The 9 Best Baby-Led Weaning Plates for Your Toddler in 2023
Introducing solid food to your baby can be a fun and exciting milestone! One popular method to help your little one transition to table foods is baby-led weaning (BLW). This approach allows babies to self-feed by providing them with easy-to-grasp and nutrient-dense foods from the very beginning. Meaning, we skip the pureed baby food that is spoon-fed to our baby!
When starting with BLW, using the right plate is essential to make the experience enjoyable for both you and your little one. By carefully selecting the best BLW plate for your baby, you’re setting the foundation for positive eating habits. You’re also encouraging your child to explore various tastes and textures with new foods.
So let’s go over the different BLW plates available and how to choose the best one for your baby!
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Quick Guide: Top 3 Best BLW Plates
Don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries – I get that you’re a busy mom who doesn’t have the luxury of reading a whole article! I’ve included the top 3 best BLW plates right here so you can “add to cart” and go about your day!
WeeSprout Suction Plates
The WeeSprout Silicone Suction Plates with Lids are a game-changer for mealtime with toddlers!
WeeSprout Divided Bamboo Plates
The WeeSprout Divided Bamboo Plate is an excellent choice for parents looking for safe and practical dinnerware for their little ones.
WeeSprout Bamboo Plates
The WeeSprout Bamboo plate is a fantastic addition to any family’s dinner table. These kid-sized plates offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for mealtime.
Exploring BLW Plates
BLW plates are specifically designed for babies transitioning to solid food. They come in various materials, such as food-grade silicone and stainless steel. Choosing plates made for BLW has many advantages for our babies and for us.
These plates usually feature divided sections, which is the perfect way to serve a variety of foods in an organized manner. This helps our babies explore a wide variety of foods, flavors, textures, and colors easily. And it also helps picky eaters as the foods are not mixed!
The non-slip, grippy bottoms on many BLW plates ensure that they stay put on high chair trays. Can we say “Amen!” to minimizing spills and messes? Thus, our babies can focus on self-feeding without worrying about the plate sliding around.
One of the practical aspects of BLW plates is their durability. Since they are made of materials like food-grade silicone and stainless steel, they are mostly dishwasher-safe and last over time. This make them cost-effective in the long run.
So, when we are ready to embark on the baby-led weaning journey, investing in a good quality BLW plate can make a significant difference. It can help keep mealtime organized, enjoyable, and manageable for both us and our little ones.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a BLW Plate
When choosing a plate to use during your baby-led weaning journey, there are many factors to consider, such as:
Material
When selecting a BLW plate, it’s important to consider the materials used. Many parents prefer food-grade silicone since it’s lightweight, shatterproof, dishwasher-safe, and stain-resistant. It’s also approved by the FDA as a food-safe substance. Bamboo stands out as a popular choice among eco-conscious parents.
Bamboo offers a range of benefits that make it an ideal option for both the well-being of your baby and the environment. This includes sustainability, biodegradability, and durability. Bamboo can also bring a touch of warmth and elegance to mealtime! Well…as elegant as any meal with a toddler can be. 🤣
Design
The design of a BLW plate should be suitable for your baby’s needs. A divided plate with great suction is a great way to keep food separated, as well as preventing spills and messes during mealtime. This helps in promoting food exploration and can make cleanup a breeze.
Lightweight and easy-to-handle plates are also great features to encourage your little one’s independence in self-feeding.
And like most baby items, BLW plates come in a variety of shapes and designs. Opt for bright colors to make mealtime enjoyable and fun!
Cleaning and Maintenance
Durability and ease of maintenance are important factors to take into account. Opting for dishwasher-safe plates can make your life easier! And then choose ones that are also microwave, oven, and freezer safe. This gives you the flexibility to prepare, store, and reheat meals without the need for multiple containers.
Size
The size of the plate should be appropriate for your baby’s age and stage of BLW. Younger babies may require smaller plates to accommodate their developing motor skills. Older children may need larger plates to hold a variety of food items.
Choosing a suitable size can ensure your baby has an enjoyable and successful mealtime.
You also want to choose a plate that can fit on a high chair tray without overtaking it.
Cost
Of course, cost should also be considered when choosing a BLW plate. Keeping in mind the factors above, balance between quality, safety, and affordability.
It might be tempting to buy the cheapest option available. But investing in the best BLW plate can save you money in the long run.
