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13 of the Best Starting Solids Essentials in Australia for 2026
Updated November 2026
By Nadean Richards, CEO of One Fine Baby
There comes a point when your baby starts watching every bite you take, reaching for your toast and looking personally offended that nobody has offered them a taste. Welcome to starting solids!
It's an exciting milestone, but it can also feel like there's a lot to figure out. When should you start? Do you need special baby spoons? Is a suction bowl really worth buying? And just how much mess can one tiny person make with half an avocado?
The answer to that last question is quite a lot.
The good news is that you don't need a kitchen full of expensive gadgets to get started. A few well-chosen baby feeding essentials can make those first meals easier, whether you're offering purées, trying baby-led weaning or doing a little of both.
From high chairs and silicone feeding sets to first cups, bibs and clever food preparation tools, we've rounded up 14 of the best starting solids essentials available in Australia for 2026.
How we chose the best starting solids essentials for 2026
At One Fine Baby, we're all about helping Australian parents find products that genuinely make life with little ones easier.
Our recommendations draw on our experience connecting families with baby brands at One Fine Baby Expos, product research, parent feedback and an understanding of what parents need during those first messy months of feeding.
We look for products that offer practical features, ease of cleaning, age-appropriate designs, good value and the flexibility to keep being useful as babies grow.
For 2026, we've focused on a mix of well-known feeding brands, clever Australian innovations and everyday essentials that help make starting solids less overwhelming.
Want to see some of the latest baby feeding products in person? Explore our One Fine Baby Expos to discover brands, compare products and find your favourites before you buy.
When should babies start solids in Australia?
According to Australian health recommendations, most babies are ready to start solids at around six months of age, when they're showing the developmental signs that they're ready to eat.
Some of the signs to look for include:
Good head and neck control: Your baby can hold their head steady and sit upright with appropriate support.
Interest in food: They're watching you eat, reaching for food or showing curiosity about mealtimes.
Opening their mouth for food: They respond when you offer food on a spoon.
Being able to swallow food: They're beginning to move food around their mouth rather than automatically pushing it straight back out.
At this stage, breast milk or formula remains an important source of nutrition, while solid foods introduce new tastes, textures and nutrients, particularly iron.
You can begin with appropriately prepared purées, soft mashed foods or suitable finger foods, depending on your baby's development and your preferred feeding approach. There's no need to commit exclusively to traditional spoon-feeding or baby-led weaning.
What do you actually need to start solids?
Walk into any baby store and you'll find an entire aisle dedicated to feeding accessories. But before you fill your shopping cart, it's worth knowing which products you'll use from day one and which can wait.
The starting solids essentials worth buying
A supportive high chair
A stable high chair with appropriate seating support is one of the most important purchases. Look for a secure harness, a supportive footrest where available, easy-to-clean surfaces and a design that helps your baby sit comfortably upright during meals. Check out our favourite high chairs here.
Baby-friendly spoons
Soft-tipped spoons are useful for offering those first tastes of purée, yoghurt and mashed foods. Short-handled, easy-grip options can also encourage your baby to practise self-feeding.
A suction bowl or plate
You can absolutely start with food placed directly on a clean high chair tray. But once your baby starts exploring independently, a suction bowl or plate can help keep food contained and make self-feeding easier.
A silicone bib
Starting solids is messy. A waterproof bib with a food-catching pocket can save you from changing your baby's outfit after every meal.
A first drinking cup
From around six months, babies can begin practising drinking small amounts of water from an open or suitable training cup. Straw cups can also be useful as their drinking skills develop. Here are our favourite training cups for babies.
The nice-to-have feeding essentials
A baby food maker or blender: Handy if you plan to prepare purées regularly, although a regular blender, fork or potato masher can often do the job. Our guide to the best baby food makers is here.
Freezer trays and food storage containers: Useful for preparing small portions ahead of time and reducing food waste.
A high chair food catcher: A clever addition if you're hoping to spend less time cleaning the floor after every meal.
A silicone fresh food feeder: Useful for introducing suitable soft foods in a different format, with close supervision.
A starting solids recipe book or guide: Helpful for meal inspiration, understanding textures and building confidence around introducing new foods.
You certainly don't need everything on this list. Start with the basics, see how your baby takes to eating and add extra tools as you discover what makes mealtimes easier for your family.
The 13 best starting solids essentials in Australia for 2026
Whether you're shopping for your baby's very first spoon or looking for clever products to make mealtimes a little less chaotic, these are the feeding essentials worth knowing about.
Price: $439
Best for: A high chair that grows with your baby, from their first meals to the teenage years and beyond.
The Stokke Tripp Trapp is one of those baby purchases that really can earn its keep. First designed in 1972, this iconic wooden high chair has become a favourite among parents for its timeless Scandinavian design, clever adjustability and ability to grow with your child.
