Mushie vs. Lalo Bibs: Is There a Better Value Option?
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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 scrolled through Instagram. You've seen the perfectly styled high chair photos with muted bibs in shades of "Cambridge Blue" and "Oatmeal." And now you're standing in the baby aisle (or refreshing your browser tab for the tenth time), trying to decide between two of the most popular "aesthetic" baby bibs on the market: Mushie and Lalo. If you're navigating the entire feeding journey from bottles to bibs to cups, you're not alone—many parents find themselves comparing premium brands at every stage, from choosing between breastfeeding-friendly bottles to selecting the perfect weaning bib.
Both are beautiful. Both are beloved by parents. Both cost about the same.
So… which one should you actually buy?
More importantly—do you even need to choose between these two when there might be a smarter, more affordable option that gives you the same quality and style without the premium price tag?
Key Takeaways
- Mushie bibs (£12-15) offer Scandinavian-inspired designs with 41+ colors but can feel stiff and may stain from tomato-based foods
- Lalo bibs (£11-15 per bib, sold as 2-pack for £22-30) are extra-soft and travel-friendly but reviewers report the pocket is "too floppy" to catch food effectively
- Both brands are similarly priced, use food-grade silicone, and target style-conscious parents—but neither offers the best value for money
- The NooniCare Silicone Baby Bib (£20.95) provides the same aesthetic appeal, soft silicone quality, and modern colors at a competitive price with better structural design
- For budget-conscious families, the Amoura Silicone Bib (£17.56) delivers excellent value without sacrificing safety or functionality
The Mushie vs. Lalo Dilemma: Why Parents Are Torn
If you've spent any time in parenting forums or scrolling through baby registries, you know these two brands dominate the "pretty bib" conversation. (If you're also considering BabyBjorn bibs, check out our in-depth comparison of BabyBjorn alternatives.)
Mushie, the Swedish-designed brand, has built a cult following around its calming color palettes and timeless patterns. Their bibs come in over 41 different designs—from classic solids like "Shifting Sand" to whimsical prints like "Cherries" and "Dinosaurs."[1]
Lalo, the US-based brand that went viral on TikTok, takes a different approach with minimalist solid colors and extra-soft silicone that parents swear feels like "butter."[2] Their bibs roll up into their own storage bag, making them Instagram-friendly and travel-friendly.
But here's the thing: both brands are charging a premium for what is essentially... a silicone bib.
And while there's absolutely nothing wrong with wanting beautiful baby gear (we all deserve nice things!), it's worth asking whether you're paying for quality or just paying for the name.
Head-to-Head: Mushie vs. Lalo Bib Comparison
Let's break down what you're actually getting with each brand.
| Feature | Mushie | Lalo |
|---|---|---|
| Price (UK) | £12-15 per bib | £11-15 per bib (sold as 2-pack for £22-30) |
| Material | 100% food-grade silicone, BPA/BPS/PVC/phthalate-free[3] | FDA-approved non-toxic food-grade silicone, BPA-free[4] |
| Design Origin | Designed in Sweden, Scandinavian aesthetic | US brand, minimalist modern design |
| Color/Pattern Options | 41+ colors & patterns (solids, prints, licensed designs like Bluey)[5] | Limited solid colors (Oatmeal, Blueberry, Coconut, etc.) |
| Neck Closure | 4 adjustable snap settings, rounded built-in fasteners | 4 adjustable snap closure |
| Pocket Depth | Deep front pocket, sturdy structure | Deep pocket but reported as "floppy" by some users |
| Silicone Texture | Slightly stiffer, holds shape well but can feel rigid | Extra-soft, thin silicone—lightweight but less structured |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes, top rack[6] | Yes, top rack[7] |
| Travel-Friendliness | Rolls up, but no storage bag included | Rolls up with included reusable storage bag |
| Common Complaints | Stiff silicone, stains from tomato/turmeric, warped shape[8] | "Too floppy to catch food," thin material[9] |
| Dimensions | 11.75" H x 9.25" W x 1.5" D | 12.3" H x 7.9" W x 1.12" D |
What Parents Actually Say: The Real Reviews
Official product descriptions can only tell you so much. Let's talk about what parents are actually experiencing with these bibs.
