Best Plates and Bowls for Your Little Ones

lara

Written by Lara

Starting solids is an adventure—especially when food is everywhere but their mouth!

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Finding the right plates and bowls for your little ones can make all the difference during mealtime. Whether introducing solids to a curious baby or managing a toddler with strong food preferences, the right tableware can simplify the process and make it fun. 

From materials that prioritise safety to designs that encourage independence, choosing the best plates and bowls requires careful consideration. In this guide, we’ll explore top-rated options, key features to look for, and tips for selecting tableware that meets your child’s unique needs. Let’s make every meal a success—less mess, more smiles!

Our Top Picks for the Best Plates and Bowls

How we Choose the Best Plates and Bowls 

We conducted an in-depth review of various available products to bring you a comprehensive list of the best plates and bowls for children. Our review process focused on ensuring each item meets the unique needs of little ones, including safety, usability, and durability. Here’s a breakdown of our approach.

Safety first: We know that safety is a top priority for parents, so we ensured that every product we reviewed was made from child-safe, non-toxic materials. Only products that are BPA-free, phthalate-free, and food-grade qualified were considered. We looked at items with FDA or other reputable safety certifications for added peace of mind.

Testing for durability and kid-friendliness: Children’s plates and bowls must withstand a lot of wear and tear, so we prioritised products made from durable materials like silicone, bamboo, and stainless steel. Products were tested for their break resistance, flexibility, and ability to handle daily use without showing signs of wear. Our selections were especially focused on items that can endure the occasional toss or drop without breaking.

Ease of cleaning and maintenance: As busy parents, we know the importance of easy cleanup. We looked for dishwasher-safe, stain-resistant products and easy to hand-wash if needed. We also assessed how well these plates and bowls held up after repeated washes, paying special attention to whether colours faded or if materials became damaged over time.

Design and functionality for different ages: Each age group has unique needs, so we reviewed products across various stages of development, from infant bowls with suction bases to divided plates for picky toddlers. We also factored in design elements that simplify self-feeding, such as ergonomic shapes, non-slip bases, and sectioned plates to separate foods.

Value for money: Finally, we compared prices to determine which plates and bowls offer the best value. While some premium brands have higher price tags, we included a mix of affordable and mid-range options to suit various budgets without compromising quality or safety.

Our review process combines hands-on testing, expert advice, and honest feedback from parents. This approach allowed us to create a list of kid-friendly tableware that balances quality, safety, and convenience, helping you choose the best plates and bowls for your little one’s mealtime needs.

ID: beston

Best Overall

WeeSprout Suction Plates with Lids for Babies & Toddlers

Best Overall
Retailer Image

$18.98

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Why we like it

  • Strong suction.
  • Very durable and safe.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Great size and design.
  • Convenient lid.

Something to Note

  • Some reviewers say it's flexible.
  • Overly strong suction on certain surfaces.

Material: Silicon 

Dishwasher safe: Yes

Microwave safe: Yes

Customer’s Review

One mum shared her experience, saying she was a bit sceptical at first but now absolutely loves these plates. She mentioned that the suction is impressively strong—so much that she joked it might be ‘too good!’. It makes cleanup easy, can go straight into the microwave, and holds the perfect amount of food. She also loves the handy covers for storing leftovers when her little one decides to leave food behind. 

 

The plates stack neatly in her cupboard, and, for the price, she feels they’re an amazing value. The only downside? They’re a little too flexible, making it tricky to hold them flat with one hand when full. But overall, she’s thrilled with her purchase.

 

Another parent chimed in with a funny story: after seeing a friend’s baby struggle to pick up their plate, they decided to try it. Their baby had no problem, but they agreed the suction is the toughest they’ve encountered! The plates are made of high-quality material and are easy to clean, and the lids are a bonus.

ID: besttwo

Best Runner- Up

Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowls for Babies and Toddlers

Best Runner- Up
Retailer Image

$9.39

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Why we like it

  • Stays securely attached, even with a toddler pulling.
  • Lasts over a year, dishwasher safe.
  • Multiple sizes/colours.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Microwave safe.

Something to Note

  • Clean surface required.
  • Bowls can stick together when stacked.
  • Colours may fade with time, but suction stays strong.

