How do I care for silicone products?

Wash before first use and after each use with warm water and mild washing-up liquid, rinse well and let everything dry completely before storing. Follow the care instructions for your particular item; only use a dishwasher where the product guidance confirms it is suitable. Avoid sharp tools and abrasive scourers, and check regularly for damage.

How do I keep bath toys clean?

Open toys designed to come apart, rinse each piece after bath time and allow the inside and outside to dry fully before storing in a ventilated place. Regular cleaning and drying help reduce mould, but no toy is maintenance-free. Stop using toys with damage or mould that cannot be removed. See our bath-toy care guide and openable silicone bath toys.

Can silicone lunchboxes be used for school or nursery?

Reusable lunchboxes can be a practical choice for packed lunches. Choose a size your child can carry and open, follow the school's food and allergy policies, and keep perishable food appropriately chilled. Check the individual product's guidance before packing wet foods: our Seaside silicone bento lunchbox is designed for dry foods and snacks, not liquids or highly wet foods. Read our guide to choosing a silicone bento lunchbox.

Can I put silicone products in the microwave?

Only microwave an item if its own product or care instructions explicitly confirm that it is microwave-safe, and follow any temperature, time and lid instructions provided. Do not assume that every silicone product or every component is suitable. Never microwave stainless-steel snack pots or other metal parts. If the instructions are unclear, transfer food to a container labelled microwave-safe. Check food temperature before serving to children.

Can I recycle silicone locally?

Check your council's current rules for the specific item before disposing of it. Local guidance differs, so there is no single UK-wide answer: do not put silicone in household recycling unless your local service explicitly accepts it. Ask your council whether it has an approved collection point or specialist route, and check that any recycler accepts your exact item before sending it.

What should I do when I no longer need an item?

Keep using it for its intended purpose while it remains safe and in good condition. Clean, undamaged items may be passed on or donated if the recipient accepts them; do not donate damaged or mouldy items. Where appropriate, a container no longer suitable for food use could store non-food items, kept away from children if damaged. If reuse is not suitable and no accepted recycling route is available, follow your council's disposal advice.