If you want to save money, know exactly what your baby is eating, and avoid unnecessary preservatives, then homemade baby food is one of the best decisions you can make. Many parents think it is stressful, but once you understand the basics, you’ll see that it is easier than buying packaged food.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to start, what foods to use, how to store them, and how to keep everything safe for your little one.
Why Choose Homemade Baby Food?
Homemade baby food gives you full control over ingredients. You choose the fruits, vegetables, and textures. No additives. No fillers. No hidden chemicals.
Key benefits:
- Fresh and healthier ingredients
- More variety
- Saves money
- Easy to customize for your baby’s stage
- Better taste and nutrition
Best First Foods for Homemade Baby Food
1. Sweet Potatoes
Soft, sweet, and easy to digest. One of the best starter foods.
2. Carrots
Rich in vitamin A. Steam until soft and blend with a little water.
3. Apples
Steamed apples make smooth purées babies love.
4. Avocado
No cooking required. Mash and serve instantly.
5. Bananas
Great for quick meals. Just peel, mash, and serve.
How to Prepare Homemade Baby Food Safely
Food safety is very important for infants.
Follow these steps:
- Wash fruits and vegetables properly
- Steam instead of boiling to keep nutrients
- Blend until smooth for younger babies
- Add only breast milk, water, or formula (never sugar or salt)
- Introduce one new food every 3 days to check for allergies
How to Store Homemade Baby Food
Storing correctly keeps your baby’s food fresh.
Storage tips:
- Refrigerate for up to 48–72 hours
- Freeze in small cubes for up to 3 months
- Use airtight containers
- Label dates clearly
- Warm gently in hot water (never microwave directly)
How Homemade Baby Food Helped a New Mom Save Money
When Sarah had her first baby, she was spending over $60 weekly on packaged baby food. She decided to try homemade baby food after noticing her baby refused some store brands.
After one week of making simple meals like mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, and blended apples, she noticed her baby enjoyed the fresh taste more. She also realized she was saving almost half of her monthly food budget.
Her confidence grew, and she began making weekly frozen batches. Now, she teaches her friends how homemade baby food is not only healthier but also far cheaper than store-bought jars.
FAQ
1. When can I start giving my baby homemade baby food?
Most babies start solids at around 6 months. Always check with your pediatrician.
2. Can I add seasoning or sugar?
No. Avoid sugar, salt, and spices for babies under one year.
3. Do I need a special blender?
No. A normal kitchen blender works fine.
4. How long can homemade baby food last in the freezer?
Up to 90 days if stored in airtight containers.
5. Can I mix different foods together?
Yes, but only after your baby has tried each food separately for allergy checks.
Leave a Reply