Feeding time is crucial to keeping babies happy, and happy babies make happy mommies and daddies. Thank goodness that when it comes to baby bottles, parents can now choose from many innovative products. The best bottles simulate the breastfeeding process, fit an infant’s mouth, mimic the feel of a human breast and minimize swallowed air. Of course, they should also be made of baby-safe materials and be easy to clean. And just like those cute onesies, one kind does not fit all.
Here’s an in-depth look at 12 of the most popular baby bottles.
Our Top Picks
- Accordion Nipple for Natural Nursing Action. The Latch's claim to fame is its accordion nipple, which moves with baby, so that the “latch” won't be lost and so that the nipple will seat properly against the baby's soft palate.
- Response to Pressure. The nipple also responds to gentle pushing by the baby by releasing more milk.
- Flow Levels. Nipples are available in three flow levels.
- Soft Silicone Material. The nipple boasts a soft, natural feel.
- Anti-Colic Valve. Another distinctive feature is the valve in the bottom, which allows air to enter the bottle as milk is sucked out. This reduces the amount of air swallowed by the baby.
- Wide mouth. The bottle is made with a wide mouth that is easy to hit when filling and which also makes the bottles a snap to clean.
- Dishwasher Safe. The bottles can be cleaned by placing on the top shelf of the dishwasher, but the valves will need to be cleaned with a small, soft brush.
- Breast Pump Friendly. The bottles fit many of the popular breast pumps.
- Nipple Caps. Clear hoods are included to protect the nipples.
- NUK Anti-Colic Air System. The bottles have vents built right into the nipple itself, doing away with the need for a separate piece. This design keeps baby from pulling a vacuum on the bottle and reduces swallowed air.
- Soft Zone. The silicone nipples have an extra-cushy area at the tip, called the Soft Zone, which is designed to reduce irritation in baby's mouth and conform better to the soft palate.
- Nipples in Two Sizes. Unlike most other feeding systems, NUK offers a choice of nipple sizes. The larger size may better fit the mouths of babies over 6 months old.
- Nipples With Three Rates of Flow. NUK makes three nipples: slow flow with three holes, medium flow with six holes and fast flow with nine holes.
- Cute Designs. The bottles are available in a variety of colorful designs, such as hearts, elephants, penguins and Disney characters.
- Sealing Hoods. NUK bottles come with sealing hoods to prevent leaks.
- Internal Venting. The anti-colic venting system really works, according to most users. Many report that their babies are less gassy and fussy.
- Ease of Positioning. Because the vents are inside the bottle rather than in the nipple, the bottle does not have to be turned a specific way.
- Reduced Oxidation. The manufacturer states that because air is routed away from the milk, oxidation does not occur, and essential vitamins are preserved.
- Traditional Nipple Design. Nipples are made of silicone and are shaped much like traditional baby bottle nipples, a design which some babies seem to prefer.
- Accurate Flow Levels. The nipples are available in five different flow levels, including one especially for preemies. The research study from Pediatric Feeding News found that Dr. Brown's is one of the few companies that produces nipples with consistent flow levels.
- Dishwasher Safe. The bottles are dishwasher safe. The company sells special dishwasher baskets to keep the parts corralled.
- Breast Pump Compatible. The standard bottles (not the wide-mouth versions) are compatible with most breast pumps. You may be able to use the wide-mouth versions if you buy an adapter.
- Travel Caps. Bottles come with caps to protect the nipples.
- Accordion Nipple for Natural Nursing Action. The Latch's claim to fame is its accordion nipple, which moves with baby, so that the “latch” won't be lost and so that the nipple will seat properly against the baby's soft palate.
- Response to Pressure. The nipple also responds to gentle pushing by the baby by releasing more milk.
- Flow Levels. Nipples are available in three flow levels.
- Soft Silicone Material. The nipple boasts a soft, natural feel.
- Anti-Colic Valve. Another distinctive feature is the valve in the bottom, which allows air to enter the bottle as milk is sucked out. This reduces the amount of air swallowed by the baby.
- Wide mouth. The bottle is made with a wide mouth that is easy to hit when filling and which also makes the bottles a snap to clean.
- Dishwasher Safe. The bottles can be cleaned by placing on the top shelf of the dishwasher, but the valves will need to be cleaned with a small, soft brush.
- Breast Pump Friendly. The bottles fit many of the popular breast pumps.
- Nipple Caps. Clear hoods are included to protect the nipples.
- NUK Anti-Colic Air System. The bottles have vents built right into the nipple itself, doing away with the need for a separate piece. This design keeps baby from pulling a vacuum on the bottle and reduces swallowed air.
