Sep 14, 2022

Are Silicone Plates Good for Babies?

baby toddler eating breakfast with Brightberry suction plate

Choosing the right baby tableware can make a difference in your little one’s mealtime experience. Certain types of tableware, like silicone plates for babies, are preferred by parents because of their safety, durability, and versatility. In this guide, we’ll explore why silicone plates are suitable for babies and how they can support your baby’s development while making your life easier.

6 Reasons Why Silicone Plates are the Safest Option for Babies

Safe and Non-Toxic

Silicone plates are made from food-grade silicone, naturally free from harmful chemicals such as BPA, PVC, and phthalates. This means you don’t have to worry about toxins leaching into your child’s food, even when the tableware is exposed to high temperatures. Unlike plastic, which can release harmful substances, silicone remains stable and safe, providing peace of mind during every meal. When comparing silicone vs plastic, silicone outperforms with its durability, resistance to stains and odours, and overall safety.

Ensure the products are FDA-approved and free from harmful chemicals, and choose items tested and certified by reputable laboratories like our Brightberry products.

Durable and Long-Lasting

Silicone is incredibly durable and can withstand the rough handling typical of young children. Whether tossed from a highchair or dropped on the floor, silicone tableware doesn’t break or crack like glass or plastic. This durability makes it a sustainable option, reducing the need for frequent replacements and making it an economical choice in the long run.

Ensure the tableware can handle various temperatures, from freezing to boiling. Look for products with reinforced edges, sturdy designs, and durable silicone cups to withstand daily use.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

One of the best benefits of silicone baby tableware is its easy cleaning. Its non-porous surface keeps bacteria and odours away, making it super hygienic. You can wash it by hand or throw it in the dishwasher. If you’re wondering how to clean silicone tableware, know it is convenient. Unlike plastic, which tends to withstand stains and smells, it stays fresh and spotless after every wash.

Soak the silicone items in a mixture of baking soda and water for stubborn stains. To remove lingering odours, boil the items or bake them in the oven at 150°C for a few minutes.

Supports Baby-Led Weaning and Development

Silicone tableware is perfect for baby-led weaning, a method that encourages babies to feed themselves from the start. Products like silicone spoons and suction bowls are designed to help your baby develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. The soft, flexible material is gentle on gums and emerging teeth, making it safe for babies just starting on solids.

Suction bowls with high, inward-curving walls help your baby scoop food easily. For optimal use, follow tips to make your suction bowls stick securely during mealtime and use ergonomic spoons that are easy for little hands to grip.

Versatile for Different Feeding Stages

Silicone baby tableware adapts to your child’s needs as they grow. From soft, flexible spoons and teether rings for infants to sturdy divided plates and cups for toddlers, silicone products can be used throughout various stages of development. This versatility means you won’t have to constantly buy new products as your baby grows, making silicone an economical choice.

Depending on your number of children and their ages, you may want to consider several options, such as divided plates that keep different foods separate or cups and utensils that transition with your baby as they develop self-feeding skills.

Eco-Friendly Choice

Silicone is not only safe and durable but also a more environmentally friendly option compared to plastic. Made from natural resources like silica, it can be recycled at specialised facilities. Its longevity reduces waste, as silicone tableware doesn’t need to be replaced as often as plastic or glass alternatives. By choosing silicone, you’re making a sustainable choice that benefits your child and the planet.

Essential Silicone Baby Tableware for Every Stage

Suction Bowls and Plates

Suction bowls and plates stay firmly in place, preventing spills and messes. This stability benefits babies learning to eat independently. Look for bowls and plates with high walls and divided sections to make scooping and eating more manageable for your child.

Silicone Cups

Silicone cups are perfect for transitioning from bottle to cup. Their lightweight and soft design makes them easy for little hands to grip. At the same time, their durability ensures they can handle the inevitable drops and throws.

Silicone Utensils

Silicone spoons and forks are gentle on sensitive gums and developing teeth. Their ergonomic design helps your baby grip the utensils comfortably, encouraging self-feeding and making mealtime a more enjoyable experience.

Silicone Bibs

Silicone bibs with food-catching pockets keep your baby’s clothes clean and reduce the mess around the feeding area. They are easy to clean and comfortable to wear, making them an essential part of your feeding set.

Choosing the Best Silicone Baby Tableware

When selecting silicone tableware for your baby, consider the following:

Material Quality:

Choose 100% food-grade silicone free from harmful chemicals like BPA, PVC, and phthalates. Ensure the products have passed rigorous safety tests and certifications, such as FDA or LFGB standards, to guarantee they are safe for food contact and won’t leach toxins, even when exposed to heat.

Design and Functionality:

Opt for products with practical features like strong suction bases to prevent spills, divided sections to keep foods separate and appealing, and ergonomic utensils designed for small hands.

Choose tableware with easy-to-grip handles, soft-tipped spoons that help babies transition smoothly to self-feeding, and curved bowl edges that make it easier for little ones to scoop food. Consider products that are microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe to offer convenience and flexibility in meal prep and clean-up.

Age Appropriateness:

Choose tableware that matches your baby’s developmental stage. For infants, opt for soft silicone spoons like the First Stage Feeding Spoons, designed to be gentle on gums.

As they grow, transition to items like Silicone Suction Bowls and Easy-Grip Cups for toddlers, which promote self-feeding and minimise spills.

Consider divided silicone plates, like the Three-Section Silicone Plate, for older toddlers. These plates are perfect for encouraging balanced meals and food variety.