Material: Plastic

Dishwasher safe: Top rack dishwasher safe 

Microwave safe: Yes

Customer’s Review

One customer, who’s been using them for over a year, absolutely swears by them. She bought the set when her son started solids at four months, and they’ve held up remarkably well. She loves that the bowls come in three sizes, perfect for all types of meals, from mixing cereal to serving veggies. 

 

Plus, she raves about their durability—no cracks, even after microwaving and washing them in the dishwasher. And here’s the kicker: the suction cups work so well that she has to use her nails to get them off the counter! They stay put on her little one’s highchair tray, making mealtime less messy. Talk about longevity—she’s still using the same set she bought over a year ago.

 

But it’s not all glowing reviews. One parent did have a bit of trouble with the suction, pointing out that it only works if the highchair tray is completely clean—any little crumb and the suction doesn’t stick. So, this reviewer ended up serving food directly on the tray instead. They were on the fence about recommending them for babies, especially if you’re looking for something super easy to use without worrying about crumbs.

 

In short, these bowls have some serious staying power, but you might want to ensure the surfaces are spotless for that perfect suction!

ID: bestthree

Best Value

Munchkin® Love-a-Bowls™

Best Value
Retailer Image

$6.68

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Why we like it

  • Secure lids for easy storage and meal prep.
  • Dishwasher-safe and simple to wash.
  • Non-slip bottoms keep bowls in place.
  • Adorable look that kids love.

Something to Note

  • Doesn't suction.
  • Spoons may not suit self-feeding.

Material: Polypropylene (PP)

Dishwasher safe: Yes

Microwave safe: Yes

Customer’s Review

One mum shared how much she loves these bowls for her one-year-old. She praised the quality, especially given the affordable price. They’re easy to clean and dishwasher safe, perfect for busy parents. She would buy them again.

 

Another customer can’t stop raving about the bowls, especially the lids. She finds them the perfect size for snacking and loves how the lids allow her to store snacks or meal components easily in the fridge or pantry for later. It’s a small feature that makes a big difference.

 

Lastly, a customer highlighted the spoons, calling them the best baby spoons ever. They’re flat and flexible, almost like a little spatula, making getting every last bit of food easier—no waste!

ID: bestfour

Best for Picky Eaters

OXO Tot Stick & Stay Suction Divided Plate

Best for Picky Eaters
Retailer Image

Why we like it

  • Very good for picky eaters.
  • Strong suction.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Perfect for high chairs.
  • Durable and high-quality.

Something to Note

  • Some users feel the plate sections are small for toddlers who eat a lot.
  • Suction may weaken over time.

Material: Plastic 

Dishwasher safe: Yes

Microwave safe: Yes

Customer’s Review

One mum shared that she’s tried countless suction plates for her toddler, but no matter what, they always ended up on the floor with food scattered everywhere. But then she found this plate, and it completely changed the game! This plastic plate actually sticks to her Tripp Trapp highchair tray—she just adds a little water to the bottom, and her toddler can’t pull it off. 

 

The plate stayed put for the first time, and most of the food stayed on it rather than ending up on the floor. Not only is it easy to clean, but it fits the highchair perfectly. She only wishes for slightly bigger sections to hold more food, but she adds more when her little one finishes. If you’re struggling to find a plate that stays on your highchair, she highly recommends trying this one!

 

Another mum shared her love for this OXO suction-divided plate, saying it’s perfect for keeping her little one’s plate from being thrown around. The suction works great on the highchair tray, preventing any plate tossing, but it’s also sturdy enough that it doesn’t move while her baby scoops up their food. She also loves the fun hot pink colour! 

 

Being a fan of OXO(a brand known for its high-quality, innovative, and user-friendly kitchen and household products), she knew this plate would be high quality, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s become a reliable part of their feeding routine.

ID: bestfive

Best Silicone

Bumkins Silicone Grip Dish

Best Silicone
Retailer Image

$11

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Why we like it

  • Strong suction on most surfaces.
  • Easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher.
  • Durable, high-quality silicone.
  • Perfect portion sizes for toddlers.
  • Great for fussy eaters and self-feeding.

Something to Note

  • Suction may not work well on all highchair trays.
  • It may absorb smells if washed in the dishwasher.
  • Large size may affect suction on some highchairs.

