The suction bowl, a parent’s best friend, or so the baby product industry would have us believe. You buy one, dreaming of calm, mess-free mealtimes, only to find your little darling has figured out how to launch it across the kitchen in less than five seconds. Sound familiar?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. If your suction bowl isn’t quite living up to its promises, here’s a troubleshooting guide to help you keep that bowl (and your sanity) firmly in place.
1. Start with a Spotless Surface
Suction bowls work best on smooth, non-porous surfaces. That lovely wooden highchair tray? Probably too textured. The dining table with crumbs from this morning’s toast? Forget it. Before every meal, give the tray or table a quick wipe with a damp cloth, no soap, just water. Any leftover residue can break the suction seal.
2. Try the Water Trick
A little dab of water under the suction base can create a stronger vacuum seal. This works particularly well on slightly textured trays, like the infamous IKEA Antilop highchair. Just don’t flood the place, we’re creating suction, not a slip ’n slide.
3. Apply Pressure Like You Mean It
Many suction bowls need a firm push-down to activate the suction. Press firmly in the centre of the bowl and hold it there for a few seconds to make sure the air is completely expelled from underneath. If it has a tab for easy removal (for parents, not tiny food-flinging hooligans), make sure it’s facing away from your little one.
4. Check for Sneaky Damage
If your suction bowl has been in use for a while, check the bottom for wear and tear. Tiny scratches or even warping from heat exposure can weaken the suction. If it’s looking worse for wear, it might be time for a replacement. Remember, some materials like bamboo should always be hand-washed to maintain their integrity.
5. Test Different Surfaces
Some suction bowls just refuse to stick to textured trays. If that’s the case, try using a silicone placemat under the bowl. This can provide a smooth surface for better grip, and bonus—you’ll have an extra layer of protection against inevitable spills.
6. Consider Alternative Suction Styles
Not all suction bowls are created equal. Some brands have wider bases that stick better, while others have stronger vacuum technology. If your current bowl is more “decorative frisbee” than mealtime essential, it might be worth trying another style. A well-designed suction bowl like ours features a strong suction base that helps keep things in place (and off the floor).
7. Adjust Your Expectations
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, know that no suction bowl is 100% toddler-proof. Some children view suction plates as a personal challenge rather than a helpful feeding tool. If you’ve tried everything and your little one is still determined to turn dinner into an art installation on the walls, you may have to ride it out until they outgrow the food-flinging phase.
Final Thoughts
A suction bowl can be a lifesaver (or at least a carpet-saver) when used correctly. By prepping the surface, applying firm pressure, and making sure you have a decent product, you can reduce the risk of mid-meal launches. And if all else fails? At least dinner time is never dull.
If you're looking for a high-quality suction bowl designed to actually stay put, check out our range here. Now go forth and (hopefully) stick that bowl down like the baby-feeding pro you are!