Unlike traditional high chairs that babies eventually outgrow, the Tripp Trapp pulls right up to the family dining table, allowing your little one to join in from their very first meals. The adjustable seat and footrest help provide a comfortable, supported sitting position, which is particularly important when babies are learning to eat solids.
It's certainly an investment, but with a weight capacity of 136kg, it's a chair that can stay in the family for years.
Why it's different
The Tripp Trapp is designed to grow with your child rather than being replaced at every new stage. Both the seat and footrest can be adjusted as your little one gets taller, while the solid European beech wood construction makes it a durable, long-lasting option.
With the separately purchased Baby Set, it can be used as a high chair from around six months, once your baby can sit unaided. There's also an optional Newborn Set for use before starting solids.
Why try it?
If you're looking for one high chair to see your child through years of family meals, the Stokke Tripp Trapp is hard to beat. Its supportive design, adjustable footrest and ability to sit directly at the dining table make it particularly appealing for parents starting solids or exploring baby-led weaning.
It's also a beautiful piece of furniture that won't look out of place in your dining room, long after the messy purée stage is over.
Key features
- Adjustable seat and footrest for growing children.
- Suitable from approximately six months with the Baby Set, sold separately.
- Optional Newborn Set for use from birth.
- Crafted from durable European beech wood.
- Supports up to 136kg.
- Designed to sit at the family dining table.
- Available in a range of colours and timber finishes.
- Seven-year warranty.
- Compatible with optional tray, harness and cushions.
Price: $39.95
Best for: An adorable, all-in-one baby feeding set for starting solids and encouraging independent eating.
Starting solids is messy enough without having to hunt down every little feeding essential separately. That's what makes Purebaby's Bush Babies Silicone Feeding Set such a lovely find. With a matching bowl, plate, cup and spoon, it has everything you need to get those first mealtimes underway, all finished in Purebaby's adorable Australian-inspired Bush Babies design.
Made from soft, food-grade silicone, the set is gentle on little gums and designed for babies from six months. It's practical, easy to clean and cute enough to make even a bowl of mashed avocado look appealing.
Why it's different
Rather than buying your baby's first feeding essentials individually, this four-piece set brings everything together. The soft self-feeding spoon and double-handled cup are designed for little hands learning to grip, while the flexible silicone construction makes the pieces durable enough for everyday use.
And unlike some baby dinnerware that requires careful handwashing, every piece can go on the top shelf of the dishwasher. A small detail that makes a big difference when you're cleaning up after three meals a day!
Why try it?
If you're preparing to introduce solids, this is an easy way to tick several things off your shopping list at once. The bowl and plate work for everything from first purées to soft finger foods, while the spoon and cup encourage your baby to practise feeding themselves.
It's also a beautiful, practical gift for parents approaching the starting solids stage, especially if they love Purebaby's signature playful designs.
Key features
- Four-piece set including a silicone bowl, plate, double-handled cup and self-feeding spoon.
- Made from BPA-free, food-grade silicone.
- Suitable for babies aged six months and older.
- Soft materials that are gentle on little gums.
- Easy-grip designs to encourage independent feeding.
- Top-shelf dishwasher safe.
- Available in three colours and designs.
Price: $204
Best for: An all-in-one silicone baby feeding set with everything you need for starting solids, plus a personalised gifting option.
Starting solids comes with a surprisingly long shopping list. Bowls, plates, spoons, bibs, cups, and something to store all those tiny portions of food. Moonkie's First Bites Gift Set takes care of the lot, bringing together a beautifully coordinated collection of baby feeding essentials in one clever package.
Available in a gorgeous Sage/Mint colourway, the set includes everything from suction dinnerware and baby utensils to food storage containers and a training cup. It's thoughtfully designed for those first messy meals and the exciting stage when your baby starts insisting on doing absolutely everything themselves.
Why it's different
While plenty of silicone feeding sets include a bowl, plate and spoon, Moonkie goes a few steps further. This comprehensive set includes a suction bowl, divided plate with lid, two food storage containers, a silicone bib, placemat, feeding spoon, cutlery and a clever 3-in-1 cup that transitions between sippy, straw and open-cup drinking.
The pieces are made primarily from food-grade platinum silicone, with stainless steel used in the cutlery. You can even personalise selected pieces with your little one's name, making it a particularly lovely gift for a baby approaching the starting solids milestone.
Why try it?
If you'd rather buy your starting solids essentials in one go than spend hours researching individual products, this is a brilliant option. The suction bases help keep bowls and plates in place, the soft utensils are designed for little hands, and the food containers are handy for preparing meals ahead of time.