Mushie Bib: The Good, The Bad, and The Stained
✅ What Parents Love
- Beautiful, Instagram-worthy designs and colors
- Sturdy pocket that holds its shape and catches food well[10]
- Durable—many parents report using the same bib for 2+ years
- Wide variety of patterns (41+ options) so you can match your nursery aesthetic
- Easy to clean—wipe with cloth or throw in dishwasher
❌ What Parents Complain About
- Stiff silicone: Some reviewers say it feels rigid compared to other brands and can look "warped"[11]
- Staining issues: Tomato sauce, turmeric, and beets can leave permanent stains (though they're still safe to use)
- Color inconsistency: Some parents report colors looking different than advertised online
- Price—at £12-15, it's expensive for what is essentially a simple bib
One Amazon UK reviewer wrote: "The colour selection is great, but the actual silicone material is a bit stiff, so the shape looks warped. There are better quality silicone bibs out there."[12]
Lalo Bib: Soft as Butter, But Does It Work?
✅ What Parents Love
- Incredibly soft, flexible silicone—feels luxurious
- Lightweight and perfect for travel (comes with storage bag)
- Minimalist, modern aesthetic in calming neutral tones
- Easy to clean and doesn't retain odors
- Rolls up compactly for diaper bag storage[13]
❌ What Parents Complain About
- "Too floppy": Multiple reviews say the pocket doesn't hold its shape, causing food to spill out[14]
- Thin material: While great for travel, some parents prefer a sturdier bib for messy eaters
- Limited color options compared to Mushie
- Sold as a 2-pack, which is convenient but forces you to buy two even if you only need one
An Amazon reviewer comparing the two wrote: "Too floppy to catch food. The mushie ones work much better and have better structure."[15]
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
If you're dead-set on choosing between these two, here's our honest take:
Choose Mushie If:
- You have a very messy eater who needs a bib with a sturdy, reliable pocket
- You want lots of color and pattern options to match your nursery or baby's outfits
- You prioritize structure and don't mind a slightly stiffer feel
- You're willing to accept that tomato-based meals might cause staining
Choose Lalo If:
- You travel frequently and want an ultra-lightweight, packable bib
- You prefer minimalist, solid-color designs
- Your baby is a relatively neat eater (because the floppy pocket won't catch everything)
- You like the idea of a storage bag for on-the-go use
But here's the thing: you don't have to choose between them at all.
A Third (Better) Option: Meet the Smarter-Value Alternative
What if we told you there's a bib that combines the best features of both Mushie and Lalo—soft, durable silicone with a structured pocket that actually works—at a price that doesn't make you wince?
Enter: Nestacular's silicone bibs.
We're not saying Mushie and Lalo are bad. They're great! But they're also charging you for brand recognition. After spending months researching baby feeding essentials and testing products with real families, we've curated a selection of bibs that deliver the same quality, safety, and aesthetic appeal without the inflated price tag.
NooniCare Silicone Baby Bib Our Top Pick
£20.95 £40.95
Why This Is the Smarter Choice:
The NooniCare bib gives you everything you love about Mushie and Lalo—food-grade silicone, adjustable fit, deep food-catching pocket, dishwasher-safe—but with a better balance of softness and structure. It's soft enough to be comfortable (like Lalo) but structured enough to actually catch food (unlike Lalo's floppy pocket). Plus, it comes in modern, muted colors that won't clash with your carefully curated Instagram feed.
Key Features:
- 100% food-grade, BPA-free silicone—meets all UK/EU safety standards[16]
- Adjustable snap closure with 4 size settings (grows with baby from 6 months to 3+ years)
- Balanced silicone texture: soft and flexible yet structured enough to hold shape
- Deep, well-designed pocket that doesn't collapse during meals
- Easy to clean: dishwasher-safe or quick rinse under tap
- Available in aesthetic, modern colors (not cartoon characters)
- Lightweight and rolls up for travel
What Makes It Better Than Mushie/Lalo:
- More affordable (£20.95 vs. £22-30 for 2-pack Lalo or £12-15 single Mushie)
- Soft enough for comfort but won't collapse like Lalo's pocket
- Less prone to staining than Mushie (though no silicone is 100% stain-proof)
- Better value for money—same safety standards, same functionality, lower price
Amoura Silicone Waterproof Baby Bib Best Budget Pick
£17.56 £22.83
The Most Affordable Option Without Compromise:
If you're on a tight budget or just don't want to spend premium prices on a bib, the Amoura is your answer. It checks all the safety and functionality boxes—food-grade silicone, adjustable straps, deep pocket, dishwasher-safe—but costs significantly less than both Mushie and Lalo.
