Are you on the hunt for the best plates for kids not plastic? If you’re like many parents today, you’re probably concerned about what your little ones are eating from. The thought of potential chemicals leaching from plastic dinnerware can be a real headache. Good news! There are fantastic, safe, and often eco-friendly alternatives out there that make mealtime both fun and worry-free.
Gone are the days when plastic was the only option for durable kids’ dishes. Now, you can find a wonderful array of materials like wheat straw, bamboo, and stainless steel that are not only safer for your children but also kinder to the planet. These options offer the sturdiness you need to withstand enthusiastic toddlers and the occasional dinner-table “accident,” without the concerns associated with traditional plastics.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a hand-picked selection of the top non-plastic plates for your children. Let’s dive into some of the best plates for kids not plastic that will help you create a safer, happier mealtime environment.
Why Ditch Plastic Dinnerware for Kids?
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s quickly touch on why so many parents are making the switch:
- Health Concerns: Many plastics contain BPA, phthalates, and other chemicals that can leach into food, especially when heated or scratched. Non-plastic alternatives remove this worry.
- Durability: While plastic can be durable, it often scratches easily, harboring bacteria, and can crack or warp over time. Materials like stainless steel are incredibly long-lasting.
- Environmental Impact: Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose. Sustainable options like bamboo and wheat straw offer a much smaller carbon footprint.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your child’s dinnerware is free from harmful substances simply gives you one less thing to worry about!
Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Plates for Kids (Not Plastic!)
Here are our detailed reviews to help you find the perfect best plates for kids not plastic for your family.
1. Homienly Deep Dinner Plates Set of 8
This set from Homienly really hits the mark for parents looking for a sturdy, safe, and colorful alternative to traditional plastic plates. Made from a blend of organic wheat straw fiber and food-grade PP, these plates are designed with your child’s safety and comfort as a top priority. They’re wonderfully lightweight, incredibly hard to break, and come in vibrant colors that little ones absolutely adore, making mealtime a more engaging experience.
Key Features:
- Made from organic wheat straw fiber and food-grade PP (100% BPA-free, non-toxic).
- Comes in a set of 8 with 4 bright, fun colors (orange, yellow, blue, green).
- Lightweight and remarkably unbreakable, a great replacement for ceramic plates.
- Dishwasher and microwave safe (up to 248°F / 120°C).
- Deep design helps prevent spills.
Pros:
- Excellent value with a set of 8 plates.
- Very durable and resistant to drops, perfect for active kids.
- Bright colors are appealing to children, encouraging better eating habits.
- Super easy to clean and convenient for heating food.
- Environmentally friendlier than pure plastic.
Cons:
- Still contains some PP, though it’s food-grade and BPA-free.
- Temperature resistance is good but not for extremely high heats.
User Impressions: Parents frequently praise these plates for their vibrant colors and impressive durability, noting that they stand up well to repeated drops without breaking. Many appreciate how easy they are to clean and the convenience of being both microwave and dishwasher safe, making them a practical choice for busy families.
2. Grow Forward Wheat Straw Kids Plates and Bowls Sets
Grow Forward offers a thoughtful, nature-inspired set that includes both plates and bowls, making it a comprehensive solution for your child’s dinnerware needs. Crafted from lightweight, shatterproof wheat straw fiber, these dishes are designed to handle the inevitable tumbles that come with mealtimes with toddlers. Their lipped edges are a clever touch, aiding little hands in scooping food, which is a fantastic feature for encouraging self-feeding and minimizing mess.
Key Features:
- 8-piece set includes 4 plates (8-inch) and 4 bowls (20oz) in nature-inspired colors.
- Made from unbreakable, lightweight natural wheat straw fiber.
- Plates have lipped edges for easy scooping and mess prevention.
- 100% BPA-free, non-toxic, and preserves food’s natural flavor.
- Microwave and dishwasher safe, stackable for easy storage.
- Eco-friendly with a smaller carbon footprint than traditional plastic.
Pros:
- Complete dinnerware set covers both plates and bowls.
- Helps develop self-feeding skills with smart design.
- Extremely durable and shatterproof, ideal for energetic kids.
