Safe Plastic Codes for Babies: A Smart Mom’s Guide + PPSU Hegen Recommendations

In baby supply aisles filled with countless options, many parents often pause in confusion. On shelves packed with similar-looking plastic bottles and containers, there is a small triangular symbol with different numbers such as 1, 2, 5, and 7 that often raises questions. What do these numbers mean? Which plastic codes are truly safe to use?

This kind of confusion is very common, especially when parents worry about chemicals such as BPA, BPS, or microplastics that can migrate into breast milk or baby food when exposed to heat. These concerns are completely valid, considering that a baby’s body is far more sensitive and vulnerable to exposure to harmful substances.

If we are already selective about products for our own use, ensuring the safety of containers for our little ones is certainly just as important. That is why understanding safe plastic codes is a crucial step for modern parents in protecting their baby’s health. This article will thoroughly explain the meaning of each plastic code and how to choose the safest containers for babies.

Why Should Moms Understand Safe Plastic Codes?

Many people assume that the triangular symbol on containers is merely a recycling sign, when in fact it is also an important indicator of material safety. From a scientific perspective, choosing the right container is not just about aesthetics, but about safety.

Scientifically, each type of plastic has different chemical properties. When containers are heated, for example during sterilization, exposure to hot water, or use in bottle warmers, unsuitable plastics may release chemicals through a process known as chemical leaching. This process occurs more rapidly if the container is scratched, cloudy, or repeatedly exposed to extreme temperatures.

A baby’s body also does not yet have a detoxification system as strong as that of an adult. Their liver, kidneys, and immune system are still developing. This means that even minimal exposure to toxins can have long-term effects. Therefore, understanding safe plastic codes is not just theoretical knowledge, but an essential preventive action.

Read also: Characteristics of Food Grade PPSU Bottles and Baby Teats, Proven Safe

Explanation of Plastic Recycling Codes (1–7) in a Table

To help moms feel more confident when shopping for baby products, here is a concise explanation of the numbers found in the triangular symbol:

Within the OTHER (#7) category, there are premium plastic materials such as Tritan or PPSU that are far safer for babies. This is where moms need to pay close attention to the specific material, not just the code number.

Read also: Understanding FDA Grade in Various Types of Plastics

Why Is PPSU (#7) the Safest Choice for Babies?

Not all plastics labeled #7 are harmful. In fact, some of the best materials for baby products fall into this category, one of which is PPSU (Polyphenylsulfone). Below are the scientifically proven advantages of PPSU.

• Medical-grade polymer, used in sterile medical equipment, baby incubators, and healthcare technology.

• Heat resistant up to 180°C, making it safe for repeated sterilization using steam sterilizers, microwave sterilizers, or boiling water.

• Does not absorb odors or colors, unlike PP which becomes cloudy quickly. PPSU remains clear and hygienic even after years of use.

• Highly durable and crack-resistant, reducing the risk of micro-cracks that can harbor bacteria.

• 100 percent free from BPA, BPS, and BPF. Not only BPA-free, but also free from BPA substitutes that carry similar risks.

• Stable under temperature changes and does not easily deform or release chemical residues.

This is why PPSU is often recommended by toxicologists and lactation consultants as a safe plastic code for baby bottles, complementary feeding containers, and breast milk storage.

Risks of Choosing the Wrong Baby Containers

Selecting plastic materials is not a trivial matter. There are several real risks if moms are not careful, as explained below.

1. Chemical Migration

When unstable plastics are exposed to heat, molecules from the material can leach into breast milk or baby food.

2. Micro Cracks

Low-quality containers crack easily from the inside, creating ideal environments for bacterial growth.

3. Plastic Becomes Cloudy

When plastic loses its clarity, it becomes harder to monitor cleanliness or residue inside. Beyond aesthetics, cloudy bottles also make hygiene more difficult to maintain.

4. Changes in Breast Milk Nutrients

Exposure to high temperatures in unstable containers can damage the quality of breast milk that is vital for a baby’s growth.

