Starting Solids: What You Actually Need (NZ Guide)
Starting solids can feel completely overwhelming, there's so much out there telling you what you need. But here's the truth from a mum of two: you don't need much. Here's what actually matters (and what you can skip entirely).
What You DON'T Need
Before we get into the good stuff, let's save you some money.
You do not need a fancy gadget that steams, blends, and plays lullabies. You do not need twelve different bowls in coordinating colours. You do not need elaborate highchair accessories, or a separate "first foods" kit with twenty pieces.
This industry is very good at making you feel underprepared. You're not. Keep reading.
What You ACTUALLY Need
A good bib. Solids are messy. A silicone bib with a catch pocket will save your sanity and is great for catching finger foods that would otherwise fall on the floor. We love the Zazi Silicone Bibs- easy to wipe, easy to wash. Sleeved bibs are great for more liquid foods and saving your babies outfit, these can also be used for messy play and art and craft- What we've used- The Bumkins Sleeved Bib.
A soft spoon. That's it. A soft-tipped infant spoon that won't hurt little gums. The Zazi Clever Spoon is a favourite, gentle on gums, designed by a speech therapist and easy for little hands to grab.
A suction bowl or plate. This is the one thing worth investing in early. A bowl that actually stays on the tray means less food on the floor and less frustration for everyone. Check out our Bowls and Plates range- we stock Lion and Lady stainless steel and Bumkins and Zazi Silicone options that are durable, BPA-free, and great value.
A sippy cup or open cup. From around 6 months, babies can start learning to sip water with meals. A simple first cup is all you need nothing complicated.
That's your starting solids kit. Bib, spoon, bowl, cup. Done.
Optional But Genuinely Helpful.
Once you're a few weeks in and feeling confident, these make life easier:
Snack containers. When your baby starts eating finger foods and you're out and about, a simple snack container is a lifesaver. We stock a few great options.
Reusable pouches. Perfect for homemade purees on the go. Fill them up, freeze them, grab and go. Our Little Harvesters pouches are also a great organic ready-made option when you want something wholesome without the prep.
These aren't essentials for day one, but they're worth having on your radar as your baby grows.
Keep it simple.
I use the mindset that it doesn't need to be perfect. Your baby is learning, you're learning. Messy faces, spat-out broccoli and food on the floor are all completely normal.
Start with basics and add things as you need. You'll know when you need more.
If you're based in NZ and looking a simple selection of tried-and-tested products we've got you covered. We're a small online store based in Wànaka and we only stock things we'd actually use ourselves.
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