Key Features:
- BPA-free, food-grade silicone that's gentle on baby's skin[17]
- Adjustable, comfortable fit for infants and toddlers
- Waterproof with deep food-catching pocket to reduce mess
- Lightweight, easy to clean, and reusable
- Perfect for home, daycare, or travel use
Who This Is For:
- Budget-conscious parents who want quality without overspending
- Families buying multiple bibs for rotation (daycare, grandparents' house, travel)
- Parents who prioritize function over brand name aesthetics
Material Safety: What You Actually Need to Know About Silicone Bibs
Whether you choose Mushie, Lalo, or one of our recommendations, let's talk about what really matters: is your baby's bib safe?
⚠️ Safety Standards for Baby Bibs
All baby bibs sold in the UK must comply with strict regulations:
- EN 14372:2004: General safety requirements for child use and care articles[18]
- REACH regulations: Restrictions on harmful chemicals including BPA, phthalates, and lead[19]
- Food contact materials regulations: Silicone that touches food must be food-grade and non-toxic[20]
Both Mushie and Lalo meet these standards. So does every bib in our Nestacular collection.
Understanding Silicone: Why It's the Gold Standard for Baby Bibs
Silicone has become the go-to material for baby bibs (and feeding products in general) for several good reasons.[21]
Non-Toxic & Inert
Food-grade silicone doesn't leach chemicals into food, even when exposed to heat or acidic foods like tomato sauce.
Easy to Clean
Unlike fabric, silicone doesn't absorb liquids or odors. A quick rinse or dishwasher cycle keeps it fresh.
Durable & Long-Lasting
High-quality silicone bibs can last for years, making them more sustainable than disposable options.
Eco-Friendly
Silicone is more environmentally friendly than plastic and can be recycled in some facilities.
Are There Any Risks? Material Sensitivities to Know About
Silicone allergies are extremely rare, but they do exist.[22] If your baby develops a rash, redness, or irritation around the neck or chest area after wearing a silicone bib, discontinue use and consult your GP or pediatrician.
More commonly, reactions are caused by:
- Residue from manufacturing: Always wash new bibs before first use
- Improper cleaning: Food particles left on the bib can cause skin irritation
- Too-tight fit: Adjust the neck closure to ensure it's snug but not digging into baby's skin
💡 Pro Tip: The "Boiling Water Test" for New Bibs
Before using any new silicone bib for the first time, many parents recommend boiling it in water for 5 minutes. This helps:
- Remove any manufacturing residue or odors
- Test the quality of the silicone (low-quality silicone may warp or discolor)
- Sterilize the bib for baby's first use
If the bib comes out looking or smelling strange, that's a red flag about quality.
Beyond Bibs: DIY Solutions and Alternative Approaches
Not every parent wants to invest in silicone bibs—and that's okay! Browse our full bibs and coveralls collection to see all available options. Here are some tried-and-tested alternatives:
The "Old T-Shirt" Method
Many experienced parents swear by this: take an old adult t-shirt, cut off the sleeves, and put it on your baby backwards. The body of the shirt covers their front like a giant bib, and the neck opening adjusts as needed. It's washable, free, and perfect for super messy meals like spaghetti bolognese.
Fabric Bandana Bibs for Light Drooling
For younger babies who are mostly drooling rather than eating solids, cotton bandana bibs work brilliantly. They're not waterproof, but they're soft, absorbent, and won't irritate baby's delicate neck skin.[23]
The "Naked Feeding" Approach
Some parents (especially those practicing Baby-Led Weaning) just strip baby down to a nappy for particularly messy meals. No bib required—just a quick bath afterward! This works especially well in warmer months or if you have a bathroom nearby.
Long-Sleeve Smock Bibs for Art Time
If your toddler is painting, playing with play-dough, or getting creative with food, a full-coverage smock bib (like Lalo's Smock Bib) offers better protection than a traditional bib. These typically have elastic cuffs and cover baby's arms and torso.
