Babies, breastfeeding, bottles… oh my! As a parent, you’re constantly on the hunt for the safest and best products for your mini-me. Bottles are one of the most important things your baby uses, as it is one of their only options to receive food. There are tons of options when it comes to bottles all varying in shapes, sizes, and textures. The countless options can be overwhelming, we know! As you began to look at bottles first look at the material. Glass, silicone, and chemical free plastic are all good options. Glass is heavier than the other two materials, but it won’t wear down and it’s easy to clean. Silicone is often more expensive but it’s chemical free and lightweight. Plastic bottles will be the cheapest of the three and is durable. Next look at the bottle’s shape. If it will be easy to hold, and can easily be taken on the go then it’s a good bottle to own.
Bottles with venting systems will reduce gas in your baby. However, if the vents are not built in, there will be a lot more pieces for you to keep up with and clean. Finally, look at the nipple. If you’re wanting to transition your child from breast to bottle purchase a mound-shaped nipple. Nipples also come in a variety of sizes and flow speeds. If your baby is just starting out, purchase the slow flow nipple. If the flow speed is to fast, they may spit up or gag. If your baby doesn’t take to the nipple on the first try, it’s okay! It may take your baby a couple of tries or even a couple of nipples until they find one they like.
If you’re taking notes, you can stop. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry. We created a list of the best baby bottles to make everything easier. The bottles on this list vary in size, material, and shape. We’re confident you will be able to find one that will not only make your baby happy but will also make feeding time easier for you.
The Best Baby Bottles in 2018
1
Comotomo Baby Bottle, 8 Ounce, 2 Count
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The Comotomo Baby Bottle is a set of two BPA free bottles. The top is a wide mound which makes it easier for the baby to transition from breast to mound. The wide design of the bottle makes it easy to clean. Along with being BPA free, these bottles are free from PVC and phthalate. They’re microwave safe and can withstand boiling water, which makes feeding time worry free. The silicone nipple can be suitable for newborns and babies up to six months old as the number of holes on the nipple change. Newborns and children up to three months will benefit from the slow flow nipple. The one hole will help develop your child’s suckling. The medium flow nipple has two holes and is geared towards children who are three to five months old. Children who are six months and over will use the fast flow nipple with three holes. You can choose between green or pink colored lids and five or eight ounce bottles.
BENEFITS
The lid of the bottle is equipped with dual vents which reduces colic, spit up, and gas. The soft silicone body is easy for little hands to grip. Also, the silicone prevents odors. The lid screws on tightly guareenting no leaks.
Pros
- Dual Air Vents
- Easy to Clean
- Microwave Safe
- Easy for little hands to grip
Cons
- Lids can be a little difficult to screw on and off
We love how closely this bottle mimics breastfeeding. Furthermore, we were highly impressed with how the bottles can work for newborns and children up to 6 months of age with the change of the nipple.
2
Lansinoh mOmma Breastmilk Feeding Bottle
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If your baby is struggling with nipple confusion, worry no more. The Lansinoh Momma feeding bottle has been clinically proven to reduce nipple confusion with it’s NaturalWave nipple. The flexible silicon nipple allows your baby to use the same actions used when breastfeeding. These bottles come in a set of three, which make it convenient for you while your breastfeeding. You can use one bottle to pump milk, one to store milk, and one to feed your baby. Designed specifically for breastfeeding babies, you can choose between two sizes to best suit your little one. Five and eight ounce bottles are available to choose from.
BENEFITS
These bottles are equipped with a great air ventilation system. It requires no extra parts and reduces colic. The matte finish of the nipple will guarantee a secure latch for your baby.
Pros
- Affordable
- Comes in a set of 3 bottles
- Easy to clean
- BPA free
Cons
- Flow can be seen as to fast.
Being that these bottles were designed for breastfeeding babies, we love how easy the natural wave nipple makes the transition. The built in air vents are a huge plus as they require no extra parts and reduce colic.
3
Dr. Brown’s Original Wide-Neck Bottle Newborn Feeding Set
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Dr. Brown’s original feeding set has everything you need to start feeding your baby. This set includes three eight ounce bottles and two four ounce bottles. Five level one silicone nipples and two level two silicone nipples are also included. You will receive three cleaning brushes with your purchase as well. The bottles are composed of polypropylene. The vacuum free feeding provides good digestion to your baby. They reduce colic and will allow your baby to rest peacefully after feeding.
