Parenting

From what age can we start using a feeding bottle for an infant? Any recommendations for safe and verified feeding bottles?

Answered by Team ParentCircle

Dear Parent,

That is a very valid question as there is controversy over the use of feeding bottles for infants. Below are some guidelines put together by us at ParentCircle that will help you understand the whys and how's of using feeding bottles for babies:

1. Feeding bottles, if they are BPA-free, are 100% safe to use for infants. However, this doesn’t mean they are the best way to feed your baby. This is because of 2 reasons: a) direct breastfeeding is the best way to feed a baby, over and above expressing or pumping breastmilk and formula-feeding (both of which are fed through a feeding bottle), and b) there is evident concern over the risk of diarrhea in infants due to the bacterial transmission if the bottles are not sterilized adequately.

2. Good alternatives to feeding bottles are a cup and spoon and the traditional Indian feeding device cled 'paladai'.

3. Even if you are using feeding bottles, it is better to go for glass or silicone, or stainless steel bottles, instead of plastic ones (even the ones that are BPA-free). As far as teats or nipples are concerned, it is preferable to use natural rubber ones instead of synthetic latex ones. Both bottles and nipples should be changed every 3 months.

4. It is important to sterilize the feeding bottles thoroughly after every use by either boiling them in water for 15 minutes or using an electric sterilizer machine.

5. Don't ever let the baby fall asleep with the bottle in his mouth, as bedtime bottles can lead to tooth decay. Also, throw away any unused milk or formula after you have finished bottle feeding your baby.

6. Use of feeding bottles should be strictly stopped after the baby is 1 year of age. After that, milk should be offered in an open glass preferably or a sippy cup.

There are a variety of safe feeding bottles in the market to choose from. Some brands are Philips Avent, Chicco, MeeMee, Fisher-Price, and Pigeon.

This answer is helpful for 0 parents

More FAQs

• How Parents Can Manage Their Own Exam Stress And Support Children With Calm Confidence

• Child Easily Distracted While Studying? Practical Ways To Improve Focus and Motivation

• Helping Teens With Career Decisions: Expert Tips To Guide Teenagers Toward The Right Path

• How To Handle Kid's Disappointment When Plans Get Canceled: 4-Step Parenting Strategy (The SIFT Way)

• Why Some Children Worry About Germs And How Parents Can Guide Them with Confidence

• Eye Care Tips To Keep Your Child's Vision Healthy And Strong