FAQs about baby bibs and best feeding practices
We spoke to Feeding Littles cofounder Judy Delaware, OTR/L, CLC — an occupational therapist, feeding specialist, and certified lactation counselor — and Dr. Sarah Fleet , attending physician at Boston's Children's Hospital and instructor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. Both provided their expertise to answer commonly asked questions about what to look for in a baby bib and what to know while feeding.
What should a caregiver look for in a baby bib?
"I would recommend something easy to clean, comfortable to wear, and long enough to protect the clothes underneath," said Fleet."Being dishwasher or machine washable would also be useful."
It's great for a baby bib to tie around the baby's body and not the neck for both safety and comfort, added Delaware. She also appreciates quick-dry fabrics and waterproof designs. Keep in mind that choosing a baby bib remains entirely up to preference, however.
What should I know about cotton and bandana bibs?
"The bandana-style bib is typically made from cotton and, in my experience, these bibs are used for both feeding and drooling but don't hold up to the wetness that can occur during these activities," Delaware said. "This bib can feel soft to the touch, but many caregivers quickly find the bib and clothing may have to be changed."
What should I know about silicone bibs?
What should I know about repel-tex bibs?
"Repeltex is water-repellent and prevents the baby's skin from feeling clammy or irritated," said Delaware. "Look for a bib that secures around the body and not the neck."
How often should I wash a baby bib?
Delaware recommends rinsing a bib after each use and running it through the washing machine one to three times a week. Fleet agrees, adding that food and saliva can become embedded on the bib's surface and attract bacteria and pests.
What are safe feeding practices for babies?
"Each baby is unique in their skill development, and needs to be introduced to foods when they are developmentally ready," said Fleet. "Solid foods should be introduced to an infant when they can sit unsupported in a high chair, with good head control, and are showing interest in solid foods."
Fleet also recommends adding spices and flavors to infant and toddler foods. Toward the end of infancy, they may start refusing bland purees and prefer blended family meals, as they are more flavorful.
What should a baby's diet contain for each life stage?
Below, Fleet provided a sample diet, unique to each month grouping. Be sure to speak to your pediatrician about any specific concerns.
- 0 to 4 months: Only breastmilk or formula should be given.
- 4 to 6 months: Single food purees can be given once daily along with breastmilk or formula.
- 9 to 12 months: Beyond 6 months of age, breastmilk and formula don't contain enough iron, so solid foods are recommended more than once daily. The baby can try dissolvable solids, like puffs and veggie straws .
- 12 months and up: Three meals of solid foods and two snacks are encouraged, including puree, soft foods, or dissolvable solids. Bottles can be offered as snacks between meals.
Via PakApNews