How to Clean Silicone Baby Products Safely

September 16, 2026

Why Cleaning Silicone Baby Products Properly Matters

Silicone baby feeding products — plates, bowls, bibs, cups, spoons, and forks — are a fantastic choice for little ones. They're non-toxic, durable, and free from BPA, PVC, lead, and phthalates. But like any baby item that touches food, keeping them properly clean is essential for your baby's health.

The good news? Silicone is one of the easiest materials to clean and sanitise. Here's everything NZ parents need to know.

Everyday Cleaning — After Every Meal

After each use, rinse silicone products immediately to prevent food from drying and sticking. Then wash using one of these methods:

By Hand

Use warm water and a mild dish soap
Use a soft cloth or sponge (avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface)
Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue
Air dry or pat dry with a clean cloth

In the Dishwasher

Most quality silicone baby products, including our feeding sets, are top-rack dishwasher safe. Place items securely so they don't flip over and collect water. Use your normal dishwasher detergent — the dishwasher's heat cycle will clean and sanitise effectively.

How to Deep Clean & Sterilise Silicone Products

For a deeper clean — especially when your baby is newborn, after illness, or if products have been stored — sterilising is a good idea.

Boiling

Silicone is heat-resistant and can be safely boiled:

Place silicone items in a pot of boiling water
Boil for 2–3 minutes
Remove carefully with tongs and allow to cool before use

Steam Steriliser

Electric steam sterilisers and microwave steam bags work well with silicone. Always check the manufacturer's instructions for your specific steriliser.

Dishwasher Sterilise Cycle

If your dishwasher has a sterilise or sanitise cycle, this is a quick and effective option.

Removing Stains & Odours from Silicone

Silicone can occasionally absorb colours or odours from strong foods like tomato sauce, turmeric, or blueberries. Here's how to tackle it:

For Stains

Sunlight method — place clean, wet silicone items in direct sunlight for a few hours. UV rays naturally bleach out food stains. This is particularly effective for orange or red staining.
Baking soda paste — mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, apply to the stain, leave for 15–20 minutes, then scrub gently and rinse.

For Odours

Soak in a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water for 30 minutes, then rinse well
Alternatively, boil as described above — heat is very effective at eliminating odours

What to Avoid When Cleaning Silicone

To keep your silicone products in great condition and safe for your baby, avoid:

Harsh chemical cleaners or bleach — these can degrade the silicone over time
Abrasive scrubbing pads — can scratch the surface, making it harder to clean
Sharp utensils when cleaning — can cut or damage the silicone
Storing while still wet — always ensure products are fully dry before storing to prevent any moisture build-up