FAQs

What's so good about a Messy Mealtime Smock?

At Little Chomps, we’ve created a coverall bib that doesn’t just save parents mountains of washing – it supports little ones’ comfort and development as well!

The extra-long, all-round cover keeps little laps, sides and backs free from mess and stains while keeping the highchair tray clear for babies to play, explore and develop their fine motor skills.

Parents and babies love the fast clean-up and easy transition from happy-mealtimes to happy-playtimes!

What's it made of?

The Messy Mealtime Smock is made of Polyester with a thin Polyurethane coating on the outside.

The fabric is buttery-soft and comfortable for your baby. The thin laminate on the outside provides a wipeable, waterproof barrier while the fabric inner is soft against your baby's skin.

We are proud of our safety testing. The Messy Mealtime Smock is independently certified to be free of BPA, PVC, Azo Dyes, Lead, Phthalates, PFOA & PFOS. 

What are PFAS?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of thousands of man-made chemicals used extensively in water-resistant products such as reusable nappies, baby change mats, raincoats, mattress protectors, shoes, pizza boxes, bags, cosmetics, non-stick frying pans and thousands of other items in our everyday lives. PFAS chemicals are virtually impossible to avoid.

What are we testing?

Little Chomps is proud to introduce PFAS-free waterproof fabric ahead of any Australian regulatory requirement to do so. Our fabric has been independently tested to be free from PFOS and PFOA, the leading forms of PFAS used and tested in textiles. Our fabrics were already verified to be free from the regulated toxins of Lead, Azo Dyes, Phthalates, PVC, BPA, and 7 others!

Garment Tags

Please note, garment tags typically contain PFAS so if concerned, simply cut off your care label in your Messy Mealtime Smock/s.

Why are we doing this?

We have taken early initiative to make our fabric PFAS-free while keeping the same buttery soft feel that little ones love and ensuring it stays wipe- and wash-able to save mountains of washing.   

What about smocks I have already purchased?

We haven’t seen any evidence that PFAS are problematic in clothing and there’s nothing to say these products are unsafe. Our smocks have been staples in the Little Chomps family over the last 10 years so we're very proud of our testing regime. We are governed by very strong safety regulations in Australia and all our products comply with these regulations.

While we are taking proactive steps to remove PFAS, they are virtually unavoidable in everyday life and you should not be alarmed by using any one product.

We pivoted to manufacturing PFAS-free fabrics as soon as we learnt there was concern emerging, however if you are like us, you might consider looking for ways to reduce PFAS in your day-to-day life wherever it’s practical to do so.

For more information, see the Australian government resources on PFAS substances and potential effects.

How many smocks do I need?

Our Messy Mealtime Smocks are wipeable for an instant clean-up and machine-washable.

Some people like to machine-wash their smocks a couple of times a week while others like to machine wash more frequently. Drying time will depend on the climate and conditions but 2+ smocks will likely help with a wash/dry rotation; using one smock for a day or two wiping between meals and then using another while you wash/dry the first. 

During a machine wash, the fabric side of your smock will get wet and therefore need time to dry. We recommend using a fast spin cycle and hanging to dry inside-out.

How do I keep my Messy Mealtime Smock fresh?

We recommend:
  • A wipe with a damp cloth.
  • A machine wash when needed (max 40 degrees C) with a fast spin cycle and hanging to dry inside-out in a warm position. 
  • We advise against rinsing under a tap/hand washing because once the fabric side is wet - much like regular clothing - it might not dry completely without the help of a machine spin and some drying time.

Note: waterproof fabrics can take longer to dry than regular fabrics. Some customers say they like to use a smock for a day or two, wiping between meals and then use another while they wash/dry the first.

    Turmeric/curry powder can cause light staining, it usually shifts with a few soapy washes. 

      Where can I purchase a Messy Mealtime Smock?

      Do you offer a discount for multiples?

      Yes! Combine with friends or Mothers' Group for free postage on orders of 5+ smocks Australia-wide!  

      What is baby-led weaning (BLW)?

      Baby Led Weaning is an approach to introducing solids where the baby feeds themself right from the beginning, usually at 6 months.

      This style of feeding was pioneered by Dr Gill Rapley in the early 2000’s and is explained in detail in here.

      Baby led weaning:

      • allows babies to explore taste, texture, colour and smell
      • encourages independence and confidence
      • helps to develop hand-eye coordination and chewing skills
      • makes picky eating and mealtime battles less likely.

      What are some BLW ideas?

      There are many fabulous sources of inspiration for baby led weaning. Here are a few of our favourites:

      Baby Mealtimes by Dr Kyla Smith

      Boob to Food by Luka McCabe

      One Handed Cooks by Allie Gaunt and Jessica Beaton

      Mum Bub Nutrition by Abby McLennan

      SR Nutrition by Charlotte Stirling-Reed