owned business that is focused on creating stylish, versatile and eco-friendly enamelware that connects generations. This lovely enamelware passes all FDA and California Prop 65 food service requirements. It’s food-safe and is rigorously tested to meet both FDA as well as California Food Safety regulations for lead and cadmium. Safer than glass — it’s shatterproof. Can be used in an oven or on the grill.
Crow Canyon Enamel Bowls
Crow Canyon Enamel Plates
Crow Canyon Enamel Tumblers
Crow Canyon Enamel Mugs
Duralex
Founded in 1945, the French company Duralex has been manufacturing tempered glassware for over 80 years.
Impact & chip resistant, extremely durable Duralex tempered glass is 25 times stronger than ordinary glass. Shock resistant manufactured to withstand sudden temperature extremes from -4 Degree to 266 Degree and is suitable for hot or cold liquids. Microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe. The colored glass uses organic colors and is food safe and Lead free, cadmium free, and BPA free.
Duralex Kids Glass Tumblers
Duralex Picardie Kids Glassware Set
Go to Top
7 Best Baby Bowls and Plates 2022
- Community
- Getting Pregnant
- Pregnancy
- Baby names
- Baby
- Toddler
- Child
- Health
- Family
- Courses
- Registry Builder
- Baby Products
Advertisement
By Brenna Howsepian, R.
D. | Jun 16, 2022
BabyCenter selects products based on the research of our editors and the wisdom of parents in the BabyCenter Community. All prices and details are accurate at the time of publication. We may earn a commission from shopping links.
Bowls, plates, and feeding mats designed specifically for babies can make meals more enjoyable and less messy. We analyzed reviews in the BabyCenter Community to discover parents' most-recommended baby bowls and plates, and combined with our editors' expertise, selected the top picks. Read on for the best baby suction bowl, the best baby suction plate, and more.
Best baby bowl overallBumkins Silicone First Feeding Set
Photo credit: Amazon
This ergonomically designed feeding set helps you introduce new foods and transition your baby to self-feeding. Silicone makes for a durable bowl that is heat-safe and freezer-friendly. Storing leftovers is easy with an included clear silicone lid that you can label with a dry-erase marker.
Bonus: The spoon is double ended, with one end for dipping into purees and the other end for scooping up solids.
Heads up
Some parents say the suction stopped working or wasn't strong enough. (Note: To increase the suction's strength, try adding a small amount of water on the bottom before pushing it down on your highchair or table.)
Parents say
"We love the Bumkins bowls and plates that suction. It's the only brand we have."
Specs
- Capacity: 10 ounces
- Silicone
- Microwaveable, freezer safe, and dishwasher safe (top rack)
- Recommended age: 4 months and up
Avanchy Bamboo Suction Baby Bowl
Photo credit: Amazon
From traditional spoon feeding to baby-led weaning and toddler self-feeding, this beautifully crafted bowl can be used for years. Bamboo is a sustainably grown plant that is hypoallergenic and resistant to mold and mildew, making it a safe product for your baby.
A colorful silicone ring suctions the bowl to a surface and detaches for easy cleanup. Each set comes with one bowl and a feeding spoon that works in your hand or your baby's.
Heads up
To create a strong suction, press down on the bowl until all the air releases. A loose suction will make it easy for your baby to pull the bowl off the table – and if thrown or dropped, the bowl can break.
Parents say
"I've had the most success with the Avanchy bamboo bowls. The suction seems to work a bit better than with other brands."
Specs
- Capacity: 10 ounces
- Organic bamboo and silicone
- Hand wash only
- Recommended age: 4 months and up
Nuby Garden Fresh Mash N' Feed Bowl
Photo credit: Amazon
This versatile bowl is perfect for feeding on the go and stores easily in your diaper bag.
The kit includes a hand masher, a mashing bowl with a non-slip base, a sealing lid, and a long-handled feeding spoon. You can quickly mash fruit, steamed veggies, potatoes, and other nutritious foods to whatever texture you want for your baby. The sealing lid allows you to store larger batches for later or keep food secure while in transit.
Heads up
You'll want to scrub the inside of the bowl with a brush to get all the food out of the ridges before placing it in the dishwasher.
Specs
- Capacity: 9 ounces
- BPA-free plastic
- Dishwasher and freezer safe
- Recommended age: 4 months and up
Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowl
Photo credit: Amazon
Three vibrantly colored bowls that hold different amounts are included in this set. The wide suction base stabilizes the bowl to limit spills and help your baby easily scoop up food.