5. Long-Term Risk of Toxin Exposure

Although it may seem minor, small but consistent exposure can affect hormones and a baby’s development.

For these reasons, it is highly recommended to choose containers made from proven safe plastic codes.

Read also: Criteria & Tips for Choosing the Right Complementary Feeding Containers

A Safe, Practical, and Premium Solution: Hegen PPSU Products

When it comes to safety, moms do not need to guess. Hegen has selected the best material, PPSU, a premium medical-grade plastic classified as a safe plastic code for babies. What makes Hegen different?

1. Premium PPSU Material

Hegen bottles are made from medical-grade PPSU known for its stability, durability, and hygiene. Resistant to temperatures up to 180°C, it does not discolor or absorb odors.

2. Wide Mouth Design

The wide opening makes cleaning easier and reduces the risk of milk residue being left behind.

3. Square-Shaped Bottle

The unique square design allows more efficient freezer storage. Bottles do not roll easily, are easy to organize, and save space.

4. Modular System (PCTO™)

One bottle can change functions as needed, from feeding bottle to breast milk storage, complementary feeding container, drinking cup, or snack container. This is made possible by the Press-to-Close, Twist-to-Open lid system that is truly leak-proof and minimizes contamination risk.

5. Designed for Repeated Sterilization

Not all plastics withstand daily sterilization. Hegen PPSU remains stable even after repeated long-term sterilization.

With all these advantages, Hegen is the ideal choice for parents who want to select safe plastic codes without compromise.

Read also: Best Breast Milk Boosters to Help Increase Milk Supply

Practical Checklist to Ensure Baby Plastic Containers Are Safe

Before purchasing baby bottles or containers, follow this checklist to support your child’s health and development.

1. Check the Plastic Code

Ensure the product uses a safe plastic code, especially PPSU or PP for baby needs.

2. Look for BPA-Free Labels

Also make sure the container is free from BPS and BPF, which are often used as BPA substitutes but still carry risks.

3. Temperature Resistance

Choose materials that can withstand up to 180°C so they are safe for sterilization and resistant to discoloration or odors.

4. Scratch Resistance

Small scratches can become breeding grounds for bacteria, so carefully inspect the outer condition of the bottle.

5. Clear Surface

Clear containers make it easier to check cleanliness and save time when cleaning bottles.

6. Suitable for Repeated Sterilization

Low-quality materials may deform after sterilization. To avoid unwanted issues, check product reviews or user testimonials online.

7. International Safety Testing

Hegen meets international safety standards, ensuring its materials are classified as safe plastic codes for babies.

Hegen offers a wide range of premium PPSU products that meet safe plastic code standards and suit various baby and breastfeeding needs.

• Hegen PPSU Feeding Bottles in sizes ranging from 60ml, 150ml, 240ml, to 330ml, ideal for newborns to toddlers.

• Hegen Breastmilk Storage containers that ensure hygienic, leak-proof, and freezer-efficient storage.

• Hegen Feeding Lid that transforms bottles into drinking cups by simply changing the lid.

• Hegen PCTO™ Snap-on Teats available in various flow options according to baby’s age.

• Hegen Scooping Cup and Complementary Feeding Cups designed for a baby’s first meals through solid foods.

• Hegen Pump Adapter that supports working moms by converting feeding bottles into pumping containers.

One system for all needs, one material with the highest standards, and one choice made by moms who understand safe plastic codes.

Read also: Here Are 10 Complementary Feeding Tools Moms Should Prepare

Ultimately, choosing baby bottles or containers is not just about cute shapes or attractive colors. It is about providing the best protection for your little one. Moms who understand safe plastic codes are moms who make informed choices. The more you know, the better you can give.

Hegen is here not just as a product, but as a partner in your baby’s growth journey. With premium PPSU, functional design, and high safety standards, Hegen ensures that every drop of breast milk, every spoonful of food, and every mealtime moment is safe.

Choose genuine Hegen products and get the best prices only at the official Hegen Indonesia website.

Start your journey of giving the best for your little one by choosing safe plastic codes, starting with Hegen.