Stainless Steel and Your Baby: What’s the Difference Between 304 & 316 and Why It Matters

When choosing baby bowls and dinnerware, safety and durability are non-negotiable. Many eco-conscious families are turning to stainless steel as a non-toxic, long-lasting alternative to plastic but not all stainless steel is created equal.

If you’ve ever seen “304” or “316” listed on a product and wondered what it means, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll explain the difference between these two common types of stainless steel, why it matters for baby products and what to look for when shopping.

What is stainless steel and why is it good for babies?

Stainless steel is beginning to be popular among baby dinnerware because it’s:

• Non-toxic

• BPA and phthalate free

• Shatter-proof

• Dishwasher safe

• Highly durable and recyclable

It doesn’t leach chemicals, crack or stain like plastic or silicone can, making it a safer, more sustainable option for growing families.

But not all stainless steel is the same and that’s where things like 304 and 316 come in.

304 vs 316 stainless steel: what’s the difference?

Both 304 and 316 are high-quality, food grade stainless steels. They’re widely used across kitchenware, drinkware and food prep surfaces - of which are both known for being safe, strong and resistant to rust. The key difference?

316 stainless steel contains an extra mineral called molybdenum, which makes it even more resistant to corrosion - particularly from acidic foods (like tomato or citrus), salt and long-term exposure to moisture.

Why it matters for baby dinnerware.

Babies and toddlers use their dinnerware a lot. Between snack times, hot meals, dishwasher cycles and sticky foods sitting a bit too long (hey, life happens), bowls and plates need to handle it all - without degrading, staining or reacting with food.

316 stainless steel is especially beneficial for:

• Families concerned about nickel allergies or sensitivities (Although it has a slightly higher nickel content, there is little to no nickel exposure thanks to the added Molybdenum content)

• Reducing exposure to metallic taste or staining from acidic foods

• Homes that run dishes through the dishwasher frequently

That extra level of corrosion resistance means it holds up better over time - even with messy toddlers involved.

Why we chose 316 stainless steel for our newest baby bowls

At Ease Baby, we’ve always prioritised safe, sustainable materials. All of our stainless steel products are non-toxic and food-grade, but for our newest bowls, we made the move to 316 stainless steel.

Why? Because we know many of our customers are looking for:

• A nickel-conscious option

• Even longer-lasting products

• Extra reassurance for everyday use

We still offer some items made with 304 stainless steel, which remains a trusted, high quality material that’s widely used in baby products and commercial food equipment. But as our business grows, we're investing in 316 where we can and will continue to label materials clearly so you can choose what works for your family.

Choosing the best stainless steel dinnerware for your baby

Whether you go for 304 or 316, stainless steel is a fantastic choice for baby bowls, plates and cups, especially if you're trying to avoid plastics and microplastics in your kitchen.

When shopping, look for:

• Clear labelling (304 or 316 grade)

• No added coatings or linings

• Brands that prioritise non-toxic, eco-conscious manufacturing

• Products designed for long-term use (not just single-stage baby gear)

And of course, trust your gut. 

Final thoughts

Understanding what’s in your baby’s dinnerware is just another way to make informed, intentional choices as a parent. Whether you choose 304 or 316 stainless steel, you're already making a safer, more sustainable step forward.

Want to see how we’re using 316 in our newest baby bowls? Check out our range here - designed with love and made to last.