BENEFITS
This bottle has something no other bottle does, an internal vent system. Similar to breastfeeding the vent system allows babies to drink milk at their own pace. It helps preserve nutrients and vitamins while the baby feeds. The nipple won’t collapse because as the baby sucks to retrieve the milk, air flows to other end of the bottle.
Pros
- An internal vent system.
- Comes with multiple bottles and nipples
- Reduces colic
- Nipple won’t collapse
Cons
- The many pieces can be viewed as too much of a hassle.
The internal vent system is a unique design that is very beneficial to your baby. We know having a child can be expensive, which is why we love that this set comes with several bottles, nipples, and cleaning brushes.
4
Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Fiesta Bottles
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Save: $15.80 (29.15% OFF)
Feeding time is doubling as party time with the Tommee Tippee Fiesta Bottles. These award winning BPA free bottles come in a package of 6 and are offered in a variety of colors. The bottles are 9 ounces and include the measurements on the outside of the bottle. They are microwave and dishwasher safe. The hygiene seal cap eliminates leaks and germs from entering the bottle. The slow flow nipple is partnered with a vent valve to eliminate excessive air. With less air coming into the bottle, your little one can ingest more milk. The shape of the bottle allows parents to hold it three different ways. You can cradle the bottle in your hand, grip it the old fashioned way, or even hold it from the base. The variety of ways the bottle can be held allow the baby to feed in comfortable and natural position.
BENEFITS
The colors of the bottles will help stimulate your child’s sensory development. The nipple is made of a soft silicone and gently flexes during feeding, thus allowing baby to latch on easily. The skin like nipple also eases the transition from breast to bottle.
Pros
- Measurements on bottle
- Bottles come in different colors.
- Microwave & Dishwasher safe
- Easy to Clean
Cons
- Nipples may discolor & bottle may cloud after being in the dishwasher
The bright colors of these bottles take feeding time to the next level. It’s even more of a plus that they have the measurements on the outside, are easy to clean, and come in a pack of six.
5
Medela Breastmilk Bottle Set, 8 Ounce
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Calling all breastfeeding moms! The Medela Breastmilk Bottle Set makes pumping and storing easy and worry free.The design of the bottle allows you to store breast milk safely without losing any of the vitamins or nutrients. These bottles are compatible with the Medela Breast pump. If you have one, you’re able to pump, store, and feed using one container. This set includes three 8 ounce bottles and lids, three medium flow nipples, and three travel caps. These bottles are also available in a five ounce set. The colorful measurement marks on the bottle make measuring super easy.
BENEFITS
The bottles are made of plastic and are BPA free. The screw on lids and travel caps enhance their portability. With only four pieces, the bottles can easily be thrown into the dishwasher to be cleaned.
Pros
- Comes with a travel cap
- Can store breast milk safely for long periods
- Easy to read measurement markings
- Compatible with breast pump
Cons
We love that the screw on lids enhance portability and allow you to safely store breast milk in the fridge for long periods. We also appreciate that these bottles don’t come with a ton of small pieces because they’re super easy to clean.
6
Philips Avent Natural Newborn Baby Bottle Starter Set
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Save: $15.03 (32.51% OFF)
If you’re a brand new mom the Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottle starter set is perfect for you. The set includes a total of five bottles; two 9 ounce bottles with slow flow nipples and three 4 ounce bottles with natural newborn nipples. All of the bottles are BPA free as they are made from polypropylene. A formula dispenser, pacifier, and cleaning brush are also included. The formula dispenser is designed to hold three pre measured portions of milk powder. The inside of the nipple has comfort petals that encourage the transition from breast to bottle. The petals also enhance softness and flexibility but will not collapse.
BENEFITS
The pacifiers are made of silicone and have been used by medical professionals. The brush is designed with a curved head and molded tip that allow it to get in tough to reach places while cleaning. The lids are made with air vents to help reduce colic.
Pros
- Brush design
- Comfort petals
- Formula Dispenser and pacifier included.
- Vent system reduces colic
Cons
- May have to adjust the position of the bottle to ensure the baby gets every last drop of milk
We find the formula dispenser to be highly valuable as it makes it easier for you to travel. We were also impressed by the design of the cleaning brush and the medical grade pacifier that is included in this set.