Safety Tips While Using BLW Plates
As we introduce solid foods to our little ones using the baby-led weaning (BLW) approach, it’s essential to keep safety in mind while using BLW plates. Here are a few tips to ensure a happy and safe mealtime for your baby.
First, always monitor your baby while they are eating. Choking hazards can arise even with age-appropriate foods. Staying close by can help prevent any potential accidents. Make sure your baby is sitting upright while eating, as this aids in proper chewing and swallowing, reducing the choking risk.
When presenting food on your baby’s BLW plate, make sure it’s well-secured to the table or high chair. Many food-grade silicone plates come with suctions or grip designs to prevent them from tipping or sliding during mealtime. This can help avoid messes and potential hazards caused by your baby grabbing an unsecured plate.
Lastly, make it a habit to regularly check and clean your baby’s BLW plate. Food residue or small, unnoticed pieces can pose choking hazards during subsequent meals. By cleaning the plate thoroughly and inspecting it before each use, we can ensure our baby’s safety at all times.
By following these safety tips, we can create an enjoyable and safe baby-led weaning experience for our little ones.
Best Silicone BLW Plates
As we venture into the world of baby-led weaning, finding the best plates for our little ones becomes crucial. Not only should they be safe and easy to clean, but also encourage self-feeding and minimize mess. Here are our top picks for the best silicone BLW plates!
1. WeeSprout Suction Plates for Babies & Toddlers
The WeeSprout Silicone Suction Plates with Lids are a game-changer for mealtime with toddlers! That’s why these plates are our top pick for the best silicone BLP plate.
With three plates in a set, you’ll always have a clean plate on hand. Made from 100% food-grade silicone, these plates are a safe and healthy choice for your child. Cleaning is a breeze as well, as these plates are dishwasher and microwave friendly.
What sets these suction plates apart is their four-point suction design. Unlike ordinary suction plates with only one point of attachment, these plates stay securely in place on any flat surface. This means your child can explore self-feeding without tipping or throwing the plate.
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2. ezpz Mini Mat
The ezpz Mini Mat is an innovative and practical product that makes mealtime fun. This unique placemat is designed to contain messes. With its suction feature, it firmly attaches to most smooth surfaces.
One of the outstanding features of this placemat is its versatility. It fits most highchair trays, including ‘space saver’ models, ensuring a secure fit for various dining setups.
And it is lightweight, compact, and packaged in a reusable bag. This means you can easily pack it in your diaper bag and bring it along to restaurants or use it during travel. This is perfect for families on the go!
The ezpz Mini Mat is made from high-quality silicone that is free from harmful substances such as BPA, BPS, PVC, latex, and phthalates. Moreover, its durable construction ensures longevity, as silicone is bendable, fade-resistant, and corrosion-proof. Cleaning is easy since it is dishwasher and microwave safe.
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3. Bumkins Silicone Grip Dish
The Bumkins Silicone Grip Dish is our third pick for little ones who are just starting to self-feed. Its innovative suction base keeps the plate securely in place and can stick to most high chair trays and smooth surfaces. This prevents messy spills and allows for a more enjoyable mealtime experience.
Made from high-quality silicone, the Bumkins Silicone Grip Dish can withstand both low and high temperatures. Whether you need to cool or heat your child’s food, this dish seamlessly transitions from the refrigerator or freezer to the oven or microwave, withstanding temperatures up to 400F/204C.
Furthermore, it is top-rack dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze for busy parents.
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Best Bamboo BLW Plates
If you prefer a more eco-friendly material, consider bamboo as an option for BLW plates! Here are our picks for the best bamboo BLW plates!
1. WeeSprout Divided Bamboo Plates
The WeeSprout Divided Bamboo Plate is an excellent choice for parents looking for safe and practical dinnerware for their little ones. These bamboo plates are specifically designed with kids in mind, making them the perfect size for little mouths and hands.
One of the standout features of these plates is that they are made with natural bamboo fibers. This makes them a healthier alternative to plastic plates. They are free from harmful chemicals such as BPA, PVC, phthalate, cadmium, mercury, and lead.
Unlike many other bamboo dishware products, WeeSprout bamboo plates are dishwasher-safe. However, it’s important to note that they are not suitable for use in the microwave or with very hot or acidic foods.
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2. Avanchy Bamboo Baby Divided Plates
The Avanchy Bamboo Baby Divided Plates with Spoons are our second pick for the best bamboo BLW plates.
