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7 Best Baby Bowls and Plates 2022

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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.

Bumkins 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.

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Brenna Howsepian

Brenna Howsepian is a registered dietitian based in Northern California.

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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 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. Dishwasher safe and rinse in hot water before use. It is very convenient and practical in everyday life.

It is better to store children's dishes in a separate place from common dishes and always keep them dry and clean so that they serve you longer and retain their original appearance for a long time.

crockery, pastel colors, bright accents, children's room

Why food tastes better in a bowl than on a plate

Food

How the choice of dishes reflects the changing lifestyle and approach to nutrition.

Everyone used to eat from plates, but now both at home and in restaurants, food is increasingly served in bowls. The journalists of the Quartzy edition figured out the reasons.

A brief history of bowls

“In most national cuisines, bowls are the main utensil for eating,” says Matthew Weingarten, culinary director of the Dig Inn restaurant chain, which specializes in serving dishes. “For me, they are associated with a feeling of comfort and satiety. Probably so it seems to many of our visitors. But this is a relatively new way of looking at food.”

In 20th century America, dinner tables were dominated by plates: one each for bread, salad, main course, and dessert. Many middle-class families had two sets of dishes: for every day and for special occasions. From the bowls they ate only porridge for breakfast or soup.

“The use of multiple plates, as well as highly specialized cutlery like fish knives, reflected a traditional desire not to mix food,” says food historian Helen Zoe Veit. “Eating from bowls was considered unfashionable for most of the 20th century.”

How we eat reflects what we eat. In mass Western culture, it has traditionally been some source of protein with a side dish, salad, and bread. “Such a sharp separation of components was considered a sign of manners, education and status,” Veit continues.

Plates with separate slides of food were a symbol of American identity and wealth, one of the blessings of capitalism and the growing middle class. Bowls were associated with poverty. The change began in the 1960s, when bowls became part of the bohemian lifestyle and dishes in bowls became symbols of the Cultural Revolution.

Bowls are convenient because you can eat almost anything from them.

Soups, noodles, dumplings are eaten from deep bowls out of necessity. But recently they have begun to serve dishes that are no less tasty on the plate. There were many varieties of so-called bowls (from the English bowl - a bowl): a bowl with cereals, a buddha bowl, a burrito bowl.

These dishes are based on whole grains, fresh and cooked vegetables, herbs and a variety of sauces. Smoothie bowls and granola with yogurt, fruit, nuts and other trendy ingredients like acai berries, hemp seeds and chia have become popular for breakfast.

Cereal bowls are the staple of many fast food restaurants. They are convenient in that the composition can be changed depending on seasonal vegetables. Visitors can combine the ingredients as they wish. This makes them easy to make at home too: you don’t have to follow complicated instructions, you can use leftovers from other dishes, and most importantly, eat more vegetables.

It's no wonder bowls are so popular in the era of obsession with healthy eating.

Food from a bowl evokes pleasant emotions

Dishes affect how we perceive food. “When we sit down to eat, certain expectations are formed in the brain about what food will taste like and how much we will like it,” says Charles Spence, professor of experimental psychology at the University of Oxford. “Lighting, music, cutlery all contribute, more than we think.”

When we see a bowl, we look forward to rich, satisfying and healthy food.

“We feel the weight of the bowl in our hands and think that the food will be more nutritious. Most likely, we will find it more flavorful than the same food on the plate, ”explains Spence.

Eating from a bowl has an intimacy that plates lack. This partly explains the attractiveness of such dishes. According to Weingarten, food on a plate that needs to be cut with a knife and fork looks very formal, strict. And we bring the bowl closer to us. This makes it possible to truly enjoy the food and immerse yourself in the process.

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