It's also designed to grow with your baby's feeding skills, from those first spoonfuls of purée to independent eating and drinking. And because the pieces are dishwasher safe, there's one less thing to worry about after dinner.
Key features
- Comprehensive baby feeding gift set with coordinated essentials.
- Includes a suction bowl and divided suction plate with lid.
- Two silicone food storage containers with double-sealed lids.
- 3-in-1 drinking cup that converts between sippy, straw and open cup.
- Baby spoon, fork and spoon set, silicone bib and placemat.
- Made primarily from food-grade platinum silicone.
- Free from BPA, PVC, PFAS, phthalates, lead and latex, according to the brand.
- Dishwasher-safe components.
- Optional name personalisation and gift box personalisation.
- Available in Standard and Luxe gift box options.
- Suitable for use when your baby is developmentally ready for solids, generally around six months.
Price: $119
Best for: Making homemade baby food purées in batches, with convenient storage containers for the fridge and freezer.
If you're planning to make your own baby food, the NutriBullet Baby Blender is one of those kitchen gadgets that can make life a whole lot easier. Rather than pulling out your full-sized blender every time you want to prepare a little mashed pumpkin or sweet potato, this compact appliance is designed specifically for those tiny portions babies start with.
With a 200-watt motor, a large blending bowl and handy storage containers, it's ideal for preparing a few days' worth of homemade baby food in one go. And because it comes with everything you need to portion and store your creations, there's less time spent washing up and more time for everything else on your to-do list.
Why it's different
Unlike a regular blender, the NutriBullet Baby comes with an entire food preparation and storage system. There's a 945mL batch bowl for making multiple portions, a smaller blending cup for individual meals, six storage cups with date-dial lids and a freezer tray for saving portions for later.
Those date-dial lids are particularly clever. Simply mark when you prepared the food, pop the containers in the fridge and you'll know exactly when each batch was made.
It also makes it easy to experiment with different flavours and textures as your baby becomes more confident with solids.
Why try it?
If you love the idea of homemade baby food but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen, the NutriBullet Baby is a practical addition to your starting solids toolkit. You can prepare larger batches of vegetable purées, fruit blends and other soft foods, then divide them into portions ready for busy days.
It's especially useful for parents who want control over the ingredients in their baby's meals without having to cook something completely new every day. Just remember that this model blends rather than cooks, so ingredients that need cooking should be prepared separately before blending.
Key features
- 200-watt motor with simple push-and-twist operation.
- 945mL batch bowl for preparing multiple portions.
- 295mL short cup for smaller servings.
- Six storage cups with date-dial lids and storage tray.
- Freezer tray with lid for portioning homemade baby food.
- BPA-free blending cups and storage containers.
- Stainless steel extractor blade.
- Suitable for preparing smooth purées and thicker textures.
- Removable cups and lids are top-rack dishwasher safe.
- Compact design for convenient kitchen storage.
- One-year manufacturer's warranty.
Price: $44
Best for: Helping parents introduce common food allergens to babies in a simple, measured way when starting solids.
Introducing allergens is one of those parts of starting solids that can feel a little intimidating. Peanuts, tree nuts, seafood, sesame... where do you even begin? That's where AllerStart's Baby's First Allergens comes in, taking some of the guesswork out of introducing common allergens to your baby's diet.
Developed by doctors, this clever kit contains pre-measured sachets of real, wholefood allergens that can be mixed into foods your baby already enjoys. It's designed to help parents introduce allergens one at a time, without having to buy a pantry full of ingredients they'll only use in tiny amounts.
Why it's different
Unlike allergen products that use isolated proteins, AllerStart uses wholefood ingredients in convenient 2g sachets. The kit covers 10 common allergens, including peanut, tree nuts, milk, soy, wheat, sesame, fish and prawn, with three sachets of each to help parents plan repeated exposures.
There's also a handy tracker to record which allergens your baby has tried, making it easier to keep track of introductions during those busy first months of solids.
Why try it?
If the thought of preparing tiny portions of different allergens feels overwhelming, AllerStart offers a practical way to get organised. Simply mix the appropriate amount into a food your baby has already tolerated, following the product instructions and Australian allergen introduction guidelines.
It's particularly handy for families who want a structured approach to introducing allergens without purchasing multiple ingredients separately.
Key features
- Contains 30 pre-measured 2g sachets.
- Covers 10 common food allergens.
- Three sachets of each allergen.
- Includes almond, peanut, fish, cashew, milk, sesame, walnut, soy, wheat and prawn.
- Made with real wholefood ingredients rather than isolated protein extracts.
- Designed by doctors for babies starting solids.
- Easy to mix into suitable purées and other age-appropriate foods.
- Includes an allergen introduction tracker.
- Suitable from around six months, once your baby is developmentally ready for solids.