Plus, these can be stacked together for compact storage.
Heads up
Depending on your surface, the suction may weaken throughout a meal. Some parents say they have to re-suction the bowls a few times.
Parents say
"Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowls work awesome for us! We take them everywhere and he can't get them up, even when he hangs onto the edge."
Specs
- Capacity: 7 to 16 ounces
- BPA-free plastic
- Microwave and top-rack dishwasher safe
- Recommended age: 6 months and up
Bumkins Silicone Grip Dish
Photo credit: Amazon
Available in a variety of bright colors and shapes (including some very cute Disney characters), this plate is perfect for your older baby's transition to self-feeding. The walls of each section are sloped to help babies scoop up each bite. Plus, you can buy a separate storage lid to save leftovers.
Heads up
Silicone can absorb strong odors and flavors. Some parents say they aren't able to get rid of lingering aromas and tastes even after cleaning these plates thoroughly.
Parents say
"The Bumkins suction plates work really well for us. I use them on a smooth tray for optimal suction."
Specs
- Capacity: 3 sections that hold 5 oz, 5 oz, and 9 oz
- Silicone
- Dishwasher and oven safe
- Recommended age: 6 months and up
Baby Mumbo Food Catching Placemat
Photo credit: Amazon
Made from food-grade silicone, this mat covers more space than baby plates and bowls, which means less of a mess on your table. The lightweight mat is easy to clean and resistant to mold and bacteria. Each mat has a small tray that can be used to serve food or to catch dropped food. You can use this mat by itself or add your baby's favorite bowl or plate on top.
Heads up
This mat doesn't have suction, and some parents say their babies figured out how to grab this and throw it.
Specs
- Size: 10 x 16 inches
- Food-grade silicone
- Dishwasher safe
- Recommended age: 6 months and up
The Mini Mat by ezpz
Photo credit: Amazon
Designed by a feeding specialist, this ezpz mat adds a smile (literally) to mealtime while supporting motor skill development. The three sections help remind parents to provide a balanced meal with a variety of foods. The mat fits most highchairs, and the entire plate suctions for maximum stability. It's packaged in a reusable bag that you can stash in your diaper bag.
Heads up
Parents with space-saving highchairs say the mat is too big for the highchair tray.
Parents say
"We have two and they're great! My daughter likes to throw her bowls and plates, but she can't throw the mat.
I like the different compartments."
"The ezpz mat comes in a travel bag and is great for eating out."
Specs
- Capacity: 3 sections that hold 2 oz, 2 oz, and 4 oz
- Silicone
- Dishwasher and microwave safe
- Recommended age: 6 months and up
The right baby bowls and plates can make mealtimes easier for your baby and cut down on the mess involved. Many of parents' favorites suction to a table or highchair tray, so your little one can't pick up a meal and fling it to the floor. And these bowls and plates are designed with arching sides to help your baby get food onto the spoon.
As you introduce solids, start with smaller portion sizes so your baby isn't overwhelmed. Baby bowls may seem too big for the servings your little one needs during the early months of eating solids, but they're designed for longevity, so your child can keep using them for years to come.
Baby bowls and plates are made from many materials: plastic, wood, squishy silicone. Hard plastic is the easiest to keep clean, but some plastic can shatter if your baby throws or drops it just right; less rigid plastic can warp in the dishwasher and gather smells and stains. Wood can stain over time, too, but it's natural and practically indestructible; silicone is fun to touch but gets a funky smell eventually.
Many baby bowls and plates come with suction cups or otherwise adhere to the table to keep your baby from picking it up and throwing it. Very determined or strong kids can still sometimes defeat these devices, but they can be useful for many situations.
Baby plates are usually compartmentalized into three or four sections, so you can expose your baby to a variety of flavors and textures. (Divided plates are also helpful for picky toddlers who don't like their food to be touching.) They also come in different shapes and colors to liven up mealtimes.
Was this article helpful?
Yes
No
Brenna Howsepian
Brenna Howsepian is a registered dietitian based in Northern California.
Advertisement | page continues below
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.
Sets of dishes for children - why are they convenient and how to choose?
When a child begins to eat on his own, he moves on to a new important stage in his life, in which he should have his first own dishes. The question arises: is it worth buying tableware separately or buying a whole set? What material should the dishes be made of, what color, size and shape is it best to choose dishes for a child?
Cookware selection criteria
- First of all, any dishes must be safe: do not contain harmful substances in their composition, for example, Bisphenol A and Phthalates.
- Ergonomic and lightweight, so that the child can independently hold it in his hands. This is especially true for mugs and cups.
