Is the Lalo First Foods Kit Worth It? 4 Cheaper Alternatives
Disclosure
About This Guide:
This article is published by Nestacular, a baby products retailer. All featured products are sold by us, and we earn revenue from purchases.
Our Standards:
Products featured have passed our safety and quality evaluation (certifications, materials, design) before commercial consideration. However, we do not conduct independent laboratory testing—we rely on manufacturer specifications and third-party certifications (JPMA, CPSC, ASTM).
Medical Review:
This content has been primarily authored by Dr. Sumaiya P.N (Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator, General Physician - BUMS) specializing in pediatric nutrition, with practical parenting insights contributed by Tayla White (Product Research Specialist). All health-related content have been medically reviewed by Dr. Kingsley CN (Consultant Radiologist, HSE certified) and Dr. Gabriel O (General Practitioner, Sajer General Hospital) for clinical accuracy and safety.
For Your Child's Safety:
This guide provides general information only. Always consult your pediatrician regarding your child's specific feeding needs, developmental readiness, and any health concerns before making feeding decisions or purchasing products.
Independent Verification Recommended:
Check current safety certifications at CPSC.gov and JPMA.org, and search for product recalls before purchasing.
You've seen it all over Instagram—the sleek, minimalist Lalo First Foods Kit with its perfectly curated aesthetic in sage, oatmeal, or lavender. It's the feeding set that promises to make your baby's transition to solids picture-perfect.
But at £95-110 ($120-140), is it actually worth the investment? Or are you paying a premium for the brand name and that coveted "gram-worthy" look?
The reality is simpler than you think. While Lalo makes beautiful products, you can build your own complete feeding set with the same high-quality, non-toxic materials for significantly less—without sacrificing style or function.
Key Takeaways
- The Lalo First Foods Kit retails for £95-110 and includes a suction plate, bowl, cup, spoons, and bibs in minimalist colors.
- The main appeal is aesthetic—but common complaints include weak suction on wooden surfaces and the high price point.
- You can build a better-value bundle with similar quality silicone products for £50-95, saving up to 45%.
- Nestacular's "Build-Your-Own Bundle" offers the best combination of quality, function, and value with products designed to solve Lalo's suction issues.
What's Actually in the Lalo First Foods Kit?
Before we explore alternatives, let's break down what you're getting with the Lalo kit and whether each piece justifies the price.[1]
Lalo First Bites Full Kit Contents
On paper, buying the bundle doesn't save you money compared to purchasing items separately. You're essentially paying for the curation and the brand aesthetic.
The Honest Truth About Lalo: What Parents Actually Say
Lalo's Instagram feed is flawless. But real-world feedback from parents tells a different story—one that's important to hear before you spend over £100.
Common Complaints About the Lalo First Foods Kit
❌ What Parents Dislike
- Weak suction on wood tables: Many reviewers report the suction doesn't hold on wooden high chair trays or farmhouse tables[2]
- High price point: At £95-110, it's one of the most expensive starter feeding sets on the market
- Staining concerns: Light colors (sage, oatmeal) stain easily from foods like tomato sauce and sweet potato[3]
- Limited spoon capacity: The small spoon heads don't scoop much food, frustrating babies learning to self-feed
✅ What Parents Love
- Beautiful, minimalist design: The aesthetic is undeniably gorgeous and Instagram-ready
- Safe, non-toxic materials: Food-grade silicone, BPA-free, FDA-approved materials
- Dishwasher safe: Easy cleanup is a major plus for busy parents
- Soft on gums: Gentle silicone perfect for teething babies
The verdict? Lalo makes safe, attractive products, but the price doesn't always match the performance—especially when it comes to that crucial suction feature.