- Soft Zone. The silicone nipples have an extra-cushy area at the tip, called the Soft Zone, which is designed to reduce irritation in baby's mouth and conform better to the soft palate.
- Nipples in Two Sizes. Unlike most other feeding systems, NUK offers a choice of nipple sizes. The larger size may better fit the mouths of babies over 6 months old.
- Nipples With Three Rates of Flow. NUK makes three nipples: slow flow with three holes, medium flow with six holes and fast flow with nine holes.
- Cute Designs. The bottles are available in a variety of colorful designs, such as hearts, elephants, penguins and Disney characters.
- Sealing Hoods. NUK bottles come with sealing hoods to prevent leaks.
- Internal Venting. The anti-colic venting system really works, according to most users. Many report that their babies are less gassy and fussy.
- Ease of Positioning. Because the vents are inside the bottle rather than in the nipple, the bottle does not have to be turned a specific way.
- Reduced Oxidation. The manufacturer states that because air is routed away from the milk, oxidation does not occur, and essential vitamins are preserved.
- Traditional Nipple Design. Nipples are made of silicone and are shaped much like traditional baby bottle nipples, a design which some babies seem to prefer.
- Accurate Flow Levels. The nipples are available in five different flow levels, including one especially for preemies. The research study from Pediatric Feeding News found that Dr. Brown's is one of the few companies that produces nipples with consistent flow levels.
- Dishwasher Safe. The bottles are dishwasher safe. The company sells special dishwasher baskets to keep the parts corralled.
- Breast Pump Compatible. The standard bottles (not the wide-mouth versions) are compatible with most breast pumps. You may be able to use the wide-mouth versions if you buy an adapter.
- Travel Caps. Bottles come with caps to protect the nipples.
*All product links and pictures in this article will take you to the latest prices on Amazon.com, scroll down for our in-depth reviews below.
What To Look For In A Baby Bottle
Less Air, Less Crying
The science of developing baby bottles is focused on one primary object: Get the milk into baby’s tummy with as little air as possible. Less air means babies won’t need so many burp breaks during feeding and will be less likely to suffer with a gassy stomach or from painful colic.
The process of digestion does create some gas, so no baby bottle can completely do away with the possibility of an occasional tummy ache. But the kind of stomachache that is really painful should occur less often with better feeding methods.
Old-fashioned bottles, the kind your grandmothers and maybe your mothers used, dispensed a lot of air along with the milk. Since that time, a lot of research has been done on how to reduce the air taken in.
Nipples are designed to fit an infant’s mouth so that the air around the nipple isn’t sucked in. Also, some bottles are designed to allow air to enter the bottle to replace the milk that is being sucked out. These are often known as anti-colic bottles.
Anti-colic feeding systems usually involve some type of vented bottle, and the vents make some bottles prone to leakage and spills. Parents will have to decide whether it’s worthwhile to put up with the extra fuss and muss that anti-colic systems often create.
If you have a baby with a tendency to be gassy, you may well decide that the fancier bottles are worth it. If your baby doesn’t have these tendencies, you may be able to get by with a simpler system.
Nipple News
Modern-day nipples also come in a wide variety of shapes. The traditional shape is still available, but many bottles now feature nipples that are wider and shaped more like mom’s breast.
Every manufacturer has a reason for saying that their nipple shape is the best, but the truth is that babies often prefer one nipple shape to another for no discernible reason. You may go through bottles with several nipple styles before discovering one that suits your baby.
Nipples also come in more than one material. Most are either silicone or latex. Silicone is usually preferred because it is hypoallergenic, easy to clean and temperature resistant.
Some babies prefer latex nipples because they have a softer feel. Latex is also safe for babies, but some fear that using latex may cause a baby to develop a latex sensitivity at some point.
Go With the Flow
Old-fashioned baby bottles came with only one kind of nipple and one flow rate. Brand-new nipples tended to feed slowly. As the nipples got older, the holes enlarged, and the flow became faster.
Today almost all bottle manufacturers make nipples intended to produce different rates of flow. Newborns use a 1 and are moved to a 2 or 3 as they grow and can handle a higher rate of flow. A few manufacturers have more than three gradations.
An inordinate number of complaints about baby bottles have to do with nipple flow. Many moms grumble that the slow-feed nipples they ordered are in fact fast feed and choke their babies, or that their stronger baby is struggling to get milk through what is supposed to be a fast-feed device.
The mothers may have a point. One research study reported in Pediatric Feeding News found great variability among nipples of the same flow rating, even those made by the same manufacturer. Some nipples had holes that were not completely open!