- Children's dishes should be resistant to different temperatures so that they can be heated in the microwave oven or stored in the refrigerator.
- It is important that the dishes keep the food warm, but do not get hot..
- The attention of the child is more attracted to dishes with an unusual shape and interesting patterns.
In the photo: Liewood cookware
Benefits of the set
Complete sets of dishes are convenient in everyday life, since mom does not need to “allocate” a separate plate, spoon, mug for feeding. She always has a one-piece set at hand, which belongs exclusively to the child, and cannot be confused with the main dishes in the kitchen. If there is more than one child in the family, it is convenient to purchase several sets at once, so that everyone has their own individual set at their disposal.
The child perceives reality in a playful way, so the process of eating for him is a game. Dinnerware with the same style, pattern, or shape can provide a framework for developing a child's imagination and making dinner fun. Mom does not have to use auxiliary techniques (cartoons, toys, etc.) to attract the attention of the child and feed him.
Choice of cookware based on appearance and functionality
In addition to its main and primary task, dishes help parents achieve several more important goals, and one of them is to instill in the child a sense of style and form a good taste, so you need to carefully choose a set for your baby. It is best to focus on calm pastel colors with a simple clear pattern. Too bright colors will only irritate the child's nervous system and distract him from eating.
In the photo: Liewood cookware set wheat mix
There are various thematic sets with a stylish unusual design and thoughtful functionality.
For example, sets where the plate is divided into several sections or cells, each of which can contain individual products. This option will allow the child to independently organize the space, choose products that he likes more and create new combinations.
In the photo: Bamboo tableware Love Mae
Buying one set does not mean that you need to use it everywhere and always. Some sets are more suitable for home use and daily feeding of the baby, while others will be more appropriate as a hiking option, for outdoor recreation or a picnic.
In the photo: Liewood children's dinnerware set, gray-blue
The number of items in the set also depends on the age and needs of the baby. If your child is just starting to eat complementary foods, then a plate, spoon and cup will suffice. If the baby is already older, then you can choose a set with more items of various sizes.
In the photo: A set of children's bowls Liewood "Cosmos"
Advantages of different materials
The choice of materials is great.
Some parents still prefer to purchase glassware or chinaware, but many are already switching to safer materials for children's tableware, which are much easier to handle and care for.
Silicone:
Silicone products are absolutely harmless and safe for the child, as they do not contain bisphenol and phthalates. They do not slip on the table and do not break when dropped. Silicone utensils are very easy to clean. It can serve both hot and cold food without fear that it will go bad. It is silicone dishes that are chosen for babies who are beginning to introduce complementary foods and for children 2-3 years old. A set of silicone dishes can be taken with you on the road and on a picnic, as it is very light and takes up little space.
From PLA
PLA is a food grade plastic that is made from corn starch or sugar cane. PLA dishes can be purchased for the smallest and older children. In terms of properties, this material is almost identical to silicone, but is biodegradable.
Like silicone, it does not absorb odors and is odorless itself. Dishes made of PLA do not break, do not slip on the table and in hands. If it accidentally falls on the floor, it will not break, so it will serve you for a long time.
In the photo: A set of children's dishes Liewood "Bear"
Bamboo:
Bamboo tableware is universal for all ages, but is more suitable for children 6-7 years old. Bamboo cookware is light, durable and eco-friendly. The natural composition of bamboo and wood fibers with the addition of corn starch makes it 100% biodegradable.
In the photo: Love Mae "Jungle" plate set
Metal:
Stainless steel cookware is very practical for any age. Of the options listed above, this is the only material in which you can reheat or cook food in the oven, which is certainly its advantage. Stainless steel cookware is safe and won't break or deteriorate over time.
Care of dishes
How to take care of baby feeding utensils? There are several general recommendations. Never use food-grade plastic and silicone utensils in the oven, as the plastic may melt. Unlike food-grade plastic, silicone can be heated in the microwave and used at temperatures up to 230 degrees. Dishes made of both materials can be placed in the freezer at a temperature of up to -20 degrees and washed in a dishwasher at a temperature of no more than 65 degrees.
The rules for caring for bamboo cutlery are very similar. The main thing is not to use them in the microwave and oven, as natural materials do not withstand high temperatures. They are allowed to be washed in the dishwasher and used at a temperature not higher than 80 degrees and not lower than 20 degrees.
Metal utensils or stainless steel utensils are the most unassuming to care for. It can be placed in the oven and microwave, but it is not recommended to heat it on the stove.
