Quick Answer
Wash silicone baby bowls with warm soapy water and a soft sponge, then air dry. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, bleach, and high heat. For stains or odors, use a baking soda paste or a gentle vinegar soak.
Why Silicone Needs Gentle Care
Silicone is durable, flexible, and non-toxic, making it a popular material for baby feeding bowls like the Happy Bowl. However, it can attract dust, develop a greasy film, and absorb strong odors if not cleaned correctly. Harsh detergents or scrubbing pads can degrade the surface over time, reducing its suction and lifespan.
Happy Bowl
Daily Cleaning Routine
Rinse the bowl immediately after use to prevent food from drying onto the silicone. Wash with a mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using steel wool or stiff brushes, as they can create micro-scratches that trap bacteria. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry on a dish rack. Silicone is naturally non-stick, so most residues rinse away easily.
Deep Cleaning for Stains and Odors
If your silicone bowl develops tomato stains or a lingering smell from garlic or fish, make a paste of baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste onto the affected area, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse. For tougher odors, soak the bowl in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for 15 minutes, then wash with soap and water. Avoid using chlorine bleach or soaking for longer than recommended, as these can damage the silicone.
What to Avoid
Do not put silicone bowls in the dishwasher on a high-heat cycle unless the manufacturer explicitly states it is safe. High heat can warp the silicone or weaken its suction. Also avoid using oil-based soaps or fabric softeners when washing, as they leave a residue that makes the bowl slippery. Finally, never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
- Rinse Immediately After Use: Run warm water over the bowl to remove food particles before they dry. This prevents staining and makes washing easier. Checkpoint: If food has dried, soak the bowl in warm soapy water for 5 minutes before scrubbing.
- Wash with Mild Soap and Soft Sponge: Apply a small amount of mild dish soap to a soft sponge or cloth and gently clean the entire bowl, including the suction base. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Common mistake: Using a rough scrubber can create micro-scratches that trap bacteria and reduce the bowl's non-stick quality.
- Air Dry Completely: Place the bowl upside down on a clean dish rack or towel. Let it air dry completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup. Checkpoint: Silicone can hold water droplets in crevices; tilt the bowl to ensure all water drains out.
- Deep Clean Stains and Odors Monthly: Mix a paste of baking soda and water, apply to stained areas, let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse. For odors, soak in a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution for 15 minutes, then wash with soap. Common mistake: Using bleach or soaking longer than 15 minutes can damage the silicone and reduce its lifespan.
Product Care Notes
- Happy Bowl (5-Pack): The Happy Bowl is an all-in-one placemat + bowl that suctions to the table, which keeps the mess contained. Proper cleaning preserves the suction grip, so the bowl stays put during meals and continues to reduce mess.
- Straw Cleaner: ezpz’s Straw Cleaner assists with washing ezpz straws as well as pacifiers, nipples, water bottle lids, blenders and other mealtime gear. Using a dedicated straw cleaner helps reach small crevices in silicone straws and spouts without scratching the material.