An appropriate flow is important. Too fast, and baby may choke and swallow air. Too slow, and baby may quit feeding from fatigue. The bottom line is that if your baby is struggling with a flow that is too fast or too slow, switch out the nipple. If it doesn’t help, try another brand or a different flow level. Repeat until the goal is achieved.
Safety First
Parents also have to choose between glass or plastic bottles. Of course, they want to be sure that the bottles they use are safe and don’t leach out any harmful chemicals. The FDA has banned bisphenol A (BPA) in bottle manufacture, so plastic bottles are generally considered safe for use. For that reason, the reviews that follow won’t say that the bottles are BPA-free, because they all are.
Parents who are extra protective sometimes feel that glass is a more desirable option. To guard against breakage, silicone sleeves can be purchased for some glass bottles, but the sleeves do significantly increase the cost of the bottles.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
When babies get hungry, they want instant food. That’s one reason for keeping baby bottles simple. Your assembling skills are likely to be less than stellar when you are doing it to the tune of a crying baby.
If you have a baby who tends to be colicky, though, you may have to invest in one of the fancier feeding systems, which reduce air but tend to have more parts. These bottles may be especially baffling for grandparents or others who don’t do it daily, so consider that factor, too.
Everyone knows that bottles should be rinsed out promptly after feeding so that the milk doesn’t start to solidify. In the real world, though, that doesn’t always happen.
Maybe you’re enjoying the post-feeding baby sweetness too much, or maybe you are outdoors and not close to a sink. Sooner or later, every parent will be faced with a yukky bottle to clean. Therefore, ease of cleaning can be a real factor in bottle choice. Bottles with a wide mouth tend to be easier to clean. Those with more pieces and those with complex mechanisms to prevent colic are generally harder to clean.
Most bottles are dishwasher safe on the top rack, but pre-washing is almost always necessary. The ever-faithful bottle brush is the best tool for the job. Many manufacturers offer their own brushes sized to fit their bottles. Some sell nipple brushes, too.
The Price Factor
How expensive can a baby bottle be? The cost pales in comparison with the cost of other baby equipment. Still, considering that you’ll need from 6 to 12 in most cases, the price tag can be considerable. Also, most parents start with 4 oz. bottles and later purchase the larger size. Bottles are also apt to be misplaced or left behind, and those that are missing in action must be replaced.
With bottles that can cost over $10, the outlay is larger than you might think. In addition, some parents will have to go through more than one model to find one that baby likes. And a bottle that is perfect for newborns may not work for babies who are starting to hold their own bottles. Bottom line? The bottom line for bottles can be surprisingly steep.
For Breastfeeding Moms
Even moms who choose to feed only breast milk will probably need bottles for those times when breast and baby must go their separate ways.
Many manufacturers claim that their nipples mimic momma’s breast very closely. Generally speaking, wider nipples with shorter tips are closest to the average female breast. All breasts are not created equal, however, and no one style of nipple will please all breastfeeding babies.
Some breastfed babies actually develop a preference for the bottle, and that can create a problem for mother. Sometimes babies exhibit signs of nipple confusion. Aware that they are being offered nutrition from two different kinds of nipples, they develop a preference for one or the other. Sometimes it’s the baby bottle nipple that gets the nod.
At other times, a preference for the bottle develops if the bottle has a faster flow. Babies can become accustomed to a more rapid rate of feeding.
To avoid this scenario, moms should stick to nipples with the smaller sized openings. Ideally, a nipple should drip only a few drops when the bottle is turned upside down.
Also, a lower rate of flow will ensure that a baby gets a lot of sucking satisfaction, although non-nutritive sucking (on hands, pacifiers or other objects) is safe and pleasurable for babies, too.
Another factor that breastfeeding moms may want to consider is whether a certain kind of bottle will connect directly to their breast pump. If not, milk must be pumped into one bottle and transferred to another.
This may seem like a small inconvenience, but it can loom large when the pumping process is performed frequently, as in the case of breastfeeding moms who must be away from their babies because they work full-time.
Read On!
With all of these considerations in mind, read about some of the top baby bottles and what they offer to parents and babies, especially how they can help you create those contented, full-tummy coos that everyone loves to hear.
Links are to small packs (2 or 3) of larger sized bottles, 8 to 10 ounces. The smaller sized bottles usually are the same in design. Although it’s tempting to buy the larger packs, it’s seldom wise until you have seen how your baby accepts the bottle design.
List Of Best Baby Bottles:
Munchkin Latch
As evidenced by the name, the Munchkin Latch is designed to mimic the female breast so that baby can “latch on” easily. It was especially developed for easy transitions from breast to bottle, but can of course be used for babies that are exclusively bottle-fed.
