When it comes to our little ones, safety always comes first, especially during mealtime! As parents, we’re constantly on the lookout for the healthiest choices, and that extends right down to the plates and bowls our kids eat from. With concerns about harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and lead lurking in traditional plastics, finding the best non-toxic dishes for kids isn’t just a preference – it’s a priority.
But fear not! You don’t have to sacrifice style or durability for safety. The market is now brimming with fantastic, kid-friendly dinnerware made from sustainable and safe materials like wheat straw and bamboo. These eco-conscious alternatives are not only better for your child’s health but also often incredibly tough, easy to clean, and kind to our planet.
We’ve scoured the options to bring you a carefully curated list of the top non-toxic dish sets that promise peace of mind for you and a delightful dining experience for your little eaters. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Non-Toxic Dishes for Your Kids?
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s quickly recap why making this switch is so important:
- Eliminate Harmful Chemicals: Many traditional plastic dishes contain chemicals like BPA, PVC, and phthalates, which can leach into food, especially when heated. These chemicals have been linked to potential health issues.
- Prioritize Health: Non-toxic dishes ensure your child’s food remains pure and uncontaminated.
- Eco-Friendly Choice: Materials like wheat straw and bamboo are renewable resources, making them a more sustainable option than petroleum-based plastics.
- Durability: Modern non-toxic options are often designed to be shatterproof and highly durable, standing up to the inevitable drops and tumbles.
Our Top 5 Picks for Best Non-Toxic Dishes for Kids
Here are our favorites, designed to make mealtime both safe and fun!
Wrova Wheat Straw Plates and Bowls Sets (16-Piece)
This extensive 16-piece set from Wrova is a fantastic all-in-one solution for families looking to completely overhaul their kid-friendly dinnerware with a non-toxic alternative. Made from organic wheat straw fiber and food-grade PP, these dishes are designed to be unbreakable, lightweight, and incredibly easy to clean. You’ll get plates, bowls, cups, and even sauce plates, making it versatile enough for daily meals, picnics, or parties without worrying about harmful chemicals.
Key Features:
- 16-piece set: 4 plates (10 inches), 4 bowls (26 oz), 4 cups (12 oz), 4 sauce plates.
- Made from organic wheat straw fiber and food-grade PP (100% BPA-free, non-toxic).
- Unbreakable, lightweight, and durable.
- Suitable for all ages and various occasions (home, school, camping, travel).
- Microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe (temperature resistance -4°F to 248°F).
Pros:
- Comprehensive set covers all dining needs.
- Excellent value for money with 16 pieces.
- Extremely durable and won’t shatter.
- Safe for microwave and dishwasher, making cleanup a breeze.
- Lightweight design is perfect for little hands.
Cons:
- Some users might prefer 100% wheat straw without PP blend, though it’s food-grade.
- Color options might be limited depending on the set.
User Impressions: Parents love the sheer volume and versatility of this set, finding it perfect for multiple kids or for hosting playdates. Many praise its durability and ease of cleaning, appreciating the ability to toss everything into the dishwasher. The lightweight nature is also a big hit, making it easy for toddlers to carry their own dishes.
See it on Amazon here
Grow Forward Bamboo Kids Plates and Bowls Sets (8-Piece)
Grow Forward brings us this stunning 8-piece set of bamboo dishes, offering an elegant, eco-friendly, and naturally safe choice for your little ones. These dishes are crafted with beginner self-feeders in mind, featuring a high lip on plates and a wide base on bowls to make scooping food a cinch and minimize messes. They’re 100% biodegradable and sustainably harvested, giving you peace of mind that you’re making a great choice for both your child and the planet.
Key Features:
- 8-piece set (4 plates, 4 bowls) with clean lines and gorgeous color tones.
- Made from 100% biodegradable and sustainably harvested bamboo.
- Kid-friendly design: high lip on plates, weighty/stable bowls with wide base.
- Durable and scratch-proof; won’t shatter when dropped.
- BPA, PVC, and Phthalate Free.
- Easy to clean, stackable, and top-rack dishwasher safe.
- Safe for hot and cold foods/liquids.
Pros:
- Truly eco-friendly and biodegradable material.
