Nature has taken care of the ideal food for the baby - mother's milk. But there are situations when it is necessary to transfer the child to artificial (lack of milk from the mother) or mixed feeding (insufficient amount of milk from the mother). And then the only way to feed the child is to offer him a bottle of formula. You can also bottle feed with expressed milk if, for example, your mother gets sick or goes to work. Closer to six months, almost all babies become familiar with the bottle - because it is so convenient to drink juice, kefir, tea and plain water from it. Therefore, the question “how to choose a feeding bottle” worries all parents.
The right bottle – what is it?
When choosing, you should remember two main requirements - the bottles must be safe and convenient. Design and all kinds of decorative elements are pleasant things, but secondary.
1. Material
Bottles can be made of glass or plastic. Glass ones withstand a large number of sterilizations, last longer, but break easily. Plastic bottles weigh less, do not break, and can have different shapes. Plastic ones are especially convenient for walks and on the road, and they are also indispensable when a child learns to drink from a bottle on his own.
2. Shape
The shape of the bottle can be either straight or very intricate. The ring-shaped bottle is convenient for the baby to hold, but it is not easy to wash. Therefore, it is better to choose a feeding bottle without unnecessary bends - it is easier to care for. When your baby starts trying to hold the bottle on his own, opt for ribbed models or ones that taper in the middle.
3. Anti-colic protection
The main problem when feeding from a bottle is that the baby swallows air along with the incoming milk, which can cause colic and regurgitation. But today, well-known manufacturers offer bottles with anti-colic protection. A specially designed ventilation system or valve system prevents air bubbles from entering the baby's stomach. Air enters the bottle and gradually replaces the diminishing liquid, but does not mix with it.
4. Pacifier
When choosing a nipple, it is important to choose the right size and number of holes. If the hole is large, the baby will suck too quickly without making any effort, and he may subsequently refuse the breast. If the hole is small, then the child will need a lot of effort, he will be tired and, possibly, malnourished. Therefore, the size of the holes should be chosen taking into account the age of the child - there are recommendations on the bottles for what age they are intended. The number of holes in the nipple may vary depending on the thickness of the formula. The rule is that the thicker the mixture, the more holes there are.
It is worth paying attention to the shape of the nipple. Preferable nipples are equipped with anti-vacuum “skirts” that prevent air from being sucked in during feeding.
Nipples can be latex or silicone. It is better to choose silicone ones - they are stronger, more durable, and easier to care for.
5. Volume
Bottles with a volume of 100–125 ml are suitable for newborns, and 250–260 ml for older children. It is more convenient to use a bottle that has a scale in both milliliters and grams.
6. Neck size
If your baby is breastfed, you can choose a feeding bottle with a wide neck. The nipple of this model copies the mother's nipple, which significantly reduces the risk of subsequent breast abandonment. For feeding instant liquid cereals, such a bottle is also preferable. In addition, these bottles are easier to clean.
Choosing a manufacturer
When choosing a bottle, focus on well-known manufacturers - they have scientific laboratories and invest heavily in the development of safe products. Cheap bottles from unknown brands have one good thing - low price.
Today there are three leaders on the market - Dr. Brown's, Phillips
Dr. Brown's
Bottles Dr. Brown's is equipped with a unique ventilation system, which was developed by pediatrician Dr. Craig Brown. It allows air to penetrate through the holes on the outside of the sleeve through a tube into the bottle. During the feeding process, liquid is gradually replaced by air, which avoids the formation of vacuum and excess pressure. But the ventilation system prevents the baby from swallowing air and helps prevent such common problems as the accumulation of gases in the tummy, colic, and frequent regurgitation. The milk comes in a steady stream, just like breastfeeding, and babies suckle at their own rhythm without stopping or fussing.
Since in bottles Dr. Brown's air does not mix with liquid, this helps prevent rapid oxidation and destruction of vitamins both in the mixture and in expressed breast milk.
Another interesting offer from the company is wide-neck bottles. The nipple for such bottles is structurally similar to the nipple of a woman's breast. This allows you to avoid later refusal of breastfeeding due to the so-called “nipple confusion”.
Phillips AVENT
Phillips AVENT bottles have a one-piece valve at the base of the nipple that allows air into the bottle and prevents the formation of a vacuum in it. In this case, the baby can suck at its own rhythm, as with breastfeeding.
The Philips AVENT silicone nipple closely follows the shape of a woman’s nipple, which eliminates the problem of “getting used to” the bottle. The nipple retains its shape and does not stick together thanks to the diagonal ribs. The bottle nipples have five different milk flow settings. Flow control allows you to combine bottle feeding and breastfeeding and switch from one mode to another depending on the age, well-being and individual needs of the baby.
