Whether you are breastfeeding or bottlefeeding, baby bottles are an essential item for the modern day parent. They allow mothers to share the feeding responsibilities with their partner and other family members while she rests and recovers. This also encourages bonding with the father, siblings, and grandparents. While travelling, baby bottles make it easier to feed in public places without any awkwardness or discomfort.

Today, there are a variety of baby bottles available to choose from. From BPA-free plastic styles to silicone alternatives and minimalist designs to colourful themes; you are sure to find the one that suits your lifestyle and appeases your little one. In this blog, we have handpicked 4 of the best bottles to help you shortlist from an overwhelming collection available in the market.

Tommee Tippee is the leading brand for feeding bottles. It creates a variety of bottles and related accessories with safety-graded materials and innovative design solutions. From bottle warmers and teats to cleaning brushes and night soothers, Tommee Tippee kits feature everything parents will need to give their child the best bottle-feeding experience.

The award-winning Advanced Anti-Colic bottles have a 3-piece venting system that draws air away from milk and the star valve from travelling up the tube. This results in less wind, reflux and discomfort. Plus, they have a heat sensing strip to give you added assurance that the milk is safe for the baby.

The SoftFlex bottles from Nuby are designed to mimic the shape, movement and size of a mother’s breast. They will make it easier to transition from breastfeeding to bottle feeding due to the natural feel for your little one. Equipped with super anti-colic valves, Nuby bottles help prevent painful gas in your baby’s belly. Each product is made with BPA-free materials for a worry-free feeding experience for parents and kids.

Boon’s NURSH Feeding Bottles have a revolutionary air-free design with a silicone pouch that collapses as your little one drinks to squeeze out any gas-inducing air. This means no colic.

The innovative brand takes it one step further by removing any straws, vents or valves that may allow air back into the bottle. Every bottle also comes with a teat that mimics the natural form and feel of a nipple for easy latching and proper tongue placement. Boon feeding bottles are easy to hold and are made without PVC or BPA for the complete safety and comfort of your little one. Get these easy to clean bottles in a pack of 3 at our Mamas & Papas online store.

Borrn’s feeding bottles are BPA free and non-toxic. They are equipped with a silicone inner surface so that no milk comes in contact with the plastic. With a breast-like teat which comes with a super flexible nipple that moves and feels like skin to latch on; your baby’s comfort is taken care of at all times. Additionally, the anti-colic DuoValve System prevents bubbles and allows the perfect milk flow. Borrn’s soft and squishy silicone bottles are functional and unbreakable which means you can take them with you on travels. The bottles are available in 240 ml and 150 ml sizes to choose from.

Consider the following factors when choosing a baby bottle for your little one.

1. Anti-Colic Function: Colic is a condition where your baby will start crying for no apparent reason. If your child is crying for 3 hours a day, 3 days a week for at least a week, they may have colic. One of the reasons behind it might be painful gas, i.e., air they might have swallowed while feeding. Opting for bottles with an anti-colic system will allow smooth milk flow and reduced air swallowing.

2. Round Nipple: If you are transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle feeding, opting for round nipples will help avoid confusion in your baby. Teats that resemble the shape, size and feel of a mother’s nipple will help transition more easily.

3. Nipples with Different Flow Rates: The bottle’s flow rate depends upon the holes in its nipple. For infants, a slower rate is recommended to mimic the breastfeeding experience. It also helps parents to better control the food intake and prevents overeating in babies. However, as your child grows older a faster flow will be preferred by them.

How Many Bottles Should I Buy for a Newborn?

Breastfeeding babies will need 3-4 bottles and infants who are strictly bottle feeding require at least 8-10 bottles a day. Start by testing out small ones (~150ml) from different brands to understand what suits best for your child before buying a style in bulk.

How Often Should I Change Baby Bottles?

In case you are using plastic bottles for feeding, replace them every 4 to 6 months. They are prone to degradation and scratches over time. Silicone alternatives can be changed at 6 months and glass ones can last up to a year if maintained properly. Always remember to read brand recommendations for part replacements for added measures.

Do I Need to Sterilise Bottles Every Time?

If your baby is younger than 2 months, has a weak immune system or was born prematurely; sterilising their bottles is necessary to avoid any infections or reactions. However, once your little one is older and healthier, properly cleaning them after every use is sufficient without sterilisation.