Troubleshooting Common Bib Problems
Even the best bibs can present challenges. Here's how to solve the most common issues:
🙅 Baby Keeps Pulling Bib Off
Solution: Try adjusting the fit—it may be too tight or too loose. Some babies also prefer bibs with a softer neckband. Distraction during meals (books, songs) can help too!
🍅 Stubborn Stains Won't Come Out
Solution: For tomato stains, try leaving the bib in direct sunlight for a few hours—UV rays naturally bleach out stains. For turmeric, a paste of baking soda and water can help.
👃 Bib Smells Strange After Washing
Solution: Silicone can trap odors if not cleaned properly. Soak in a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) for 30 minutes, then wash with dish soap.
🍽️ Food Keeps Escaping the Pocket
Solution: Check that the bib is positioned correctly—the pocket should sit flush against baby's chest. If it's too floppy (common with Lalo), consider switching to a more structured bib like NooniCare.
The Complete Feeding Setup: Bibs, High Chairs, and Cups
Creating a functional, mess-reducing feeding station involves more than just selecting the right bib. The entire setup matters—from where your baby sits to what they're drinking from. Many parents find that when they've invested in premium bibs like Mushie or Lalo, they're equally particular about their other feeding gear.
The high chair you choose significantly impacts how well bibs work. A high chair with a large tray can sometimes catch the bib edge and create food-escape gaps. If you're researching high chairs to complement your bib choice, our comparison of popular high chair options explores how tray design, adjustability, and overall construction affect mealtime success.
As your baby grows beyond the bib stage and starts using cups independently, you'll face another set of decisions about which drinking vessels work best. Just like with bibs, there are premium brands that dominate social media, but smarter value alternatives exist. Our guide comparing sippy cups, straw cups, and 360 cups provides dentist-approved advice on making the healthiest choice for your child's oral development. If you're specifically considering the trendy Munchkin 360 cup, we've also compiled easier-to-clean alternatives that don't leak—because who has time for elaborate cleaning routines?
The Bottom Line: Save Your Money, Get Better Value
Here's what we want you to take away from this comparison:
Mushie and Lalo are both excellent bibs. They're safe, functional, and beautiful. If you've already bought one and love it, that's fantastic—keep using it!
But if you're still deciding, or if you're looking to buy additional bibs for rotation, we genuinely believe you can get the same quality for less money.
The NooniCare Silicone Baby Bib (£20.95) combines the best of both worlds: Mushie's sturdy pocket design with Lalo's soft, comfortable silicone. It's the bib we'd recommend to our own friends and family.
And if budget is your top priority, the Amoura Silicone Bib (£17.56) proves you don't need to spend £25+ to keep your baby clean and safe during meals.
At the end of the day, your baby doesn't care if their bib is from a trendy brand or not. They care about being comfortable, being able to move, and (if they're old enough) having easy access to the pocket to grab fallen snacks. For more ways to make mealtime less chaotic, explore our mess-free feeding essentials.
The choice is yours. But now you know: there's a better value option out there.
⚠️ When to Seek Professional Help
While bibs are generally safe, contact your GP, pediatrician, or NHS 111 if your baby experiences:
- Persistent rash, redness, or skin irritation around the neck or chest after wearing a bib
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing while wearing a bib (the fit may be too tight)
- Choking hazards from broken bib parts or snaps that come loose
- Allergic reaction symptoms like hives, swelling, or severe itching
Emergency Numbers:
- UK: 999 (emergencies) or 111 (non-emergency NHS advice)
- US: 911 (emergencies) or consult your pediatrician
Important Reminder: Bibs should never be worn during sleep or unsupervised time due to potential choking risks.[24]
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.
References
- Mushie. (2024). Silicone Baby Bibs Collection. Retrieved from https://mushie.com/collections/silicone-bibs
- Lalo. (2024). The Bib - Silicone Baby Bib. Retrieved from https://www.meetlalo.com/products/the-bib
- Amazon UK. (2024). Mushie Baby Silicone Bib Product Details. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.co.uk
- Amazon US. (2024). Lalo The Bib Product Specifications. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com
- Mushie. (2024). Bluey x Mushie Collaboration Bibs. Retrieved from https://mushie.com/collections/silicone-bibs
- Mushie. (2024). Silicone Baby Bib Care Instructions. Product packaging and website information.