Nuby slanted bottles have a removable, ventilated bottom that, combined with anti-colic nipple valves, prevents vacuum from forming in the bottle and prevents air from entering the formula.
The “6 stages” set gradually teaches your baby to drink from a cup. These include wide-neck bottles that change as the child grows: first they have handles, then a soft drinking spout, which then turns into a drinking straw.
An interesting model is a heat-sensitive bottle equipped with a temperature sensor. It shows the temperature of the mixture - the OK icon means the temperature is optimal.
Useful tips
1. New bottles must be sterilized. If you don’t have a sterilizer, you can boil all the parts for 5-7 minutes.
2. Be sure to purchase a bottle brush. Don't forget to change it every 3-4 months.
3. Check that the nipple holder and cap securely close the bottle. When vigorously shaking, the liquid should not leak.
4. For many bottle models, removable handles are sold separately. They will come in handy when your baby shows a desire to hold the bottle on his own.
A bottle for a newborn baby is a necessary item, even if the baby is breastfed. When thinking about purchasing this product, every parent will inevitably encounter difficulties. How to choose a quality product? What characteristics should you pay attention to? How many bottles does a baby need? There is a huge arsenal of similar children's dishes on the market today, which further complicates the problem of choice.
Main selection criteria
The most important thing when choosing is the excellent quality of the product. In order to protect your child from counterfeits and low-quality goods, it is better to go to a pharmacy or a specialized children's store for bottles and additional accessories. Before purchasing, you can ask the seller for a quality certificate for the product.
Shape and size
- The child does not need to buy bottles of some unusual and fancy design - it is better to give preference to a product with straight or slightly concave walls, since such dishes fit comfortably in the palm of the hand and are easier to clean.
- You should also pay attention to the size of the neck; it can be narrow (this is the classic version) or wide. The second type of product is more convenient to use and easier to clean. Wide neck bottle nipples do not fit regular bottle necks.
- There is no need to choose dishes that are too large for your baby. The best option for an infant is a product with a volume of 80-140 ml.
The child does not need large or unusually shaped bottles; the standard version, which is convenient to hold in the hand, is more suitable for him. Material
Usually the choice is between glass products and plastic ones:
- Glass bottles are hygienic, durable and can withstand many sterilizations, but they are not very durable and quite heavy.
- Compared to glass, plastic dishes are lighter in weight, they are not afraid of falls, they are convenient to take on the road or for a walk, but such a bottle can easily be scratched and damaged, not all products are allowed to be boiled, and sometimes even harmful substances are found in some of them.
- Bottles made of medical silicone can be a worthy replacement for plastic utensils.
Nipple configuration
It is important to choose the right not only a bottle, but also a pacifier for the baby - it can be made of latex or silicone:
(we recommend reading:)
- the first material is soft and hypoallergenic, but has low wear resistance;
- the second is tough, but at the same time more hygienic and durable.
The shape of the nipples is round, orthodontic and reminiscent of the appearance of the mother's breast. When choosing them, such a criterion as flow intensity is also important. For children up to one month old, a product with one hole (0+) is suitable; later, you can buy an accessory for the baby with two holes (1+).
Anti-colic protection
This is a special system that prevents air bubbles from entering the tip of the nipple, so that they cannot penetrate into the baby’s stomach along with food and drink. This protection reduces the risk of colic and regurgitation in the newborn - the baby will be calm and comfortable after eating.
Scaling
Often the markings on bottles are placed incorrectly; deviations sometimes reach 10%.
It is very simple to check the accuracy of the scale yourself: you need to pour 100 g of ordinary warm water into a bowl and see if this amount of liquid corresponds to the volume of 100 ml. It is inconvenient to use a bottle with an inaccurate scale; as a result, the prepared formula for the baby may be of poor quality.
Rating of the best baby bottles
Based on the results of product testing, specialists selected the best bottles for newborn babies based on all the listed criteria, and a rating of 5 leaders was compiled. All presented products meet safety requirements and are of good quality.
Nuk First Choice – 110,150 and 300 ml
This model is often chosen by young mothers for their children. Among its main advantages are its comfortable shape and good workmanship.
- The plastic from which the product is made is resistant to scratches and falls, and does not change its color as a result of prolonged use.
- The applied scale is bright and does not fade, the nipple is made of silicone, it has an orthodontic shape and has a special device that prevents the baby from swallowing air when feeding. The manufacturer offers 6 types of nipples with different holes for this bottle.
Among the disadvantages, there is a low degree of tightness of the product - the lid does not fit tightly to the nipple, and there is a risk of the mixture leaking. Average price – 330 rubles.
