best buys
The best weaning buys to stop mess at mealtimes
This page contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small amount of money if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. All our articles and reviews are written independently by the Netmums editorial team.
Has your life turned into a whirlwind of milky dribbles and runny poo since becoming a parent?
Brace yourself – it's when weaning starts that things REALLY get messy!
Some babies are messier than others, but even the most delicate and refined eater will smear a vast amount of food over themselves, the floor and yes, you, too, as they learn to eat independently.
Having the right gear to tackle mess is a must – and don't forget you'll need wipes too, by the BUCKETLOAD.
1. Supa Noodle Highchair
*Bright and breezy highchair that’s available in a dazzling array of patterns
*Suitable from 6 months to 3 years (15 kg)
*Six-height position adjustable seat so you can adjust as your baby grows
This sleek highchair has minimal nooks and crannies, a must for easier wipe-downs after your little, ahem, cherub has finished eating. It also has a removable tray, so you can easily switch between your child eating with you at the table or using the tray. We like that the seat pad can be removed for easy cleaning.
2. Sleeved Baby Bibs (5-pack)
*Adjustable neck, practical hook-and-loop fastening and long sleeves with elastic
*The handy front pocket catches all spills
* Can be machined washed at 40 degrees
Sometimes a normal bib is just NOT enough. This coverall gives vital arm coverage so if your child is feeding themselves, they'll keep their sleeves clean and you might just avoid a clothes change. Can also be used for painting, other crafts and baking, too. Made of polyester with synthetic rubber.
3. Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowls (three-pack), £7.95
*These bowls have suction pads to keep them in place
*Dishwasher, microwave and sterilizer safe, BPA-free
*It prevents mess and spills at mealtimes
How clever is this?
The bowl is held firmly in place using a sucker in the middle that prevents your baby from moving, throwing, or even tipping it up.
Sticks to all flat surfaces and is easy to use and wipe clean.
4. CatchALL Floor Mat
*A practical mat that covers the floor to catch any mess that drops
*It fits underneath highchairs and play tables
*It’s non-slip bottom prevents skidding
A splash mat is essential for protecting your floor during mealtimes. Simply wipe-clean, then pop on the washing line to dry, ready for the next onslaught. This super-cool chevron design easily folds into a matching pouch for travel when not in use so you can pop it into your changing bag.
5. All-in-One Bib and Tray Kit
*Weaning bib kit that covers baby, tray and also the floor from mess
*It’s fully waterproof and machine-washable too
*The Tidy Tot bib attaches to the front of the tray with a Velcro fastening
This all-in-one bib and tray gets rid of the gap between your baby and the front of the highchair to minimise food dropping on the floor. A must-buy for coping with VERY messy babies. Universal so fits all highchairs with and without their own tray and can be used on booster seats straight up to the dining table.
6. BABYBJÖRN Adjustable Bib (two-pack)
*Made of super-soft supple plastic that won’t rub or chafe your baby’s skin
*The neckband is adjustable so you can make it larger as your baby grows
*Plastic is BPA-free and can be wiped cleaned or put in the dishwasher
The adjustable neck fastening on this bib provides comfort and its deep-spill pocket will collect stray food as your baby eats. A deceptively simple, but super-effective design. Available in a rainbow of bright colours.
7. Miracle 360 Sippy Cup
*A spoutless sippy cup that can be used easily by older babies and toddlers
*360° edge allows drinking from any side of the cup
*Can be cleaned in the top rack of the dishwasher
Leak and spill-proof cup that teaches toddlers to sip rather than suck and, more importantly, doesn't make a mess Cup as the cup automatically seals when child stops drinking
With no extra spouts, straws or pieces the Miracle 360° Cup is easy to use and easy to clean!