5 Reasons Why Bamboo Tableware Is Best for Kids | Eco & Safe Dining Guide

The global bamboo tableware market is predicted to reach USD 5.1 billion by 2030, with the U.S. alone contributing USD 3.89 billion. (1) (2) 

The ban on single-use plastics is not the primary reason bamboo tableware is becoming a part of every household. People, especially parents, are increasingly choosing it over plastic, silicone, and even stainless steel because bamboo tableware is non-toxic, lightweight, durable, and kid-friendly. Moreover, being eco-friendly, they help kids get into the habit of green measures from childhood. 

In this article, we will discuss the benefits of bamboo tableware and how it compares to other materials. We will also discuss some important buying and maintenance tips to help you decide if they can be a part of your household. 

First, let’s look at their brief history. 

History of bamboo tableware

Bamboo products aren’t new and fancy. They have been around for about 7,000 years now. Archaeological discoveries have found bamboo cups, plates, bowls, chopsticks, containers, and other utensils used in Asia during the Neolithic era. Chinese and Japanese people also used bamboo to make cooking utensils such as steamers because of its strength, flexibility, and anti-bacterial properties. 

With time, it was replaced by ceramic, porcelain, glass, metal, paper, and, most recently, plastic. 

But it's time to bring it back to our kitchen. Let's understand why. 

Why choose bamboo tableware for kids (and for everyone)

Here are the top five benefits of using eco-friendly kids’ tableware.

Non-toxic and chemical-free

Several studies have concluded that BPA (Bisphenol A), phthalates, and heavy metals found in plastic tableware are directly linked to developmental and hormonal issues in kids. (3) 

Our bamboo tableware is made of 100% natural ingredients. It has no chemicals or additives that could break down and release toxins into the food. Moreover, being dense and non-porous,  bamboo doesn’t absorb food color or residues, meaning it remains stain-free and odor-free. 

Antimicrobial and antibacterial

Studies have also found that bamboo can resist the growth of microorganisms on its surface. (4) These microorganisms include fungi and common food-borne pathogens like E-coli. 

What could be more relaxing for parents than knowing their child’s plates, bowls, and spoons are safe and hygienic for everyday meals!

Lightweight and durable 

Plastic tableware can crack when dropped frequently, whereas bamboo cups and plates can withstand rough handling. They do not chip or crack easily. Plus, they are so lightweight that even toddlers can carry them around! This helps boost independence and confidence among young kids. 

Easy to clean

Bamboo bowls and cups are naturally non-porous, so juices and sauces do not seep in. This makes cleaning far easier. You only need to scrub them with mild soap, rinse them with water, and let them dry. You may also put them in the dishwasher, but we recommend hand cleaning. The harsh detergent and prolonged exposure to hot water could make them crack or warp. 

Encourage sustainability among kids. 

Kids learn from their parents. If you follow sustainability and introduce it to them at an early age, they are more likely to choose a sustainable lifestyle over convenience. This small choice of bamboo tableware can shape their lives and make them environmentally responsible citizens! 

Now that you have understood the benefits of bamboo tableware, let's compare it with the other available options to get a fair idea. 

Bamboo versus Silicone tableware

Like bamboo, high-quality, certified food-grade silicone is free from harmful chemicals. It doesn’t leach anything into the food even when exposed to high temperatures. Being non-porous, it is stain and odor-resistant. Silicone is exceptionally flexible and unbreakable. 

However, high-quality, food-grade silicone is quite expensive and not easily available. Low-quality silicones have fillers that can leach into the food. Needless to say, it is non-biodegradable. 

Bamboo versus plastic

We have already discussed it above, but it's worth discussing again how harmful plastic tableware is. Irrespective of its quality, plastic leaches harmful chemicals into food. It is made of non-biodegradable materials and is one of the major contributors to global pollution. 

Yet, many of us use plastic cups, plates, spoons, and more at home, especially for kids. That's because plastic tableware is lightweight, durable, dishwasher and microwave safe. Plus, it comes in many attractive colors and designs, which kids love. 

Bamboo products are more expensive than plastic, require hand washing, and have limited heat resistance, but they are 100% safe. 

