When you are looking for the right bottles for your baby, keep safety and comfort in mind. The cheapest bottle may not be the best one for your baby so be sure to do some research before you buy. The following are areas you need to consider.
BPA Free
If you are buying plastic bottles, look for ones that are BPA free. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that has been used for many years in plastic containers. Recent studies have indicated adverse effects of small amounts of BPA in lab animals. Most baby bottles on the market today in the U.S. do not contain BPA but check the label before you buy.
No Used Bottles
Baby bottles are one of those areas where you do not want to buy or get used bottles. You have no way of knowing where those bottles have been. Used bottles can harbor germs and bacteria, especially if they are scratched or worn.
The Right Size
There are different nipple sizes for the different stages of babyhood. Be sure to get ones that match where your baby is, developmentally. A newborn’s mouth is much smaller than a baby that is nine-months-old and they can swallow less fluid, too. Getting the wrong size nipple can create feeding problems.
Sterilization and Cleaning Procedures
Any baby bottle that you get will have sterilization procedures that you should follow before the bottle is used. This will typically involve boiling all pieces of the bottle in hot water for a certain period of time. Many baby bottles are dishwasher safe but typically only on the top rack. If this is important to you, be sure to check the bottle cleaning instructions before buying.
Breastfeeding Too
If you are breastfeeding your baby and the baby will also be getting a bottle, look for bottles that mimic breastfeeding. A bottle that has a nipple with a wide base and gradual narrowing down to the nipple is best. You may need to try several different bottle types and nipples before you find one that the baby likes. Do not introduce bottles too early as this can lead the baby to stop breastfeeding altogether. Four-weeks-old is a good time to start using a bottle.
Gas or Colic Problems
Some babies can develop gas or colic problems when feeding from a bottle. This can be caused by the air that the baby takes in from the bottle while feeding from the bottle. If this is the case with your baby, look for bottles that help reduce the amount of air the baby takes in while feeding.
Reading reviews from experts and other parents can also help you find the right baby bottles for your little one. But remember that each child is different so what worked for one parent may not work for you. Have a couple of different types of bottles on hand before the baby is born so that if one doesn’t work, you have another one to try.
HSS.gov: Bisphenol A (BPA) Information for Parents
Ask Dr. Sears: Getting Baby To Take Bottle
Juliana Montgomery - Juliana Montgomery has over 15 years of experience writing.
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