What Are the Best Bibs (and Why We Created the Towel Bib Over Silicone)

If you’ve ever fed a baby or toddler, you’ll know — mealtimes are messy.
Like, how-did-that-end-up-in-my-hair messy.

And when it comes to keeping little ones (and their clothes!) clean, the right bib can make all the difference. But with so many options — silicone catch bibs, smock bibs, fabric bibs, towel bibs — how do you actually know which one works best?

Let’s break down the real pros and cons of each style, and why we designed our TerryTots™ Towel Bibs to be the bib your child actually wants to wear.

Silicone Catch Bibs

The pros:
✅ Easy to wipe clean
✅ Handy food catcher
✅ Great for short, supervised mealtimes

The cons:
That same silicone can feel cold and stiff against delicate skin. The neckline often gapes or sits awkwardly, letting food sneak underneath — leaving you with the same wet, stained clothes you were trying to avoid.

And the biggest truth?
Once your child hits around 12 months (if not earlier), they’ll often flat-out refuse anything silicone. Toddlers are clever — they know what a bib is for, and they won’t wear something that feels uncomfortable.

Read next: The Real Problem with Silicone Bibs (and Why Toddlers Refuse Them)

Smock Bibs

Smock bibs can be a game-changer for messy eaters or craft time — we actually love them for painting and sensory play!

The pros:
✅ Full coverage (arms, lap, chest)
✅ Waterproof protection
✅ Great for messy meals and creative play

The cons:
They’re usually made from synthetic fabrics, which trap heat and need frequent washing. Over time, they can stiffen or stain, and putting them on can feel like gearing up for a storm rather than a snack.

Smocks are amazing for certain stages — but they’re not always the everyday answer.

Read next: Smock Bibs vs Towel Bibs — Which Should You Choose?

The TerryTotsTM Towel Bib (Why We Created Ours)

When my first child refused to wear a silicone bib, I got desperate.
So, I grabbed a tea towel, cut a hole in it, and slipped it over his head.

And just like that — Looma was born. 💛

Our TerryTots™ Towel Bibs are made from 100% terry towelling, the same soft, absorbent material as your favourite bath towel. They’re breathable, quick-drying, and cover more of your child’s front than any other bib on the market.

Why Parents (and Kids) Love Them:

✨ Soft & Comfortable — no cold silicone or stiff fabric, just cosy cotton towelling.
✨ Absorbent — catches dribbles, spills, and milk splashes before they soak through.
✨ Long-lasting Fit — button-back TerryTots™ grow with your child from 6 months to 3 years+.
✨ Stylish & Practical — modern, neutral colours that look as good as they feel.

A bib this soft means your little one won’t fight you on wearing it — they’ll actually remind you to grab it before mealtime.

When they understand the purpose — keeping their clothes dry and comfy — and it feels this gentle on their skin, it’s a match made in heaven.

They’ll join thousands of families who’ve switched to Looma and never looked back.

Also see: The Bib Your Toddler Will Actually Want to Wear

<h2>Our Honest Comparison</h2>

Related Post: How to Choose the Best Bib for Starting Solids

The Wrap-Up

Every bib has its place — but if you want one your toddler wants to wear, feels good, and actually works, the towel bib wins every time.

Soft. Functional. Cute.
That’s the Looma way.

✨ Shop the TerryTots™ Collection
💡 Read next:

• Starting Solids: Here are the Essentials!

• Smock Bibs vs Towel Bibs: Which One’s Right for You?

• 5 Eco-Conscious Products to easily Swap Out