Material: Silicon 

Dishwasher safe: Yes

Microwave safe: Yes

Customer’s Review

One mum shared how much her family loves these dishes, noting how perfectly they fit portions of fruits, veggies, and grains for her growing child. What really stood out to her was the durability—despite her toddler trying to yank the plate off the highchair, the suction stayed strong. She was so impressed with the first set that she bought four more!

 

Another mum shared her satisfaction with the suction power, mentioning how her baby can’t manage to rip it off the table or highchair. She also loved how easy the plate is to clean, with the ridges being just the right depth—not too deep, so her baby could practice self-feeding, but deep enough to prevent big messes. For her, this plate was worth the investment.

 

One more review came from a mum trying to tackle her toddler’s fussy eating phase. She used the plate to portion out all his meals in one go, offering him the choice to pick what to eat first—no more mealtime standoffs! She found the plate made of high-quality silicone, easy to wash, and the suction was so strong that her 3-year-old couldn’t lift it off the table. She’s now planning to buy more for her younger child when the time comes for weaning.

 

ID: bestsix

Best Non- Suction

Munchkin® Splash™ 4 Piece

Best Non- Suction
Retailer Image

$19.61

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Why we like it

  • Easy to clean, dishwasher-safe.
  • Tall sides keep food in place.
  • Rubber grip prevents sliding.
  • Bright, varied colours for siblings.
  • Perfect size for toddler portions.
  • Divided sections for picky eaters.

Something to Note

  • No suction, so that plates can be moved easily.

Material: Plastic

Dishwasher safe: Yes

Microwave safe: Yes

Customer’s Review

One reviewer shares that while the plates don’t have suction, the rubber base at the bottom does help, especially if your child is only gently sliding their hands around. They’ve been using them for six months, and despite minimal scratching, they’re still in great shape. Plus, cleaning is a breeze, with no issues to report!

 

Another parent admits they were sold on silicone plates, but after experiencing lingering soapy tastes and food flavours, they switched to these hard plastic plates. The change was a game-changer—no more unwanted tastes or smells. They’ve been impressed with how well the rubber bottoms keep the plates in place on the highchair tray, even without suction cups. It’s safe to say they wish they’d made the switch sooner!

ID: bestseven

Best Bamboo

Avanchy Bamboo Baby Bowl with Spoon

Best Bamboo
Retailer Image

Why we like it

  • Aesthetic design.
  • Strong suction.
  • Durable spoon.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Long-term use.

Something to Note

  • Suction may not work well on uneven trays.
  • The bowl may lose shine with use but can be restored.
  • It's a bit more expensive than other baby-feeding products.

Material: Bamboo, silicone

Dishwasher safe: No

Microwave safe: No

Customer’s Review

One mum raved about this bowl and spoon set, saying it’s been a game-changer for her and her baby. Not only does it look as adorable as it does in the pictures, but the suction on the bowl is incredibly strong—much better than any other plastic suction bowls she’s tried. 

 

She thinks the weight might be a factor, but it stays securely in place either way. The first time she used it, it was easy to clean, and the silicone spoon was durable yet gentle enough for her little one to chew on, especially since he was teething. 

 

The spoon’s smaller scoop made her feel more comfortable about choking concerns. Her 14-month-old isn’t usually into using utensils, but when she gave him this spoon, he ate a whole bowl of yoghurt on his own—messy but impressive! She’s now looking forward to getting her set of forks.

 

Another mum shared her thoughts, saying she’s been happy with the bowl, even though it’s pricier. She feels it’s sturdy and safe, which is important since her 13-month-old is strong and loves to lift her bowl—although she stops her before it’s thrown! It stays in place for a while, though it can slip if the highchair tray surface isn’t perfectly smooth. 

 

When out at restaurants, however, the suction works like a charm. She also mentioned that while the colour is bright and cute, after over a month of use, the bowl isn’t as shiny as when it was new. But she plans to try an oil treatment to restore it. All in all, she’s happy with her purchase!

 

ID: besteight

Best Placemat

Ezpz Happy Bowl

Best Placemat
Retailer Image

Why we like it

  • Strong suction.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Great for eating out and fits high chair trays.
  • Helps self-feeding.

Something to Note

  • It may not fit all highchair trays perfectly.
  • Determined kids may still lift it.

Material: Silicon

Dishwasher safe: Yes

Microwave safe: Yes

Customer’s Review

After giving it a try, one mum raved about this product, saying, ‘I’ve tried other suction bowls and cups, but my toddler could always pull them up with ease. Not with this one! Its solid suction makes it much more difficult for my little one to yank it off the table. 

