Knowing which baby bottles to buy can be tricky for moms. There are so many products out there to choose from, and this can be confusing. However, by bearing a few simple principles in mind, parents should be able to find suitable versions for their tots.
There is no general rule that dictates which baby bottles are best, but moms may wish to note that certain products have shapes or patterns that make them more difficult to clean thoroughly. In general, simple versions that are straightforward to wash are best.
Meanwhile, there’s very little point in investing in lots of different bottles before babies arrive. Most youngsters have very clear preferences when it comes to these items, and so it’s best for moms and dads to purchase the products on a trial and error basis. By testing the bottles out on their babies, they can see what works and avoid wasting too much money.
Moms who intend to use a combination of breast and bottle feeding may benefit from opting for bottles with wide-base nipples that more closely resemble a mother’s breast. This is because some babies have trouble switching between breasts and narrow bottle nipples.
Material is another issue to consider. Most bottles are made from food-grade plastic. However, classic glass versions are regaining popularity because of concerns over the chemicals that are found in certain plastics. Both types of bottle have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, glass bottles can last for a long time and they are easy to care for. However, they are heavier than their plastic alternatives and they can cause cuts to mothers and infants if they break.
Then there is nipple flow rate to think about. The speed at which milk can be extracted from bottles varies a lot depending on the design on individual products. Typically, new-borns need a slower rate to help ensure they avoid digestive problems. As they grow, they can cope with faster versions.
Moms should also take size into account. New-borns may only need four-ounce bottles. However, babies’ appetites quickly grow and soon eight or nine-ounce bottles will be required.