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Starting Solids: What You Actually Need (and What You Can Skip)

Starting Solids: What You Actually Need (and What You Can Skip)

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Everyone seems to have an opinion about starting solids, and a lot of what you’ll hear will make it seem like you need to fill your kitchen with equipment before your little one can eat their first spoonful. But as a retailer that loves supporting new parents, we want to let you in on a little secret - you really don't. 

Introducing your little one to food is all about exploration and curiosity, so don’t put yourself under any pressure. Instead, just stock up on a few baby feeding essentials that make mealtimes easier. 

Must-Have Starting Solids Checklist

As parents ourselves, there are only a few essentials for starting solids that we recommend every new parent invest in. 

  • Highchairs
  • Bibs
  • Soft silicone spoons
  • Suction bowls or feeding sets

If you only make one purchase, make it a great highchair for starting solids. You'll use it every day for the next couple of years, so choose one that’s comfortable, easy to clean, and can grow with your child. Design elements like a removable tray, adjustable footrest and wipe-clean surface are well worth the investment.

A soft silicone spoon is gentle on little mouths, while a suction bowl or feeding set helps keep food on the table instead of the floor. You'll also want plenty of bibs; terry fabric if you don’t mind the extra washing, or silicone if you’d rather rinse and reuse. 

Browse Moose Baby's Feeding Accessories Collection for bibs, feeding sets, and more.

Nice-to-Have Feeding Products

Most of the items on the “nice to have” baby feeding checklist make life easier for you rather than your little one. They make life more convenient, but aren’t essential from day one.

  • Extra bibs
  • Snack containers
  • Food storage containers
  • Silicone placemats
  • Mess mats

Spare bibs mean you always have a clean one on hand, while snack containers and food storage pots come in handy for batching or leftovers once your baby starts eating more variety. 

And, if the idea of spending time cleaning after every meal fills you with dread, you might want to consider a silicone placemat and a mess mat for under the highchair too.

What You Can Skip (At Least for Now)

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to try all the newest products and gadgets, but your baby doesn't need a cupboard full of accessories to enjoy their first foods. Just pick up a few baby feeding essentials, and add to your collection as your child grows.

Start by exploring the Moose Baby's Highchair Collection to find your favourite.

Frequently Asked Questions

What solids should I introduce first?

There’s no “right” first food, but most parents start with soft, easy-to-manage foods like mashed vegetables, banana, avocado or iron-fortified baby cereal. 

Can my 4-month-old start solids?

Most babies in New Zealand start solids after six months. Look for signs of readiness, like good head control and sitting with support. Check with your health professional if you’re unsure.

What is the 3-day rule?

The 3-day rule makes it easier to spot intolerances or reactions to new foods. When offering one new food, wait three days before trying another. 

What are examples of first foods?

Good first foods include mashed kūmara, pumpkin, banana, avocado, baby cereal, puréed meat, and soft, cooked vegetables.

How often should my baby eat solids?

Start with once a day, then build up gradually as your baby gets more confident. Breast milk or formula should remain the main food during the first year.

Tags: Bibs Feeding Highchairs Mess Mat & Feeding Set

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