Microwave Safe Kids Dinnerware: Why Most Options Fall Short

When it comes to feeding your little ones, you might be realising that microwave safe kids dinnerware is a rarity. Here we explore why.

One question we often get from customers is, “Is this dinnerware microwave safe?”. And trust us- we get it- microwavable plates seem very hard to come by! Unfortunately, many popular kids’ plates and bowls don’t meet this crucial standard. This can lead to damaged dishes, unwanted chemical exposure, and safety concerns during mealtime.

In this post, we’ll explore why so many kids’ dinnerware products aren't truly microwave safe, the hidden risks, and how you can make smarter choices to keep your child safe and mealtimes stress-free.

What Does “Microwave Safe” Actually Mean?

“Microwave safe” means a plate or bowl can be heated without melting, warping, or releasing harmful chemicals into food. For kids’ dinnerware, this is especially important since parents often use microwaves to warm up meals quickly and safely.

But not all kids’ dinnerware materials respond well to microwave heat, so understanding the difference helps you avoid wasted meals and potential health risks.

Why Most Kids Dinnerware Isn’t Microwave Safe

When kids’ dinnerware isn’t truly microwave safe, it often contains materials like melamine, BPA, phthalates, or formaldehyde-based resins. Heating these materials in the microwave can cause them to break down and release harmful chemicals into the food. Here’s why this matters:

• BPA (Bisphenol A): A chemical found in some plastics that can mimic hormones in the body, potentially disrupting normal development and increasing risks for health issues like behavioural problems and hormone-related cancers. Heat is known to break BPA down, causing it to leach in to foods.
• Phthalates: These chemicals are used to make plastics soft and flexible. They’re commonly found in toys, food containers, and some types of plastic dinnerware. When heated, like in a microwave, phthalates can leach into food. This is especially concerning for children, as phthalates are known endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormone development. Research has linked early exposure to increased risks of developmental delays, behavioural issues, and even reproductive problems later in life. Because children’s bodies are still growing and developing, they are more vulnerable to these effects than adults.  
• Melamine and Formaldehyde: Commonly found in bamboo dinnerware that’s reinforced with melamine resin. When microwaved, this resin can break down and release harmful chemicals, particularly formaldehyde, which has been linked to kidney damage and other serious health risks.

Choosing genuinely microwave-safe dinnerware made without these additives is a simple way to support your child’s wellbeing and give you peace of mind at mealtime. 

What to Look for in Microwave Safe Kids Dinnerware

Protect your peace of mind by:

• Checking for clear microwave-safe labelling from trusted brands or certifications. For example, at EcoCubs our products underwent independent third-party safety testing to ensure truly microwave safe kids dinnerware.
• Choose safer materials like that are designed to handle heat. 
• Avoid bamboo blended with melamine, a very common binder, which isn’t safe for microwave use even if it's advertised as non-toxic.
• Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions to prevent damage or warping. 
• Inspect dishes regularly and replace any that are cracked or worn to keep mealtimes safe.    

Why EcoCubs’ Plant-Based Dinnerware Is Different

EcoCubs’ plant-based dinnerware is designed with safety and sustainability in mind. Made from renewable materials and independently tested for microwave safety, our products are free from BPA, phthalates, harmful plastics and melamine. Unlike many bamboo-melamine blends, EcoCubs’ dinnerware is made with plant-based starch binders, so you can warm up meals with confidence, knowing no harmful chemicals are leaching into your little bear’s food- they truly are microwavable plates, bowls and cups!

The Final Wrap Up

Choosing truly microwave-safe dinnerware helps protect your child’s health and makes everyday meals simpler. Look for safe materials, clear labelling, and products free from harmful additives like melamine.  By making informed choices, you can feel confident about what’s being heated with safe microwavable plates.  

Explore our EcoCubs bamboo dinnerware and enjoy peace of mind with every meal.