When to Start Weaning Your Baby: A Complete Guide

Starting solids is one of the most exciting milestones in your baby's first year — but it can also feel overwhelming. When is the right time? What are the signs? And how do you do it safely? This guide covers everything you need to know about when to start weaning your baby.

What Is Weaning?

Weaning is the process of gradually introducing solid foods alongside breast milk or formula. It's sometimes called 'starting solids' or 'complementary feeding'. The goal isn't to replace milk straight away — it's to help your baby explore new tastes, textures, and nutrients as they grow.

The NHS Recommendation: Around 6 Months

The NHS and World Health Organization (WHO) both recommend starting weaning at around 6 months of age. At this point, most babies have the developmental readiness to begin exploring solid foods safely.

Before 6 months, your baby's digestive system and kidneys are still maturing. Introducing solids too early can increase the risk of choking, digestive discomfort, and allergies.

Signs Your Baby Is Ready to Wean

Age alone isn't the only indicator. Look for these three key signs of readiness — your baby should show all three before you begin:

• They can sit up with minimal support and hold their head steady
• They have good hand-eye coordination — they can pick up objects and bring them to their mouth
• They've lost the tongue-thrust reflex — they no longer automatically push food out of their mouth with their tongue

Note: waking at night, chewing fists, or watching you eat are normal baby behaviours and are not reliable signs of readiness for solids.

What About Starting Before 6 Months?

In some cases, a GP or health visitor may advise starting between 4–6 months if there are specific medical reasons. Always follow professional medical advice for your individual baby. Never start before 4 months.

How to Begin: First Steps

When you're ready to start, keep it simple and low-pressure:

• Offer solids once a day, at a time when your baby is happy and alert — not overtired or very hungry
• Start with smooth purées or soft finger foods (depending on your weaning approach)
• Offer small amounts — a teaspoon or two is plenty at first
• Continue milk feeds as normal — solids complement milk, not replace it
• Never leave your baby unattended while eating

Choosing the Right Equipment

Having the right tools makes weaning easier and safer. Opt for toxin-free, food-safe materials.

Our Weaning Bundle includes everything you need to get started: stainless steel bowls, stainless steel plate, a silicone bib, and our Baby Feeding Spoons — all made from safe, durable materials designed for little ones.

Weaning Approaches: Purée vs Baby-Led Weaning

There are two main approaches to weaning:

• Traditional (spoon-fed) weaning: You offer smooth purées on a spoon, gradually increasing texture over time.
• Baby-led weaning (BLW): You offer soft finger foods from the start and let your baby self-feed.
• Combination weaning: A mix of both — increasingly popular and recommended by many health professionals.

There's no single 'right' approach. Choose what works best for your baby and your family.

Key Safety Tips

• Always stay with your baby during mealtimes
• Learn the difference between gagging (normal) and choking (requires action)
• Avoid honey until 12 months, whole nuts, added salt, and added sugar
• Introduce common allergens (egg, peanut, dairy) one at a time and watch for reactions
• Use age-appropriate utensils — soft-tipped spoons and shallow bowls are ideal

Ready to Start Your Weaning Journey?

Starting solids is a wonderful milestone. With the right timing, a relaxed approach, and safe equipment, you and your baby will navigate it beautifully. Explore our Weaning Bundle to get everything you need in one place — thoughtfully designed for toxin-free, stress-free mealtimes.