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Mealtime with kids sometimes may be a messy fair to parents. They can make spills and splatters, especially with those tiny hands that are just learning to feed themselves. But there is one thing that can make all the difference – the right plates for kids. Those kid-friendly plates not only help to minimize the mess but also encourage independence, and make eating a fun experience.
In the article, “6 Best Plates For Kids: Less Mess, More Fun Mealtime“, Babies Parent will explore the best plates that will transform your family dining experience. These plates will help your kid’s mealtime both fun and stress-free.
Tips To Pick Up The Best Plates For Kids
In the parents’ role, you will want to consider what the plates are made of, the kinds of extras that come along, how durable they are, or how easily they can be cleaned (hand-washed or dishwasher). You may also want to care about your kid’s preferences. Ask them about the colors and designs of plates that attract them most (for example, a green froggy or a yellow smiley-sun plate). The right plates with their preferences can make them eat yummier and more fun.
Here’s a breakdown of some key factors you’d want to consider in choosing the best plate for your growing foodie:
- Durability: This is the key! Silicone and plastic are good for withstanding the throws and drops that happen when you’re a toddler. Don’t forget to find certified nontoxic options, BPA-free and phthalate-free. Eco-friendly bamboo makes for a strong contender due to its natural anti-microbial properties. Stainless steel does look cool. But this is more suitable for bigger toddlers who have mastered their eating without flipping it onto the floor.
- Suction features: For babies who like to send their meals into orbit, the suction plates could be for them. Ingenious designs that attach to a high chair tray or table, reduce the chance of food landing on the floor.
- Easy Cleanup: Happily, most baby plates, bowls, and cups are dishwasher-safe. The exception is, of course, bamboo plates, which should be washed by hand to avoid damaging protective finishes that help keep them bacteria-free.
- Microwave and freezer-safe: If you often warm the food in the microwave/ oven or freeze it for long storage, then consider picking up those plates that are safe to be used in the microwave and freezer.
Mealtime can be a bit of a battle. Colorful, cuddly plates in animal shapes, vibrant plates, and funny dinner sets are sure to make even the most reluctant eater take note. If a bright orange bear plate is what really gets them to take that bite into those carrots, then that plate becomes another trick in your healthy eating toolbox!
Tips: You can let your toddlers use a kitchen tower so that they can give you a hand in preparing the meal and exploring things.
Best Plates For Kids: Mealtime Mess Solved
Ready to add new joyful plates to your kitchen? These are the top picks of the best plates for kids on the market that surely won’t disappoint you.
Green Sprouts Learning Plate
Product Information
- Brand: Green Sprouts
- Price: $17.99
- Color: 3 options – aqua, navy, pink
- Material: Silicone
- Suction: Yes
- Dimension: 9 x 7.38 x 1.38 inches
- Design: Divided into 4 sections (One 4 oz & three 2 oz)
- Dishwasher: No
- Microwave: Yes
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Non-toxic food-grade silicone ✅ Good suction ✅ Heat-resistant ✅ Easy to clean | ❌ The price is expensive ❌The suction may not be strong enough ❌ Can not be cleaned in the dishwasher |
Green Sprouts Learning Plate is made from food-grade silicone, which is non-toxic, durable, slip-proof, unbreakable, and super easy to clean. Its strong suction helps prevent kids from throwing the plate on the floor, and for optimal suction, adding a water drip to the plate base is recommended. The easy-release tab ensures the plate stays in place.
With 4 separate sections, it’s perfect for serving a variety of foods. This plate is also heat-resistant, making it safe for hot meals like soup or porridge. However, it comes with a few considerations—it’s relatively expensive for just one plate, some parents report that the suction isn’t always reliable, and it cannot be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Munchkin Bamboo Divided Suction Plate For Babies & Toddlers
Product Information
- Brand: Munchkin
- Price: $19.69
- Color: 1 option
- Material: 85% bamboo & 15% silicone
- Suction: Yes
- Dimension: 7.87 x 6.1 x 1.77 inches
- Design: Divided into 3 sections
- Dishwasher: No
- Microwave: No
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Eco-friendly & non-toxic bamboo materials ✅ High wall to prevent food from spilling out ✅ Strong suction ✅ 3 different-sized sections | ❌ The price is expensive ❌ Handwash |
Munchkin Bamboo Divided Suction Plate for Babies & Toddlers is crafted from eco-friendly, renewable, and non-toxic bamboo, making it safe for kids and easy to clean. The bamboo material not only looks great but also makes this plate one of the best options for children. It features three different-sized sections, perfect for preparing meals, and has a flat edge that fits most high-chair tables.
Many parents appreciate the high walls that help prevent food from spilling out. The plate also has a strong suction feature to keep it in place, even for the most playful kids. Additionally, the quick-release tabs allow for easy removal of the suction. However, the plate is on the expensive side and requires hand washing with warm soapy water, as it cannot be cleaned in a dishwasher.
