Babies definitely don’t come with instruction manuals. In fact, according to a recent study, new parents Google over 2,000 baby questions in an infant’s first year alone. Trying to choose what’s best for your baby can be nerve-racking. From cribs to clothing, formula to baby bottles, the choices can become overwhelming.
So what types of baby bottles are best for growing infants? This question dates back centuries, when prehistoric babies drank from clay baby bottles. These days, it seems many people are quick to move their children off of bottles and onto solid foods as soon as possible. While that’s clearly an important facet of child development, parents shouldn’t do this too early, experts say.
While recommendations have shifted over the last few decades, a 2018 study suggests that more than half of babies are being offered foods other than breast milk or infant formula too soon. And that may mean these children are missing out on important nutrients from breast milk or formula. Current guidelines suggest starting complementary foods at about six months, yet many children are starting these foods as young as four months of age or sooner.
The benefits of breast milk, of course, are seemingly countless. New research continues to be released showing how breastfeeding plays a massive role in healthy child development. Of course, we know that’s not always possible for every mom and baby — which is why healthy formula is an absolutely fantastic alternative. We’ve put together this guide recently on the Best Organic Formula for babies, according to experts.
That’s where having the right bottle is essential. Don’t worry, StudyFinds is here to help! We’ve compiled a list of the top five most recommended baby bottles from ten expert websites, to find the best bottles to keep your little one fed and happy. As always, we’d like to see your own recommendations in the comments below!
The List: The Best Baby Bottles, Top 5 According to Expert Reviews
1. Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottle
This bottle comes in BPA-free plastic or glass options, and in multiple sizes. It tops Forbes list of ‘The Best Baby Bottles To Encourage Happy Feedings’ noting, “The bottle’s opening and tip only releases milk when baby suckles, so no liquid gold will be lost during feedings.”
BabyCenter adds, “this nipple has a no-drip design, and the built-in anti-colic bottle directs air away from your baby’s tummy without giving you an extra part to clean.”
“The Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottle makes for an easy transfer of breast milk or formula, has few parts for easy cleaning, and encourages a deep latch,” points out Insider.
However, some reviewers prefer the older Avent nipples over this redesign.
2. Comotomo Baby Bottle
The Everymom touts it as the ‘Best Easy-To-Use-Bottle, noting “The Comotomo Baby Bottle features a vent valve built-in the cap and is made of squeezable silicone, eliminating the need for multiple bottle parts.”
“Comotomo bottles are also simple to clean by hand without ever reaching for a bottle brush. Their super-wide necks make them easy to rinse and lather up without missing any nooks and crannies,” points out Verywell Family.
While BabyCenter calls the Comotomo the ‘Best Bottle For Breastfed Babies’, adding, “The Comotomo nipples come in slow, medium, fast, or variable flow speeds and have double vents to help reduce colic, gas, and spit-up.”
3. Dr Brown’s Natural Flow Original Newborn Bottle
Babylist calls this one the ‘Best Baby Bottle For Gas’, noting, “Dr. Brown’s bottles are known for their patented venting system that mimics breastfeeding by preventing air bubbles and reducing burping, gas, spit-up and even colic.”
“You can use a variety of nipple flow sizes — such as preemie, newborn, and older baby — so you can adjust the flow of milk based on your baby’s ability to drink,” adds Healthline.
However, one thing to consider with this bottle is there are additional parts to wash. “The tall, skinny configuration of Dr. Brown’s bottle makes them tough to clean. However, the set includes wire cleaners for the filters, and a good bottle brush will make a big difference for getting into all the nooks and crannies,” points out Reviewed.
4. Tommee Tippee Closer To Nature Bottles
“The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Baby Bottle is BPA-free and ergonomically designed, making them easy clean for parents and an easy latch for babies,” notes Verywell Family.
Babylist calls this one the ‘Best Slow Flow Baby Bottle’ adding, “The soft silicone nipple gently flexes during feeding sessions, so baby will be able to latch on naturally and control the flow of milk.”
A great choice for preemies and newborns, this bottle also comes in a glass option.
5. Lansinoh mOmma Bottle
“The Lansinoh mOmma has a gently sloping nipple, a shape that experts told us worked well for many babies. With only three pieces and a wide mouth, this bottle is simpler to use and easier to clean, and it leaked less than most others we tested,” according to The New York Times.
“This NaturalWave design is meant to promote just the same sucking motions your baby would be practicing at your breast. These motions are necessary for proper oral development and a good latch,” points out Mom Loves Best.
“This bottle is recommended over and over again by lactation consultants,” notes Babylist.
Sources:
- Forbes
- BabyCenter
- Insider
- The Everymom
- Verywell Family
- Babylist
- Healthline
- Reviewed
- The New York Times
- Mom Loves Best
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.