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12 February 2025
Our guide to choosing the right bottle and teat
Whether you're in preparation mode or “we'll see when the baby comes” mode, you'll probably need to include a feeding bottle in your newborn arsenal. Among the many baby accessories available, it's easy to get lost, but the feeding bottle is an essential part of your child's feeding routine, and must be adapted to his or her physiological needs (which may differ from one child to the next). And with a bottle comes a teat: a combination that needs to be carefully chosen for your baby!
Why is the choice of feeding bottle important?
The feeding bottle is more than just a container for milk. It influences the way your baby sucks, digests and even affects his comfort during mealtimes. An unsuitable bottle can lead to colic, reflux or difficulty in adapting to feeding. To avoid these inconveniences, here are the criteria to take into account.
Key criteria for choosing the right feeding bottle :
Baby bottle material
Feeding bottles come in a range of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Plastic: lightweight and unbreakable, this is the most common choice. Make sure it's guaranteed free of BPA (bisphenol A), a potentially harmful chemical component.
- Glass: more ecological and durable, glass is also hygienic, as it doesn't retain odors. However, it is heavier and more fragile.
- Silicone: a flexible, lightweight option, but often reserved for training bottles.
Bottle shape
- Classic: cylindrical, easy to clean and practical.
- Ergonomic: its curved shape makes it easy for parents and babies to hold.
- Anti-colic: designed to reduce the amount of air ingested by the baby, thus reducing the risk of colic and reflux.
The teat
There's no bottle without a teat. Here are the aspects to check when making your nipple choice:
- Material:
o Silicone: odorless, durable and easy to clean.
o Latex: softer and more natural, but less durable and sometimes odorous.
- Shape:
o Classic: resembles the breast and promotes a smooth transition.
o Orthodontic: promotes healthy oral development.
- Flow rate: adapted to baby's age and needs. Newborns prefer a slow flow, while older babies need a faster flow.
Ease of maintenance
Choose bottles that are easy to disassemble and clean.
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying too many bottles before birth: every baby has his or her own preferences, so it's best to try out different models once the baby has arrived.
- Neglecting nipple flow: an unsuitable nipple can frustrate or tire your baby.
- Ignore hygiene rules: clean and sterilize bottles regularly to avoid infections.
In conclusion: trust your instinct (and your baby!)
Choosing the perfect bottle is not an exact science. Every baby has his or her own preferences, and you may have to test several models before finding the one that's right for him or her 😉 your baby will have the last word. It's important to listen to your baby and see the signs he may give (is he crying? rejecting?). It's a job for both of you, and baby needs to take his time and gradually acclimatize to the bottle. Remain attentive to your child's needs, and don't hesitate to ask your pediatrician or other parents for advice.
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Tips you need to know:
How many bottles should I buy to start with?
Start with 3 to 4 bottles. That's enough for a rotation between feedings and cleaning.
When should I change the nipple?
On average, every 2 to 3 months, or if it is damaged or shows signs of wear.
Do anti-colic bottles really work?
Yes, they can reduce colic by minimizing air intake, but every baby reacts differently.
As a parent, your involvement and efforts in choosing the best bottle will make all the difference in your child's comfort and happiness. Happy parenting!
