Toddler-Proof Tableware: Choosing The Best Dinnerware Set For Your Little Ones

There are many options available for toddler dinnerware sets, with a variety of materials, colours, and designs to choose from. Some of the most popular options include bamboo, wheat straw, plastic, and melamine dinnerware sets. These sets typically include plates, bowls, cups, and utensils, and some even come with fun characters or designs that toddlers will love. When choosing a toddler dinnerware set, it's important to consider safety, durability, and ease of cleaning. Many of the sets available are microwave and dishwasher safe, making mealtimes a little easier for busy parents.

Bamboo sets

Bamboo dinnerware is an excellent option for toddlers as it is lightweight, easy to use, and safe for little ones. It is also dishwasher-safe, non-toxic, and BPA-free. Bamboo is a sustainable material that requires very little energy to grow and process, making it an excellent alternative to traditional materials like wood or plastic. Additionally, bamboo is biodegradable, so it can help reduce waste in landfills over time.

Bobo&Boo

Bobo&Boo offers a stylish and minimalistic tableware range for toddlers made from 100% ethically sourced bamboo. Their products are safe, colourful, and durable, and come in on-trend colours that are sure to appeal to little ones. The set includes plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery, and is dishwasher-safe.

WeeSprout

WeeSprout offers a bamboo dinnerware set that is both safe and durable. The set includes bamboo plates, bowls, and cutlery, and is BPA-free, PVC-free, phthalate-free, and lead-free. The plates are the perfect size for a high chair and can be neatly stacked away after use. The set is also dishwasher-safe.

Eco Rascals

Eco Rascals is a brand that creates sustainable products with an emphasis on reducing plastic pollution. Their bamboo dinnerware set for toddlers includes a plate, bowl, and cup with suction bases, as well as a sippy cup. The set is chip-resistant and free from plastics, BPA, PVC, lead, and phthalates.

Avanchy

Avanchy offers a bamboo and silicone combination dinnerware set that includes a bamboo divider plate and cup with silicone suction bases, and a matching silicone-tipped bamboo spoon. The set is ideal for baby-led weaning and the plate is designed to fit most high chairs. The set is BPA-free but should be hand-washed to preserve its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.

Shopwithgreen

Shopwithgreen offers a bamboo dinnerware set that includes a plate, bowl, fork, spoon, cup, and a removable silicone suction base. The set features fun toddler designs like dinosaurs, owls, outer space, and fairies. The cup also comes with a store-away lid, which is perfect for unfinished drinks. The set is BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, but should not be used in the microwave.

Microwave and dishwasher safe

When it comes to choosing the best toddler dinnerware set, there are several factors to consider to ensure the safety and well-being of your little one. Here are some options for microwave and dishwasher-safe toddler dinnerware:

Silicone Dinnerware:

Silicone is a non-toxic, flexible, and durable option that can withstand the rigours of toddler mealtimes. It is microwave, oven, dishwasher, and freezer safe. Look for options like WeeSprout, Bumkins, and ezpz, which offer divided plates, suction bowls, and spill-proof designs. Their products are made from food-grade silicone, are BPA-free, and can withstand temperatures up to 350-400°F.

Stainless Steel Dinnerware:

Stainless steel is an excellent choice for its durability and safety. It won't break or leach harmful chemicals. HaWare and KS&E offer stainless steel plates and bowls that are dishwasher-safe. However, stainless steel is not microwave-safe and can get dents.

Glass Dinnerware:

Glass is a safe and sturdy option, especially for older toddlers. Pyrex and Duralex offer tempered glass options that are microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe. Beaba also offers a glass meal set for toddlers that includes a plate, bowl, and cup with a suction base.

Porcelain/Stoneware Dinnerware:

Porcelain and stoneware provide a more elegant look while still being durable and safe. Sets from Williams Sonoma, Fable, and Fortessa are microwave and dishwasher safe. However, porcelain and stoneware may be heavier and more prone to chipping compared to other materials.

Plant-Based/Bamboo Dinnerware:

For an eco-friendly option, consider plant-based or bamboo dinnerware. Bobo & Boo offers a colourful and functional dinnerware set made from bamboo and plant-based materials that are microwave and dishwasher safe. However, be cautious as bamboo products may contain melamine, which can leach when heated.

When choosing any toddler dinnerware, it is essential to avoid materials like plastic, which can release toxins when heated, and melamine, which can also leach chemicals. Prioritize options that are BPA-free and free from heavy metals like lead and cadmium.

Divided plates

Bamboo Plates

Bamboo plates are a popular choice for divided plates due to their eco-friendliness and durability. The WeeSprout Bamboo Plates are a good option, with four plates in different colours (blue, green, grey, and beige). These plates have a high lip around the edge, making them ideal for solids. Another option is the Bobo&Boo Divided Bamboo Plate, which has deep walls to accommodate generous portions and prevent food from escaping. It also has a handy drink holder. The Fable Illustrated Kids' Bamboo Dinnerware set is another attractive option, featuring bamboo plates with fun illustrations.