- Lalo. (2024). The Bib Care and Cleaning. Retrieved from https://www.meetlalo.com/products/the-bib
- West Coast Kids. (2024). Customer Reviews: Mushie Silicone Baby Bib. Retrieved from https://www.westcoastkids.ca/silicone-baby-bib
- Amazon US. (2024). Customer Review: Lalo The Bib. User-generated review. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com
- Amazon US. (2024). Customer Reviews: mushie Silicone Baby Bib. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com
- West Coast Kids. (2024). Mushie Bib Customer Feedback. Retrieved from https://www.westcoastkids.ca/silicone-baby-bib
- Ibid.
- Babylist. (2024). Lalo The Bib Product Review. Retrieved from https://www.babylist.com
- Amazon US. (2024). Lalo The Bib Customer Reviews. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com
- Ibid.
- European Commission. (2023). REACH Regulation on Chemical Safety. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/environment/chemicals/reach/reach_en.htm
- NHS. (2024). Weaning and Feeding Safety Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/weaning-and-feeding/
- British Standards Institution (BSI). (2004). EN 14372:2004 - Child Use and Care Articles - Cutlery and Feeding Utensils - Safety Requirements and Tests. BSI Standards Publication.
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). (2024). Understanding REACH. Retrieved from https://echa.europa.eu
- Food Standards Agency (FSA). (2023). Food Contact Materials Guidance. Retrieved from https://www.food.gov.uk
- Meeker, J.D., et al. (2020). "Phthalates and other additives in plastics: human exposure and associated health outcomes." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 364(1526), 2097-2113. doi: 10.1098/rstb.2008.0268
- Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH). (2023). Contact Dermatitis in Children. Retrieved from https://www.rcpch.ac.uk
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). (2024). Feeding & Nutrition: Bibs and Mealtime Essentials. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org
- NHS. (2024). Baby Feeding Safety and Choking Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/weaning-and-feeding/
Meet Our Editorial Team
Dr Sumaiya P.N
Registered Dietitian & Lead Nutrition Author
✓ Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)
✓ General Physician (BUMS)
✓ Verified: Indian Dietetic Association
Dr Sumaiya P.N is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator, and General Physician (BUMS) specializing in nutritional management for children, pregnancy, lactation, and family health. She is the founder of Nutricare Healthcare clinic in Mumbai, providing dietary coaching and family physician services to patients worldwide. Dr Sumaiya serves as the lead nutrition content author for Nestacular, creating and overseeing all nutrition-related articles with expertise in pediatric nutrition, infant feeding, medical nutrition therapy, and child health. Her work is medically reviewed by Dr Kingsley CN and Dr Gabriel O to ensure comprehensive accuracy. She has worked at KEM Hospital and GT Hospital in Mumbai and specializes in nutritional management during critical growth periods including infancy, childhood, pregnancy, and lactation.
Dr. Kingsley CN
Consultant Radiologist & Medical Contributor
✓ Safety Certification (HSE 1,2,3) - CIEHS
Dr. Kingsley CN is a qualified Consultant Radiologist with specialized expertise in child safety, baby nutrition, and product safety evaluation. He holds professional safety certifications including HSE (Health, Safety & Environmental) credentials from the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health and Safety. Dr. Kingsley writes evidence-based articles and conducts medical reviews for the editorial team. His content is reviewed by Dr. Gabriel O for medical accuracy, and he provides comprehensive medical review for content authored by other team members to ensure parents receive accurate, trustworthy information.
Tayla White
Product Research & Testing Specialist
Tayla White is a mother of four from Walsall, England, who brings real-world parenting experience to Nestacular's product evaluation process. She conducts hands-on testing of baby feeding products, safety assessments, and usability research with her children across different age groups. Tayla provides practical insights on product functionality, durability, and parent-friendliness that inform product selection and recommendations. Her testing feedback helps ensure that products meet the everyday needs of busy parents.
Dr. Gabriel O
General Practitioner & Medical Reviewer
Dr. Gabriel O is a qualified General Practitioner with extensive experience in pediatric care and child health. Based at Sajer General Hospital in Saudi Arabia, he specializes in child safety, developmental health, and family medicine. Dr. Gabriel reviews all articles for medical accuracy, safety recommendations, and alignment with current pediatric guidelines. His comprehensive medical review ensures every piece of health-related content meets rigorous clinical standards.
