To be honest, mealtimes with little ones can sometimes be a challenging experience, especially when their plates refuse to stay on their highchair table. If you’re tired of constantly repositioning or retrieving plates from the floor, you’re not alone. Here’s a little guide to help you ensure your child's silicone plate sticks securely to their table, making feeding time more enjoyable and less messy.
Clean the Surface of Their Highchair Table and the Plate
Tip: A clean surface is essential for strong suction. Dirt, crumbs, and moisture can all interfere with the plate’s ability to adhere properly.
Steps:
- Highchair Table: Wipe down the highchair table with a damp cloth to remove any food residue or dust. Don’t use baby wipes, as that contains chemicals that may also interfere with suction. Follow up with a dry cloth/paper towel to make sure that the surface is completely dry.
- Silicone Plate: Wash the bottom of the silicone plate with warm, soapy water. Rinse it thoroughly and dry it completely before attaching it to the table.
Use a Smooth, Non-Porous Surface
Tip: Suction works best on smooth, non-porous surfaces (surfaces that doesn’t allow liquid or air to pass through). If your highchair table is textured or uneven, consider using a placemat or a tray that provides a smooth surface. There are now several stick on placemats that are currently in the market.
Recommended Materials:
- Silicone placemats
- Plastic or acrylic trays
Steps:
- Place the smooth placemat or tray on the highchair table.
- Attach the silicone plate to the placemat or tray.
Warm the Suction Base
Tip: Warming the suction base of the silicone plate can make it more flexible and effective at creating a strong seal.
Steps:
- Run the suction base of the plate under warm water for a few seconds before putting food in the tray.
- Dry it off with a towel before attaching it to the highchair table.
Apply Firm, Even Pressure
Tip: To create a good seal, it’s important to press down firmly on the center of the plate and evenly around. This helps expel any air trapped between the suction base and the table.
Steps:
- Place the plate on a clean, smooth, and dry surface.
- Press down firmly in the center of the plate and around for about 10-15 seconds.
Check for Damage
Tip: Regularly inspect the suction base of the silicone plate for any signs of wear and tear. Cracks or deformations can reduce the suction power.
Steps:
- Examine the suction base for any visible damage.
- Replace the plate if you notice any significant wear.
Use the Moisture Trick
Tip: Adding a small amount of water or a dab of vegetable oil to the suction base can help create a better seal by filling in tiny gaps.
Steps:
- Add a drop of water or oil to the rim of the suction base.
- Spread it evenly around the rim.
- Attach the plate to the highchair table and press firmly.
Experiment with Placement
Tip: Sometimes, the suction base may not adhere well to certain spots on the table. Try different positions to find the best spot for a strong hold.
Steps:
- Move the plate to different areas of the highchair table.
- Test the suction in each spot to find the most secure location.
Use a Suction Plate with a Wide Base
Tip: Plates with a wide suction base tend to stick better because they have a larger surface area for creating a seal.
Steps:
- Look for silicone plates with a broad suction base when shopping.
- Ensure the wide base is clean and smooth before attaching it to the table.
Bonus Tip: Engage Your Child
Tip: Keeping your child engaged during mealtime can reduce their attempts to pull or knock over their plate.
Ideas:
- Offer a variety of colorful and interesting foods.
- Provide a small toy or utensil to hold and play with during meals.
Hopefully you’ll find these tips and tricks useful to keep your child’s silicone plate securely in place, making mealtime more enjoyable and less stressful for both of you. Happy feeding!