Written by 9:10 am TOYS

Choosing the Perfect Toddler Plates and Bowls for Stress-Free Mealtime

Introducing solid foods to your baby is an exciting adventure, albeit a messy one. As their motor skills and hand-eye coordination improve, it’s time to transition from direct high chair tray feeding to using plates and bowls. However, choosing the right dishware for your little one involves more than just handing them your regular dishes. Toddler plates and bowls need to be durable, safe, and easy to clean, especially since toddlers love hurling things to the ground. Here’s a guide on how to choose the perfect toddler plates and bowls to make mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.

1. Material, Durability, and Safety: Modern toddler plates and bowls come in a range of kid-friendly and planet-friendly materials such as silicone, BPA-free plastics, stainless steel, and bamboo. While all options are safe from accidental drops or throws, silicone and plastic tend to withstand the most abuse. Stainless steel is highly durable too, but it may be best to wait until your toddler is out of the throwing phase. Bamboo is up to the challenge, but it’s essential to handle it with care during washing to prevent cracking.

Get Posts Like This Sent to your Email
Iterative approaches to corporate strategy foster collaborative thinking to further the overall value.
Get Posts Like This Sent to your Email
Iterative approaches to corporate strategy foster collaborative thinking to further the overall value.

2. Washability: Easy-to-clean dishes are a must for kids, as mealtime can be quite messy. Most toddler plates and bowls are designed to be dishwasher-safe, but it’s always wise to check the brand’s washing instructions. Some may be top-rack dishwasher-safe, while bamboo dishes may require handwashing. If you opt for silicone dishes, avoid leaving food sitting in them or soaking them in the sink, as they may stain or develop a soapy taste.

3. Kid-Friendly Features: Suction toddler plates and bowls are a parent’s best friend, preventing spills and messes during mealtime. Silicone dishes with suction features help keep the plate or bowl in place, reducing the need for constant policing. Dividers in dishes are also popular, although some dietitians recommend using undivided plates to prevent pickiness in toddlers. Nevertheless, fun designs and colors can make mealtime more enjoyable for kids and encourage them to try new foods.

Now that you know what to look for in toddler plates and bowls, here are some of our favorite picks:

1. WeeSprout 100% Silicone Suction Dishware Plate Set of 3 ($21.45): These top-rated silicone plates have excellent suction and stick well to various surfaces. They feature three sections to keep foods apart and are perfectly sized for toddlers.

Photo: WeeSprout

2. BabyBjorn Baby Plate, Spoon, and Fork 2 sets ($34.99): The trefoil shape and added depth of these plates from BabyBjörn help little ones learn to scoop up food with a spoon and fork. The two-part design is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

Photo: Baby Bjorn

3. Bumkins Toddler and Baby Suction Plates ($17.95): These plates are perfect for those who prefer simplicity but still want the convenience of suction. The flat edge prevents food from dropping between the plate and highchair tray.

Photo: Bumkins

4. OXO Tot Stick & Stay Suction Divided Plate ($10.99): With three main compartments and a center section for dips, this plate from OXO is perfect for toddlers. The suction base keeps the plate in place, and the two-piece design allows for easy washing.

Photo: OxoTotPH

5. Munchkin® Splash™ 4 Piece Toddler Divided Plate and Bowl Dining Set ($21.24): These BPA-free bowls and plates hold up incredibly well and are designed to keep messes to a minimum. They do not have suction but feature a clever rubber grip on the bottom to prevent slipping.

Photo: Munchkin

6. Munchkin 12 Piece Baby Toddler Feeding Set ($13.99): This budget-friendly 12-piece set is made from BPA-free plastic and is perfect for babies through elementary school age.

Photo: Munchkin

7. Ahimsa Stainless Steel Dishes Set: Ahimsa’s stainless steel dishware is colorful, durable, and free of nasties. Designed with toddler development in mind, these dishes are dishwasher-safe and come with a lifetime guarantee.

Photo: Ahimsa

Choosing the right toddler plates and bowls can make mealtime a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying this precious time with your little one. Whether you have a picky eater or an adventurous foodie, these dishes will have you covered!

Visited 9 times, 1 visit(s) today
Close