The bib: how do you choose the best one for your baby?

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The bib is one of the babies’ accessories the most from the first months of life. Although there is a wide variety on the market, the most important thing when choosing it is to make sure they are functional and protect the baby’s chest from excess saliva.

The bib is handy at all stages of the baby. When you are lactating, it helps you if the milk comes back. When the first teeth come out, which usually happens after six months of age, or sometimes before, babies drool excessively, and you will have to change their bib several times so that it does not get wet. When your baby starts eating baby food, this accessory will be essential – at every meal – to keep his clothes clean.

How to choose the best bib for your baby

Try to choose the ones that have these characteristics:

Made of cotton
Soft
Very absorbent
Adjustable
Easy to clean
Machine washed
Practical, that is, easy to put on and take off
Durable
Have a waterproof base
Take into account the size, prefer them to be a little bigger
Make sure your little one is comfortable

Salivation softens and moistens the solid foods part of the baby’s diet. It keeps the mouth moist and makes it easier for the baby to swallow, and protects the teeth, among other functions.

American Association of Pediatricians (AAP)

A handy item, indispensable for your baby

Once your baby starts with solid foods, bibs will be necessary to avoid having to change them every time he eats. Yet, it is essential that you do not become obsessed with cleaning.

“When your baby already grabs food with his hands and puts it in his mouth, perhaps a bib will not be enough to keep him clean. Still, it is important that you allow him to experience new flavors and textures”, says Cristina Belén Hernández, a graduate in preschool education and early stimulation instructor, “because with this, you will be allowing him to know and discover the world that surrounds him”.

For the older ones, make your kid wear a long-sleeved all-plastic bib, or choose a silicone bib with a pocket so that crumbs and some liquid fall there. Opt for bibs that are lead-free, BPA-free, and non-toxic.

Choose bibs with attractive designs

Choosing from a wide range of designs brings out your personality. Let out the tender part or the funny side that is in you.

There are bibs in black or white, pastel colors or multicolored, plain or with prints of animals, children’s drawings, comics, stripes, stars, flowers, cars, musical notes, with a vintage, retro, or pop design. There are also some with the shape of tiny animals, stars, or balls, with impressions of a tie, bow, or pearl necklace, even with images of oil landscapes. Bibs with phrases have become a trend in recent years and are the favorites of some parents for their messages. Which one would you choose?

Currently, some bibs are designed in the form of a neckerchief, which we know as bandanas. These are very safe and easy to put on and add a touch of class to your baby’s outfit.

It is common for babies to drool and make saliva bubbles during the phase of development when their need is focused on the mouth. This becomes more evident from 3 to 6 months of age.

Get the bibs and bandanas your baby needs in our Online Store.

Translated by: Ligia M. Oliver Manrique de Lara

Spanish version

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