Baby led weaning has become more popular over the years and does have its benefits.  Some babies will take to it and others will prefer to be spoon fed or a mix of both. Whatever you choose it will get MESSY!

Having the right utensils such as a good bib will really help to support this new messy stage of feeding. With so many bibs on the market it can be really hard to know which to choose. This blog will delve into the key features to look for when choosing a baby weaning bib and the types available. Plus I will give you my expert recommendations on which I would buy. 

What is Baby Led Weaning (BLW)?

Baby led weaning, as it sounds, is letting your baby lead the way and learn to self feed using finger shaped foods. 

BLW encourages independence and healthy eating habits. Find out about more benefits of baby led weaning in my blog – which should i choose for my baby- spoon feeding or baby led weaning?

Why Is the Right Bib Important for Baby Led Weaning?

Whether doing baby led weaning, spoon feeding or a mixture of both it will be a messy business. A bib will help to reduce some of the mess, particularly on clothes and make the clean up a bit easier. It is up to you to decide how much mess and clean up you can manage as to the type of bib to go for. You may even want to go for a few different types for the home and eating out. 

For other utensils to consider when starting BLW check out my weaning equipment checklist

Key Features to Look for when choosing a Bib

There are six or so features to consider when choosing a baby bib. 

Material – there are waterproof bibs vs absorbent type bibs. Waterproof ones will be a thicker plastic type material and the absorbent types will be a softer fabric which may feel nicer if touching the skin. 

Ease of cleaning – depending on the material will depend on how easy it is to clean. The waterproof plastic ones will be wipeable, quick and easy, whereas the material types will need to be machine washed or take longer to clean and dry. 

Design– consider a pocket type bib. Pockets bibs are very useful for catching food and reducing mess. Food can be recycled from the pocket as opposed to falling on the floor. 

Adjustability and fit – Some bibs have elasticated necks or adjustable straps, with poppers or velcro so that they fit more comfortably around their neck. They will also last longer if they can stretch as they grow bigger. 

Durability – Think about if it is durable enough to last some time and whether you need them for siblings. 

Types of Baby Led Weaning Bibs

Here are some pros and cons to consider for different types of bibs and when you are going to use them.

Soft Fabric Bibs: feel soft and comfortable against the skin and good for a baby with sensitive skin. However, they are not so quick to clean. You are likely to need at least a few to have them on hand. They are also more likely to get stained. 

Silicone Bibs: are usually waterproof and easy to clean. Most have a built-in pocket or scoop at the bottom to catch food. You can easily wipe them down and re-use easily or some can be put in the dishwasher to clean. These silicone bibs are also very durable and resistant to stains. 

However, silicone bibs are more sturdy and rigid than fabric ones. 

Waterproof and long sleeved Bibs: There are various types of waterproof bibs that provide more coverage. Either to cover the arms and top half like a long sleeved top or you can get bibs that extend out and clip on to the high chair, so they are not getting food failing on their laps.  

These are wipeable and may or may not be machine washable. Very useful if you don’t want to get their clothes messy at all as all their top halves are covered. 

Disposable Bibs: are convenient for eating out and going away as they are slim to pack and you don’t have to worry about wiping or washing them. However they are unlikely to be reusable and not great for the environment.

My Top Baby Led Weaning Bib/s

So if I was weaning my kids again, these are my recommendations for the best baby led weaning bibs. I would buy a few different types depending on the mealtime and situation such as going away. 

• Scoop bib – For speed and convenience of putting it on when time is short. I would opt for a sturdy style one, not a fabric or completely rigid type so that it is comfortable to wear. Also one that has some poppers or a way of adjusting the size so that it lasts. 

Therefore I would recommend the Totsi silicone bib. They are soft silicone and are also dishwasher safe. These would be great for outings too. 

• Coverall bib – These are great for full coverage and reduced mess. They take a bit longer to put on but it will mean their clothes will be protected. They are waterproof and you can get one to cover the tray as well, so no little pieces of food can fall onto their laps. 

I recommend the Bibado bib -it is a long sleeve bib that covers all. As well as the above you can also get little hooks for the feeding utensils to attach to so they don’t get dropped on the floor too. 

Tips for helping reduce mess

• Use bibs regularly at mealtimes so they are used to wearing them. 
• Make sure the bib is the right fit and size so they are comfortable. 
• Consider getting a mess mat on the floor so if food often gets thrown or pushed on the floor it can be picked up. 
• If your baby/toddler does throw food on the floor – see my expert ways to help. 
• Leave cleaning them up until the end of the mealtime. Doing this throughout the meal will just create more work and they won’t enjoy the experience. 

I would love for you to leave a comment below with your favourite BLW bibs or share your experience.