The Munchkin Latch is a moderately priced product, not the cheapest on the market, but not one that will cut into your child’s college fund. The look is plain-Jane but pleasing in its simplicity.
The 3-pack of the Munchkin Latch comes with Stage 1 and 2 nipples. Stage 3 nipples can be ordered separately. The bottles also come with a cover that seals around the nipple.
- Accordion Nipple for Natural Nursing Action. The Latch’s claim to fame is its accordion nipple, which moves with baby, so that the “latch” won’t be lost and so that the nipple will seat properly against the baby’s soft palate.
- Response to Pressure. The nipple also responds to gentle pushing by the baby by releasing more milk.
- Flow Levels. Nipples are available in three flow levels.
- Soft Silicone Material. The nipple boasts a soft, natural feel.
- Anti-Colic Valve. Another distinctive feature is the valve in the bottom, which allows air to enter the bottle as milk is sucked out. This reduces the amount of air swallowed by the baby.
- Wide mouth. The bottle is made with a wide mouth that is easy to hit when filling and which also makes the bottles a snap to clean.
- Dishwasher Safe. The bottles can be cleaned by placing on the top shelf of the dishwasher, but the valves will need to be cleaned with a small, soft brush.
- Breast Pump Friendly. The bottles fit many of the popular breast pumps.
- Nipple Caps. Clear hoods are included to protect the nipples.
What You May Not Like:
- Valve Cleaning. There is an extra step of cleaning the valve, and it may be worrisome whether it is getting clean enough. You can boil the valves occasionally, as is recommended before first use.
- Nipple collapse. If the valve becomes blocked or doesn’t work as it should, the nipple will collapse, which can result in a frustrated baby.
- The bottle may leak if the valve isn’t inserted properly or if the valve fails.
NUK Baby Bottles With Perfect Fit Nipple
NUK has been researching and manufacturing naturalistic nipples since the 1940s, so it’s no surprise that the latest models are a little different from those found on standard bottles.
The current version of the NUK nipple is called the Perfect Fit. According to the company’s literature, it reproduces the shape of a woman’s breast during nursing.
Research shows that the female nipple becomes longer and has a rounder tip during nursing, and that is the shape that the NUK nipple mimics. Of course, as with all nipple designs, some babies just don’t take to it.
NUK bottles are among the most affordable of all infant nursers. NUK also makes pacifiers and sippy cups and thoughtfully makes some of the bottle parts interchangeable with the sippy cups.
- NUK Anti-Colic Air System. The bottles have vents built right into the nipple itself, doing away with the need for a separate piece. This design keeps baby from pulling a vacuum on the bottle and reduces swallowed air.
- Soft Zone. The silicone nipples have an extra-cushy area at the tip, called the Soft Zone, which is designed to reduce irritation in baby’s mouth and conform better to the soft palate.
- Nipples in Two Sizes. Unlike most other feeding systems, NUK offers a choice of nipple sizes. The larger size may better fit the mouths of babies over 6 months old.
- Nipples With Three Rates of Flow. NUK makes three nipples: slow flow with three holes, medium flow with six holes and fast flow with nine holes.
- Cute Designs. The bottles are available in a variety of colorful designs, such as hearts, elephants, penguins and Disney characters.
- Sealing Hoods. NUK bottles come with sealing hoods to prevent leaks.
What You May Not Like:
- Required Positioning. Bottles must be positioned correctly during feeding, with the vent under the baby’s nose. This can be a problem when babies get old enough to hold their own bottles or when those unfamiliar with the bottle try to use it.
- Milk may leak out of the anti-colic vent during feeding. Also when milk is stored in the bottle, it may leak through the vent into the sealing hood and create a mess when the hood is removed.
- Breast Pump Incompatibility. NUK bottles can’t be attached to breast pumps, but the company offers storage bags that work with most pumps.
Comotomo Baby Bottles
The designers at Comotomo set out to rethink the baby bottle. Of course, other baby product manufacturers were making innovations, but Comotomo designers thought a little more out of the box.
They made the nipple a little wider, added an extra anti-colic vent and gave the bottle an extra-extra wide opening. Then they made the whole bottle out of soft, squeezable silicone, ending up with a bottle that looks more like a sippy cup. The result is a bottle that most babies love and many moms swear by. The price of these bottles is a little steep, but many think they are worth it.
- Silicone Body. The bottle is soft and easy to hold, which is especially nice when babies start holding their own bottles.
