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The 16 Best Baby Bowls & Toddler Plates for Effortless Mealtime
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By Emma Carter
Updated: June 11, 2021
Original Publication Date: January 10, 2020
Are you in search of the ideal bowls and plates for your little one? We all know that feeding a baby can be quite the challenge, and your kitchen often bears the brunt of it. It’s comparable to the complexities of folding fitted sheets or getting your partner to assist with washing up. On some days, feeding can be a breeze, while others can seem nearly impossible. Your baby’s temperament can shift rapidly; they might be an angel during snack time but transform into a tiny tornado during dinner, ensuring that food remains on the table. While we can’t assist in convincing your child that veggies are indeed essential (and belong in their mouths, not on the floor), we can help you select the most effective baby bowls and plates to make your mealtime experience smoother—and significantly less messy.
Similar to high chairs, baby monitors, and collapsible cribs, there are countless choices available for your child’s dining ware. From material choices (like stainless steel versus silicone) to added features (think easy-grip handles, leak-proof lids, and bowls that stick), selecting the best bowls and plates largely depends on your preferences and lifestyle.
What Should You Look for in Baby Bowls & Plates?
Dr. Mia Reynolds, Pediatric Specialist at Care for Kids, emphasizes the importance of functionality and ease of cleaning. Safety is paramount; the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against using plastics containing BPA and phthalates as they can be harmful when chemicals leach into food during heating.
Dr. Reynolds recommends considering bowls and plates with suction cup bottoms, which makes them harder for little ones to toss and helps them stay put as they develop their coordination. Additionally, determine if you prefer items that are dishwasher and/or microwave safe. Always check product specifications, as some materials may not hold up well in these appliances. Eco-friendliness is also a consideration, as well as whether you want plates and bowls with sections to separate various foods.
Some suitable materials for toddler tableware include:
- Bamboo: An eco-friendly and attractive option, but requires hand washing and is not microwave-safe.
- Stainless Steel: Strong and durable, this material is easy to clean and sustainable, perfect for toddlers transitioning to more traditional tableware. However, it can’t be used in the microwave.
- Silicone: Gaining popularity for its microwave and dishwasher safety, stain resistance, and non-stick qualities, silicone does not react with food or liquids.
When to Purchase Baby Bowls & Plates?
Dr. Reynolds suggests that you can introduce baby tableware when your child is at least six months old, is capable of holding their head up, and can sit safely in a high chair. There’s no specific right or wrong method for introducing bowls and plates; you might start with just a high chair tray or opt for bowls and plates right away, whether they have suction or not.
Regardless of the type of dish you prefer—or the level of messiness your little one brings to the table—we’ve compiled a selection of the finest baby bowls and plates below, ranging from the most eco-conscious to the most stylish. Bon appétit to your baby!
Best Baby Suction Bowls
- Avanchy Baby Bamboo Bowl
- Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowl 3-Pack
- Babie B Suction Baby Bowls 3-Pack
- UpwardBaby Baby Bowls 4 Piece Set
Best Baby Suction Plates
- ezpz Mini Mat
- Bumkins Silicone Suction Plate
- OXO Tot Stick & Stay Suction Divided Plate
Best Plates for Toddlers
- OXO Tot Plate
- Re-Play Recycled Divided Toddler Plates 3-Pack
- Innobaby Stainless Steel Divided Plate
- Nuby Sure Grip Animal Placemat
This sectioned plate features a suction bottom, ensuring it stays put, no matter how energetic your child may be. Made from super safe silicone, it’s both durable and stain-resistant, so you can worry less about spills.
Best Baby Bowl Sets
- NUK Mash and Serve Bowls
- Munchkin Love-A-Bowls 10 Piece Feeding Set
- Olababy 3-Piece First Feeding Set
- Disney Minnie Mouse Feeding Set
Want to make every moment as seamless as mealtime? Explore more of our favorite baby gear.
If you’re interested in a multifunctional option, check out the ezpz Mini Mat. This innovative design serves as both a placemat and a plate, suctioning to any flat surface to prevent spills. It’s microwave-safe for easy transfer from kitchen to table and is made from flexible silicone for easy portability.
The Avanchy Baby Bamboo Bowl also stands out, featuring a reliable suction base that adheres firmly to flat surfaces, plus a matching bamboo spoon designed for tiny hands.
Another great choice is the Re-Play Recycled Divided Toddler Plates 3-Pack, which are as good for the planet as they are for your child. These plates are made from recycled materials and are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
For those looking for a practical solution, the Bumkins Silicone Suction Plate has garnered over 1,000 positive reviews on Amazon. Its divided sections are perfect for portioning meals, facilitating a more efficient feeding process for your toddler.
As you prepare for mealtime, consider how these dishes can aid in creating a more enjoyable experience for both you and your little one. For further insights on home insemination, you might find this post at Home Insemination Kit helpful. For authoritative guidance, Make a Mom offers an excellent resource on artificial insemination. Additionally, for a broader perspective on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Kindbody.
Summary
From selecting the right materials to understanding when to introduce baby bowls and plates, the process of feeding your little one can be simplified with the right tools. With a variety of options available, you can choose the best fit for your family, ensuring a more organized and enjoyable mealtime experience.
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