 

It’s one piece, seems durable, and I’ve already bought another. I use smaller bowls inside the suction bowl to keep things cleaner and increase security. If your child likes to throw their plates, I highly recommend this!’

 

Another mum shared her excitement about the brand’s entire line, saying, ‘I bought the bowl, mini mat, and large mat—and I’m so glad I did! I tried a cheaper brand first, but my one-year-old could easily pick it up. With the Ezpz items, however, they stay in place! 

 

They’re microwave and dishwasher-safe, and the suction works. The mini mat and bowl are perfect for travel and fit nicely on the high chair tray. I’m buying another mini mat for daycare—these products have exceeded my expectations!’

What to Look Out for When Choosing the Best Plates and Bowls 

Material safety: Safety should always come first when selecting tableware for children. Plates and bowls made from non-toxic, BPA-free, and phthalate-free materials ensure your child isn’t exposed to harmful chemicals during mealtime. 

Silicone is popular for its softness and safety, while bamboo provides a natural, eco-friendly alternative. Stainless steel is another safe option, known for being free of toxins and highly durable. Always check for food-grade certifications to guarantee the materials are safe for kids.

Durability: Children are known to drop or throw things, so it’s essential to choose plates and bowls that are sturdy and break-resistant. Materials like silicone and stainless steel are incredibly durable and can withstand rough handling. Bamboo plates are also a great option because they’re sturdy yet lightweight. Avoid glass or ceramic plates, which can easily break and pose a safety hazard.

Ease of cleaning: For busy parents, easy-to-clean tableware is a must. Dishwasher-safe options save time and effort, especially after messy meals. Additionally, choose plates and bowls that resist staining and won’t retain food odours, as these can affect the usability and cleanliness over time. Materials like silicone and stainless steel are typically easy to clean, while some bamboo options may require hand washing.

Design features: Functional design elements can make mealtime easier for parents and kids. Suction plates and bowls help prevent spills by sticking securely to the table or highchair tray. Divided plates are ideal for picky eaters who prefer separating their foods. Bowls with curved edges or deeper sides are great for helping toddlers scoop food without spilling, making self-feeding a more enjoyable experience.

Size and weight: The size and weight of the tableware should match your child’s age and eating habits. Infants benefit from smaller, shallow bowls that fit their small portions. Toddlers, on the other hand, need slightly larger options that accommodate growing appetites. Lightweight materials are ideal for little hands, making it easier for children to carry their plates or bowls without assistance.

Microwave and freezer compatibility:

Microwave and freezer-safe bowls and plates add versatility to your kitchen routine. These features allow you to warm up meals directly in the dish or store leftovers conveniently. Silicone and some types of BPA-free plastic are typically microwave-safe, while stainless steel may not be. Always check the product label to ensure compatibility.

Eco-friendliness: Eco-friendly options are a fantastic choice for families looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Bamboo tableware, for example, is biodegradable and sustainable, making it a popular pick among eco-conscious parents. Recycled plastics can also be a more environmentally responsible option compared to single-use or non-recyclable materials.

Age appropriateness: Choosing plates and bowls suited to your child’s age helps support their developmental stage. Infants benefit from suction bowls to prevent spills and messes, while toddlers appreciate divided plates that encourage self-feeding. Preschoolers may enjoy larger plates with engaging designs that make mealtime fun while promoting independence.

Fun and engaging designs: Bright colours, playful shapes, and themed designs can make mealtime enjoyable for children. Plates featuring animals, cars, or princesses can spark excitement and encourage little ones to stay engaged at the table. Fun designs also make introducing new foods less intimidating for picky eaters.

Budget and value: While high-quality tableware is worth the investment, finding options that fit your budget is important. Many affordable products still meet safety and functionality standards, providing excellent value for money. Consider long-term usability when evaluating cost—investing in durable materials that grow with your child can save money over time. 

By considering these factors, you can confidently select plates and bowls that are safe, functional, and perfectly suited to your child’s needs, making mealtime smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are silicone plates and bowls safe for kids to use? +

How do I choose the right size plate or bowl for my child's age? +

What plates are the best for baby-led weaning? +

Are divided plates a good choice for my toddler? +

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