Cloves for babies baby led weaning

Cloves for Babies

Can be served at every age in a safe size and texture, as described below. Choking risk is high (4/5). Low allergen risk.

Dalo SolidsFind recipes with Cloves in Dalo Solids

Last reviewed: October 2026

Antioxidant-RichImmune-SupportiveAnti-InflammatorySupports Digestion
Allergen Risk
Very Low (1/5)
Choking Hazard
High (4/5)
Always read the safety guidance before serving

How to Serve Cloves to a 6–9 Months Old

Prepare with care

Only if finely ground or used to infuse dishes and removed before serving

Whole cloves are hard and pose a choking hazard. The CDC advises against offering hard, small foods that can block an infant's airway.

Choking

Serving Instructions

For babies starting solids, introduce cloves only as a seasoning and never whole. Mix a tiny pinch of ground clove into fruit or vegetable purées. Pair with foods like meats, fruits, and grains. Avoid dishes that are too strongly spiced, and watch for any signs of sensitivity.

Milestones for 6–9 months

How to Serve Cloves to a 9–18 Months Old

Prepare with care

Only if finely ground or used to infuse dishes and removed before serving

Whole cloves are hard and pose a choking hazard. The CDC advises against offering hard, small foods that can block a child's airway.

Choking

Serving Instructions

At this age, cloves remain a spice for flavor only and should never be served whole. Use a small pinch of ground clove per meal, blending it into baked goods, compotes, or stews. Combine with vegetables, grains, and proteins for a diverse plate. Avoid anything overly spiced or with strong, sharp flavors.

Milestones for 9–12 months

How to Serve Cloves to a 18+ Months Old

Prepare with care

Only if finely ground or used to infuse dishes and removed before serving

Whole cloves remain a choking hazard. The AAP advises that children under 4 years old avoid small, hard foods.

Choking

Serving Instructions

For toddlers, continue to offer cloves only as a ground seasoning, never whole. Use a small pinch in family dishes like stews, baked goods, or desserts alongside balanced meals with protein and vegetables. Avoid overly strong flavors and watch for any intolerance. Whole cloves should still not be given to children under four years.

Milestones for 18–24 months
Dalo Solids

Dalo Solids

Looking for Cloves recipe inspiration?

Dalo Solids gives you unlimited recipes, a weekly meal planner, allergen tracking, and AI meal ideas from a photo of your fridge.

Related reading

All solids guides

More Spices

Important Safety Disclaimer

Every child develops chewing and swallowing skills at their own pace. The preparation methods shown are general guidelines; you must always evaluate your individual child's ability before serving. By offering this food, you agree to the following:

  • Choking & Preparation: All foods can pose a choking hazard. You are strictly responsible for modifying food sizes and textures to match your child's skills. Always physically inspect this food for hidden hazards (e.g., bones, pits, seeds, splinters, or tough skins) before serving.
  • Food Handling: Ensure all ingredients are properly washed, stored, and cooked to safe internal temperatures to prevent foodborne illness. Never serve raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs to an infant.
  • Allergens: Introduce any new food one at a time. Observe your child closely for signs of an allergic reaction (hives, swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing) and seek emergency medical care immediately if symptoms occur.
  • Strict Supervision: 100% active, arm's-length adult supervision is required at all times while your child is eating or interacting with food.
  • Talk to your pediatrician: If your baby has known allergies, was born prematurely, or has feeding difficulties, check with your pediatrician before introducing new foods.

By using this guide, you agree to our Terms and Conditions.

Age and preparation guidance informed by the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the World Health Organization's complementary feeding guidelines, ESPGHAN's (European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition) position paper on complementary feeding, and EFSA's (European Food Safety Authority) scientific opinion on the introduction of complementary feeding. This content is independently created by Dalo Baby for informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement by or affiliation with any of these organizations.

Dalo Solids

Dalo Solids

Find Cloves recipes — and so much more

Get unlimited baby recipes, snap a photo of your fridge for instant meal ideas, weekly meal plans, and allergen tracking — all in one app.

Or save with the Dalo Family Bundle →