7
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This bottle is well-designed for your baby’s optimum comfort during feeding, while still being relatively easy to take apart and clean. MAM boasts selling “skin-soft” textured and leak-proof nipples, with a flat shape that fits easily into baby’s mouth. The wide design of the bottle’s body makes it easy to hold, and allows easy cleaning. The base is ventilated, controlling the flow of milk and keeping air pockets from disrupting baby’s full and happy tummy. (80% of mothers using the MAM design reported less gas and colic in their children.) The bottle is self-sterilizing; just put the nipple in the base with one fluid ounce of water and throw that in the microwave for three minutes. The material is plastic and silicone, and the set comes with two medium-flow nipples. The bottles come in both pink and blue (ignore the company’s gendered product title; just pick the shade that you and your baby like best).
BENEFITS
The soft nipples and flat design make transitioning easier for your baby, and the ventilated flow control in the bottle’s base keeps the air away, and the liquid from pouring too fast and choking your infant (or letting them think that’s how breastfeeding will work).
Pros
- Soft, textured nipples
- Ventilated base for air-and-liquid flow-control
- Easy to dismantle and clean
- Compatible with other MAM nipple heads for varied flow
Cons
- Wear-and-tear creates leaks of air between bottle and base over time, according to some customers
- Only comes with medium-flow nipples in this set
It’s easy to clean and many babies take well to the nipple feel and shape.
8
Evenflo Feeding Classic Glass Twist Bottles, 8 Ounce (Pack of 6)
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Next on the list is a modern take on the classic bottle. Evenflo has produced a glass bottle with a twist on the classic slim shape.The twist in the shape makes the bottle fit comfortably to the hand. The nipple is made of silicone and includes micro air vents. The vents will reduce gas and keep the nipple from collapsing. These bottles are dishwasher safe, and can be thoroughly sanitized. The six pack of bottles include measurement markings. When purchasing you can choose between a pack of 4 ounce or 8 ounce bottles.
BENEFITS
Glass won’t degrade over time, thus ensuring a long lasting life for these bottles. Glass is easy to clean, and it is easy to tell when it is truly clean. The material is safe as it does not include chemicals. Furthermore, glass can not be affected by what is held inside the bottle. No residual tastes or odors.
Pros
- Long lasting
- Doesn’t contain chemicals
- Eliminates residual tastes & odors.
- Affordable
Cons
- Will easily break if dropped
We love all of the great benefits glass provides. It doesn’t contain chemicals, it won’t degrade over time, and there won’t be any left over odors or tastes inside the bottle.
9
Playtex Baby Bottle, Gift Set
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Save: $11.70 (22.86% OFF)
The Playtex Baby Bottle set is not only great for your baby but it’ll be a great baby shower gift. The set includes 5 wide bottles, three 6 ounce bottles and two 9 ounce bottles. Slow and fast nipples, bottle caps, and extra vent disks are also included. The Angled design of the bottle makes baby feed in a semi upright position to prevent ear infections. The bottles include measurement markings and are composed of BPA free plastic.
BENEFITS
The top and bottom of the bottle can easily be removed, which makes cleaning extremely easy. Inside the bottle on the bottom, there is a vent that will keep air from getting into your child’s stomach. The raised texture and wide shape of the naturalatch nipple makes the transition to the bottle much more smooth.
Pros
- Angled Design
- Easy assembly & disassembly
- Bottom vent
- Raised textured nipple, wide mound shape
Cons
- Does not include a 4 oz bottle for younger babies
The unique angled design is highly impressive as it reduces ear infections. The easy disassembly and reassembly of the bottle is a huge plus as it allows the bottle to be easily cleaned.
10
Tinukim Hands Free Baby Bottle 9 Ounce
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We know being a parent can be extremely busy! Tinukim thought of a way to make feeding a little easier with their hands free bottle! If you’re feeding twins or trying to feed the baby on the go this bottle will help you tremendously.The wide neck bottle comes with a cap, nipple, and straw. A straw runs through the bottle and has the nipple attached to the end. You can easily remove the straw and attach the nipple directly on the bottle if you choose. This set of two is available in pink or blue and 4 or 9 ounces. Measurement markings are included on the bottle for both ounces and milliliters. These bottles are great for babies who are three months or older. They are leak free and will reduce gas as they have double vented nipple.
