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When to start solids — BLW or purées?

My baby is almost 6 months and showing interest in food. Should I do baby-led weaning or traditional purées? So confused by all the conflicting advice.

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Starting Solids: BLW vs Purées — Both Are Great! 🥕

In short: There's no wrong choice. Many families do a combination of both. What matters most is that your baby is showing signs of readiness.

Signs of readiness (ALL must be present)

  • ✅ Can sit upright with minimal support
  • ✅ Good head and neck control
  • Tongue thrust reflex is gone (doesn't push food out automatically)
  • ✅ Shows genuine interest in food (reaching, opening mouth)
  • ✅ Can bring objects to their mouth

BLW vs Purées — honest comparison

BLWPurées
ProsIndependence, motor skills, family mealsControl over intake, less mess, easier start
ConsMore mess, food waste, slower startMore prep work, may resist textures later
Research saysNo difference in choking risk when done safelyEqually nutritious

First foods to try

BLW: Soft avocado strips, steamed broccoli florets, banana, sweet potato wedges Purées: Sweet potato, butternut squash, pear, carrot

Golden rules (both methods)

  1. One new food at a time (wait 3-4 days)
  2. No honey until 12 months
  3. No salt or sugar added
  4. Milk remains the main food — solids are complementary

What other mums say

"I was Team BLW but my baby literally refused to pick up food for 3 weeks. Switched to purées, she loved it, then naturally moved to finger food. Do what works for YOUR baby."

This information does not replace medical advice.

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