Re-Play Deep Sides Plates For Babies & Toddlers
Product Information
- Brand: Re-Play
- Price: $19.99 for a pack of 4
- Color: 6 various options
- Material: Plastic
- Suction: No
- Dimension: 7.5 x 7.5 x 1 inches
- Design: Divided into 3 sections – one 8 oz section & two 3 oz sections
- Dishwasher: Yes
- Microwave: Yes
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Durable plastic material ✅ Can be used in dishwashers ✅ Have lids & stackable ✅ 3 different-sized sections | ❌ Small & not suitable for older kids ❌ Only 1 lid for a set of 4 plates |
Re-Play Deep Sides Plates for Babies & Toddlers are made from durable, thick, hard-textured plastic that can withstand drops and throws without damage. These plates are eco-friendly and made from recycled milk jugs, contributing positively to the environment.
They are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy, and come with convenient lids for traveling. Additionally, the plates are designed to be stackable, helping to save kitchen space and maintain a tidy environment. However, the plates are on the smaller side, making them less suitable for older kids, and the pack of four divided plates includes only one lid.
WeeSprout Suction Plates With Lids
Product Information
- Brand: WeeSprout
- Price: $18.98 for a pack of 3
- Color: 13 colorful options
- Material: Silicone
- Suction: Yes
- Dimension: 8.4 x 8.4 x 2.4 inches
- Design: Divided into 3 sections
- Dishwasher: Yes
- Microwave: Yes
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Strong 4-point suction ✅ Have clear plastic lids ✅ Safe food-grade silicone material | ❌ Lids do not always fit well ❌ The suction is too strong to remove ❌Smell soapy after washing |
WeeSprout Suction Plates with Lids offer a very strong four-point suction that can be placed on any flat surface, ensuring they won’t budge, even with energetic kids. This feature helps keep mealtimes mess-free, as no more food or plates will be dropped on the floor, chair, or table. Each plate comes with a lid, allowing you to store leftovers safely and hygienically. The lids also make it easy to prepare meals or bring snacks on the go, with the clear plastic making it simple to see what’s left on the plate.
Made from food-grade silicone, these plates are safe, and durable, and can be used in both microwaves and dishwashers (with the lid removed before microwaving). However, some parents have noted that the lids may not always fit well and can pop off, which could affect the freshness of stored food. Additionally, the suction may be too strong, making it difficult to remove the plates from surfaces, and the plates can sometimes retain a soapy smell after washing.
Bumkins Divided Silicone Plate
Product Information
- Brand: Bumkins
- Price: Start at $10.99
- Color: 17 options of eye-catching color
- Material: Silicone
- Suction: Yes
- Dimension: 8 x 1 x 7 inches
- Design: Divided into 3 sections – one 8 oz section & two 3 oz sections
- Dishwasher: Yes
- Microwave: Yes (and oven safe)
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Straight-side design for the kids leaning the belly ✅ Can be used in dishwasher ✅ Safe food-grade silicone material ✅ Portable & lightweight | ❌Smell soapy after washing |
Bumkins Divided Silicone Plate features a sophisticated straight-side design, allowing the child to lean their belly against the plate comfortably while the strong suction keeps the plate securely in place on any flat surface, such as a smooth table or high chair tray. Made from 100% safe food-grade silicone, this plate can withstand high temperatures in the oven or microwave (up to 400F/204C) and is safe for the freezer. It’s also dishwasher-safe when placed on the top rack.
It’s best to use natural, unscented cleaners as silicone material can absorb scents. For deep cleaning, boiling the plates is recommended. The deep compartments are ideal for holding various types of food and minimizing spills, making it perfect for on-the-go meals like traveling, camping, or picnics. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors to suit any kid’s preferences. One thing to consider is that the plates may absorb soap smells if scented soap is used or if they aren’t boiled thoroughly for cleaning.
Mushie Round Plate For Kids
Product Information
- Brand: Mushie
- Price: $14.99 for a pack of 2
- Color: 5 options of neutral colors
- Material: 100% BPA-free polypropylene plastic
- Suction: No
- Dimension: 7.5 x 7.5 x 1 inches
- Design: No separated section
- Dishwasher: Yes
- Microwave: Yes
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Elegant & lightweight design ✅ Microwave & dishwasher-safe ✅ Wide plate & stackable | ❌No suction |
Mushie Round Plate for Kids features a simple, elegant, and lightweight design, making it easy for kids to hold. Despite its simplicity, the plate is stable and won’t tip over during mealtime. It’s both microwave and dishwasher-safe, ensuring quick and easy cleanup for parents. The plates can be conveniently stacked, helping to keep your kitchen tidy. Their wide size allows for serving larger portions, making them perfect for toddlers and still usable as they grow. However, one drawback is that the plate doesn’t have a suction base, so kids may drop it occasionally.
Last Word
Best plates for kids can turn an overwhelming mealtime struggle into a fun, educational, and meal-time joy. Using child-friendly, high-quality plates will enhance their independence, create a positive eating environment, and make mealtime joyful for all. No more messy tables, just a lot more smiles and happy tummies!
