Bottles Galore! How to Choose the Right Baby Bottle
Finding the right bottle can make all the difference when it comes to feeding your baby. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As a postpartum doula and former nanny, I often help families navigate the pros and cons of different baby bottles to meet their unique needs. Let’s dive into some popular choices and what sets them apart, including a note on some bottles that I do not recommend.
1. Dr. Brown’s Bottles (My Number One Recommendation!)
Best For: Reducing gas and spit-up.
Dr. Brown’s bottles are known for their unique internal venting system, which helps minimize air bubbles and preserve essential nutrients in milk. This can be especially beneficial for babies prone to gas or colic. However, the venting system means more parts to clean, which may be a drawback for some families.
Key Features:
Anti-colic venting system.
Available in glass or BPA-free plastic.
Comes in various sizes and nipple flow rates to grow with your baby.
Considerations:
Cleaning can be time-consuming due to multiple parts. The Baby Brezza Bottle Washer Pro is made to fit Dr. Brown bottles but takes up a ton of countertop space and only holds 4 bottles at a time.
2. Philips Avent Bottles
Best For: Versatility and ease of use.
Philips Avent bottles are a favorite for their wide neck design, making them easy to clean and fill. The natural nipple shape is designed to mimic breastfeeding, making it a good option for babies transitioning between breast and bottle.
Key Features:
Wide neck for easy cleaning.
Anti-colic valve integrated into the nipple.
Available in glass or BPA-free plastic.
Compatible with other Philips Avent products, such as breast pumps and sterilizers.
Considerations:
Some parents report occasional leaking.
3. Lansinoh Bottles
Best For: Breastfed babies.
Lansinoh bottles feature a NaturalWave nipple, which promotes oral development and helps babies switch between breast and bottle without confusion. These bottles are designed to support the baby’s natural sucking motion, making them an excellent choice for nursing parents who are also bottle-feeding.
Key Features:
NaturalWave nipple for seamless breastfeeding transitions.
BPA-free and lightweight. Also available in glass.
Compatible with Lansinoh breast pumps.
Considerations:
Limited size options compared to other brands.
4. Why Comotomo and Similar Style Bottles Are Not Recommended
Comotomo bottles are often praised for their soft, silicone design and breast-like shape. Some parents believe that a bottle that is shaped like a breast will be easier for babies. However, they may not be the best option for every baby or family. While some babies take to them well, others struggle with the flow of milk due to the design of the nipple. Additionally, the wide, squishy base can make it difficult for parents to hold securely while feeding.
Key Concerns:
Nipple flow can be inconsistent, leading to frustration for some babies.
The short nipples, while designed to look like a human breast, are not long enough to reach the junction of the hard and soft palate in a baby’s mouth.
Some babies have difficulties getting the nipple into their mouth, which hinders them from getting a good wide-open latch. This can lead to excess gas and fussiness.
The wide, soft body may feel awkward for parents to handle.
Limited compatibility with standard bottle warmers and sterilizers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Bottle
Consider Your Baby’s Needs: If your baby struggles with gas or colic, opt for a bottle with anti-colic features, like Dr. Brown’s.
Think About Convenience: Wide-neck bottles like Philips Avent can save time during cleaning.
Breastfeeding Compatibility: If you’re breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, a bottle like Lansinoh’s can help maintain consistency.
Test Different Options: Every baby is unique, so don’t hesitate to try a few brands to see what works best.
Choosing the right bottle for your baby can take some trial and error, but understanding the features of each brand can help narrow down your options. Remember, the best bottle is the one that meets your baby’s feeding needs and fits seamlessly into your family’s routine.
Have you tried any of these bottles? Share your experiences and tips in the comments to help other families find the perfect fit for their little ones!
Until Next Time!
Aiesha Draughton
Postpartum Partners
Aiesha is a postpartum doula in Charlotte, NC.