- Does not contain egg, which must be introduced separately.
Price: From $4.49
Best for: Nutrient-dense, ready-to-eat baby food that makes introducing solids easier, particularly for parents looking to include more iron-rich foods.
Starting solids is exciting, but preparing homemade baby food every single day? Not always realistic. That's where Odi Nutrition comes in. Founded by clinical nutritionist and mum of four Gina Urlich, Odi creates thoughtfully formulated baby food using real, nutrient-dense wholefoods, without added sugar, unnecessary fillers or synthetic fortification.
From savoury vegetable blends to creamy fruit combinations, Odi's baby food pouches are designed to make nutritious feeding more convenient. They're also particularly appealing for parents conscious of their baby's iron intake, with selected pouches providing 30% of a baby's recommended daily iron needs.
Why it's different
Unlike many traditional fruit-based baby food pouches, Odi focuses on nutrient density rather than sweetness. Its recipes combine ingredients such as organic vegetables, quinoa, bone broth and organ blends, with selected varieties also containing omega-3 DHA.
The brand's approach is particularly relevant when starting solids, as babies need iron-rich foods from around six months to support healthy growth and development. Odi uses naturally occurring nutrients from wholefood ingredients rather than relying on synthetic vitamin and mineral fortification.
Why try it?
If you're keen to offer your baby nutritious meals but don't always have time to cook from scratch, Odi is a handy option to keep in the pantry or nappy bag.
The purées can be served from a spoon, offered on a preloaded spoon for self-feeding or used as a dip alongside suitable soft finger foods. You can also stir them through mashed vegetables, pasta or grains as your baby becomes more confident with different textures.
It's a convenient way to add variety to your baby's diet while keeping those early mealtimes manageable.
Key features
- Suitable for babies from approximately six months who are ready for solids.
- Made with nutrient-dense wholefood ingredients.
- Selected pouches provide 30% of a baby's recommended daily iron intake.
- Contains no added sugar or synthetic vitamin and mineral fortification.
- Selected recipes include organic vegetables, quinoa, bone broth and organ blends.
- Contains omega-3 DHA in selected varieties.
- Available in savoury and fruit-based combinations.
- Ready-to-eat 120g pouches.
- Can be served on a spoon, as a dip or mixed into age-appropriate meals.
- Independently tested for nutritional accuracy and food safety, according to the brand.
Price: $50
Best for: Parents looking for easy, nutritious baby food recipes and practical guidance on starting solids, baby-led weaning and family meals.
If there's one thing that can make starting solids feel overwhelming, it's figuring out what on earth to feed your baby every day. Enter Baby Food Bible, the bestselling Australian cookbook by nutritionist Julia Tellidis and baby nutrition consultant Lauren Skora.
Packed with more than 100 nutritionist-approved recipes, this beautiful book takes parents from those very first spoonfuls through to toddler meals and family dinners. And the best part? Many recipes can be made in 20 minutes or less, because nobody wants to spend hours preparing separate meals for a six-month-old.
Why it's different
Rather than focusing solely on baby purées, Baby Food Bible takes a whole-family approach to feeding. The recipes are designed to be enjoyed by everyone, with guidance on adapting meals for babies at different developmental stages.
There's also plenty of practical advice beyond the recipes, including how to introduce common allergens, understand choking hazards, navigate baby-led weaning and make sure your little one is getting essential nutrients.
Why try it?
If you've found yourself Googling 'what can my six-month-old eat?' more times than you'd like to admit, this book is a brilliant resource to have in the kitchen.
From easy breakfasts and nutritious snacks to lunchbox ideas and family dinners, it's packed with inspiration for making mealtimes easier. It's particularly useful for parents who want to offer their baby a variety of flavours and textures without having to cook two completely different dinners every night.
Key features
- More than 100 nutritionist-approved baby and family recipes.
- Written by qualified nutritionist Julia Tellidis and baby nutrition consultant Lauren Skora.
- Covers introducing solids from around six months.
- Includes guidance on purées and baby-led weaning.
- Explains common food allergens, food safety and choking hazards.
- Recipes for breakfasts, snacks, lunches, dinners and sweet treats.
- Many recipes take 20 minutes or less to prepare.
- Focuses on essential nutrients and age-appropriate meals.
- Designed to help families enjoy the same meals together.
- Hardcover cookbook published by Hardie Grant Books.
- Shortlisted for Illustrated Book of the Year at the 2025 Australian Book Industry Awards.
Price: $32
Best for: Time-poor parents who need quick, mess-free meals and snacks on the go.
Some days, getting your baby fed feels like a logistical exercise. Between daycare drop-offs, appointments, errands and everything else on your to-do list, there isn't always time to sit down for a leisurely meal, let alone clean up the aftermath. That's where the Australian-made Subo Food Bottle earns its place in your nappy bag.