- Dual Anti-Colic Vents. The nipples have two vents to minimize swallowed air and reduce the chances of baby having colic.
- Natural Breast Feel. The wide mound of the nipple is designed to replicate the look and feel of the female breast.
- Easy to Clean. The extra wide mouth means that the bottles can be washed by hand without a brush. They are also dishwasher safe.
- Heat Resistant. The silicone material can be boiled for additional safety. The bottles also work with many sterilizers and bottle warmers.
- Super Slow Starter Nipples. Stage 1 nipples have a single hole for the slow milk delivery that many newborns need. Older babies will move up to Stage 2 or 3.
- Variable Flow Nipples. Comotomo also makes a variable flow nipple with a Y-cut design, used for thicker liquids, such as milk thickened with a bit of cereal. (Moms should consult baby’s doc before deciding to feed cereal in this way. Most doctors advise against adding cereal to bottles.)
- Sealing Caps. Comotomo bottles come with sealing caps to prevent leaks.
What You May Not Like:
- Soft Body Problems. Although they have a great feel, the soft silicone bodies can make it difficult to seat the lids properly. Also, squeezing the bottle will cause milk to shoot out of the vents.
- Silicone bottles may retain smells. The manufacturer recommends boiling to take any odor away.
- Not Breast Pump Compatible. The atypical design means that Comotomo bottles will not fit on most breast pumps.
Dr. Brown’s Original Baby Bottles
Dr. Brown’s may be the original anti-colic bottle. Designed by a pediatrician, the bottles feature an internal venting system consisting of tubes that carry air from the nipple collar to the back of the bottle. As a result, nipples don’t collapse, and babies don’t take in a lot of air.
Dr. Brown’s bottles are affordable and basic in appearance. Originally made of glass, the company now mostly uses polypropylene, but you may be able to find some in glass.
The company also offers an Options line of bottles that can be used with or without the venting system. The Options line has not achieved the popularity of the original bottles, however. Evidently many Dr. Brown’s fans would rather fight than switch!
- Internal Venting. The anti-colic venting system really works, according to most users. Many report that their babies are less gassy and fussy.
- Ease of Positioning. Because the vents are inside the bottle rather than in the nipple, the bottle does not have to be turned a specific way.
- Reduced Oxidation. The manufacturer states that because air is routed away from the milk, oxidation does not occur, and essential vitamins are preserved.
- Traditional Nipple Design. Nipples are made of silicone and are shaped much like traditional baby bottle nipples, a design which some babies seem to prefer.
- Accurate Flow Levels. The nipples are available in five different flow levels, including one especially for preemies. The research study from Pediatric Feeding News found that Dr. Brown’s is one of the few companies that produces nipples with consistent flow levels.
- Dishwasher Safe. The bottles are dishwasher safe. The company sells special dishwasher baskets to keep the parts corralled.
- Breast Pump Compatible. The standard bottles (not the wide-mouth versions) are compatible with most breast pumps. You may be able to use the wide-mouth versions if you buy an adapter.
- Travel Caps. Bottles come with caps to protect the nipples.
What You May Not Like:
- Extra Parts. There are many extra parts to keep up with and take extra steps in assembly.
- Concerns About Cleaning. Although the bottles are dishwasher safe, there is a worry that the venting tubes may not get clean inside. Dr. Brown’s does sell a microwave steam sterilizer and drying rack for the extra-picky or for those who don’t want to wait on a dishwasher cycle.
- There may be some leaking issues with Dr. Brown’s bottles. Mixing formula inside the bottles can definitely be a problem. Some moms report that they solved the problem by stirring instead of shaking.
- Too-Long Nipple. The traditional style of nipple may be rejected by some breastfed babies who find it too long.
Lifefactory Glass Bottles With Silicone Sleeves
Although BPA has been banned from baby bottles, some moms still worry that plastic bottles may leach chemicals. These moms often opt for glass bottles.
With glass, however, breakage is always a possibility. Besides the loss of the bottle, a broken bottle can be tricky to clean up while caring for an infant.
Lifefactory has a solution for that problem: glass bottles with protective silicone sleeves. The sleeves will safeguard the bottles in most falls. Of course, in certain circumstances it is possible to break a bottle even when using the sleeve. Also, the addition of the sleeves makes the bottles quite expensive and increases the weight of the bottle.
Lifefactory makes a full line of water bottles and storage products for those who prefer glass. You can buy sippy lids for these bottles when baby outgrows the bottle.
- Temperature Safe. Lifefactory bottles are made of borosilicate glass that is resistant to thermal shock. In layman’s terms, that means you can boil them or freeze them without breakage. Breastfeeding moms can freeze their milk right in the bottles.
