Best Bottles for Breastfed Babies: How to Choose & Our Favorites
With so many types of bottles out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You want something that mimics breastfeeding and that your baby will actually take. Plus, let’s not forget about the importance of a good flow when it comes to those little mouths.
We’ll help you navigate bottle purchasing and share our favorites so you can feel confident about your choice. Let’s make bottle-feeding a breeze!
Is "Nipple Confusion" in Breastfed Infants a Thing?
Let’s talk about nipple confusion for babies because it’s a hot topic among new parents. You know how some babies are all about that breast milk life, and then suddenly you introduce a bottle? Sometimes, little ones start preferring the bottle over the breast, which some call "nipple confusion." But babies aren't confused; they simply choose the easiest milk route!
Milk tends to flow more quickly from bottles than from the breast (more on that later). Babies love the instant gratification that comes from a quick flow, and they don't have to work as hard to get it with a bottle. So, they're not confused after all!
How Does a Baby Bottle Compare to a Breast?
Baby bottle manufacturers will lead you to believe that their "breastfeeding" bottle shape, nipple shape, flow, and other features mimic those of an actual breast. Unfortunately, for those looking for a breast-like bottle, it doesn’t exist. That's because a woman's breast is so complex and perfected for breastfeeding that it cannot be replicated in a bottle design!
When babies drink from a breast, they get quite a bit of the nipple and areola in their mouth, much more than when drinking from a bottle. The milk flow is also very adjustable, whereas a bottle's nipple has one milk flow. There's a clear difference between breast and bottle.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Bottles for Breastfed Babies
So, how do you choose the right bottle when you're ready to transition between breast and bottle? It's more than looking for silicone bottles and anti-colic bottles on the market. Instead, you should focus on three features: nipple shapes/slopes, flow rates, and tip shapes.
Nipple Shapes and Slopes
The shape and slope of a bottle nipple make a big difference. Look for nipples that go from narrow at the tip to wider at the base. If the base is narrow, you’ll want the baby’s lips to reach close to the collar (the plastic ring). The baby can latch deeply for wider bases with a nice slope without creating air pockets.
Nipple Flow Rates
"Flow rate" in baby bottles refers to how quickly milk flows through the nipple. We recommend looking for bottles with slow flow nipples. Bottle feeding should mimic breastfeeding as much as possible by requiring babies to suck actively, helping prevent "flow preference," where babies prefer bottles due to an easier flow. A good pace is about five minutes per ounce, so we suggest starting with a brand's slow flow nipple and adjusting as needed.
Nipple Tip Shape
Some brands feature bottle nipples that just don't look normal. Think about how your nipple looks when baby is nursing and compare it to the nipples of various bottles. You might be surprised by how different some look! The point is that you should choose a bottle with a nipple tip shape that is familiar and makes sense.
The Best Baby Bottles for Breastfed Babies
Now for our favorites! Here are our preferred brands to help you choose the best bottle for your breastfed baby.
Evenflo
Evenflo bottles* are designed with a super soft nipple, making the transition a breeze. These bottles are easy to clean and come in cute colors! What’s even better is that Evenflo offers a variety of sizes, so you can pick what suits your baby's needs as they grow. If you’re worried about your baby rejecting the bottle, don’t sweat it—many parents swear by these.
Lansinoh
Lansinoh bottles* for breastfed babies are designed to make life much easier. Each bottle is made with BPA-free plastic and comes in different sizes. So, whether you’re just starting or your baby is guzzling milk like a champ, there’s a bottle for you.
Dr. Browns
Dr. Brown's bottles* feature a vent system that helps reduce colic and keeps milk flowing smoothly, which is perfect if you’re transitioning from breast to bottle. Plus, they’re super easy to clean, which is a total win when juggling a million things. You just pop them in the dishwasher, and you're good to go!
How to Introduce a Bottle to a Breastfed Baby
So, you're ready to introduce a bottle to your exclusively breastfed little one? No worries—it’s totally doable!
Start by picking a time when your baby isn’t too hungry—such as after a feed. This way, they’re chill and more open to trying something new.
You might want someone else to offer the bottle so baby doesn’t associate you with breastfeeding.
Make sure the nipple flow is appropriate; a slow flow usually works best at first.
When you do give baby a bottle, try holding them in a comfy position, like you would while breastfeeding. You can also mimic the breastfeeding routine—maybe even snuggle a bit.
If they fuss or refuse, don’t stress out! Just take a break and try again later. Patience is key; soon enough, they'll be sipping away like a pro!
What Should I Do If My Baby Refuses Bottle Feeding?
If your baby doesn't want to take a bottle, don’t stress too much—it happens! Here are some things to try to help your baby get more comfortable with a new bottle:
Try switching up the nipple shape or flow. Some babies are super picky, and a different one might just do the trick.
Consider having someone else offer the bottle while you’re out of sight; sometimes, they just want the real deal from Mom!
Try feeding them when they’re a bit sleepy or half-awake. They might be more chill and not put up a fight.
Don’t forget to warm the milk—a warm bottle can make it feel more familiar.
Think about trying a different type of bottle. It's possible your baby likes one brand over another and just doesn't know it yet.
Lastly, keep the vibes relaxed! If they sense your stress, it could make things worse. Just keep trying, and remember that it’s all part of the journey!
Conclusion
Selecting the best bottles for breastfed babies can make a world of difference in your feeding journey. Every baby is different, so whether you opt for glass or plastic bottles, choosing different bottle types that cater to your baby’s needs is essential. With the right choice, your bottle feeding experience will be enjoyable and stress-free for you and your baby.
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