Breastfeeding provides numerous advantages, from enhancing your baby’s immune system to fostering a special bond between you and your little one. However, not every mother can exclusively nurse, and that’s where introducing a bottle comes in handy. Whether you’re using expressed breast milk or formula, a bottle allows you the freedom to return to work, let your partner take part in feeding, or simply enjoy a little downtime.
To help you find the right bottle for your baby, we consulted with a lactation expert and compiled a list of the best options for breastfed infants.
Our Favorite Choices:
- Overall Best: Nanobébé Breast Milk Bottle, 3 Pack – $18.99 at Nanobébé
- Best Anti-Colic: Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Anti-Colic Options+ Narrow Baby Bottle, 3 Pack – $14.96 at Walmart
- Best Transitional: Lansinoh Breastmilk Feeding Bottles with NaturalWave Nipple, 3 Pack – $17.99 at Walmart
- Best for Newborns: Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottles with Natural Response Nipple, 4 Pack – $23.99 at Philips
- Best Silicone Option: Nanobébé Flexy Silicone Baby Bottle, 3 Pack – $19.99 at Nanobébé
- Most Colorful: Olababy Gentle Bottle – $14.99 at Walmart
- Best Temperature-Safe: NUK Simply Natural Bottle with SafeTemp, 3 Pack – $18.97 at Walmart
- Best Storage Option: Medela Breast Milk Storage Bottles, 3 Pack – $18.29 at Target
- Most Natural Shape: Emulait The Anatomy Bottle – $30 at Emulait
When to Start Introducing a Bottle
Timing matters when introducing a breastfed baby to a bottle. Leigh Anne O’Connor, a certified lactation consultant, suggests waiting until your breastfeeding routine is established—typically around 8 to 10 weeks post-delivery. But, of course, adapt this to fit your life!
Tips for Introduction
Every baby is unique. Some may take to the bottle immediately, while others might need more time and encouragement. Be patient and try different techniques, such as letting someone else offer the bottle while you’re out of sight. For more helpful insights on parenting and feeding, check out our other blog posts on Modern Family Blog. And if you’re looking to enhance your journey to parenthood, Make A Mom offers top-rated at-home insemination kits. For comprehensive guidance during pregnancy, visit Womens Health.
Summary
Finding the right bottle for your breastfed baby can be a journey, but with the right information and tools, it becomes much easier. From anti-colic designs to silicone options, there’s a bottle for every need. Remember to approach the transition with patience and flexibility.
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