One of the standout features of this set is the inclusion of a soft silicone spoon perfectly sized for your toddler’s tiny hands. These silicone spoons promote self-feeding, encouraging independence. And how cute are baby utensils?!
The innovative removable suction feature of these plates ensures that they stay securely in place on the surface. Crafted from earth-friendly bamboo, this dinnerware set not only provides a practical solution for your child’s feeding journey but also contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
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3. Munchkin Bambou Divided Suction Plate
The Munchkin Bambou Divided Suction Plate is made of renewable and non-toxic bamboo and is a good option for a bamboo BLW plate.
This eco-friendly plate offers both style and functionality, making it a must-have for parents seeking a sustainable option. With its flat edge designed to fit most high chair tables, it effortlessly blends into your home decor.
One of the standout features of this plate is its strong suction base and high walls, which work together to prevent messy spills. The suction base is equipped with quick-release tabs, allowing parents to easily remove it when needed.
Plus, the plate is completely free from BPA and melamine, ensuring that it is safe for your little one to use.
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The Open Plate Concept
As our little ones grow, transitioning to open plates becomes essential for fostering self-feeding independence. By gradually introducing open plates, we allow our babies to become more comfortable and confident in their ability to handle various food items and textures.
One of the significant benefits of using open plates is that it promotes autonomy and encourages babies to explore their food through touch. This tactile engagement helps them learn about the different properties of foods, textures, and tastes. And all this contributes to their overall eating experience.
Moreover, implementing the open plate concept in our babies’ mealtime makes the feeding process more enjoyable. It offers a less restrictive environment, allowing our babies to perceive mealtime as a fun and engaging activity. This positive association can reduce mealtime anxiety and create a healthy attitude toward food in the long run.
Remember that this transition is a unique journey for every baby, and patience is vital. Giving our babies the freedom to explore their open plate and develop their self-feeding skills at their own pace will benefit them in the long run.
Embrace the mess, enjoy the milestones, and cherish the unforgettable moments that come with the open plate concept.
The Best Open Plates for Toddlers
Ready to give the open plate concept a try? You can definitely use your normal dinnerware that you have at home. However, here are our picks for the best open plates that are made specifically for toddlers:
1. WeeSprout Bamboo Plates
The WeeSprout Bamboo plate is a fantastic addition to any family’s dinner table. These kid-sized plates offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for mealtime.
Made from all-natural bamboo fibers, these dishes are not only safe for your children but also environmentally friendly. These plates are dishwasher-safe, so you can simply place them on the top rack after use. This convenience not only saves you time but also ensures that your dishes are thoroughly cleaned and ready for the next mealtime adventure.
The durability of the bamboo material means these plates will withstand numerous cycles in the dishwasher without losing their quality or aesthetic appeal.
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2. Re-Play Plates
Re-Play Environmentally Friendly Plates are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for safe and sustainable tableware.
Made in America, these plates prioritize the safety of your child and the environment. Crafted from Sustainable Recycled HDPE (Milk Jugs), they are 100% Non-Toxic, free from harmful substances like BPA, phthalate, PVC, and melamine. What’s more, they are 100% recyclable, contributing to a significant reduction in single-use plastics.
These plates are dishwasher- and microwave-safe, making them ideal for everyday dining for both kids and adults. Re-Play offers a wide range of bright and fade-resistant colors with 23 different shades available.
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3. Munchkin Splash Toddler Plates
The Munchkin Splash Toddler Plates are a fantastic addition to any parent’s kitchenware collection. With their thoughtful design and practical features, these plates make mealtime a breeze for both toddlers and their caregivers.
The set includes four plates, each equipped with a no-slip bottom. This innovative feature ensures that the plates stay securely in place, preventing accidental spills and messes. The plates nest together, making for easy storage.
Moreover, these plates are dishwasher and microwave-safe, allowing for effortless cleaning and convenient reheating of meals. As an added bonus, they are BPA-free, ensuring the safety of your child during mealtime.
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Frequently Asked Questions About BLW Plates
Adding BLW Plates to Your Baby’s Self-Feeding Journey
Whew! That was a lot! Who knew there would be so much in choosing the perfect plate for our baby’s baby-led weaning journey?? But I hope this article brings more clarity in what factors to consider as well as gives you a list of the best plates to choose from!
Feel free to have multiple brands on hand to see what your baby gravitates to before stocking up.
Check out these other articles about baby-led weaning!