Philips Avent Natural – 125 ml
This model can be called a favorite among Russian mothers.
- The bottle has an ergonomic shape, thanks to its wide neck it is easy to clean and fill with baby formula. The product is also equipped with anti-colic protection.
- The high quality of the nipples is also noted, which are convenient for infants, including premature babies.
- Avent bottles can be easily used in conjunction with other accessories of the same brand - breast pumps, sippy cups, and sterilizers are suitable for them. All Avent products have certificates confirming the safety and excellent quality of the products.
The only drawback of these bottles is the weak anti-colic protection system. Average cost – 360 rubles.
CHICCO Nature Glass – 150 ml
This manufacturer produces premium products.
- The bottle is made of glass, the material is heat-resistant and does not allow heated milk to cool for a long time.
- The dishes are of high quality and durability, have an ergonomic shape, are easy to use and easy to clean.
- The bottle is sold complete with a nipple made of soft latex.
- The accessory has a physiological shape, thanks to which the process of feeding a baby from a bottle is as close as possible to breastfeeding.
Among the disadvantages are the significant weight of the product and the uninformative scale. You can also note a higher price level compared to analogues, on average it is 540 rubles.
Pigeon with spoon – 120 ml
The bottle is intended for feeding a newborn baby with liquid food, as it is equipped with a soft silicone spoon instead of a nipple.
- When pressing on the built-in piston, food flows into the spoon in small portions.
- In addition, this model comes with a special lid and brush for easy cleaning of the product.
- The product is made of high quality materials, so it will last for a long time.
The scope of application of the product is limited - it is intended only for supplementary feeding with a spoon and is suitable for those parents who do not plan to accustom their child to feeding from a traditional bottle. The average price is 280 rubles.
Canpol Babies made of glass – 120 ml
This is perhaps the highest quality product in its segment.
- It is made of tempered glass that can withstand high temperatures.
- This bottle is equipped with a low-flow silicone nipple; it has a standard narrow neck, which makes caring for the product a little difficult.
- All inscriptions and drawings on the walls are quite bright and do not fade over time.
The disadvantage of this model is that it does not have anti-colic protection. The average price is only 150 rubles.
- Formula-fed babies need a fairly solid set of dishes: 4-5 bottles with a volume of 180 to 250 ml for formula milk and 2-3 items with a volume of up to 100 ml for water and other liquids.
- For children who are breastfed, 2-3 bottles with a volume of 80-100 ml are enough - they are needed to give the baby water, and a little later teas and juices.
- It is necessary to carefully monitor the cleanliness of baby dishes - before each feeding, the baby’s bottle should be boiled for 5-10 minutes or processed in a sterilizer (we recommend reading:).
- When washing items, you can use a small amount of detergent designed specifically for children's dishes.
- In addition to your baby's bottle, you should definitely buy a brush, which will help you wash the dishes well after each feeding of your baby.
- A brush for cleaning children's dishes should be used exclusively for this purpose and cannot be used anywhere else.
- When washing bottles, special attention should be paid to such hard-to-reach places as the bottom and neck, because this is where the remains of milk and formula accumulate, which can subsequently cause intestinal upset in the child.
- All devices and accessories for feeding the baby (bottles, nipples, spoons, brushes for washing) must be periodically replaced with new ones.
It is convenient to wash the bottles using a special brush and a general detergent designed for children's dishes. This way you can achieve a high degree of cleanliness and protect your baby from germs. Summarizing
Which baby bottle is best? When choosing one, you should take care, first of all, about safety, so you should give preference to well-known brands whose products are famous for their impeccable quality. The main selection criteria are the compactness of the product, its convenient shape, ease of operation and maintenance, and you can ignore the brightness of the color and the presence of funny pictures.
Parents of newborns should be especially sensitive to the task of choosing the best bottle. Proper and safe children's dishes are the key to the health and well-being of the baby.
Clinical and perinatal psychologist, graduated from the Moscow Institute of Perinatal Psychology and Reproductive Psychology and Volgograd State Medical University with a degree in clinical psychology
The birth of a child is always a joyful event. Moms and dads try to take care of the baby as carefully as possible, buying the best and safest things for him. They pay considerable attention to feeding bottles. Absolutely all parents use them, regardless of the type of feeding of the newborn.
