Finding the Right Bottle and Teat for Your Baby
Supportive tips for bottle-feeding families
Whether you’re fully bottle-feeding or just introducing the occasional expressed feed, finding the right bottle and teat can help make feeding time easier and more comfortable for both you and your baby. There’s no one-size-fits-all - just options to suit different families, routines, and preferences. Let’s walk through some popular choices and how each can support your feeding journey.
Bottle Materials: What Works for You?
Plastic bottles are lightweight, shatterproof, and practical for everyday use. They’re great for busy parents on the move, and most brands now use BPA-free materials for peace of mind.
Glass bottles are a classic choice. They’re easy to clean, don’t retain smells or stains, and hold up well to repeated sterilisation. Though heavier, many parents love them for their durability and purity.
Silicone bottles are soft and squeezable, which can mimic the feel of breastfeeding more closely. Their flexible design is also easier for some babies to grasp as they grow.
Stainless steel bottles are incredibly durable and a great long-term option. They maintain temperature well, making them perfect for outings or warmer climates, and they’re ideal for eco-conscious families.
Bottle Shapes: Tailored to Your Baby
Standard bottles are simple and familiar, working well for most babies.
Wide-neck bottles are easier to fill and clean, and they often pair with wide teats that mimic the shape of the breast - handy if you’re switching between breast and bottle.
Angled or ergonomic bottles offer an easier grip for little hands and can support a more upright feeding position, which may help with digestion.
Anti-colic bottles feature internal vents or valves that reduce the amount of air your baby swallows during a feed. These are popular for babies with sensitive tummies or who experience wind or reflux.
Teats: Comfort, Flow, and Feel
Choosing the right teat is just as important as the bottle itself.
Silicone teats are firm, odour-free, and long-lasting, making them a practical choice for most families.
Latex teats are softer and more flexible, offering a more breast-like feel. They’re a good option for younger babies or those who prefer a gentler teat.
Teat flow rates vary from slow to fast, with slow-flow best for newborns and faster flows suited to older babies who feed more quickly. Many brands offer variable-flow teats too, which can adapt as your baby grows.
Teat shapes can be narrow, wide, or orthodontic. Wide teats are often designed to encourage a natural latch - helpful if you’re combining breast and bottle.
Helpful Tips to Keep in Mind
- Start with a few different options - your baby will often let you know what they like.
- Check the flow rate regularly, and switch when feeds start taking too long or become too fast.
- Sterilise bottles and teats after each use to keep everything clean and safe.
- Replace teats at the first sign of wear and tear.
Every baby is different, so it’s completely okay if it takes a little trial and error. The most important thing is that your feeding routine feels calm, nourishing, and works for your family.
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