Designed for busy families, this clever reusable bottle makes it easy to serve yoghurt, purées, smoothies and other soft foods without the usual spills. Fill it at home, pop it in your bag and you've got a ready-to-go snack for those moments when you're short on time (and patience).
Why it's different
Unlike traditional food pouches, the Subo doesn't need to be squeezed. Its clever internal platform moves upwards as your child eats, helping deliver food through the spout without the mess of squeezing or tipping.
It's also refillable, meaning you can prepare a batch of homemade purée, yoghurt or porridge ahead of time and portion it out as needed. Less last-minute food preparation, fewer disposable pouches and one less thing to think about when you're trying to get everyone out the door.
Why try it?
For time-poor parents, convenience is everything. The Subo lets you turn foods you already have in the fridge into portable snacks, without needing to pack bowls, spoons and a collection of bibs.
It's particularly useful for daycare mornings, travel days, pram walks and those inevitable moments when your little one announces they're hungry just as you're leaving the house.
And because it's reusable and designed for independent feeding, it's something you can continue using well beyond the early starting-solids stage.
Key features
- Australian-made, reusable food bottle.
- 210ml capacity, with the option to serve smaller portions.
- Non-squeeze design helps minimise spills.
- Internal platform moves upwards as your child eats.
- Ideal for yoghurt, purées, smoothies, porridge and other soft foods.
- Refillable with homemade or store-bought foods.
- Standard 12mm spout included, with an optional 5mm straw spout recommended for children under two.
- BPA-free and phthalate-free materials.
- Removable parts for easy cleaning.
- Top-rack dishwasher safe.
- Available in a range of colours, including Musk.
Important for starting solids: The standard bottle includes a 12mm spout, but Subo recommends the separately sold 5mm straw spout for children under two. For babies just beginning solids, this is worth factoring into the purchase. The bottle is a convenient complement to spoon-feeding and self-feeding, rather than a replacement for exploring different food textures.
Price: $24.95
Best for: Parents who want an easy way to keep track of their baby's first foods without another app or notebook.
Starting solids comes with a surprising amount of mental admin. Was it pear or peach they tried last week? Have we introduced egg yet? And how many different vegetables have they actually eaten? When you're already juggling feeds, naps and everything else, keeping track of it all can feel like another job.
The Nibble & Rest First Foods Tracker is a simple, practical way to stay organised. Designed to live on your fridge, it gives you a visual reminder of the foods your baby has tried, helping take some of the guesswork out of planning meals and introducing new ingredients.
Why it's different
Rather than relying on an app or trying to remember everything, this magnetic tracker keeps your baby's food journey visible in the kitchen. It's an easy way for parents and other caregivers to see what's already been introduced and what might be next on the menu.
It's particularly useful when you're introducing lots of new foods in those first few months, or when more than one person is responsible for preparing your baby's meals.
Why try it?
Anything that reduces the mental load of parenting gets our vote. With the tracker on your fridge, you can quickly check which foods your baby has already explored while you're planning dinner or writing the shopping list.
It also makes a lovely visual record of those early feeding milestones, from the first taste of avocado to the day your baby discovers strawberries.
Key features
- Magnetic first foods tracker designed for the fridge.
- 25 x 35cm size.
- Helps parents keep track of foods introduced during starting solids.
- Handy visual reference when planning meals and shopping.
- Easy for multiple caregivers to refer to.
- No app or digital tracking required.
- A practical addition to your starting solids essentials.
Price: $39.95
Best for: Messy eaters and parents who would rather spend less time scrubbing food out of baby clothes.
There's messy, and then there's starting-solids messy. We're talking avocado in the sleeves, yoghurt down the neckline and spaghetti sauce in places you didn't even know food could reach. If you're already doing what feels like 15 loads of washing a week, a good feeding bib is worth its weight in gold.
Enter Abibi, the Australian baby brand created by two mums (and sisters) who were equally fed up with the post-mealtime clean-up. Their clever waterproof bibs are designed to cover more of your baby, catch more food and, hopefully, save a few outfits along the way.
Why it's different
It's the little design details that make Abibi stand out. There's a waterproof inner collar flap to help stop food sneaking down your baby's neckline, a high-set food catcher to collect dropped bites and extra fabric coverage to protect more of their clothes.
The full-sleeve smocks even feature a split front hem that drapes over little legs when they're sitting in the high chair. And the brand's newer quick-dry fabric makes the bibs more practical for everyday use, especially when you're cycling through several meals and snacks.
Why try it?
If you're embracing baby-led weaning, you'll quickly discover that letting your baby explore food is wonderful for their development, but not necessarily wonderful for your washing pile.
