When to Introduce Baby Food

One of the most exciting milestones in your baby’s first year is introducing solid foods. Those
first tiny tastes come with messy smiles, curious expressions, and a whole new chapter of growth. If you’re wondering when to start baby food—and how to do it with confidence—you’re not alone. At Mom Loves Baby, we’re here to gently guide you and cheer you on every step of the way. 

So, When Is the Right Time?

Most babies are ready to begin solid foods around 6 months of age. At this stage, breast milk or formula still provides most of your baby’s nutrition, but solids help introduce new textures, flavors, and skills.
Important note for moms: Every baby is different. Some are ready a little earlier, some a little later—and that’s okay.

Signs Your Baby May Be Ready

Rather than watching the calendar, watch your baby. Common signs of readiness include:
– Sitting up with little or no support
– Good head and neck control
– Showing interest in food (watching you eat, reaching for food)
– Loss of the tongue-thrust reflex (pushing food out of the mouth)
– Opening their mouth when food approaches
If you notice several of these signs, your baby may be ready to explore solids. Foods to Start With Simple is best when you’re just beginning.
Great first foods include:
– Single-ingredient purees (no added salt or sugar)
– Iron-rich foods like pureed meat, lentils, or iron-fortified baby cereal
– Soft fruits and vegetables such as banana, avocado, pumpkin, or sweet potato
Mom tip: Introduce one new food at a time and wait a few days before adding another. This
makes it easier to spot sensitivities or allergies.

How Much Should Baby Eat?

At first, your baby will only eat a few spoonfuls—and that’s perfectly normal.

– Start with once a day
– Let your baby set the pace
– Milk feeds still come first
Remember: This stage is about learning, not filling up.

Baby-Led Weaning or Purees?

There’s no one “right” way.
– Purees offer a smooth, gentle start
– Baby-led weaning encourages self-feeding with soft finger foods
Many families choose a combination of both. What matters most is safety, supervision, and
following your baby’s cues.

Foods to Avoid in the Beginning

To keep your baby safe:
– Avoid honey before age 1
– Avoid whole nuts, hard foods, and choking hazards
– Limit salt and sugar

When in doubt, soft, mashed, and age-appropriate is best.

Expect Mess—and Celebrate It
Food will end up on faces, clothes, and floors. This is not failure—it’s learning.
A messy baby is a happy, curious baby. Keep mealtimes relaxed and pressure-free.

Trust Yourself, Mama

Introducing baby food can feel like a big step, but you know your baby better than anyone.
Follow your instincts, ask for help when needed, and go at your own pace.
At Mom Loves Baby, we believe that confident, supported moms raise happy, healthy
babies—and you’re doing an amazing job already.
Enjoy this new season. Those first bites turn into big memories faster than you think.