Since the accessory is very popular, a very pressing question arises: which bottle to choose? Experts advise paying attention to the shape, material, volume of the object. The manufacturer is of particular importance. Among modern buyers, the most popular brands are: Philips Avent, Dr. Brown, Chicco, Medela, NUK. Firms have some features that allowed them to earn consumer recognition:
- Philips Avent - known for the functionality and compactness of bottles. The dishes can be used from birth; they are made from environmentally friendly, high-quality raw materials;
- Brown - develops and sells safe children's tableware. Applies unique innovative technologies. One of them is a patented ventilation system;
- Chicco is famous for its careful approach to the process of artificial feeding. Taking into account the physiological characteristics of a newborn, the manufacturer created an anatomical nipple. Thus, bottle feeding became as close as possible to breastfeeding;
- Medela – produces high quality children's tableware. The range of products is quite wide. It uses the latest European technologies in production.
- NUK carries out careful control of products at every stage of production. Feeding bottles are made of durable glass. It does not scratch, is environmentally friendly, practical and hygienic.
The listed manufacturers are in great demand among parents of babies. Companies spend huge amounts of money on numerous scientific researches and care about the quality and safety of their products. Along with the above, there are several other companies that deserve attention. After studying the features of brands and user reviews, we identified the best bottle models, which we included in the rating.
TOP 10 best bottles for newborns
10 CANPOL BABIES
Affordable price
Country: Poland
Average price: 267 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6
Inexpensive model with a narrow classic glass neck. Equipped with a silicone nipple. The slow flow of fluid allows you to create the optimal pace of feeding inherent in a newborn. Tempered glass is an environmentally friendly and safe material. An added benefit is that the pictures are permanent.
One of the best and widely sought after bottles in the budget segment. The Polish manufacturer, as always, focused on practicality. Users note that for such a low cost, this is a fairly durable model. Many people call it universal, since any narrow nipple can be matched to the neck. It is easy to clean, does not break, does not leak and is light in weight. Those who use CANPOL BABIES have never regretted their purchase.
9 Nuby Medi-Nurser
Blocks odors
Country: USA
Average price: 190 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
The small volume bottle is equipped with a dispenser. Allows you to give medications and vitamins to babies. Ideal for first feeding - only three tablespoons fit in the container. This is the recommended amount, after which you can introduce your child to adult food. The measuring scale will provide an accurate dosage of liquid cereals and medications. The bottle is equipped with recesses for comfortable holding during feeding and to prevent falling. According to testing, even the strongest drug odor is reduced while using this dispenser.
Moms leave positive reviews about the bottle. Volume and comfortable shape are highly valued. You just need to buy or order it online. Children actually react less to unpleasant odors of medicines or unfamiliar foods.
8 Twistshake
Universal kit
Country: Sweden
Average price: 795 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
A set of bottles from a Swedish company will ideally fit into the daily routine of caring for a baby. Complementary feeding is convenient to combine with breastfeeding. Each bottle comes with a mixing grid. The product can be used many years later when mixing berry smoothies and purees for an older child. The manufacturer claims that each product is equipped with a unique TwistFlow system, which reduces the number of colics in infants. The wide neck of the bottle allows you to conveniently clean it of food debris. The special design is responsible for the convenience of feeding, retains and redistributes heat.
According to customer reviews, the bottle will be a salvation for children with colic problems. With its help, providing the first complementary foods is very simple and convenient. Many people notice that the price is a little high, and the special system for supplying the formula in a bottle is no different from ordinary feeding products.
7 PIGEON
Possibility of spoon feeding
Country: Japan
Average price: 405 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
One of the unusual representatives of the rating is a bottle with a built-in spoon from PIGEON. It features a special design, good quality and long service life. Unlike others, the bottle does not have a nipple; instead, the manufacturer has equipped the accessory with a spoon. Pigeon has become an excellent option for those who do not want to accustom their newborn to the classic bottle. Suitable for liquid foods only. With its help, the child immediately gets used to feeding from a spoon.
The reviews note such advantages as: affordable price, optimal volume, equipment and excellent quality characteristics. The set includes a cleaning brush and a lid. It is convenient for parents to use this type of bottle because it allows them to feed their baby outside the home directly from a spoon.
6 Chicco Nature Glass
Best glass bottle with latex nipple
Country: Italy
Average price: 622 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
For those who prefer glassware, this model is an ideal option. It has a latex nipple with relief rings, which takes into account the physiological characteristics of the newborn. Thanks to it, bottle feeding is as close as possible to the breastfeeding process. The model is durable and high quality. Compared to similar dishes from other companies, it has a large volume.
Many people start using a bottle almost from the first day of a baby’s life. And they don’t regret it. It retains the temperature of milk for a long time and is easily sterilized. It is made of glass, which gives it an additional advantage. The built-in valve prevents air from being swallowed, which reduces the likelihood of colic. The cost is low, it is completely worth it. Heavier than ordinary plastic ones, but environmentally friendly and safe for health.