- Ease of Grip. The silicone sleeves provide a good grip for moms and dads, and for babies when they get older.
- Traditional Nipple Design With Different Flows. The silicone nipple is made in the traditional shape and can be purchased in three different flow levels. Nipples are interchangeable with those manufactured by some other makers of traditional bottles.
- Dishwasher Safe. The bottles are dishwasher safe. Nipples and caps should be placed on the top shelf. It’s not necessary to remove the silicone sleeves for washing.
- Luscious Colors. The silicon sleeves come in beautiful colors like mango, raspberry, kale and blueberry.
- Breast Pump Compatible. Lifefactory bottles are compatible with most breast pumps.
- Caps and Stoppers. Bottles come with the traditional old-school stoppers for storing milk in the bottles without the nipples attached. They also come with the regular nipple caps.
What You May Not Like:
- No Anti-Colic Venting. These bottles work just like old-fashioned bottles. If you screw the nipple ring on too tightly, you may have problems with baby pulling a vacuum on the bottle, with resultant swallowed air. It takes a bit of practice to get the top tight enough that it doesn’t leak but loose enough to allow a bit of air flow.
- Heavy Bottles. These bottles feel a little heavier.
- Hard-to-Remove Sleeves. The silicone sleeves can be very difficult to remove. However, this isn’t a problem as the sleeves don’t really need to be removed for cleaning. But if you do want to take off a sleeve, be prepared for a struggle.
- Too-Long Nipple. Some breastfed babies dislike this longer style of nipple and may actually gag on it.
MAM Anti-Colic Bottles
Another bottle with a lot of fans is the MAM Anti-Colic. Based in Austria and Switzerland, MAM sells its products worldwide. Besides reducing swallowed air, this model is designed for transitions between breast and bottle. It’s very reasonably priced and comes in a variety of cute designs.
- SkinSoft Nipple. The MAM bottle has a unique texture that is designed to appeal to breastfed infants. Its flat design fits naturally in baby’s mouth.
- Varied Flow Levels. Nipples are available in three flow levels.
- Vented Base. The patented base controls the pressure inside the bottle, reducing gas, colic and reflux.
- Wide opening. The bottle is made with a wide mouth for easy filling and cleaning. The bottle is also slightly wider at the bottom, making it more stable.
- Easy to Clean. The bottoms of the bottles can be removed for easy cleaning. They are top shelf dishwasher-safe. The manufacturer also gives instructions for sterilizing nipples and caps in the microwave.
- Nipple Caps. Clear caps are included.
What You May Not Like:
- Too Many Pieces. Extra pieces to clean and the extra step or two for assembly.
- Possibility of Leakage. These bottles may have leaky bottoms. Still, these bottles seem to leak less than many anti-colic models.
- Not Breast Pump Friendly. The bottles are not compatible with most breast pumps.
Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Bottles
Tommee Tippee is another contender in the race to create a bottle that mimics a breast. Like the NUK and the Comotomo, the nipple is designed to not only look like the real thing but also to function much like a lactating breast. The nipple is supposed to promote a natural “latch” and reduce nipple confusion in breastfed babies. The bottle’s grippable shape and affordable price also tip the scales in its favor.
- Vented Nipple. Tommee Tippee nipples feature Easi-Vent Valves to reduce the air your baby will swallow. (The company also makes an anti-colic bottle with a tube and valve system for babies who are extra gassy or who have a tendency to spit up.)
- Leak-Resistant. Users have few complaints about leaking, a problem with many vented nipples.
- Easy-to-Grip Shape. Tommee Tippee bottles have a chunky hourglass shape that makes them easy to hold. They are also super lightweight.
- Simple Design. Many moms like the simplicity of the three-piece design: bottle, nipple, nipple ring. Add the hygiene cap for travel.
- Varied Flow Nipples. Like most manufacturers of baby bottles, Tommee Tippee makes nipples designed for three different rates of flow. Research shows that the rate of flow is quite standard and consistent.
- Pretty Colors. Besides the basic clear, the bottles come in pink little girl models and blue little boy models, as well as a rainbow of other colors.
- Hygiene Caps. Clear covers to keep nipples clean are included with bottle purchases.
What You May Not Like:
- Difficult to Empty Completely. Some users found that the shape of the bottle causes part of the milk to be trapped.
- Nipple Collapse. Some users find that the vent in the nipple doesn’t keep the baby from pulling a vacuum and collapsing the nipple. Sometimes the collapse is a result of the vent touching the baby’s face or lip and being blocked.
