How to Clean Silicone Feeding Sets: Spoons, Plates, and More
By Posh Baby | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Tips & Care
Learn the best way to clean silicone baby dishes, spoons, and plates—whether by hand or dishwasher—plus common mistakes to avoid for long-lasting, safe feeding gear.
Quick Answer
For everyday cleaning, wash silicone feeding sets in the dishwasher on the top rack or by hand with warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and high-heat settings to keep the silicone soft and safe.
Why Silicone Needs Special Care
Silicone is a favorite for baby feeding gear because it’s gentle on gums and teeth, and it’s free of BPA, BPS, PVC, and phthalates. But it can attract dust and lint, and it can absorb odors if not cleaned properly. Knowing the right cleaning methods helps keep your silicone spoons and plates in top shape for every meal.
While silicone is dishwasher-safe, the high heat of some cycles can cause discoloration or warping over time. Hand washing with mild dish soap is often gentler and helps preserve the original color and texture.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
- Rinse Right After Meals: As soon as your baby finishes eating, rinse the silicone items under warm running water to remove leftover food. This prevents food from drying and sticking, making the next steps easier. Don’t let food dry on silicone; it can become harder to remove and may leave stains.
- Hand Wash with Mild Soap: Use a soft sponge or cloth with warm water and a mild dish soap. Gently scrub all surfaces, including the suction base and any textured areas, to remove residue. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, which can scratch the silicone and create hiding spots for bacteria.
- Dishwasher Option (Top Rack): If you prefer the dishwasher, place silicone items on the top rack away from the heating element. Use a gentle cycle without high heat or sanitize settings to prevent warping or discoloration. Check the manufacturer’s instructions—some silicone may not be dishwasher-safe, so when in doubt, hand wash.
- Dry Thoroughly: After washing, shake off excess water and let items air dry completely on a clean dish rack or towel. Ensure there’s no trapped water in suction bases or hollow handles. Moisture left inside can lead to mold or mildew over time.
- Remove Stains and Odors: For stubborn stains or lingering smells, create a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the silicone, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then rinse and wash as usual. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemical cleaners, which can degrade the silicone.
Products That Make Cleaning Easier
- Mushie - Silicone Feeding Spoons - 2 Pack: The Mushie Silicone Feeding Spoons 2-Pack is crafted from 100% food-grade silicone that is free of BPA, BPS, PVC, and phthalates, with a soft tip that protects sensitive gums. Because the silicone is food-grade and free of harmful chemicals, you can safely clean it with standard dish soap and water without worrying about residue or toxins.
Mushie - Silicone Feeding Spoons - 2 Pack - Mushie - Silicone Suction Plate - Woodchuck: The Mushie Silicone Suction Plate in Woodchuck is made from 100% food-grade silicone and features a strong suction base to minimize spills during self-feeding. Its simple, one-piece design means there are no crevices for food to hide, making it quick to rinse or wipe clean after every meal.
Mushie - Silicone Suction Plate - Woodchuck