Bamboo versus stainless steel

If there is one material that solidly competes with bamboo in terms of durability, hygiene, and safety, it's stainless steel. But steel is heavier for young kids and tends to get too hot or too cold to touch. That's where bamboo stands out. Although bamboo is less durable and requires more maintenance than steel, one set of bamboo tableware could easily last your child’s early childhood. 

Interested in bamboo tableware? Let’s look at how they are manufactured. 

Bamboo Tableware Manufacturing Process

Here’s a brief overview of our manufacturing process. 

• Raw material selection - As a trusted B2B bamboo supplier, we prioritize sustainability by using only fully mature 3-5-year-old Moso bamboo. These stalks have optimal fiber density and offer maximum strength. 
• Cutting and splitting -  The stalks are cut lengthwise to get workable strips. 
• Milling and carbonization - The outer skin of the strips is removed, and they are carbonized to deepen their color. The strips are then treated to increase their resistance to fungus, mold, and insects.
• Fine planing and sorting - The strips are planed to ensure uniform thickness and smoothness. Once ready, they are sorted by their tone. Only the finest quality strips make it through this process. 
• Hot-press lamination - The matching strips are glued using formaldehyde-free, FDA-approved binders. They are then passed through hot-press machines to form solid bamboo panels. 
• Blank cutting - The panels are now cut into blanks that match the size of the tableware. These blanks undergo CNC profiling to carve precise shapes. 
• Surface finishing -  The edges and surfaces of the tableware are polished. They are sealed with food-safe varnish or natural oil and inspected for optimal quality.
• Packaging and warehousing - We wrap the finished tableware in recyclable paper and store it in our climate-controlled warehouses until they are ready to be shipped. 

Here is an article on our sustainable bamboo production process. 

Now, let's look at some buying tips. 

How to buy bamboo tableware for kids

Here are a few things you should keep in mind when buying eco-friendly kids’ tableware - 

• Always buy tableware made of 100% bamboo. Many bamboo products are actually composites with melamine and other synthetics used as binders. Look for certifications/labels like BPA, phthalate-free, food grade, etc.
• Make sure you buy FSC-certified products. Forest Stewardship Council certification indicates the bamboo is responsibly grown, sourced, and processed without harmful chemicals. 
• Look for kid-friendly features like rounded corners, textured designs for easy grip, anti-slip base, and more. 
• Make sure the finish is non-toxic, preferably food-safe natural oil. 
• Do not buy bamboo tableware marked as microwave or dishwasher safe, as they are highly likely to contain synthetic additives. 100% bamboo tableware can’t be used in a microwave and won’t last long if washed in a dishwasher. 

As we said, bamboo tableware does need some basic maintenance. Let's learn more. 

Maintenance tips for bamboo tableware 

This table will help you understand what you should or shouldn’t do to make your kids' bamboo plates, cups, and spoons last longer.

If you have a bamboo countertop or other bamboo products at home, here are some maintenance tips to help you prolong their life.

Still have questions? Check out these FAQs.

Bamboo tableware for kids - FAQs

Are bamboo plates safe for microwaving?

No, bamboo tableware is not microwave-safe. 100% natural bamboo products will crack or warp when microwaved. However, bamboo bowls that contain melamine or resin can be microwaved, but such products are not safe.

Can bamboo plates be used for both hot and cold foods?

Absolutely!

Our bamboo cups, plates, and bowls can hold hot and cold food. However, we suggest not filling them with piping hot food, as they could warp over time.

Can you clean bamboo tableware in the dishwasher?

You can, but we recommend hand washing to prolong their life.

How long does bamboo tableware last?

Our bamboo tableware can last 3-5 years or more, depending on how you use and maintain it.

Wrap up

If you are still using plastic tableware for your kids, it's time to switch to a healthier alternative like bamboo and keep them safe from harmful chemicals. Even if it costs a bit more, it’s worth the price.

Need bamboo tableware in bulk for hotel buffets, children restaurants, or institutional catering? Contact us today for a free sample. Read our guide on ‘How to Import Bamboo Plywood from China’ to understand the trade regulations and other details. As your trusted B2B bamboo supplier, we will provide you with the finest quality products and help you import them safely.