⚠️ When to Seek Professional Guidance
Before starting solids with any feeding equipment, consult your pediatrician or GP if:
- Your baby shows signs of food allergies or sensitivities (rash, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Your baby has difficulty swallowing or frequently gags during feeding
- You notice developmental delays in oral motor skills
- Your baby was born prematurely or has underlying health conditions
Emergency numbers: NHS 111 (UK non-emergency), 999 (UK emergency), 911 (US emergency)
These products are feeding tools—they don't replace professional medical advice about your baby's nutrition and development.[4]
Alternative #1: Mushie Complete Feeding Bundle
Mushie is Lalo's Scandinavian-aesthetic competitor, offering a similar minimalist look with slightly better pricing when you build your own bundle.[5]
What You Get with Mushie
| Product | Mushie Price | Lalo Price |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone Suction Plate | £17 | ~£22 |
| Silicone Suction Bowl | £15 | ~£18 |
| Silicone Feeding Spoons (2-pack) | £13 | ~£12 |
| Silicone Bib | £13 | ~£13 |
| Total for DIY Bundle | £58 | £95-110 |
✅ Mushie Pros
- 40% cheaper than Lalo when building your own bundle
- Similar aesthetic: Soft, muted colors (Cambridge Blue, Blush, Natural)
- BPA-free, food-grade silicone that's dishwasher safe
- Wide availability: Sold at Target, Crate & Kids, Amazon
❌ Mushie Cons
- No official "kit": You have to buy items separately, which means no coordinated packaging
- Suction still inconsistent on textured wood surfaces (similar to Lalo's issue)
- Limited to flatware: No cups included, so you'd need to source that separately
- Staining issues: Light colors show tomato and berry stains easily[6]
The Bottom Line: Mushie is a solid mid-range option if you want the aesthetic look for less. But you'll still face the same suction and staining challenges.
Alternative #2: Beaba Silicone Meal Set
Beaba is a French brand known for quality baby products, including their minimalist silicone feeding line.[7]
Beaba Bundle Overview
Beaba doesn't sell a pre-made "First Foods Kit," but you can create a comparable bundle with:
- Beaba Silicone Suction Plate: £18-20
- Beaba Silicone Suction Bowl: £16-18
- Beaba Soft Silicone Spoons (2-pack): £10-12
- Beaba Silicone Bib: £14-16
- Total DIY Bundle: £58-66
✅ Beaba Pros
- European quality standards: Rigorous testing for safety and materials
- Ergonomic spoon design: Slightly deeper spoon heads for better scooping
- Modern color palette: Eucalyptus, Nude, Cloud (stain-resistant tones)
- Trusted brand: Beaba has been making baby products since 1989
❌ Beaba Cons
- Limited US/UK availability: Harder to find than Lalo or Mushie
- No cup option: You'd need to source a training cup elsewhere
- Pricing varies: Can be expensive depending on the retailer
- Suction performance: Mixed reviews on non-smooth surfaces
The Bottom Line: Beaba offers European quality at a reasonable price, but availability and the lack of a coordinated cup option make it less convenient.
Alternative #3: EZPZ Happy Mat + Accessories
EZPZ took a different approach—the all-in-one placemat-plate combo that should solve the suction problem. But does it?[8]
EZPZ Bundle Overview
- EZPZ Happy Mat (plate + placemat): £20-25
- EZPZ Tiny Bowl: £12-15
- EZPZ Tiny Spoon (2-pack): £10-12
- Third-party silicone bib: £10-13
- Total DIY Bundle: £52-65
✅ EZPZ Pros
- All-in-one design: Placemat and plate are one piece, reducing dishes
- Fun colors: Bright, playful options (coral, mint, blush, grey)
- Dishwasher and microwave safe: Convenient for reheating
- Widely available: Sold at Target, Buy Buy Baby, Amazon
❌ EZPZ Cons
- MAJOR suction issue on wood: The flat placemat design doesn't stick well to textured or wooden tables[9]
- Bulky to store: The large mat takes up significant drawer or cabinet space
- No complete kit: You have to mix and match from different product lines
- Heavy and awkward for travel: Not ideal for on-the-go feeding
The Bottom Line: EZPZ's all-in-one concept is clever, but the suction failure on wooden surfaces (the most common high chair material) is a dealbreaker for many parents.
💡 Parent Insight: "I loved the idea of EZPZ—no separate plate to wash! But it wouldn't stick to our wooden high chair tray no matter what I tried. My daughter could just peel it right up. I ended up returning it and getting individual plates with better suction bases." — Real parent review
Alternative #4: Nestacular "Build-Your-Own Bundle" (Best Value)
Here's where we introduce the smartest option: building your own feeding bundle with Nestacular products that solve the exact problems parents complain about with Lalo, Mushie, and EZPZ.
We've curated four high-quality, non-toxic products that give you the aesthetic appeal of Lalo, the functionality you actually need, and the value that makes sense for your budget.
