I started using the freezer pods right away after using an alternate/cheaper product that I could not for the life of me open the lid (many will know which one I am referring to!)... and WOW. People! Just invest and buy the Wean Meister freezer pods, I bought 3 and absolutely love it. Easy to pop out, look great, washes well and stacks up nicely. I actually have a few other Wean Meister products (scoopsy bowls and adora bowls) and it all just complements each other nicely. I wish I knew of these products early on rather than cycling through a bunch of random/cheaper stuff. These are truly an investment for many years to come.