The idea of being 100% plastic free really appeals to us, particularly when it comes to what goes into our children's mouth and so, where possible, we try to source products for Onco that are plastic free. With that in mind, you will find that we do not sell plastic products in our Feeding section, and if we do, it is a minimal part of the product. 

Onco silicone products are made from FDA approved food grade silicone and does not smell before first use.  Ensure all your silicone products are manufactured using food grade silicone.

Silicone is probably the most natural material (besides glass) for use with feeding children.  You may sometimes notice a distinct smell and these smells that sometimes occur are actually the result of food oils and washing detergents clinging to one another, it is not the silicone material itself. This is because there are no chemicals added into the formula to make the silicone rigid.  

There are several methods to reduce and remove the smell:

1. Lemon Juice is a good solution to use when washing the silicone (not necessary all the time as not all foods will cause the silicone to smell  - but if it does, washing with it greatly helps and it is safe).

2. Baking soda is another product to use. You can wash the silicone product with it when smells are noticed. 

3. Boiling the silicone for 5 minutes after cleaning will also elminate the smell. 

4. Baking in the oven for 2 hours at 200F/93C will eliminate the smell.

Although our products are dishwasher safe, dishwasher detergent can leave a smell on the silicone mat.  We recommend using washing up liquids that do not contain fragrances or additives, this also helps to reduce the incidence of smells.