- Environmentally conscious choice from an American-rooted business.
- Safe for both hot and cold foods, maintaining quality.
Cons:
- Color options are “nature-inspired,” which might be less vibrant than some other sets.
- Still a composite material, not 100% plant-based.
User Impressions: Customers love the thoughtful design, especially the lipped edges on the plates and bowls, which greatly assist their little ones with independent eating. The durability is a consistent highlight, with many parents confirming they withstand drops with ease. The eco-friendly aspect is also a big draw for conscientious buyers.
3. Bakpoco Stainless Steel Kids Plates Set of 2, 9″ Portion
For ultimate durability and health safety, the Bakpoco Stainless Steel Kids Plates are an absolute winner. Made from high-grade food-safe 304 18/8 stainless steel, these plates are entirely free from BPA, lead, and other harmful chemicals. What sets them apart is their vibrant rainbow finish, which turns mealtime into a fun experience, especially for picky eaters. The 3-compartment design is brilliant for portion control and introducing a variety of foods in a visually appealing way.
Key Features:
- Crafted from high-grade food-safe 304 18/8 stainless steel (CPC certified, 100% safety).
- Durable, shatter-proof, and designed to withstand toddler wear and tear.
- Fun rainbow finish that encourages self-feeding and engagement.
- 3 compartments for promoting balanced meals and portion control.
- Stackable for space-saving storage and dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
- No sharp edges, ensuring child safety.
Pros:
- Exceptional durability – truly shatterproof and long-lasting.
- Completely free from plastics, BPA, and chemical leaching.
- Divided sections are perfect for healthy eating habits and picky eaters.
- Engaging rainbow colors make mealtime exciting for kids.
- Easy to clean and highly resistant to stains or odors.
Cons:
- Can be a bit more expensive upfront than other materials.
- Might conduct heat more quickly if food is very hot.
- Only comes in a set of two, so you might need to buy multiple packs.
User Impressions: Parents rave about the indestructibility of these stainless steel plates, noting they’re perfect for even the most boisterous toddlers. The rainbow colors are a huge hit, making mealtime more appealing, and the divided sections are frequently praised for helping with balanced meals and portion control. Many appreciate the peace of mind knowing there are no chemicals involved.
4. Nook Theory 4 Pack Reusable Bamboo Plates
Nook Theory delivers style, sustainability, and safety with their 4-pack of reusable bamboo plates. These aren’t just practical; their contemporary designs and matte finish make them aesthetically pleasing enough for everyday use and even entertaining. Made from natural bamboo fiber, these plates are a fantastic BPA-free, non-toxic, and phthalate-free alternative to plastic. They’re lightweight yet durable, resisting scratches and standing up well to daily family life.
Key Features:
- Made from food-grade bamboo fiber (BPA-free, non-toxic, phthalate-free).
- Contemporary designs that blend aesthetics with functionality.
- Scratch-proof, durable, and shatterproof (though may break if dropped from over 3 feet).
- Matte finishing for stain resistance and easy cleaning (dishwasher safe).
- Versatile for indoor meals, picnics, BBQs, and camping.
- Comes in a 4-pack and two sizes available (ensure you pick the right one).
Pros:
- Stylish design that complements modern home decor.
- Excellent eco-friendly and sustainable choice.
- Lightweight and durable enough for everyday use and travel.
- Very easy to clean thanks to the stain-resistant matte finish.
- Completely free from harmful plastics and chemicals.
Cons:
- While durable, they are not 100% unbreakable like stainless steel (can break from high drops).
- Not microwave safe, which might be a minor inconvenience for some.
User Impressions: Customers consistently highlight the attractive design and feel of these bamboo plates, appreciating that they don’t look like typical kids’ dinnerware. They’re praised for being lightweight, easy to clean, and a sustainable choice that gives parents peace of mind about toxins. The durability for everyday use is also a strong point, though some note caution with very high drops.
