From The Best Baby Food Maker To Baby Food Storage, This Is The Equipment You Need

Hey moms and dads!  Ever wanted to make your own baby food but are not sure where to begin?  Whether you’re in the process of baby-led or spoon-fed weaning (see previous blog post) or are just about to transition your infant from breastmilk and/or formula to solids, having the right tools to prepare homemade, baby-approved cuisine is essential.  We asked new parents to share their 5 favorite kitchen tools to make meal prep easier and more efficient for your cooking needs.  Here’s what they said:

1. For the parent who wants an “all in one” gadget:  Baby Beaba Babycook Solo Baby Food Maker Processor

If there were one appliance to do it all, this would be it!  The Babycook Solo Baby Food Maker Processor steams, purees, thaws, and reheats food.  Its ease of use and wide variety of functions made it a top pick among parents-turned chefs. And, because it essentially takes on the roles of 4 pieces of equipment, is an excellent option for those looking to save space in their kitchen!

2. For parents and baby on-the-go:  Squeeze Station – Baby Food Pouch Maker for Children with 10 Fresh Squeezed Pouches

This is a great product for parents looking to take their homemade (or store-bought) purees wherever they go. It can also be used for yogurts, juices, or smoothies. Simply pour your prepared food item of choice into the top portion of the device, insert the press, and push down to fill the reusable pouches.  This mess-free packaging process offers an eco-friendly way to store, transport, and consume different purees no matter where your adventures may take you and your infant. They can also be frozen to use for make-ahead options. 

3. For the parent who likes to plan ahead: WeeSprout Glass Baby Food Storage Jars w/Lids (4 oz, 12 Pack Set) 

As dietitians, we always recommend meal prep for our busy clients to simplify their week- but why should this be limited to adults? The WeeSprout Glass Baby Food Jars can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer so meals can be made in advance in batches and saved for later consumption.  They are a wonderful way to store/salvage the baby food you’ve put so much love and effort into preparing.  Plus, these jars are microwave and dishwasher safe, so you can safely reheat your baby’s food and when finished, place in the dishwasher for an easy clean-up.  The time you save with meal prep allows you to put your energy into other things, such as spending quality time with your infant.

4. For the infants whose food doesn’t always end up in their mouths: EZPZ mini mat

While not a cooking tool per se, the EZPZ mat is a mealtime must-have!  When I was just learning how to eat solid foods, my parents would put a huge mat under my high chair at restaurants to catch any food that didn’t make it into my mouth (which, in the beginning, was a lot)!  The EZPZ mini mat was the solution we didn’t know we needed.  This placemat, plate all-in-one is made of 100% silicone and can be used in the microwave, oven, and dishwasher.  Plus, its suctioning capability and portability helps to prevent any accidental/unnecessary spilling (and all too familiar mess).  As dietitians, we love the 3-sectioned design as it’s great for serving balanced, healthy meals that check all the boxes in terms of nutrition.  

5. For parents who want to keep it simple:  Sopito 2 Pack Stainless Steel Integrated Masher Kitchen Tool Food Masher 

Sometimes, a simple potato masher is all that is needed to create baby-safe purees.  Despite its name, it can be used for other fruits and vegetables to create the perfect texture/consistency for your infant. An advantage is that you have more control over the final product’s consistency than you might if using an electric food processor.  It is also an inexpensive tool that can be used for other recipes you may prepare for your family.  

In short, there are many ways to make homemade baby food— with or without the need for specialized equipment.  These parent-tested and RD-approved tools offer some useful options designed to simplify the process and yield tasty, baby-friendly meals!