Are Bamboo Plates Safe for Babies? Solid Bamboo vs Bamboo Fibre

What's the difference between solid bamboo and bamboo fibre plates?

A solid bamboo plate is made from bamboo itself, so it keeps the grain and look of the plant. A bamboo fibre plate, sometimes sold as "bamboo composite", is usually plastic, with ground bamboo added as a filler to give it bulk and shape.

That difference matters more than the word "bamboo" on the box. The European Commission explains that bamboo isn't an authorised additive for plastic food contact materials in the EU, and that as these plastics break down with use, melamine and formaldehyde can migrate into food, sometimes above safe limits. During a year-long EU check that ended in April 2022, authorities in 21 European countries recorded 748 cases of plastic food contact items containing unauthorised bamboo powder.

How can you tell which kind of plate you have?

Look at it, feel it, then check what it's made of. Solid bamboo shows its grain, while a bamboo fibre plate looks and feels like plastic.

• Look for the grain. Solid bamboo keeps the natural structure and look of the plant.
• Feel the surface. The European Commission describes these plastics as having a smooth, plastic feel, because that's what they are.
• Read the materials list. If you see "bamboo fibre", "bamboo composite" or "melamine", ask the seller to clarify the full composition. The word "melamine" alone does not tell you whether bamboo has been added.
• Don't rely on the marketing words. The Commission found plastic bamboo items were often sold as natural, eco-friendly, compostable or recyclable.

Still not sure? Ask the seller what the plate is made of. A good seller will be happy to tell you.

What are our bamboo plates made of?

Our plates are solid, natural bamboo. You can see the grain across the plate, and it's solid enough to engrave: on our personalised designs, your child's name is engraved straight into the bamboo.

Our suction plates sit on a removable silicone suction base, which comes off so the plate and the base can dry separately. Here's how suction plates work, and where they don't.

Browse our bamboo suction plates, or choose a personalised plate with their name engraved into it, for everyday meals or a gift with a personal touch. Questions about a particular plate? Email us at hello@thelittlebunny.com.au and we'll help.

How should you care for a bamboo plate?

Hand wash it in warm soapy water, rinse it, take the silicone base off and let every part dry completely before you put it away. It doesn't go in the dishwasher or the microwave.

• Wash it before first use and after every use.
• Don't leave it soaking or sitting wet for long.
• Put it back together only when every part is completely dry.

If a clean, completely dry plate starts to look dry, you can wipe on a very light coat of plain, food-grade coconut oil, then wipe off the excess. It's optional. Skip it if the person using the plate has a coconut allergy. It won't fix a crack or treat mould. Our bamboo care guide has the full routine.

If a hand wash after every meal sounds like one job too many, our guide to bamboo vs plastic plates is honest about the trade-off.

When should you stop using a bamboo plate?

Stop using it if you notice a crack, split, loose piece or other damage, or any mould. A quick look over the bamboo and the silicone before each meal is the easiest way to catch it.

Heavy drops and repeated knocks can cause cracks, splits or deep scuffs, so a plate that stays on the tray has an easier life. If you spot damage, get in touch and we'll help with the next step.

If you see mould, stop using the plate. Don't rely on vinegar or baking soda to make it safe to use again, because removing the mould you can see doesn't show the plate has been fully cleaned and dried. Email a clear photo to hello@thelittlebunny.com.au and we'll help you work out what to do.

And whatever plate is on the tray, Pregnancy, Birth and Baby advises always supervising your baby when they are eating solid food.