- Breast Pump Adapter Needed. Because of the atypical shape, the Tommee Tippee bottles require an adapter. With it, the bottles can be used with some breast pumps.
Playtex Ventaire
Playtex has been making baby bottles for over 50 years, but the Ventaire is miles removed from its original design. Featuring a natural nipple, anti-colic system and angled design, the Ventaire aims to solve the problems some babies have with bottle feeding.
It’s especially designed for breastfed babies who need an occasional bottle feeding and for babies in transition from breast to bottle. A reasonable selling price is another plus.
- Natural Nipple. Playtex promotes its Naturalatch Nipple with the tagline, “Most Like Mom.” The nipple is of medium width, much wider than the traditional style but not as wide as the Comotomo and a couple of the others. It’s also textured to help baby get a grip.
- Anti-Colic Bottom Vents. Tiny channels built into the bottom of the bottle keep air at the back of the bottle and out of baby’s tummy. This system avoids the problem of nipple vents that must be turned a certain way or that sometimes get blocked.
- Angled Design. Many pediatricians recommend a semi-upright feeding position for babies, and the Ventaire design makes this easier. Some doctors believe that a more upright feeding position reduces the likelihood of ear infections.
- Nipple Variety. Nipples come in three different rates of flow. Playtex also sells a variety pack of four nipple styles that will fit all Playtex bottles so that you can more easily find the one that your baby prefers. The four-pack includes the Naturalatch nipple, along with a full-size model, a breast-like nipple and an angled nipple.
- Easy to Clean. All parts are top-shelf dishwasher safe. As a bonus, both the top and the bottom come off the bottle, making it extra easy to wash.
- Breast Pump Compatible. The standard bottles (not the wide-mouth versions) are compatible with most breast pumps. You may be able to use the wide-mouth versions if you buy an adapter.
- Pretty pastels. The bottles come in standard but pretty shades of pink, blue, green and yellow, as well as in clear.
- Travel Caps. Bottles come with protective caps.
What You May Not Like:
- Leaky Bottoms. Some users report that the vent in the bottom leaks. This could be from incorrect positioning or from the piece becoming warped being heated.
- Extra Parts to Clean. Some moms dislike having to take the extra step of disassembling the bottles in order to clean the vents.
Flipsi Natural Silicone Baby Bottles
Will moms flip over Flipsi? This innovative nurser is new enough that the jury is still out. Designed by two brothers and launched in 2016, the Flipsi has several cool features, including reversibility. The brothers were working on an innovative sports bottle, but soon realized that their concept had an even better application in the baby field.
The Flipsi blueprint includes a wide nipple, a polypropylene body and a silicone liner that holds the milk. Flipsi functions somewhat like the classic Playtex nursers with the disposable liners but offers several additional advantages. Looking more like a cute sippy cup than a bottle, the Flipsi also carries a moderately high price tag.
- Colic Prevention. Because the silicone lining is flexible, the air can be squeezed out of it before feeding starts. It will continue to collapse as baby nurses, minimizing swallowed air. It’s colic prevention without the often-leaky vents.
- Natural Breast Shape. The nipple has a wide mound, making it acceptable to many breastfed babies.
- Easy to Clean. The silicone liner can be inverted so that even hours-old milk can be scrubbed off with ease.
- Easy Assembly. Although the liner adds one extra piece, assembly is still super easy. The bottom of the nurser is open, so you can gently tug the silicone liner in place.
- Temperature Resistant. The bottles are freezer, microwave and dishwasher safe. They can be boiled for additional safety. The bottles also work with many sterilizers and bottle warmers.
- Variable Flow Nipples. Nipples come in three stages of flow as well as a Stage 4 Y-cut for thicker liquids. Flipsi indicates the flow level with dots on the nipple.
- Protective Hoods. Clear hoods protect the nipples for travel and storage.
What You May Not Like:
- Silicone sometimes retains odors. If this occurs, the makers recommend boiling the liner with a tablespoon of baking soda for 5-10 minutes.
- Not Breast Pump Compatible. Because of the unusual design, the Flipsi bottle will not fit directly on breast pumps.
Philips Avent Anti-Colic Bottles
Philips Avent has fed a lot of babies, having been in the bottle business for over 30 years. The company is a leader in the field of anti-colic bottles and points to studies that show that their feeding system results in less fussing from babies, especially at night.
The Philips bottle has an in-between size and shape. It is not as narrow as a traditional bottle but does not have the extra-wide nipple and mouth that many modern bottles feature. The company also makes a Natural bottle with a wider nipple. The Natural model is also available in glass.