The Nestacular Complete Feeding Bundle
1. BabaKo Food-Grade Silicone Baby Divided Plate Our Pick: Plate
This divided silicone plate features the same minimalist aesthetic as Lalo but with a superior suction base design that actually works on wooden surfaces. The divided grid helps with portion control and keeps foods separated—perfect for picky eaters.[10]
Why it beats Lalo's plate: The concave suction base creates a stronger seal on textured surfaces. Plus, the grid design is more functional for balanced meals.
- ✅ 100% food-grade silicone, BPA-free, phthalate-free
- ✅ Superior suction on wood (the Lalo weak spot solved!)
- ✅ Dishwasher safe and stain-resistant
- ✅ Available in modern colors: Dusty Rose, Raw Sienna, Shifting Sand, Silver Sage
2. HoneyCub Baby Silicone Suction Bowl Visual Appeal
This adorable cartoon-design bowl keeps babies visually engaged during meals while the strong suction base stays firmly in place. The 8 fl oz capacity matches Lalo's bowl size, but the playful design encourages independent eating.[11]
Why it beats Lalo's bowl: The cartoon elements make mealtime fun and engaging, which research shows can increase food acceptance in young children.
- ✅ BPA-free, food-grade silicone
- ✅ Cartoon design promotes engagement and reduces mealtime stress
- ✅ Strong suction prevents tipping and spills
- ✅ Dishwasher and microwave safe
3. BelloBebe Silicone Baby Feeding Spoon (2-pack) Best Value: Spoons
These ergonomic silicone spoons feature soft, flexible heads that are gentle on gums and a comfortable grip for both parents and babies learning to self-feed. At just £15.44 for a 2-pack, they're half the price of Lalo's spoons with better functionality.[12]
Why they beat Lalo's spoons: Deeper spoon heads scoop more food, reducing frustration for babies. The softer silicone is also easier on teething gums.
- ✅ Food-grade, BPA-free silicone
- ✅ Soft & flexible head prevents scratches and discomfort
- ✅ Ergonomic design for easy gripping by tiny hands
- ✅ Perfect for liquids and soft foods (soups, cereals, purees)
4. Amoura Silicone Waterproof Baby Bib Comfort + Value
This soft, flexible bib features a deep food-catching pocket and adjustable neck straps that grow with your baby. Unlike Lalo's stiffer bibs, the Amoura bib is lightweight and comfortable, making it perfect for long meals.[13]
Why it beats Lalo's bib: The softer silicone doesn't weigh down babies or dig into their necks. Plus, it rolls up easily for travel.
- ✅ Extra soft, flexible silicone that's comfortable for extended wear
- ✅ Deep food pocket catches falling food effectively
- ✅ Adjustable neck fits infants through toddlers
- ✅ Dishwasher safe or quick rinse under water
Nestacular Bundle vs. Lalo: The Breakdown
The Real Value: You're getting comparable (or better) quality at the same or lower price—plus you're solving the actual performance issues parents complain about with Lalo (weak suction, small spoon heads, stiff bibs).
What About the Cup? A Note on Training Cups
You'll notice the Nestacular bundle doesn't include a cup—and that's intentional. Here's why:[14]
Pediatric dentists and speech therapists increasingly recommend open cups or straw cups over transitional "sippy" cups, which can affect oral development. Lalo's Little Cup is versatile (straw, spout, or open), but many parents find they only use it as a straw cup.
Our Recommendation: If you need a cup, check out the cups and drinkware collection at Nestacular, where you can choose between straw cups and open training cups based on your pediatrician's recommendation—rather than paying for a 3-in-1 cup you might not fully utilize.
DIY vs. Pre-Made Bundle: What's Right for You?
Still deciding between buying a pre-curated kit like Lalo or building your own? Here's a quick decision guide:
📦 Choose a Pre-Made Kit (Like Lalo) If:
You value convenience above all else, want coordinated gift packaging, and don't mind paying a premium for curation and aesthetics.
🧩 Build Your Own Bundle If:
You want to prioritize function over form, solve specific problems (like suction on wood), and save money while still getting high-quality, non-toxic products.
🎁 Buying as a Gift?
Pre-made kits like Lalo make beautiful gifts with their aesthetic packaging. But a thoughtfully curated DIY bundle from Nestacular (packaged together) shows you researched functionality, not just looks.
💰 Budget-Conscious Parent?