- Thoughtful design aids in self-feeding, reducing spills.
- Stylish aesthetics that look great in any kitchen.
- Durable enough to withstand active kids without shattering.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons:
- Not microwave safe (common for bamboo dishes).
- While durable, they aren’t completely unbreakable like wheat straw plastic alternatives if severely misused.
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the quality and appearance of these bamboo dishes, often noting how much nicer they look than typical plastic ware. Parents especially appreciate the design features that help their kids eat independently with less mess. The sustainability aspect is a huge bonus for environmentally conscious families.
See it on Amazon here
FOODLE Wheat Straw Dinnerware Set (BPA Free & Safety Certified)
The FOODLE Wheat Straw Dinnerware Set is all about giving you peace of mind with certified safety and impressive durability. Crafted from premium, non-toxic wheat straw materials and lab-tested to be FDA compliant, BPA-Free, and Phthalate-Free, these dishes are designed to be light as a feather but tough as nails. They’re perfect for everyday family use but also adventure-ready, making them an excellent choice for picnics, camping, or RV trips where heavy, fragile dishes just won’t do.
Key Features:
- Crafted with premium, non-toxic wheat straw materials.
- Lab-tested for safety: FDA compliant (21 CFR 177.1520), BPA-Free, Phthalate-Free.
- Microwave and dishwasher safe (independently tested).
- Lightweight and compact, making it ideal for travel and outdoor use.
- Incredibly durable and designed to withstand bumps and tumbles.
- Delivers reliable performance with effortless style.
Pros:
- High safety certifications provide extra reassurance.
- Remarkably lightweight yet incredibly durable – virtually unbreakable.
- Conveniently microwave and dishwasher safe.
- Stylish and practical for both home and on-the-go.
- Doesn’t retain food odors or stains.
Cons:
- Specific piece count isn’t detailed in the features (assumed to be a standard set).
- Some might prefer a more vibrant color palette.
User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the excellent balance of lightness and sturdiness. The convenience of being both microwave and dishwasher safe is a recurring positive comment, simplifying meal prep and cleanup. Many also appreciate the smooth, modern design and the reassurance of its certified safety.
See it on Amazon here
Grow Forward Wheat Straw Kids Plates and Bowls Sets (8-Piece)
Another fantastic offering from Grow Forward, this 8-piece set shifts to eco-friendly wheat straw, providing an unbreakable and nature-inspired dining experience for your children. This set includes four 8-inch plates and four 20oz bowls, all with lipped edges that are great for encouraging self-feeding and minimizing those inevitable mealtime messes. Made from lightweight natural wheat straw fiber, these dishes are safe for playful little ones and tough enough for accidental drops and tosses. They are definitely among the best non-toxic dishes for kids in terms of durability and eco-friendliness.
Key Features:
- 8-piece set: 4 plates (8-inch) and 4 bowls (20 oz).
- Made from unbreakable, lightweight natural wheat straw fiber.
- Nature-inspired color choices.
- Lipped edges on plates and bowls to aid self-feeding and prevent messes.
- 100% BPA free, non-toxic.
- Microwave and dishwasher safe, stackable for space-saving.
- Earth-friendly with a smaller carbon footprint, supporting an American business.
Pros:
- Virtually unbreakable – shatterproof and durable.
- Kid-friendly design assists with independent eating.
- Conveniently microwave and dishwasher safe.
- Eco-conscious choice with a smaller carbon footprint.
- Maintains food flavor, aroma, and texture.
Cons:
- Not as many pieces as some larger sets.
- Some may prefer the aesthetics of bamboo over wheat straw plastic.
User Impressions: Parents adore the resilience of these dishes, confirming they truly can withstand being dropped without breaking. The lipped edges are a big hit for making mealtime less messy for toddlers learning to use utensils. The stackable design is also frequently praised for saving cabinet space.
See it on Amazon here
Wheat Straw Dinnerware Sets, 20 PCS Dishes Dinnerware Set
If you’re looking for a super comprehensive and vibrant dinnerware solution, this 20-piece Wheat Straw Dinnerware Set is an outstanding choice. Service for four, this set includes plates, cups, bowls, and cutlery (forks and spoons!), all crafted from premium, non-toxic wheat straw synthetic material. These dishes are designed to be incredibly strong and unbreakable, perfect for the most enthusiastic eaters. With smooth rounded edges and a modern style, they combine safety, functionality, and a pop of color for every meal.