- Airflex Venting System. The Philips Avent bottle has a vent integrated into the nipple that carries air to the back of the bottle for less swallowed air.
- No Nipple Collapse. The nipples are ribbed so that even strong suckers won’t be able to collapse them.
- Greater Choice of Nipples. Whereas most manufacturers offer three stages of flow, Philips Avent offers five.
- No-Frills Look. These bottles have a clean but basic appearance. They come in pink and blue as well as clear.
- Simple to Clean and Assemble. The bottles are microwave and top-shelf dishwasher safe. There aren’t any extra parts to complicate assembly.
- Comfortable to Hold. Many moms find that this bottle is well-balanced and comfortable to hold. Babies who are old enough to help hold seem to do it with ease with this bottle.
- Many parts can be used on other bottles in the Philips Avent line and on their line of toddler cups.
- Protective Covers. Clear hoods keep nipples clean and prevent spillage.
What You May Not Like:
- May Leak. Some users complain of leakage. This is a common problem with anti-colic bottles that use vents.
- Breast Pump Compatibility. Philips Avent makes its own breast pump. The company’s bottles are not compatible with most other pumps, although there is an adapter that will work with some models of pumps.
Lansinoh mOmma Bottles
Founded by a breast-feeding mom around 30 years ago, Lansinoh continues to support nursing moms with a variety of products including bottles and breast pumps.
The company states that its bottle design is based on 50 years of research. The nipple is supposed to promote natural nursing action and reduce nipple confusion in breastfed babies. Medium-range in price and plain in appearance, the Lansinoh mOmma bottles boast a dedicated fan group. Many moms claim that this is the only bottle their breastfed babies will accept.
- NaturalWave Nipple. The company states that this nipple design encourages the same sucking actions that babies use at the breast. Moms note that the nipple has a nice natural feel, almost velvety.
- Choice of Nipple Flow. Lansinoh users can choose from nipples with three rates of flow.
- Air Ventilation System. Like many other bottles that claim to reduce swallowed air, the Lansinoh has a venting system. Many vented bottles leak, but this does not seem to be a problem with the Lansinoh bottles.
- Travel Caps. Nipple covers are included.
What You May Not Like:
- Breast Pump Compatibility. Lansinoh is a well-known maker of breast pumps. Of course the company would prefer that you use their breast pumps. The Lansinoh bottles aren’t compatible with many other breast pumps, but Lansinoh also makes a line of milk storage bags that are compatible with most pumps.
Joovy Boob PPSU Bottle
The Joovy Boob is designed for picky moms and moms who don’t mind paying extra for quality. This unique bottle is made of Polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), a plastic favored for use in medical devices.
Its anti-colic device is a venting ring that fits at the top of the bottle. The bottles have a clean, modern look and are available with several different accent colors.
- Clean Flow Vent Ring. The Joovy Boob has a vent ring for air-free feeding. The vent ring does not have to be taken apart and reassembled, and it functions in any position.
- Superior Materials. PPSU looks like glass but performs like plastic. Unless many plastics, however, it does not absorb color or odor. It is impact resistant and can be sterilized at high temperatures.
- Precision Nipple Flow. The silicone nipples are available in five flow levels. The holes are not cut into the nipples but are molded in for greater consistency in size and performance.
- Wide mouth. The bottle’s wide mouth makes for easy filling and cleaning.
- Dishwasher Safe. The bottles and nipples can be cleaned by placing on the top shelf of the dishwasher.
- Breast Pump Friendly. With an adapter, the bottles fit many of the popular breast pump models.
- Nipple Caps. Clear hoods are included to protect the nipples.
What You May Not Like:
- Assembly Required. The vent ring does have to be properly inserted and all the parts screwed together with the right degree of snugness. That can be a little tricky.
- May leak. Some users have experienced leaking problems in the vicinity of the vent ring.
The Winner!
Considering the factors that are most important to new moms, the Philips Avent is the overall winner of this baby bottle showdown! Most moms mainly want trouble-free feeding and a baby who is contented, not gassy. The Philips Avent has the features that make this possible.
The venting system which isn’t prone to leakage, the choice of nipple flows and the nipple that resists collapse – these three elements create a formula for happy feeding. Add in a simple design that’s easy to clean, and you have a clear winner.
Actually, this article should help you find your very own winner, which could be different from the overall winner. The Comotomo has wonderful features, but the price tag removes it from consideration for many. The Flipsi is an intriguing product that needs more time to prove itself. Dedicated breast feeders definitely gravitate toward the Lansinoh. And moms who want a highly engineered product may go for the Joovy Boob.
Also, never forget that baby has the final vote. Happy feeding!
