There are so many choices when it comes to baby feeding accessories like utensils, plates, bowls, bibs and many more. With all these options in mind, you are most likely pretty overwhelmed, especially as a first-time parent. Or, instead of shopping in person, you might have spent hours scrolling through hundreds of pages online.
Being able to narrow down your choices regarding feeding accessories and products that will suit your baby the most can be a bit complicated when the market is so saturated with choice. On top of looking at how cute the products are, you will also need to understand what they are made out of and how they are manufactured to ensure your baby's safety. Do you wonder if you should go with plastic or silicone? Or maybe you should opt for more sustainable materials like bamboo?
Today we will present you with our guide on finding the right feeding products for your baby.
What material is the best?
Baby feeding products typically come in silicone, stainless steel, bamboo and plastic. It can be a little difficult to understand whether or not you are making the right choices, so let’s look at each of the material options.
Plastic
Plastic bowls, plates and utensils may contain chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which have been found to be harmful. Plastic has been given a bad reputation because of these chemicals, and measures have been taken to ensure the removal of BPA; however, many plastic products will still contain phthalates that have been shown to have negative impacts on the endocrine system.
This is why the American Academy of Pediatrics generally tells parents to try and avoid plastic in every item which comes into contact with food. In some instances, it may be impossible to avoid plastic all the time, and this is understandable. If you go with plastic, just be sure that it is BPA-free and phthalate-free if possible. Plus, be sure to avoid using it inside the microwave and heating it, and avoid putting it into the dishwasher to help prevent damage to the plastic, which can affect the quality of the food.
Bamboo
Bamboo is the most sustainable and eco-friendly option for your baby’s food accessories. It is also manufactured without using any chemical processing. It is easy to clean, which adds to the appeal and is naturally antimicrobial. The con with bamboo is that it will not be dishwasher safe because the wood will expand due to the extreme heat found in the dishwasher. Note that It cannot be placed in the microwave. Other than this, it is a favorite among parents.
Silicone
Silicone has become one of the top choices as a material for feeding accessories for babies. The safest option is to opt for premium food-grade silicone which is also antimicrobial. The durability of the silicone accessories is a notable advantage since it is mostly unbreakable making it a sustainable alternative to plastic material. It does not have reactions with foods or liquids, is safe for serving hot foods, and is safe for use in the microwave and dishwasher. It is also resistant to stains and non-stick.
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