Plates & Bowls

Babies can start using bowls when they begin eating solid foods at around six months of age. At this stage, the bowl is mainly used by the parent for serving purees. As babies develop their fine motor skills and move towards self-feeding, typically from around nine to twelve months, introducing a shallow plate with a suction base can help them practise picking up food. Purpose-designed baby dinnerware makes mealtime safer and less messy throughout the weaning journey.

The safest materials for baby dinnerware are food-grade silicone, stainless steel, and BPA-free plastic. Silicone is a popular choice as it is soft, flexible, non-toxic, and easy to clean. Stainless steel is extremely durable and free from any chemical leaching. Avoid melamine products for young babies, as they can leach harmful chemicals when heated. Always look for products labelled as BPA, BPS, and phthalate-free to ensure they are safe for your child.

Suction bowls work well on smooth, flat surfaces such as high chair trays, dining tables, and plastic mats. The suction cup on the base creates a seal that is strong enough to resist a baby pulling on the bowl. However, suction bowls do not work on all surfaces and an older toddler can often figure out how to break the seal. They are most useful during the early self-feeding stage when babies are just learning to eat and tend to knock things over frequently.

Silicone plates are generally considered a safer and more durable option than plastic for babies. Silicone does not contain BPA or other plasticisers, is heat resistant, and will not crack or chip over time. It is also softer, making it gentler if a baby throws their plate or bangs it on the high chair tray. High-quality silicone dinnerware is dishwasher safe, oven safe, and microwave safe, making it very practical for busy families.

Many baby plates and bowls are dishwasher safe, but always check the product label or care instructions first. Silicone and stainless steel dinnerware are typically dishwasher safe on the top rack. Some plastic products may warp or degrade over time in a dishwasher, especially at high temperatures. If you frequently use a dishwasher, look for dinnerware that is specifically labelled as dishwasher safe to ensure it stays in good condition.