5 NUK FIRST CHOICE
Orthodontic pacifier shape
Country: Germany
Average price: 518 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
One of the best, according to mothers, is a bottle from a German manufacturer. It has a bright design and a special shape. Made of high quality plastic, so it will not scratch or change color over time. The nipple is made of silicone and has an orthodontically “correct” shape. In addition, the dishes are equipped with a valve that prevents the baby from swallowing air when feeding.
Many parents are delighted with NUK FIRST CHOISE. They love its versatility. As the baby grows, the manufacturer offers a choice of several types of nipples made from different materials and with different holes. Ease of use and cleaning of the bottle is of considerable importance. Over time, it does not lose its original appearance, the scale is not erased. NUK makes feeding comfortable not only for the newborn, but also for his parents.
4 Tommee Tippee
Better security
Country: UK
Average price: 529 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
The bottle from Tommee Tippee undoubtedly ranks among the best. It has earned great love not only from mothers, but also from babies, thanks to its positive quality characteristics and beneficial properties. It has a convenient shape and can be easily held by a month-old baby. The anti-colic system and special relief grooves on the nipple make the process of artificial feeding as close as possible to natural feeding.
Made of high-quality plastic, it has clear divisions and an indicator of the temperature of the contents. Parents love Tommee for these benefits. They note that using the bottle is a pleasure. The temperature indicator will always tell you whether the mixture is ready for use. Plastic is absolutely safe and does not contain harmful chemicals. You can safely start feeding your newborn without fear for his health.
3 Philips Avent
Most popular model
Country: Netherlands
Average price: 624 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
The bottle from the Avent company has the largest number of requests in the search engine. It is preferred by the overwhelming number of buyers. Not in vain, because all children's dishes undergo repeated testing and have the necessary quality certificates. The Natural series is distinguished by a special shape of nipples, among which there are special ones for premature babies. The accessory itself has an ergonomic shape with a wide neck, allowing you to easily pour liquid and wash the device.
For many, Philips Avent is a unique example of excellent quality, practicality and comfort. The plastic is durable and not afraid of high temperatures. The anti-colic system protects against air getting inside the bottle. This is an excellent option for those who are trying to establish feeding a newborn without unnecessary problems.
2 Medela
Latest smart development
Country: Switzerland
Average price: 939 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Medela has been producing high quality baby products for many years. The bottles are made from environmentally friendly and safe materials. Regular new developments make it possible to create unique accessories that facilitate the process of feeding a child. The latest innovation is the Calma nipple bottle. The technology exactly replicates breastfeeding. In this case, the baby does not experience discomfort.
Parents often write in reviews that this model has become a real salvation. Thanks to the unique nipple, feeding your baby from a bottle has become much easier. At the same time, children do not refuse breastfeeding. Buyers also include strength and ease of use, convenience of the accessory and manufacturing materials that do not affect the beneficial properties of breast milk. Despite the high price, they willingly recommend the product for purchase.
1 Dc. Brown
The best anti-colic system
Country: USA
Average price: RUB 1,037.
Rating (2019): 5.0
One of the most famous companies producing safe children's dishes. Thanks to regular research, the company creates truly environmentally friendly accessories. A popular model included in the rating was a bottle with a ventilation system that prevents colic. Equipped with a tube that ensures free passage of air. The shape of the nipple is identical to the mother's breast.
Mommies are very happy with the bottle. In the reviews they write that this is one of the few models that really works. The child not only finishes the contents, but also spits up much less often. Of course, the structure is difficult to clean, but the health of a newborn is more important. It is very important that after bottle feeding, the baby does not abandon the breast. Dc. Brown - the best thoughtful and high quality products.
From the moment the baby is born, parents try to surround it with proper care and attention, provide proper care, and create ideal conditions for its growth and development. It is also important to choose quality products for a newborn baby. This partly applies to the first dishes for a baby. Thus, bottles for feeding newborns are used by absolutely all parents, regardless of the method of feeding (Breastfeeding or IV). If the baby is breastfed, bottles can come in handy in cases where the mother needs to go away. Then she will do it in advance, after which dad or grandma can feed the baby without any problems. If the child is bottle-fed, then several bottles are absolutely necessary. This children's utensils are also necessary for giving the child some water. Due to the relevance of using this piece of utensils, young parents have a completely logical question - how to choose the right bottle for a newborn baby and what you should pay attention to when choosing.
Criteria for choosing a feeding bottle
When choosing baby bottles, first of all, you need to pay attention to the manufacturing quality of the product. To protect your child from low-quality products, it is recommended to purchase bottles and accessories at pharmacies or children's specialized stores. Such a product must have a quality certificate.
