As parents, we always aim to make mealtimes enjoyable, safe, and nourishing for our little ones—from the food we cook to the equipment they use. But when it comes to your child’s drink bottle, silicone plates, and bowls, there’s one thing we often overlook: the dishwashing detergent or dishwasher powder we wash them with.

If you’ve ever had your child turn their nose up at a bottle of water or refuse to eat off their silicone plate for no obvious reason, the culprit might not be the food—it could be the taste (or residue) left behind by conventional dishwashing products. The good news? There are safer (and less gross-tasting!) options available.

Why Your Dishwashing Detergent or Powder Matters

Conventional dishwashing detergents can leave behind chemical residues that not only change the taste of food and drinks but might also pose potential health risks—especially for children. Kids are smaller, more sensitive, and still developing, which means their exposure to even tiny amounts of these residues could have a bigger impact than it would for adults.

The problem with conventional dishwashing products is that many of them are loaded with things like phosphates, surfactants, and artificial fragrances. These harsh chemicals can linger on dishes no matter how much you rinse. They have also been shown to disrupt gut health by altering the balance of the microbiome.

While we don’t yet know the full extent of their effects on children, we do know that their bodies are more vulnerable due to their smaller size and developing systems. So when in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. That’s why we recommend switching to safer alternatives, like Koala Eco, which is free from harsh chemicals and leaves no unwanted residue or taste behind.

Why Silicone and Harsh Detergents Don’t Mix

Silicone is fantastic for kids’ plates, cups, and bottles—it’s durable, lightweight, and unbreakable. But it also has one downside: it’s particularly good at absorbing and holding onto smells and tastes.

When washed with conventional dishwashing detergents or run through the dishwasher with standard powders, chemical residue can stick to the silicone like glue, making food and drinks taste… well, bad. REALLY bad. It’s no wonder your child might refuse to eat or drink when their bowls and plates taste like soap or chemicals! Maybe they’re not a picky eater after all.

A Simple Switch: Natural, Low-Tox Dishwashing Products

Switching to low-tox dishwashing liquid and dishwasher powder is a simple way to reduce these issues. Products made with non-toxic, plant-based ingredients are tough on grease but gentle on your family’s health—and they rinse clean, leaving no unpleasant soapy taste behind on your little one’s plates, bowls, or bottles.

A great choice? Koala Eco Natural Dishwasher Powder and Koala Eco Natural Dish Soap (use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 25% off all Koala Eco products). These products are made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients and free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals. They’re tough on grease but gentle on your little one’s dishes.

The benefits?

• No chemical residue or weird aftertaste on bottles, plates, and bowls.
• No synthetic fragrances that linger on silicone.
• No harsh chemicals that could impact gut health.
• A more sustainable option that’s better for the planet.

How to Keep Silicone Plates, Cups, and Bowls Clean (and Odour-Free!)

Even with natural dishwashing products, silicone can sometimes hold onto lingering smells. Here are some simple ways to keep them fresh and clean:

• Lemon juice: Rub half a lemon over your silicone items, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse. It works wonders for eliminating lingering odours.
• Sunshine: Place silicone plates and bottles in direct sunlight for a few hours—UV rays help to remove odours naturally.
• Baking soda: Make a paste of baking soda and water, rub it onto the silicone, and let it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing. For stubborn smells, soak items in warm water with a tablespoon of baking soda overnight.
• Vinegar: Soak silicone bowls or plates in equal parts white vinegar and water for 30 minutes, then rinse well.
• Boil them: For persistent odours, boiling silicone items for a few minutes can help release trapped smells. Just keep an eye on them to prevent damage.

Handwashing with a gentle, natural dishwashing liquid like Koala Eco Natural Dish Soap can help prevent residue buildup. If you use a dishwasher, choosing a phosphate-free dishwasher powder like Koala Eco Natural Dishwasher Powder (use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 25% off all Koala Eco products) ensures no lingering chemicals on your child’s dishes.

The Bottom Line

Switching to a natural, low-tox dishwashing liquid and dishwasher powder is one of those small, simple changes that makes a big difference. Not only are you protecting your family’s health by reducing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, but you’re also creating a more pleasant experience at mealtimes—without the soapy taste!