Key Features:
- 20-piece set (service for 4): 4 plates, 4 cups, 4 bowls, 4 forks, 4 spoons.
- Made from premium, non-toxic, odorless wheat straw synthetic material.
- Unbreakable structure, highly durable against drops and impacts.
- Features smooth rounded edges and modern style in four vibrant colors (beige, pink, green, blue).
- Dishwasher and microwave safe (up to 248°F/120℃ for 5 minutes).
- Versatile for various uses: parties, picnics, camping, daily meals.
Pros:
- Extremely comprehensive set, including matching cutlery.
- Truly unbreakable – a massive plus for busy families.
- Vibrant colors add fun to mealtime.
- Microwave and dishwasher safe for ultimate convenience.
- Smooth, rounded edges enhance safety and comfort.
Cons:
- The “synthetic material” wording might make some curious about the exact composition blend.
- The microwave temperature limit (5 mins at 248°F) needs to be observed.
User Impressions: Families are thrilled with the completeness of this set, often highlighting the inclusion of cutlery as a major advantage. The unbreakable nature is frequently praised, along with the attractive colors that make mealtime more engaging for kids. Many appreciate how lightweight and space-efficient the dishes are.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Your Questions About Non-Toxic Kids’ Dishes Answered
Q1: What exactly makes dishes “non-toxic” for kids?
A: Non-toxic dishes are free from harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional plastics, such as BPA (Bisphenol A), phthalates, PVC, and lead. These substances can leach into food, especially when heated, and have been linked to various health concerns. Non-toxic alternatives use safer materials like food-grade silicone, bamboo, wheat straw, or certain types of stainless steel.
Q2: Are wheat straw dishes truly safe for children?
A: Yes, wheat straw dishes are generally considered very safe. They are made from the natural by-product of wheat harvesting, blended with food-grade polypropylene (PP) to create a durable, lightweight, and often unbreakable material. Most wheat straw products are certified BPA-free, phthalate-free, and FDA compliant, making them an excellent healthy and eco-friendly choice for kid’s dinnerware.
Q3: What are the main benefits of using bamboo dishes for kids?
A: Bamboo dishes are fantastic because they are natural, biodegradable, and sustainably sourced. They offer a sturdy, yet lightweight option that’s typically free from plastics and harmful chemicals. Many bamboo dishes also feature fun, kid-friendly designs and are an excellent choice for environmentally conscious parents.
Q4: Can I put non-toxic kids’ dishes in the microwave and dishwasher?
A: It depends on the material. Wheat straw dishes are often microwave and dishwasher safe, but it’s crucial to always check the specific product’s instructions as temperature limits can vary. Bamboo dishes, on the other hand, are typically not microwave safe and often require hand washing or top-rack dishwasher use to preserve their integrity.
Q5: How durable are these non-toxic alternatives compared to traditional plastic?
A: Modern non-toxic dishes made from materials like wheat straw are incredibly durable and often virtually unbreakable, designed to withstand drops and daily wear and tear better than traditional, brittle plastics or ceramic dishes. Bamboo dishes are also quite durable and won’t shatter, though they might not be as completely impact-resistant as wheat straw.
Q6: How often should I replace my child’s non-toxic dishes?
A: The lifespan of your child’s dishes depends on the material, usage, and how well they’re cared for. Generally, if you notice any signs of wear like deep scratches, cracks, discoloration, or a sticky residue that won’t wash off, it’s a good idea to replace them. Deep scratches can harbor bacteria, and damaged materials might compromise their non-toxic properties over time.
Q7: What should I look for when buying the best non-toxic dishes for kids?
A: When shopping, prioritize materials like wheat straw, bamboo, food-grade silicone, or stainless steel. Look for explicit labels stating “BPA-free,” “phthalate-free,” “lead-free,” and “FDA approved.” Consider durability, ease of cleaning (dishwasher safe?), and whether they are microwave safe if that’s important to you. Lastly, choose designs that appeal to your child to make mealtime more enjoyable!