Must-Have Feeding Gear for Babies and Toddlers
Feeding gear changes as your child grows. What works for a newborn is completely different from what a toddler needs.
This guide breaks down the essential feeding gear by age and stage. It focuses on what you will actually use, not what gets left in the cupboard.
Newborn Feeding Gear (0 to 6 Months)
Whether you breastfeed, formula feed, or do both, the right feeding gear makes life easier. Explore the baby feeding collection for a complete range of newborn feeding essentials.
If breastfeeding
- Nursing bras and breast pads
- Nipple cream for sore or cracked nipples
- A nursing pillow for support during feeds
- Breast pump if expressing milk
- Milk storage bags or containers
- Burp cloths or muslin wraps
If bottle feeding
Browse the baby feeding bottles range for bottles suited to newborns and young babies.
- 4 to 6 bottles with slow flow teats
- Bottle brush for cleaning
- Steriliser or sterilising solution
- Bottle warmer if using refrigerated milk or formula
- Burp cloths
If using formula, explore trusted options in the baby formula collection. The feeding essentials range includes sterilisers, bottle warmers, and other helpful items.
Introducing Solids (Around 6 Months)
At around six months, most babies are ready to start solids alongside milk. The right gear makes this transition easier and less messy.
First feeding essentials
- Soft-tipped weaning spoons
- Small shallow bowls with suction bases
- Silicone or plastic bibs with a food catcher
- High chair with a removable tray for easy cleaning
-
Sippy cup or open cup for water
Explore the bibs collection for options that keep clothes clean during messy first meals.
Self-Feeding Stage (9 to 18 Months)
As babies become more independent, they want to feed themselves. Gear that encourages self-feeding supports their development and makes meal times smoother.
What you need now
- Baby-safe cutlery with short handles and rounded edges
- Divided plates or bowls with suction
- Non-slip placemats
- Sippy cups or straw cups for independent drinking
- Long-sleeved bibs or smocks for very messy eaters
The tableware collection includes plates, bowls, cutlery, and cups designed for little hands learning to self-feed.
Toddler Feeding Gear (18 Months and Beyond)
Toddlers are eating the same foods as the rest of the family, just in smaller portions. Feeding gear at this stage focuses on independence and practicality.
Toddler feeding essentials
- Toddler-sized plates and bowls
- Forks and spoons that are easy to grip
- Drinking cups with handles or straws
- Snack containers for on the go
- Lunch boxes for childcare or outings
The kids water bottles range offers spill-proof options that toddlers can use independently. For childcare or outings, explore the
lunch and go collection for practical snack containers and lunch boxes.
Tips for Choosing Feeding Gear
Start with the basics
You do not need everything at once. Start with a few bottles or a basic weaning set and add items as your baby grows and their needs change.
Choose easy-to-clean options
Feeding gear gets used multiple times a day. Look for items that are dishwasher safe or have simple designs without hard-to-reach crevices.
Consider suction bases
Plates and bowls with suction help prevent toddlers from throwing or tipping their food. This saves mess and frustration.
Buy multiples of key items
Have at least four bottles, bibs, and spoons on hand. This gives you enough for a full day without needing to wash constantly.
Avoid trendy gear that is hard to use
Some feeding products look cute but are impractical. Choose function over style when it comes to daily feeding gear.
What You Can Skip or Wait On
Not every feeding product is necessary. These items are either optional or can be added later if you find you need them.
- Bottle warmers. Many parents heat bottles in warm water or use them straight from the fridge.
- Fancy sterilisers. Boiling water or microwave steam bags work just as well.
- Specialised weaning spoons. Regular soft-tipped baby spoons are fine.
- Food pouches and reusable pouches. Most babies do well with bowls and spoons.
- Teething feeders. These are optional and many babies do not use them.
Common Questions About Feeding Gear
How many bottles do I need?
If bottle feeding exclusively, start with 6 to 8 bottles. If combination feeding, 3 to 4 bottles is usually enough.
What type of bottle is best for a newborn?
Most newborns do well with standard bottles and slow flow teats. If your baby has reflux or colic, anti-colic bottles may help. Try one or two before buying in bulk.
When should I introduce a sippy cup?
Around 6 months when you start solids. Start with an open cup or a sippy cup with handles. Babies can learn to drink from an open cup earlier than most people think.
Do I need a high chair right away?
Not for a newborn. Wait until your baby can sit up with support, usually around 5 to 6 months. That is when most babies are ready to start solids.
What is the best bib for messy eaters?
Silicone bibs with a food catcher work well for babies learning to eat. Long-sleeved waterproof bibs or smocks are great for toddlers who make a lot of mess.
Buy What You Need, When You Need It
Feeding gear changes quickly in the first few years. Start with the basics and add items as your baby grows and their eating skills develop.
What works for one baby might not work for another, so do not feel like you need to have everything from day one. Build your feeding gear collection gradually as you figure out what suits your family.