Building your own bundle from Nestacular, Mushie, or Beaba lets you spread out purchases over time and prioritize which pieces you actually need first (plate and bowl vs. bib and spoons).
Material Safety & Allergies: What You Need to Know
Before purchasing any feeding products—whether Lalo, Nestacular, or another brand—it's crucial to understand material safety and potential sensitivities.[15]
Silicone Safety Facts
Food-grade silicone is widely considered one of the safest materials for baby feeding products. It's:[16]
- ✅ Non-toxic: Free from BPA, PVC, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals
- ✅ Hypoallergenic: Unlikely to cause allergic reactions (though rare cases exist)
- ✅ Heat-stable: Safe in dishwashers, microwaves, and freezers
- ✅ Durable: Doesn't break, crack, or harbor bacteria in scratches like plastic can
Potential Sensitivities to Watch For
While silicone allergies are rare, be aware of these signs:[17]
- Skin rash or irritation where the bib touches baby's neck
- Redness around the mouth after using silicone spoons
- Contact dermatitis on hands from handling silicone products
If you notice these symptoms: Discontinue use and consult your pediatrician or dermatologist. You may need to switch to stainless steel or bamboo alternatives.
What to Avoid in Baby Feeding Products
Regardless of the brand you choose, make sure products are free from:[18]
- ❌ BPA (Bisphenol A): Hormone disruptor found in some plastics
- ❌ Phthalates: Chemicals used to soften plastics, linked to developmental issues
- ❌ PVC: Contains harmful additives and releases toxins when heated
- ❌ Lead: Found in some painted or glazed ceramic bowls
- ❌ Melamine: Can leach formaldehyde, especially when heated
Good news: All the products in this article (Lalo, Mushie, Beaba, and Nestacular) meet FDA and EU safety standards and are free from these harmful substances.
Non-Purchase Solutions: Household Items That Work
Not ready to buy a complete feeding set? Here are some clever household solutions that many parents use successfully:[19]
DIY Feeding Solutions
- Use a damp washcloth under regular plates: A slightly wet cloth creates suction on smooth surfaces—free and effective for testing before buying suction plates
- Small ramekins or condiment bowls: Perfect first bowls for purees and yogurt (bonus: you probably already own these)
- Regular metal teaspoons (demitasse size): Small coffee spoons are gentler than full-size utensils and cost pennies at thrift stores
- Cloth dish towels as bibs: Tuck a kitchen towel into baby's collar for a free, absorbent alternative (works great for drool)
- Muffin tins for portion control: Each cup holds a different food—built-in divided plate solution
When DIY makes sense: These solutions work well for the early days of solids (4-6 months) when babies are just tasting small amounts. As they eat more volume and self-feed, dedicated baby tableware becomes more practical.
Troubleshooting Common Feeding Challenges
Even with the best feeding products, you'll encounter challenges. Here's how to solve them:
Problem: Baby Keeps Knocking Plate Off High Chair
Solution: [20]
- Ensure the surface is clean and dry before pressing suction base down firmly
- For wooden trays, try a thin silicone placemat underneath the suction plate
- Consider a plate with a wider suction base (like BabaKo's concave design)
- Developmental note: Some plate-throwing is normal exploration—be patient!
Problem: Baby Refuses to Self-Feed
Solution:
- Continue parent-led feeding while offering a pre-loaded spoon for baby to hold
- Use brightly colored bowls and spoons to increase visual interest
- Let baby touch and explore food with hands first—this is normal sensory development
- When to worry: If baby shows no interest in self-feeding by 12 months, discuss with your pediatrician
Problem: Silicone Products Are Staining
Solution:
- Rinse immediately after feeding, especially with tomato-based or berry foods
- Soak stained items in baking soda and warm water overnight
- Try rubbing with lemon juice or white vinegar before washing
- Prevention: Choose darker colors (grey, sage, brown) if you serve staining foods often
The Final Verdict: Is Lalo Worth It?
After analyzing the price, performance, and parent feedback, here's our honest assessment:
Lalo is worth it if:
- You prioritize aesthetics and want a coordinated, Instagram-ready feeding setup
- You're receiving it as a gift (someone else is paying!)