5. Wrova Wheat Straw Plates – 8 Inch Unbreakable Dinner
Rounding out our list of the best plates for kids not plastic are the Wrova Wheat Straw Plates. These 8-inch dinner plates are a fantastic all-rounder, combining the eco-friendly benefits of wheat straw with practical features that make mealtime a breeze. They’re designed to be unbreakable and lightweight, meaning less stress for parents when a plate inevitably takes a tumble. Plus, their delightful range of colors adds a touch of fun to every meal, making them appealing to kids and versatile for various uses.
Key Features:
- Unbreakable and lightweight, making them ideal for kids and outdoor use.
- Made from organic wheat straw fiber and food-grade PP (100% BPA-free, non-toxic).
- Dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe (temperature resistance from -4°F to 248°F).
- Available in 4 delightful, reusable colors.
- Versatile for serving various foods, from pasta to salads.
- Stackable for convenient storage.
Pros:
- Highly durable and resistant to breaking from drops.
- Very lightweight, easy for little hands to manage.
- Extremely convenient with microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safety.
- Bright colors appeal to children and add cheer to mealtimes.
- Eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic dinnerware.
Cons:
- Contains some PP, though it’s food-grade and BPA-free.
- Could potentially stain with very colorful or oily foods over time.
User Impressions: Reviewers frequently commend Wrova plates for their robust nature, emphasizing that they truly are hard to break, even with active children. The ease of cleaning and their versatility for both indoor and outdoor use are also popular features. Parents love the colorful options, which make eating more enjoyable for their kids, and appreciate the combination of durability and eco-consciousness.
Conclusion: Making the Best Choice for Your Little Ones
Choosing the best plates for kids not plastic is a wonderful step towards creating a safer, healthier, and more sustainable home environment. Whether you opt for the robust, chemical-free strength of stainless steel, the charming, eco-conscious appeal of bamboo, or the durable, lightweight convenience of wheat straw, you’re making a choice that benefits both your family and the planet.
Each of the products reviewed here offers unique advantages, but they all share the core benefit of being a fantastic alternative to traditional plastic dinnerware. Consider your priorities – is it ultimate durability, the most eco-friendly material, or a balance of features and affordability? With these top picks, you’re sure to find the perfect non-plastic plates that your kids will love and you’ll feel great about using!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why should I choose non-plastic plates for my kids?
A1: Non-plastic plates are a healthier alternative because they reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which can be found in some plastic dinnerware. They are also often more durable, environmentally friendly, and can be more aesthetically pleasing.
Q2: What are the safest materials for kids’ plates?
A2: Some of the safest materials include food-grade stainless steel (like 304 18/8), bamboo fiber (when certified BPA-free and free of other harmful additives), and wheat straw fiber combined with food-grade PP (also BPA-free). Each offers excellent durability and safety.
Q3: Are “unbreakable” plates truly indestructible?
A3: While materials like stainless steel are incredibly durable and nearly indestructible under normal use, other materials like wheat straw and bamboo are highly resistant to breaking but might not withstand extreme force or very high drops. Always check the specific product’s durability claims.
Q4: Can I put non-plastic kids’ plates in the microwave and dishwasher?
A4: Many non-plastic options, especially those made from wheat straw or stainless steel, are both microwave and dishwasher safe. However, bamboo plates are generally not microwave safe, and it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s specific care instructions for each product to ensure longevity.
Q5: What about divided plates? Are they beneficial for kids?
A5: Yes, divided plates can be very beneficial, especially for toddlers and picky eaters. They help in portion control, keep different food items separate (which many kids prefer), and can encourage balanced meals by presenting a variety of foods in distinct sections.
Q6: How do I choose the right size plate for my child?
A6: For toddlers and young children, plates around 8-9 inches in diameter are usually ideal. This size is large enough to hold a good portion of food but small enough for them to manage easily. For younger babies or just snacks, smaller plates or bowls are perfect.
Q7: Are wheat straw plates biodegradable?
A7: Wheat straw is a natural, renewable resource. While plates made entirely from wheat straw can be biodegradable, many popular “wheat straw plates” are a composite material combining wheat straw fiber with food-grade polypropylene (PP). This blend makes them durable and often dishwasher/microwave safe, but typically means they are not fully biodegradable in a home compost system. They are still a more sustainable choice than 100% virgin plastic.