BENEFITS
These bottles promote motor skills as they are equipped with removable handles that encourage your baby to feed themselves. They are completely safe as they are free from all chemicals. They can withstand the microwave, boiling water, and freezer.
Pros
- Removable handles
- Available in two colors
- Hands Free System
- Measurement Markings
Cons
- Some may find it hard keeping up with all of the pieces
We’re in awe at the amazing hands free system and think mothers everywhere will benefit greatly from it. The removable handles are also a plus, because your child will be able to use these bottles as they grow and are able to feed themselves.
11
Joovy Boob Bottle 9 Ounce, 2 count
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The Joovy Boob bottle is made of polyphenylsulfone, which is a transparent plastic. PPSU is highly durable and does not absorb odor. It is free from toxic chemicals like BPA, BPS, PVC, and lead. The glass like look gives this grey bottle a sleek appearance. They come in 5 or 9 ounces. You can also choose between purchasing one or two. The textured silicone nipple is equipped with five flows. Even the nipple is durable as it will withstand tears, bites, and yellowing.
BENEFITS
The rim of the bottle encases the CleanFlow vent. In total there are four vents that work to reduce colic and gas in your baby. They will also prevent the nipple from collapsing. The bottle’s shape makes it easy for tiny hands to hold.
Pros
- No Leaks
- Odor resistant
- Bottle and Nipple Durable
- Nipple is available in 5 flow rates
Cons
- Only the Joovy Boob nipples can be used on this bottle
The glass like appearance of this bottle will have your baby looking super stylish during feeding time. While it looks like glass, the plastic it is actually made of is highly durable.
12
Kiinde Twist – Squeeze Natural
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If you’re starting to notice the infinitely complicated and multi-step process that breastfeeding has become, take a breath--and a look at this product. Kiinde has developed a system to cut out several steps and make feeding your baby as simple and stress-free as possible. The Kiinde Twist bags will connect directly to any pump, and then can be popped into this inventive bottle, meaning no more messy transfers from bags to bottle along the way. The Kiinde Twist comes with a natural, oval-shaped nipple piece to eliminate air bubbles, but the bottle and bag can be utilized with other kinds of nipples as well. The air pouch collapses as your baby feeds, meaning no colic or gassy tummies, and the bag can pop right out of the bottle and into the top rack of your dishwasher upon completion. The nipple is textured and soft, meant specifically to help ease the transition between breast-and-bottle feeding, and encourages deep, natural latching. The active-latch nipple is one piece, and detaches easily from the bottle to be cleaned, saving you from the complicated little parts of other ventilating systems. The bottle’s design is meant for easy gripping by you and your baby and can be utilized as a stand during pumping as well. The product includes two nipples: one for slow-flow and one for medium-flow, with cases that double as bottle covers.
BENEFITS
The size and shape of the nipple are tailored to babies who might be fickle about the transition between breast and bottle. Additionally, the easy-grip design is a win-win for mom and child.
Pros
- Simple, effective design with easy cleanup
- Specially contoured nipple for babies in transition
- Two flow options
- Easy-grip
Cons
- Some customers complained about leaking nipples after a few uses
Designed to help babies move from breast to bottle, easy to pump and clean, and guaranteed not to upset little tummies: the Kiinde Twist is a solid triple-threat in our books.
13
Read Parent Reviews >>
This is your basic colic-reducing plastic bottle technology, but with a cute Minnie (or Mickey!) Mouse design to add some flair. The nipple head is soft and comes with two sizes that allow three flow-rates: size 1 is for babies 0-6 months and is smaller, meant for light-to-medium flow, and size 2 is for babies 6 months and up, with a larger opening for a heavier/faster flow. The air-lock system is built into the nipple to reduce hassle and allow easier cleaning. The pack comes with three bottles, all BPA-free and dishwasher safe. For best results, ensure that the bottle is placed correctly, with the air-lock system right under baby’s nose so that the drinking hole is facing upwards.
BENEFITS
Two nipple sizes allow this bottle to grow alongside baby’s shifting feeding habits and appetite.
Pros
- Ventilated colic-reducing system
- The ventilation system in the nipple, to avoid multiple small pieces needing disassembly and cleaning
Cute Minnie and Mickey design for Disney fans
- BPA-Free, dishwasher safe
- Soft nipple head in two sizes
Cons
- Some discrepancy in shipping; customers have received the wrong set of bottles
BPA-free, dishwasher safe, and three bottles in every pack means that you can wear, tear, and lose a bottle and still have quality back-ups ready to go.