When giving preference to one model or another, you need to consider several points:
- size/volume;
- form;
- material;
- manufacturer.
Size. In the first months of life, children drink no more than 90 ml of milk and 50 ml of water at a time ( link to article:). Therefore, for the first time, you can buy small bottles for feeding - with a volume of 80 to 150 ml. They are compact and do not cause trouble during operation. Some mothers also believe that it is better to choose wide models rather than narrow ones, as they are convenient to hold while feeding and are easy to wash and handle.
Anti-colic bottle shape Form. When wondering what shape a baby bottle should be, many parents disagree. Some believe that the most optimal is the so-called “anti-colic” one, which has a curved shape. Others believe that you need to purchase bottles of a standard cylindrical shape. The main point that young parents should take into account when choosing a form is simplicity and ease of washing and processing. The main thing is that this piece of utensils can be washed well and quickly.
Material. The material from which baby food containers are made is also important. The most common material for making this children's tableware is plastic.
Benefits of plastic bottles:
- ease;
- fast processing;
- variety of models.
Flaws:
- when boiled, plastic can release substances harmful to the body;
- plastic bottles need to be changed frequently;
- With prolonged use, microcracks may form in the plastic.
There is also a more reliable material for making children's dishes - glass. However, glass bottles are not so often found on the shelves of children's supermarkets. However, they are quite popular due to their durable use and the ability to sterilize them for a long time without fear for the baby’s health. Their only drawback is that they are quite heavy and can break if handled carelessly.
Having orientated yourself in the size, shape, and material of children's dishes, it is important not to forget about the manufacturer. Parents prefer to buy bottles from proven and reputable brands.
Note to moms!
Hello girls) I didn’t think that the problem of stretch marks would affect me too, and I’ll also write about it))) But there’s nowhere to go, so I’m writing here: How did I get rid of stretch marks after childbirth? I will be very glad if my method helps you too...
Video gallery: how to choose a bottle and pacifier
How to choose the right baby feeding bottle and pacifier for it, what you need to pay attention to when choosing, how to keep the bottle clean and other popular questions are discussed in the video clips below.
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The best baby bottle manufacturers
The best baby feeding bottles come from the following manufacturers:
- Philips Avent– This is the company that mothers prefer when choosing children’s dishes. The products of this manufacturer are distinguished by a wide neck, compactness, and anti-colic valve. The product undergoes all necessary testing and certification procedures.
- Dc. Brown– another favorite brand. The concave shape of the bottles from this company allows you to achieve an anti-colic effect. Products Dc. Brown have a unique ventilation system with a straw that prevents excess air from being swallowed during feeding.
- Nuk– recognized by young mothers as the best manufacturer due to high quality workmanship and durability. Almost all models have bright colors, attracting the attention of both parents and little fools.
- Chicco Nature– a manufacturer who cares about the maximum compliance of the feeding process with breastfeeding. This effect was achieved with the help of a special physiological nipple, which makes feeding a newborn simple and enjoyable.
Photo gallery of bottles from different manufacturers (clickable)
Philips Avent bottle
Video gallery: bottles from different manufacturers (comparison)
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Philips AVENT
Dc. Brown
Chicco Nature
Avent or NUK? Who will win?
Bottle nipples: what to look for
In many ways, how a newborn will drink milk or water from a bottle depends on the correct choice of nipple. Most baby bottles are produced together with nipples that are suitable in size and other parameters. However, in some cases, children are sensitive to one or another nipple: some babies accept standard silicone nipples normally, while others accept only soft latex ones. In this case, mothers need to observe which pacifier is best suited and liked specifically by her baby.
When choosing a nipple, it is important to choose the correct size of the hole, which determines the flow of milk. Specialists in pharmacy chains or children's stores will help you choose the most optimal nipples for bottles, depending on the age and individual preferences of the child.
- When buying feeding bottles, don't forget to get brushes for cleaning them. It is necessary to thoroughly rinse baby dishes to remove any remaining milk or formula after each feeding of the baby.
- When processing, you can use a small amount of baby dishwashing detergent.
- The hard-to-reach places – the bottom and neck of the bottle – need to be rinsed most thoroughly, as this is where milk residues can settle. This is a favorable environment for the development of pathogens and can cause intestinal disorders.
- The baby bottle brush should only be used for this purpose.
- Before each use, the baby food container must be boiled for 5-10 minutes or sterilized in a sterilizer ( See (rating)).
- Don’t forget to change baby bottles, pacifiers, and wash brushes in a timely manner.
- For breastfed children, 2-3 small bottles with a volume of up to 80-100 ml will be enough. They will be needed to supplement with water, and later with juice and baby tea.
