If your suction plate or bowl keeps popping off the tray, you’re not alone. In most cases it’s not the product, but the surface, crumbs or a bit of soap film getting in the way. This guide walks through quick checks and fixes so your silicone plates grip properly again.
For a full overview of how feeding sets, bento boxes and highchair placemats fit together, see our Silicone Mealtime Guide (AU).
Quick checks (30 seconds)
- Is the surface smooth and flat? Suction works best on smooth trays and tables, not textured or rough surfaces.
- Is the area clean and dry? Crumbs, oil or leftover soap film can all break the seal.
- Is the plate centred? If the suction base overlaps an edge or curve, it can’t grip properly.
Most common reasons suction doesn’t work
1) Textured or curved trays
Signs: The plate sticks for a second, then slowly lifts or slides when baby pushes.
Why it happens: Suction bases need a flat, smooth surface to form a seal. Many wooden tables or textured trays have tiny bumps and grooves that let air in.
Fixes:
- Use suction plates on the smoothest spot you have (often the highchair tray rather than the table).
- For the Ikea Antilop, a fitted silicone placemat creates a smooth, grippy surface and protects the tray at the same time.
2) Soap film, oil or crumbs under the base
Signs: The plate slides easily or “floats” instead of gripping firmly.
Why it happens: A thin layer of detergent, oil or crumbs stops the suction base from sitting flush with the tray.
Fixes:
- Wipe the tray or placemat with a damp cloth and a little mild detergent, then rinse and dry.
- Rinse the suction base under warm water to remove any soap film or food residue.
- Dry both surfaces before pressing the plate down again.
3) Not enough pressure in the centre
Signs: The plate looks “perched” on top and pops off as soon as you touch it.
Why it happens: If you only press around the edges, air can stay trapped under the middle of the suction base.
Fixes:
- Place the plate where you want it, then press firmly in the centre of the suction base to push air out.
- Check that the base isn’t sitting over a raised logo, screw or tray curve.
4) Baby peeling the edges
Signs: The plate sticks well at first, but your baby quickly finds the rim and peels it up.
Why it happens: Curious little fingers love to test everything. Once the edge lifts, air gets in and the suction breaks.
Fixes:
- Position the plate a little further away from the front edge of the tray so it’s harder to grab.
- Serve a few meals with only a bowl and spoon while gently guiding hands back to food when they go for the edge.
- Keep calm responses – most babies grow out of the “throw everything” phase.
5) Suction base or tray needs a deep clean
Signs: The plate used to stick well but now slides more, even on a clean surface.
Why it happens: Over time, detergent residue and oils can build up on both the tray and the silicone base, making them feel slightly greasy.
Fixes:
- Give both the suction base and tray/placemat a deep clean with warm water and mild detergent.
- For silicone pieces, an occasional bicarb soak can help lift residue and smells. Full steps here: How to clean silicone feeding gear.
Using a placemat with suction plates (Ikea Antilop)
If you’re using the Ikea Antilop highchair, a fitted silicone placemat can make a big difference:
- Creates a smooth, consistent surface for suction bases.
- Protects the tray from stains and scratches.
- Makes wipe-downs faster after every meal.
Place the placemat on a clean, dry tray, smooth out any air bubbles, then press your suction plate firmly in the centre.
When suction still isn’t right
- If the base is visibly warped, cracked or torn, it may not form a reliable seal anymore.
- If the tray surface is very textured, consider using the suction plate on a different smooth surface or pairing it with a placemat.
Recommended mealtime pieces
For more help choosing and caring for your mealtime gear, visit our Silicone Mealtime Guide (AU) and How to clean silicone feeding gear.