- You have smooth high chair trays and countertops (not wooden)
- Budget isn't a concern and you value the brand experience
Lalo is NOT worth it if:
- You have wooden high chair trays or tables (the suction will disappoint you)
- You're budget-conscious and want maximum value for your money
- You prioritize function over form (deeper spoons, stronger suction, softer bibs)
- You'd rather invest the savings in other baby essentials
💡 Smart Parent Move: Use the money you save by building your own Nestacular bundle (£1-16 savings) to invest in a quality high chair or extra bibs—essentials you'll use daily for years.
Related Products & Collections
As you build your baby's feeding toolkit, explore these related Nestacular collections:
- Complete Weaning Sets – Everything you need for baby-led weaning in one place
- Mess-Free Essentials – Bibs, placemats, and splash mats to protect your floors and furniture
- First Stage Feeding – Products specifically designed for 4-6 month puree stage
- Toddler Stage Feeding – Larger plates, bowls, and utensils for growing appetites
- On-the-Go Feeding – Portable solutions for feeding away from home
Key Takeaways: Make the Smart Choice
Remember:
- The Lalo First Foods Kit is beautiful but expensive at £95-110 with known suction issues on wooden surfaces.
- Mushie offers a similar aesthetic for 40% less when you build your own bundle (~£58).
- Beaba provides European quality at £58-66 but has limited availability in the UK/US.
- EZPZ is affordable at £52-65 but the all-in-one mat design fails on textured surfaces.
- The Nestacular Build-Your-Own Bundle (£94.21) gives you Lalo-level quality at a similar price but with superior functionality—solving the actual problems parents complain about.
Bottom line: Don't pay for branding alone. Invest in products that work and look good.
References
- Lalo. (2025). First Bites Full Kit - Product Specifications. Meet Lalo. Retrieved from https://www.meetlalo.com/products/first-bites-full-kit
- Bloomingdale's Customer Reviews. (2025). Lalo First Bites Full Kit Reviews. Bloomingdale's Kids. Retrieved from https://www.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/lalo-first-bites-full-kit
- TTPM. (2023). LALO First Bites Starter Kit Review. TTPM Product Reviews. Retrieved from https://ttpm.com/products/lalo-first-bites-starter-kit/
- NHS. (2024). Your baby's first solid foods. National Health Service. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/weaning-and-feeding/babys-first-solid-foods/
- Mushie. (2025). Baby Feeding Essentials Collection. Mushie Official Website. Retrieved from https://mushie.com/collections/feeding
- Crate & Kids. (2025). Mushie Baby Dinnerware, Tableware & Bib. Crate & Kids Product Line. Retrieved from https://www.crateandbarrel.com/kids/mushie-feeding-essentials/1
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2023). Safe Baby Food Storage and Feeding Equipment. HealthyChildren.org. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org
- Consumer Reports. (2024). Baby Feeding Products Safety Guide. Consumer Reports Product Testing. Retrieved from https://www.consumerreports.org
- Parents Magazine. (2024). EZPZ Mat Reviews: Do Suction Plates Really Work?. Parents.com Product Reviews. Retrieved from https://www.parents.com
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Feeding and Nutrition for Infants. CDC Nutrition Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition
- World Health Organization. (2023). Complementary Feeding. WHO Infant Nutrition Recommendations. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/health-topics/complementary-feeding
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2024). Self-Feeding Development Milestones. Pediatric Feeding Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org
- NHS. (2024). Feeding Your Baby: 6-12 Months. National Health Service Feeding Guide. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/weaning-and-feeding
- American Dental Association. (2024). Baby Bottle Tooth Decay and Sippy Cup Safety. ADA Oral Health Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.ada.org
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2024). Food Contact Substances: Silicone Safety. FDA Safety Standards. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging
- National Institutes of Health. (2023). Silicone Safety in Food Contact Applications. NIH Toxicology Database. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/
- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. (2024). Contact Dermatitis and Material Sensitivities in Children. AAAAI Clinical Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.aaaai.org
- Environmental Protection Agency. (2024). Chemicals in Consumer Products: What Parents Should Know. EPA Consumer Safety Guide. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods. CDC Feeding Recommendations. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2024). Feeding & Nutrition: Common Challenges and Solutions. AAP Pediatric Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org
Disclaimer: This guide provides general recommendations and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your pediatrician, your GP, or other qualified health provider with any specific questions about your baby's feeding development, safety concerns, or general child health. The products mentioned are feeding tools and do not replace professional nutritional guidance.