- For “artificial” babies you will need a larger number of bottles: 4-5 with a volume of up to 180-250 ml for formula milk and 2-3 with a volume of about 80-100 ml for water, juice, baby tea.
Thus, when choosing a bottle for feeding a newborn, you need to approach this issue with all responsibility and seriousness. The correct choice of dishes for baby food affects the absence of problems when feeding the baby.
Read on the topic HOW to choose:
Video: bottle feeding
The choice of a bottle for a newborn is based on criteria that differ from the requirements for ordinary household utensils.
A newborn is very vulnerable.
The baby’s body is just learning to live in the external environment, so the baby’s bottle must meet the following parameters:
- safety;
- fitness for purpose;
- resistance of materials to sterilization;
- Ease of use;
- taking into account the physiology of the newborn.
How much do you need?
The answer to this question directly depends on what the newborn eats. A bottle-fed baby will need bottles immediately after birth and in large quantities. To feed the baby with formula and add water, you need at least 4-6 containers:
- 4 bottles of 250 ml - for feeding with artificial milk formula;
- 2 bottles of 100-150 ml - for water.
Why so much?
The fact is that otherwise it will be difficult to ensure the circulation of dishes, because used containers need to not only be washed, but also sterilized. And free, clean bottles should always be available for preparing the mixture. You can drink water from a smaller bottle. In this case, a couple of pieces will be enough - while one is being processed, the other can be used to give the baby something to drink.
For a breastfed baby, buy two bottles:
- 1 container of 250 ml (perhaps, in the absence of the mother, the baby will need to be fed with expressed milk);
- 1 container per 100 ml (for water and dill seed decoction).
There is an opinion that it is undesirable to offer a baby food from a bottle with a nipple. This method of absorbing liquid requires less effort from the baby.
There is a risk that the baby may subsequently refuse to breastfeed, since it is more difficult to “extract” milk from the mammary gland. If there are such concerns, the baby is fed and watered using a spoon.
How to choose for bottle-fed babies?
Give preference to convenient and safe options. Don’t be tempted by the cheap prices and buy children’s dishes from open market stalls, secondhand, or from dubious retail outlets.
Feeding containers come into contact with food, so it is important to choose a product made from high-quality and harmless materials. Branded bottles are accompanied by a quality certificate. All children's dishes should be made from environmentally friendly materials.
Size and volume of a baby bottle
Formula-fed newborns need 250 ml bottles to prepare the formula. A spacious container will allow you to thoroughly shake the contents to homogenize the prepared mixture. Such bottles will later be useful for a grown-up baby for compote and juice.
Also buy two small bottles, 80-150 ml. From such dishes it is convenient to drink the crumbs with water.
There are bottles with different neck diameters on sale. Wide containers are more suitable for supplementary feeding of natural-fed babies, since the nipple on such bottles is similar to the nipple of the mother's breast, it is more physiological. This bottle is easier to clean from any remaining mixture or porridge. The disadvantage of branded wide-neck bottles is the need to buy individual nipples.
Which is better, glass or plastic?
Pacifier
Each bottle comes with a matching nipple. For expensive models, you can choose different nipples.
Material
- Silicone: Strong, durable and easy to clean pacifiers.
- Latex and rubber: prone to deformation, lose shape and properties faster. "gives" rubber. More suitable for newborns due to the softness of the material.
A burst or cracked pacifier must be replaced.
Form
Modern manufacturers offer nipples of various configurations, taking into account the physiology of the baby, the sucking mechanism and the shape of the mammary gland. Experiment with different options to find the one that suits you. Pay attention that when feeding, the baby does not grasp the tip of the nipple, but the extended base.
For supplementary feeding of infants, nipples with a wide base are recommended, imitating a female nipple with an areola.
- Standard spherical: a regular elongated nipple of a uniform shape with a rounded tip. It is often supplemented with a special “skirt” that prevents air from entering along with food.
- Orthodontic: has an asymmetrical flattened tip. This adaptation takes into account the physiology of feeding. The accessory is located in the mouth deeper than a standard pacifier, forming the correct bite. By squeezing milk from such a nipple, the tongue moves more naturally. The main thing is to offer the bottle the “right side”.
- Lengthening: specially designed accessory for supplementary feeding of infants. The design of the nipple resembles an areola with a nipple. The sucking process also requires effort, as is the case with breastfeeding. The nipple extends during feeding, but this requires the baby to open his mouth wider and make active sucking movements.