Abibi's range gives you options depending on just how enthusiastic your little eater is. Choose the full-sleeve smock for particularly messy meals, the short-sleeve version for everyday feeding or the Less Mess sleeveless bib when you want something simple.
They're also designed to grow with your child, so you won't need to replace them every few months. Less outfit changing, less laundry and more time to actually enjoy mealtimes together.
Key features
- Australian-designed waterproof feeding bibs.
- Available in full-sleeve, short-sleeve and sleeveless styles.
- New faster-drying PUL fabric.
- Inner collar flap helps prevent food and liquids reaching clothing.
- High-set food catcher collects dropped food.
- Extra width and length for more clothing coverage.
- Split front hem on smock styles helps cover little legs in the high chair.
- Adjustable snap buttons for a comfortable fit.
- Designed for babies and toddlers from approximately 6 to 36 months, with size options varying by style.
- Made from recycled polyester fabric, free from PVC, BPA, BPS and phthalates.
- Wipeable and machine washable.
- Available in playful colours including Chai Latte, Fairy Floss, Matcha Milk and Cherry Cola.
Price: $19.99
Best for: Busy parents who want to batch-prep homemade baby food and have ready-to-go portions in the freezer.
There's something very satisfying about opening the freezer and knowing you've already got your baby's next few meals sorted. Especially when it's 5pm, everyone's hungry and the last thing you feel like doing is peeling, chopping and blending vegetables.
The PandaEar Baby Food Freezer Trays make preparing homemade baby food in advance ridiculously easy. Simply cook and blend your chosen ingredients, divide them into the silicone compartments and pop them in the freezer. When mealtime rolls around, you've got individual portions ready to defrost and serve. It's a small bit of organisation that can make a big difference during those busy first months of starting solids.
Why it's different
Unlike ordinary ice cube trays, these are specifically designed for storing baby food. Each tray has seven individual compartments, holding approximately 30ml each, so you can freeze smaller portions of purées, mashed vegetables, fruit blends or breastmilk.
The flexible silicone makes it easy to pop out individual portions without wrestling with a rigid plastic tray, while the secure clip-on lids allow you to stack the trays neatly in the freezer.
Why try it?
If you're planning to make your own baby food but don't have time to cook something fresh every day, batch preparation is your friend.
Spend a little time preparing a few different foods, freeze them in individual portions and you'll have a handy selection ready for the week ahead. It's also a great way to reduce food waste, particularly in those early days when your baby might eat two spoonfuls before deciding they've had enough.
And because the trays are reusable and dishwasher safe, they're a practical addition to your starting solids kit that you'll continue reaching for as your baby's appetite grows.
Key features
- Set of three baby food freezer trays.
- Seven individual compartments per tray, providing 21 portions in total.
- Each compartment holds approximately 30ml (1oz).
- Made from flexible, food-grade silicone.
- BPA-free materials.
- Secure clip-on lids help prevent spills and allow easy stacking.
- Ideal for homemade baby food, purées, mashed vegetables and breastmilk.
- Flexible compartments make frozen portions easy to remove.
- Reinforced walls help the trays maintain their shape.
- Dishwasher-safe silicone trays for easy cleaning.
- Available in a combination of blue, green and carnation colours.
Price: $15.99
Best for: Babies learning to feed themselves and parents looking for easy-to-grip first utensils.
Watching your baby learn to use a spoon is one of those milestones that's equal parts adorable and chaotic. Most of the food will probably end up on their face, the high chair or the floor, but every little attempt is progress. And having the right cutlery can make those first efforts a little easier.
The Haakaa Astronaut Beginner Silicone Cutlery Set is designed for little hands that are still figuring things out. With its playful astronaut-inspired design and chunky, easy-to-hold handles, it's a fun introduction to independent eating, whether your baby is exploring their first purées or starting to scoop up soft foods themselves.
Why it's different
Unlike traditional baby cutlery with long, narrow handles, this beginner set is designed around the way little hands naturally grip. The short, rounded handles are easier for babies to hold, while the soft silicone construction is gentle on developing gums.
The astronaut design adds a playful touch to mealtimes, but the real appeal is giving babies utensils they can begin to manage independently as their coordination develops.
Why try it?
If you're introducing baby-led weaning or simply want to encourage your little one to participate in feeding themselves, beginner cutlery is a handy addition to your starting solids essentials.
You can start by offering a preloaded spoon for your baby to bring to their mouth, then gradually let them practise scooping as their skills improve.
It's a small step towards independent eating, and one that can make mealtimes more engaging for curious little eaters.
Key features
- Beginner cutlery designed for babies learning to self-feed.
- Playful astronaut-inspired design.
- Short, chunky handles designed for little hands.
- Soft silicone construction that's gentle on gums.
