Baby led weaning bibs are one of the most important things you can buy when starting BLW. Not only will they keep baby clean, but the right bib can help to make the entire process more enjoyable.
The question I get most about baby led weaning is “Isn’t it messy?!”
And, truthfully, the answer is yes. But feeding babies is messy. The key is having the right equipment to make it easier.
This equipment starts first and foremost with BIBS!
The BEST Bibs for Baby Led Weaning
Below I’m sharing my favorite baby led weaning bibs and tips for what to (and not to) look for in them. I suggest grabbing 2 kinds and testing with your baby.
Some won’t like certain kinds (restriction, straps, etc) and some won’t fit your lifestyle.
What to look for:
Baby led weaning will make a mess. Period.
But it’s honestly not much more or less of a mess than traditional weaning, with the purees missing baby’s mouth, etc. Here is what to look for to keep the mess at a minimum.
- Something easy to clean. Machine washable and able to be wiped down is a HUGE pro. Those things get stinky!
- Adjustable neck. You want to be able to make the closure around the neck as close to the skin as possible without being a hazard. No room for food to fall through!
- A pocket!! Again, food will fall. It’s inevitable. I love using a bib with a pocket so the food doesn’t go straight to the dog or smooshed into the chair. Bonus, you can then take the dropped food out and put it back on the tray.
- Large. Finally, you want it to cover as much space as possible to avoid having to wash baby or change his clothes.
What to AVOID:
Thankfully, the list of what to avoid is simple.
- None of those cutesy tiny bibs. Adorable? Yes. Effective at keeping food off baby? No.
- Drool bandana bibs. These are great – I talk about them in my reflux with baby and happy spitter post. But they are too small for BLW.
- Old school bibs. Yes, you can use them, but they’ll soak through quickly and you’ll be stuck with a dirty baby. Plus the lack of a pocket does nothing for you.
Our Favorite Bibs for Baby Led Weaning
BIBaDO Baby Feeding Coverall
This bib is GENIUS. It covers the actual tray partially, so there is no chance of food falling into the seat and getting smooshed against their pants.
Silicone Baby Bibs
I tried silicone bibs with Owen and they were a game-changer. They’re a bit bulky to throw in your diaper bag.
But if you have space it’s nice to be able to wipe it with a wet wipe and not worry about the ick. The only downside is sometimes they can stain, like with a tomato sauce.
I should also note with Ella they were a pain because she would pick them up and gnaw on them. So remember what works for one baby might not work for another.
Long Sleeved Baby Bib
I like these because they also cover baby’s arms! This is especially great if you’re feeding in winter. I always try to strip my babies when we start BLW but if it’s cold they have long sleeves that get caught in food and ick.
Full Coverage Baby Waterproof Bibs with Pocket Bundle
Almost exactly like the one above, but the pocket is positioned higher up and wider. This is a great option, but there is a chance your baby might not like where the pocket (full of food) sits.
Bumkins Starter Bib
These are as close as you get to an “old school” style but more convenient. The material isn’t super absorbant so a wet bib isn’t sitting on the baby and uncomfortable.
They’re also super practical to toss in your bag when out without looking like your baby has some huge contraption on. The only downside is that the pocket isn’t huge and if baby leans a weird way it might “close” and be useless.
So there you have it – the 5 best baby led weaning bibs! All are different, so I suggest trying a few and seeing which works best for your baby and your family.
Okay, so let me know – which bib do you like best?!
Looking for more Baby Led Weaning posts?
- Baby Led Weaning: What is it, Is it Right for You, and How to Start
- Benefits of Baby Led Weaning
- Baby Led Weaning on the go
- Clean Baby Led Weaning Snacks
- Baby Led Weaning First Fruits and Vegetables
- How to cut for Baby Led Weaning
- Spoons for Baby Led Weaning
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