The smell of pureed sweet potato – a memory etched into my very being. It’s a scent that simultaneously evokes joy and dread, a potent cocktail of parental pride and the sheer logistical chaos of feeding a tiny human. And that’s where these OXO Tot Baby Blocks come in.

My lab, a.k.a. my kitchen, has seen its share of baby food storage solutions. I’ve assessed the clunky Tupperware, the flimsy disposable containers – the whole gamut. These, however, stand out. First off, the seals are airtight. Trust me, you want airtight. Leakage is the enemy. Leaked carrot puree down the inside of a diaper bag? Let’s just say it’s not a good look. Furthermore, the six-ounce capacity is perfect. Not too much, not too little. I tend to make large batches, using my trusty [competitor name] brand of food processor, and portioning out the purées immediately is crucial. Prevents freezer burn and retains those all-important vitamins.

The clear, square design is a bonus. Easy stacking in the freezer is a godsend when you’re operating on limited sleep. And the measurement markings on the side? Pure genius! No more eyeballing portions. Just scoop, freeze, and reheat. Speaking of which, they’re microwave-safe, a massive time-saver for harried parents. (Although, always be very careful with the heat distribution; a hot spot can ruin a good feeding.)

Now, the tiny downside: the lid can be a little tricky to snap on perfectly when your hands are covered in… well, let’s just say baby-related substances. (It’s never actually just sweet potato, right?) But, it’s easily overcome. Just make sure to give that lid a firm press all around the edges. Consider it part of the pre-meal ritual.

So, here’s the bottom line. If you’re serious about homemade baby food, if you value your sanity and want to actually enjoy this stage of parenting, these OXO Tot blocks are a smart investment. Especially if you’re a meal-prep fanatic like me. Grab a set. You won’t regret it. Just remember to have the phone nearby to capture that adorable, sweet potato-covered face. You’ll be glad you did.