- Suitable for practising grasping and early utensil skills.
- Useful for purées, mashed foods and soft meals.
- Reusable alternative to disposable feeding utensils.
- Easy to incorporate into baby-led weaning and traditional spoon-feeding routines.
Price: $64.95
Best for: Parents who want to spend less time cleaning up after meals and more time enjoying them.
Nobody really prepares you for how much time you'll spend cleaning the floor once your baby starts solids. One minute they're happily eating avocado, the next it's on the floor, along with half their dinner and the spoon you just handed them. Repeat three times a day, and suddenly you're spending an awful lot of time on your hands and knees.
The Australian-designed CATCHY High Chair Food Catcher is one of those clever inventions that makes you wonder why every high chair doesn't come with one. And the best part? CATCHY makes different versions specifically designed to fit a huge range of popular high chairs, so you're not trying to make a one-size-fits-all solution work.
Why it's different
Unlike traditional splash mats that simply protect the floor, CATCHY attaches directly to your high chair, creating a raised surface that catches dropped food, crumbs and utensils before they hit the ground.
What really sets CATCHY apart is its range of high chair-specific designs. Rather than offering one universal catcher, the brand creates compatible versions for more than 40 high chair models, including the Stokke Tripp Trapp, Stokke Clikk and IKEA Antilop. Each is designed to work with the shape and structure of its corresponding high chair, making it a much more considered solution to the daily mealtime mess.
Why try it?
If you're planning to try baby-led weaning, consider this a particularly useful addition to your starting solids essentials.
Babies need opportunities to touch, squish and explore different foods, and that usually means a fair amount ends up everywhere except their mouths. CATCHY lets you embrace the mess without dreading what comes afterwards.
It's especially handy for time-poor parents who don't want to mop the kitchen after every meal. Simply wipe down the high chair and CATCHY, and you're ready for the next round. Just make sure you choose the version designed for your high chair model.
Key features
- Australian-designed high chair food catcher.
- Different versions specifically designed for more than 40 high chair models.
- Compatible options for popular high chairs including Stokke Tripp Trapp, Stokke Clikk and IKEA Antilop.
- Attaches directly to the high chair rather than sitting on the floor.
- Catches dropped food, crumbs and utensils.
- Helps reduce post-mealtime cleaning and food waste.
- Made from durable, food-safe polypropylene.
- BPA-free and PVC-free materials.
- Waterproof surface that's easy to wipe clean.
- Designed to remain attached between meals.
- Available in a range of colours and patterns.
- High chair sold separately.
How to Choose the Right Starting Solids Essentials for Your Baby
If you've spent any time researching starting solids, you'll know there's no shortage of products promising to make feeding your baby easier. But here's the thing: you don't need every gadget, bowl or feeding accessory on the market.
The best starting solids essentials are the ones that suit your baby's developmental stage, your family's routine and the way you plan to introduce food. Here's what to consider before filling your shopping cart.
Start with the basics
A safe, supportive high chair, a soft baby spoon, an easy-to-clean bowl and a bib are a good starting point. You don't need an entire cupboard of feeding equipment before your baby takes their first bite.
Look for products that are simple to clean, comfortable for your baby and practical enough to use several times a day. You'll quickly discover which extras would genuinely make your life easier.
Think about how you'll introduce solids
Whether you're planning to start with purées, try baby-led weaning or use a combination of both, your feeding approach can influence which products you'll find most useful.
Parents offering purées might appreciate a baby food blender and freezer trays for batch preparation, while those exploring baby-led weaning may prioritise suction plates, easy-grip utensils and a really good waterproof bib.
There's no need to commit exclusively to one approach. Many Australian families combine spoon-feeding with opportunities for babies to explore soft finger foods.
Prioritise safety and comfort
When choosing feeding products, look for age-appropriate designs, food-safe materials and clear cleaning instructions.
A high chair should provide stable, supportive seating and have a suitable restraint system. Feeding utensils should be designed for babies, with shapes and sizes appropriate for their developmental stage.
Remember that even with the best feeding equipment, babies should always be seated upright and closely supervised while eating.
Consider how much time you have
If you're a time-poor parent, convenience matters. Products like baby food freezer trays, reusable food bottles and easy-clean bibs can make a genuine difference to your daily routine.
Think about what will save you the most time. Is it preparing meals in advance? Reducing the washing pile? Making snacks easier when you're out of the house?
The most useful feeding essentials aren't necessarily the most expensive. They're the ones that solve a problem you encounter regularly.
Your Starting Solids Essentials Checklist
Not sure what you actually need before your baby starts solids? Here's a simple checklist to help you get organised.