- Anti-colic: intended for the prevention and treatment of bloating in artificial babies. Helps with regurgitation, improves the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Hole size
Manufacturers produce nipples with different shapes and numbers of holes. This allows you to regulate the activity of sucking movements, the intensity of liquid flow from the bottle, and the ability to use food of different consistencies.
How to determine if you have chosen the right pacifier? If the child does not choke during feeding and does not make extra efforts to empty the bottle, then everything is fine with the holes.
If the nipple is used to feed a newborn, perform a test by inverting the bottle with its contents. Suitable pace: 1 drop of liquid per 1 second. It is important not to shake the container. At first, one small hole (category 0+) is enough. Once your baby is 1 month old, try changing the pacifier. A grown-up baby needs category 1+. This nipple already has two holes.
An older baby needs a nipple with more holes, since the baby sucks and swallows more actively. One hole will tire the baby. The baby will spend a lot of time trying to get food from a bottle, and will end up hungry. If it is noticeable that during feeding the baby’s cheeks sink inward and the bottle empties extremely slowly, then there are few holes in the nipple or they are too small for the consistency of the contents.
When choosing a pacifier, read the manufacturer's recommendations - the number and size of holes correspond to the baby's age and nutritional consistency. The younger the child, the fewer holes, and the size of the holes is minimal. For older babies, nipples with a large number and size of holes are needed. Liquid nutrition will penetrate through small diameter holes. For purees and porridges you need bigger holes.
Scale with divisions
Choose high-quality bottles with an accurate scale. It’s good if there is a capacity indicator with detailed marks on the surface. At home, check the compliance with the specified scale. Using a measuring cup, check how accurate the scale on the utensil is.
If there are differences, then the baby may be malnourished. Additionally, making artificial formula requires precise measurements of water and dry ingredients. Failure to comply with the proportions can cause problems with the gastrointestinal tract.
The scale will be visible longer if the bottle is made of glass. If the marks are worn out, change the container.
What additional accessories are needed?
Criteria
Tightness
An important sign of quality cookware. A leaking bottle will create a lot of inconvenience when feeding at home and on a walk. Check all joints, connecting elements and tightness of the cap and nipple.
Anti-colic system
Modern bottles of a special shape, equipped with a special nipple, prevent bloating and problems with the gastrointestinal tract.
During feeding, the baby does not swallow air, which causes colic.
The presence of a ventilation hole in the lid or case
Ventilation hole in lid or case allows air to circulate, thanks to which mold and pathogenic bacteria will not appear in the bottle and on the nipple.
Top 5 best manufacturers
Philips Avent (UK)
A well-known company produces compact wide-neck bottles with an anti-colic system. All products are tested and certified.
The physiologically shaped silicone nipple is equipped with a special valve that prevents the formation of a vacuum during feeding.
There are five content flow modes. To change the parameters, you need to turn the bottle.
Plastic containers are made of safe materials without bisphenol A. There is a precise scale on the surface. All bottles are compatible with branded breast pumps, sterilizers and sippy cups.
Nuk (Germany)
High-quality and wearable bottles with unusual designs and bright colors. Imitates the process of natural feeding.
You can choose nipples of different shapes and functionality for the bottle(orthodontic and anti-colic). One of the features is a narrow neck.
Chicco (Italy)
A well-known Italian manufacturer of children's products produces physiological bottles with an interesting design. Glass models are in particular demand.
Medela Calma (Switzerland)
The best options for feeding expressed breast milk.
A nipple with a vacuum effect imitates the process of breastfeeding.
Material: silicone. There is a system of ventilation holes. Some skill is required when assembling the kit.
Canpol Babies (Poland)
Good budget heat-resistant glass bottles. Equipped with a silicone nipple with adjustable flow. High-quality safe materials.
The bottle has bright, long-lasting designs.
How do you know if it’s chosen correctly?
- Capacity– for mixture and milk you need 250 ml, for water – 100-150 ml.
- Material– glass is better suited for thorough sterilization. Plastic and silicone bottles are lighter and have different functions.
- Pacifier– for a newborn it is better to choose a soft latex pacifier of category 0+.
For an older baby, neutral and hygienic silicone accessories with a large number and size of holes are suitable.
- Quality– a good bottle is accompanied by a quality certificate from the manufacturer and is not cheap.
- Wearability– glass models will last the longest (if they don’t break). Plastic containers need to be changed every six months or as they wear out (pigmentation, cracking).
There are bottles for sale for any, even the most demanding customers. Modern technological products will not only “feed” the baby, but also relieve the baby from painful colic. Remember that the bottle comes into contact with the baby’s food, so choose high-quality products made from harmless and durable materials that can withstand repeated sterilization.
Useful video
We invite you to watch a video on how to choose the right baby bottle for feeding: