When it comes to weaning, the choices are endless, purees or baby-led? Spoon or fingers? And then there’s the all-important decision of what your baby should be eating from. Silicone, bamboo, plastic, oh my! If you’ve ever found yourself staring at the baby section, overwhelmed and wondering if your choice of plate might single-handedly determine your child’s future wellbeing, you’re not alone.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of each material so you can make an informed (and stress-free) decision.
Silicone: The Modern Marvel
Pros:
✔ BPA-free, non-toxic, and food-grade safe
✔ Soft and flexible (won’t crack or break if thrown)
✔ Microwave, freezer, and (often) dishwasher safe
✔ Sticks well to smooth surfaces, hello, suction plates!
✔ Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
✖ Can absorb soap smells if not rinsed properly
✖ Some cheaper versions might have fillers - stick to reputable brands
✖ Not biodegradable, but highly reusable
Best for: Parents who want something durable, easy to clean, and baby-proof. If you like minimal fuss and maximum practicality, silicone is a solid choice.
Bamboo: The Eco-Friendly Favourite (And Our Top Pick!)
Pros:
✔ 100% natural and biodegradable. No microplastics here!
✔ Aesthetically pleasing (because let’s be honest, it looks great in your Insta pics)
✔ Free from BPA, phthalates, and other nasties
✔ Usually paired with a strong suction base (perfect for messy eaters)
✔ Naturally antimicrobial, reducing bacteria buildup
✔ Hand-wash only. Meaning no exposure to harsh dishwasher detergents that can leave chemical residues on dishes
Cons:
✖ Not dishwasher or microwave-safe (but hey, that means fewer dishwasher tablet residues near your baby’s food!)
✖ Can dry out or crack over time if not properly cared for
✖ Some lower-quality brands have had recalls due to hidden toxins—buy from trusted sources
Best for: Eco-conscious parents who want a safe, plastic-free alternative for their little ones. If you care about sustainability and giving your baby the best nature has to offer, bamboo is the way to go.
Plastic: The Old-School Contender (Or Just Old News?)
Pros:
✔ Cheap and widely available
✔ Lightweight and shatterproof
Cons:
✖ Often contains microplastics, which can leach into food over time
✖ Can contain BPA and other harmful chemicals (always check labels for safety certifications)
✖ Scratches easily, leading to bacteria buildup
✖ Doesn’t always suction well to trays or tables
✖ Ends up in landfills, contributing to long-term waste
Best for: Parents looking for a cheap option, but be mindful of plastic’s long-term impact on both health and the planet. With safer, eco-friendly alternatives available, there’s no reason to stick with plastic when bamboo and silicone offer better solutions.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, it depends on your priorities. If you’re after durability and convenience, go for silicone. If you love natural, eco-friendly materials (and want to avoid microplastics altogether), bamboo is the clear winner.
For parents who want the best of both worlds, our range of bamboo suction plates and bowls offers the perfect balance of safety, sustainability, and style. Check them out [here]!
Whatever you choose, remember, your baby will probably still manage to get food on the floor, no matter how amazing the plate is. Welcome to weaning!