The everyday essentials
- A safe, supportive high chair with a suitable restraint system
- Soft, age-appropriate baby feeding spoons
- A baby bowl or plate
- A waterproof feeding bib
- A small open cup or age-appropriate drinking cup
The helpful extras
- A baby food blender for homemade purées
- Silicone freezer trays for batch-prepared meals
- A reusable food bottle for snacks on the go
- A first foods tracker
- A high chair food catcher
- A starting solids recipe book
- Extra feeding sets and beginner cutlery for independent eating
You can always add to your collection as your baby grows and you work out what makes mealtimes easier for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting Solids
What do I need to start solids with my baby?
The basic starting solids essentials include a safe high chair, baby feeding spoons, a bowl or plate, a bib and a suitable drinking cup. You may also find a baby food blender, freezer trays and easy-clean feeding accessories useful, but these aren't essential for getting started.
When should babies start solids in Australia?
Australian health guidelines recommend introducing solid foods at around six months, when your baby is showing signs of developmental readiness. These include being able to sit upright with support, having good head and neck control, showing interest in food and being able to swallow food rather than pushing it straight back out with their tongue.
Breastmilk or infant formula remains an important source of nutrition throughout the first year.
What are the best first foods for babies?
Iron-rich foods are particularly important when babies begin solids. Suitable options include well-cooked meat, poultry, fish, legumes, tofu and iron-fortified infant cereals, prepared in an age-appropriate texture.
Vegetables, fruits, grains and other nutritious family foods can also be introduced from around six months. Offering a variety of flavours and textures helps babies become familiar with different foods.
Is baby-led weaning better than purées?
Neither approach is necessarily better for every baby. Baby-led weaning encourages babies to explore appropriately prepared finger foods and practise feeding themselves, while traditional spoon-feeding often begins with purées and gradually introduces thicker textures.
Many families use a combination of both. Whichever approach you choose, offer developmentally appropriate textures, prioritise iron-rich foods and supervise your baby closely while eating.
Do I need a baby food blender?
No, a dedicated baby food blender isn't essential. You can use a regular blender, food processor, fork or potato masher to prepare suitable foods.
However, a baby food blender can be convenient if you plan to make larger batches of purées or want a compact appliance specifically for preparing baby meals.
Are silicone feeding sets safe for babies?
Food-grade silicone feeding products can be a practical choice for babies because they're generally lightweight, flexible and easy to clean. Choose products from reputable brands, check the manufacturer's safety and age recommendations, and regularly inspect them for damage.
Always follow the product's instructions for cleaning, heating and dishwasher use.
How do I introduce common food allergens when starting solids?
Australian allergy-prevention guidance recommends introducing common allergenic foods, including well-cooked egg and peanut in a smooth paste or powder form, during the first year of life, once your baby has started solids.
Introduce allergens in an age-appropriate form, one at a time so you can identify any reactions, and continue offering tolerated allergens regularly. Whole nuts and thick spoonfuls of nut butter are choking hazards for babies.
If your baby has a known food allergy or severe eczema, speak with your GP or allergy specialist for individual advice.
How can I make starting solids less messy?
Start with a waterproof bib, an easy-to-clean high chair and a feeding area that's simple to wipe down. Suction bowls can help reduce accidental spills, while a high chair food catcher can make cleaning dropped food easier.
Remember that touching, squishing and exploring food is a normal part of learning to eat. A little mess is to be expected.
How often should I feed my baby solids at six months?
When your baby first starts solids, begin with small amounts and gradually increase the frequency and variety of foods as their appetite and skills develop. By around six to eight months, many babies are working towards two to three meals a day.
Follow your baby's hunger and fullness cues, and continue offering breastmilk or infant formula.
What foods should babies avoid when starting solids?
Babies under 12 months should not be given honey because of the risk of infant botulism. Avoid whole nuts, whole grapes, popcorn, hard raw vegetables and other foods that pose choking hazards unless they have been safely modified.
Limit added salt and sugar, and avoid offering unpasteurised dairy products. Cow's milk can be used in food from around six months, but shouldn't replace breastmilk or formula as a main drink before 12 months.
Making Starting Solids a Little Easier
Starting solids is one of those parenting milestones that can feel enormous before you've begun, but it doesn't have to be complicated. Some days your baby will happily try everything you offer. Other days, they'll take one look at your carefully prepared lunch and throw it straight onto the floor.
The right feeding essentials can make those early months a little easier, whether that's a high chair that grows with your child, a bib that saves another outfit change or a freezer tray that means dinner is already sorted.
Start with what you need, add the extras that suit your routine and remember that learning to eat takes time. The mess, the funny faces and those first enthusiastic bites are all part of it.
For more expert advice, product discoveries and the chance to explore baby feeding essentials in person, visit the One Fine Baby Expo, where you can meet leading baby brands and discover products designed to make everyday parenting easier.