Silicone Plates

Silicone plates are often chosen for their flexibility and ease of cleaning. The Kiddie Bites Silicone Plate is a top pick, as it is easy to clean and safe for the microwave and dishwasher. The Bumkins Silicone Grip Dish is another popular choice, with a cute design and strong suction power. The Eascrozn Toddler Plates are also worth considering, made from 100% food-grade silicone with a non-slip base.

Stainless Steel Plates

For a more durable option, stainless steel divided plates are a great choice. The EcoLunchbox Divided Plate is an excellent investment, as it is incredibly durable and easy to clean. The Kiddobloom Dinnerware Set is another stainless steel option that includes a bowl, cup, and a three-sectioned divided plate. While it is an investment, it is built to last and can become a family heirloom.

Plastic Plates

Plastic plates are usually the most budget-friendly option. The Replay Recycled Divided Plates are a good choice, made from BPA-free recycled plastic milk jugs. They stack easily for storage and come in a variety of colours. The Munchkin Splash Plate & Bowl Set is another affordable option, including two BPA-free plastic plates and bowls. However, it is important to note that plastic plates may not be as durable and can scratch easily.

Disney-themed sets

Disney-themed dinnerware sets are a fun way to encourage your toddler to finish their meals. Here are some options for Disney-themed toddler dinnerware sets:

The First Years Disney Minnie Mouse Dinnerware Set

This 4-piece dinnerware set includes a bowl, a divided plate, and stainless steel fork and spoon, all featuring Minnie Mouse designs. The deep sides of the bowl make it perfect for scooping, and the sections on the plate provide a perfect place for finger foods. This set is microwave and dishwasher safe, making mealtimes easy and convenient.

Zak Designs Disney Frozen Dinnerware Set

This set includes a plate, bowl, and tumbler featuring Anna and Elsa from Frozen. Made from durable melamine material, this set is perfect for toddlers and is dishwasher safe.

Zak Designs Disney Mickey Mouse Dinnerware Set

This 5-piece set includes a plate, bowl, tumbler, and utensil featuring Mickey Mouse. Made from durable and non-BPA material, this set is perfect for toddlers and will add some colour and character to mealtimes.

Zak Designs Disney Minnie Mouse Dinnerware Set

This 3-piece set includes an embossed plate, bowl, and tumbler featuring Minnie Mouse. Made from melamine material, this set is perfect for toddlers and is dishwasher safe.

Zak Designs Disney Star Wars Mandalorian Dinnerware Set

This 5-piece set includes a plate, bowl, cup, fork, and spoon, featuring the Mandalorian. Made from bamboo fibre, this set is a fun and unique way to enjoy mealtimes for any Star Wars fan.

Plastic sets

Plastic dinnerware sets for toddlers are a great option if you're looking for something durable and affordable. While plastic sets are not the most eco-friendly option, they are often reusable, dishwasher-safe, and BPA-free. Here are some of the best plastic toddler dinnerware sets:

Klickpick Home Kids Plastic Dinner Set

This 18-piece set includes plates, bowls, tumblers, and cutlery in six bright colours. It is reusable, microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and BPA-free. This set is a good option if you're looking for something colourful and convenient.

Grow Forward Wheat Straw Kids Plates and Bowls Sets

This eight-piece set includes four plates and four bowls made from wheat straw, a reusable and biodegradable material. The set is dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, and BPA-free. If you're looking for something more environmentally friendly, this could be a good option.

Kids Plastic Dinnerware Set - 36 Pc

This 36-piece set includes plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery in a variety of colours. It is reusable, microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and BPA-free. This set is ideal if you're looking for something comprehensive and colourful.

DeeCoo Wheat Straw Dinnerware Sets

This 24-piece set includes plates, bowls, cups, chopsticks, forks, and spoons in four bright colours. It is made from wheat straw, a reusable and biodegradable material. The set is dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, and BPA-free. If you're looking for something eco-friendly and comprehensive, this could be a good choice.

Re-Play Made in USA 7" Deep Walled Divided Plates for Kids, Set of 3

This set of three divided plates is made in the USA from recycled milk jugs. The plates are dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, and free of BPA, phthalates, PVC, and melamine. This set is a good option if you're looking for something eco-friendly, durable, and made in the USA.

When choosing a plastic toddler dinnerware set, consider your priorities in terms of design, colour, eco-friendliness, durability, and safety. It's important to note that while plastic sets are convenient and affordable, they may not be the most sustainable or safe option, especially when heated.

Frequently asked questions