Criteria Used in Evaluation of the Best Baby Bottles
The importance of baby bottles is no mystery. They’re a tool to help feed your baby and they’re portable. When we composed this research we took a lot of factors into consideration. Most importantly, we wanted you to have a bottle that is free from harmful chemicals, will make the transition from boob to bottle easier and will help reduce colic.
Chemical Free
Safety is always our top priority. When making this list we made sure all of the bottles were free of chemicals. One of the top chemicals we watched out for was Bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA. Typically this chemical is used in plastics to keep bacteria out. However, recent studies have linked the chemicals to cancer.
If you already have a bottle that contains BPA, we recommend discarding it, especially if it has turned cloudy or worn down. Choosing a bottle off of our list will allow you to rest easy as all of the plastic bottles are BPA free. Of course, you can’t go wrong with our glass or silicone options as those are chemical free as well.
Transition
The transition from breast to bottle was another extremely important factor we took into consideration when composing this list. We know the transition may be difficult for your baby, so we wanted to provide you with plenty of options to help make it easier. Bottle feeding will help give mom a break as well as allow the baby to bond with the father or another caregiver. It is also extremely convenient when you are on the go or in a place where you can not breastfeed.
Start with a slow flow nipple. Medium or fast pace nipples may cause your baby to gag as they are taking in to much milk at one time. Bottles with wide mound shape lids mimic a breast and help ease the transition. Many mothers put a small drop of breastmilk on the bottle’s nipple to encourage the baby to suck more after tasting that first drop. For some, this may be a difficult and frustrating process. Be patient, take it slow and enjoy the journey with your baby.
Anti- Colic Bottles
We know having a child can be tiring, and that’s why we wanted to list plenty of bottles that offer anti colic features. Colic is defined as uncontrollable crying for more than three hours in a row, for three or more days a week, for three weeks. While colic won’t necessarily cause any long term harm to your or the baby, it will make life stressful.
It usually appears around weeks two and three but is normally completely gone by the time your baby turns four months old. Bottles with vents will reduce the amount of air your baby takes in during feeding time. Less air ingested means less gas in your baby’s stomach. Less gas, means your baby will be more comfortable and less fussy.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My baby is having a hard time transitioning from breast to bottle. What can I do to ease the transition?
A: We recommend using a breast like a nipple to help ease the transition. Breast like nipples are wider and mound shaped. Not only are they easy to clean but their shape mimics a breast. Some nipples are textured to make it even easier for the baby.
Q: Am I required to heat the bottle up first?
A: Heating is not necessary. However, your baby may prefer their milk warm.
Q: How many bottles should I own?
A: We recommend owning four to twelve bottles as parenting can keep you busy.
Q: What size bottle do I need?
A: We recommend starting off with a four-ounce bottle. Once your baby outgrows that bottle, eight ounces are generally next in line.
Q: What level nipple should I use?
A: You should start out with the lowest flow, as it will give the baby control. With the baby in control, it reduces the risk of a dribble and upsetting their stomach. As your baby gets older they can move on to medium or fast flow.
Q: What ages are the Slow, Medium, and Fast flow nipples geared towards.
A: The slow flow nipples are geared towards newborns to three months. The medium flow nipples are for babies between three and six months. The fast flow nipples are for babies six months and older.
Q: Does the bottle i purchase need to have measurement markings?
A: Measurement markings are not a necessity. However, they serve to be very beneficial as they eliminate the extra step portioning everything out.
Q: I want to breastfeed and use bottles. When do i start my child on bottles?
A: Try allowing your baby to get the hang of breastfeeding first. We recommend introducing your child to the bottle around week four and no later than week six.
Sources
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Dana Sullivan Kilroy, Advantages of glass bottles over plastic become clear, Health Article,
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Masonbottle.com, Choosing Bottle Sizes and Nipple Sizes for Your Baby, Blog Article,
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Rachel Rabkin Pechman , Toxic Baby Bottles?, Blog Post,
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Healthy Children Staff, Baby Bottles and Bisphenol A (BPA), Informative Article,
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BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board , Introducing your breastfed baby to the bottle or cup, Online Article,
