Home » Misc » Baby feeder brands

Baby feeder brands


11 Best Baby Bottles (2023 Reviews)

No two moms are the same, and neither are their babies. We all have different needs when it comes to feeding our little ones, but wherever you are, there’s a bottle to make your life easier.

Whether you plan to breastfeed, stick to formula, or use a combination of both, baby bottles are sure to become an essential part of your everyday life — and there’s a whole world of choice out there!

Will you go with glass, plastic, silicone, or even stainless steel? What nipple size will work best for your baby’s stage of development? How can you clean and store baby bottles properly?

If these questions feel overwhelming, I get it. We’ll answer all these and more, plus show you the 11 best baby bottles we could find to keep your little one happy, healthy, and strong.

Our Top Picks

We love honesty! Mom Loves Best earns a commission through the following hand-picked links at no extra cost to you.

Image

Model

Product Comparison Table

Features

Best All Round

Comotomo Natural Feel

  • Mimic breast shape and feel
  • Super easy to clean
  • Dual vents prevent colic & gas

Check Price

Best for Breastfed Babies

Nanobebe Breastmilk

  • Warms up to two times faster
  • Stackable thus saves space
  • Easy to clean

Check Price

Best for Preemies

Philips Avent Newborn

  • Perfect size for preemies
  • Anti-colic feature
  • Slow nipple speed

Check Price

Best for Gas

Dr. Brown’s Original

  • Clinically proven to reduce colic
  • Preserve essential vitamins
  • Fits most breast pumps

Check Price

Best Baby Bottle for Formula

PopYum Anti-Colic

  • Anti-colic nipples and vents
  • Variety of options
  • Comprises of only 5 parts

Check Price

Best for Travel

Playtex Nurser

  • Simple liner system
  • Mimics breastfeeding experience
  • Anti-colic and anti-gas

Check Price

Best for Exclusively Pumping

Medela Collection

  • Comes with six bottles
  • Affordable price
  • Bigger bottles available (8oz)

Check Price

Best Stainless Steel

Pura Kiki Stainless Steel

  • Safe, eco-friendly, easy to wash
  • Lasts for years
  • Compatible with other leading brand

Check Price

Best Glass Bottle

NUK Simply Natural

  • Doesn't leak
  • Very affordable
  • Anti-colic air system

Check Price

Best for Toddlers

NUK Disney

  • BPA-free plastic
  • Holds up to 10 ounces
  • Fun Disney design

Check Price

Table of Contents

  • Our Top Picks
  • The Best Baby Bottles of 2023
  • Do I Need Baby Bottles?
  • Types of Baby Bottles
  • How to Choose Baby Bottles
  • Finding the Perfect Nipple Size
  • When Will My Baby Need a Bottle?
  • How to Transition to a Bottle
  • Do I Need a Baby Bottle Warmer?
  • How Do I Store Baby Bottles?
  • How Do I Clean Baby Bottles?
  • Baby Bottle FAQs

The Best Baby Bottles of 2023

Here are 11 great baby bottles to consider.

1. Comotomo Baby Natural Feel Baby Bottle

Best All Round Baby Bottle

View on Amazon

View on Walmart

View on Target

View on BuyBuyBaby

Comotomo’s Natural Feel bottles are specifically designed to mimic the natural nursing process. The nipples are shaped like a woman’s breast with a wide mound your baby can easily latch onto. You can choose from multiple flow options, but the standard “slow flow” nipple has a single hole to help your baby learn how to suck and swallow.

One of the features we love for breastfed babies is the silicone material. It’s designed to be soft and squeezy so your baby can hold it comfortably and feel like they’re still close to mom. If they have a hard time getting the milk out, a little squeeze from you will help it flow again.

The silicone is 100 percent free from risky plastics including BPA, PVC, and phthalate.

If you have exclusively breastfed your baby or have had a difficult time transitioning to a bottle, the soft, natural feel of this bottle may be just the thing you need.

This bottle also comes with dual anti-colic vents, an extra-wide neck for easy cleaning, and an anti-leak locking system. All of the materials are dishwasher safe and can even be put in boiling water for extra sterilization.

The standard bottle holds 5 ounces of liquid and comes with a cap. You can also get an 8-ounce bottle, but it will come with a “medium flow” nipple with two holes instead of one.

Pros
  • The nipple has a wide base to mimic the shape and feel of your breast.
  • Silicone bottle can be squeezed and feels soft like your skin.
  • The wide neck makes the bottle super easy to wash.
  • Dual vents prevent colic and gas.
Cons
  • No measurement markings to keep track of milk flow and consumption.
  • Anti-leak lids need to be on extra tight or leaking may occur.

2.

nanobebe Breastmilk Baby Bottles
Best Bottle for Breastfed Babies

View on Amazon

View on Nanobebe

One of the latest rages in the bottle industry is to produce bottles for babies, like Nanobebe does, that look like a real breast. That solves a dilemma for moms who need to switch between breastfeeding and bottle feeding.

If a bottle looks more like a breast, your finicky baby won’t be likely to refuse it. And if they decide they prefer the bottle, they might not object if you try to switch back to the breast because the bottle will look and feel similar to your breast.

You’ll notice when you look at Nanobebe bottles that the shape is remarkably similar to a breast. The bottom of the bottle curves inward, making it comfortable for you to hold.

The design also helps with faster warming and cooling to preserve nutrients and prevent the growth of bacteria.

Pros
  • This bottle warms up to two times faster than some other brands.
  • It also cools up to two times faster when you put it in the refrigerator.
  • Looks like a breast if you’re trying to trick your baby by visuals alone.
  • The curved bottom design allows you to stack them, which saves you cabinet space.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Helps prevent nipple confusion.
Cons
  • The design of the bottle makes it difficult to get all the milk out of the bottle with some creative positioning while holding your baby.
  • There can be some leakage issues if you aren’t careful.

3. Philips Avent Newborn Bottle

Best Bottle for Preemies

Check Price

The Philips Avent line is one of the leaders in the baby bottle industry, and one reason we love them is because of their specific bottle for newborns and preemies.

Each only holds four ounces, which is perfect for your preemie. You won’t end up throwing any milk away as you would if you had larger bottles that your preemie baby couldn’t finish in one feeding.

The bottle uses an anti-colic system built into the nipple and doesn’t contain extra parts that are hard to take apart or difficult to clean. This will be appreciated by moms worried their babies are taking in air when drinking, but who also don’t want any extra washing up to do.

However, the reason we love this preemie bottle is the unique nipple design. Not only does it resemble the breast, but it also has a shorter nipple and a very slow flow for controlled feedings, plus the “comfort petals” inside stop it from collapsing. Combined, these features ensure your small baby gets the milk they need without being overpowered.

These bottles are BPA-free and have a wide-neck opening that makes it easy to fill without spilling. They can go in the dishwasher and be sterilized.

Pros
  • Perfect size for preemies.
  • The anti-colic features reduce the amount of milk that gets spit up.
  • The slow nipple speed won’t overwhelm your new baby.
Cons
  • You can’t get the last little bit out of the bottle without holding it straight up.

4. Dr. Brown’s Original Bottle

Best Bottle for Gassy Babies

Check Price

Ask any mom who’s had a baby with colic and chances are she knows all about Dr. Brown’s bottles. A staple in many households, their patented venting system has been clinically proven to reduce colic, spit-up, burping, and gas (1). They also preserve the essential vitamins in your breast milk, which can deteriorate upon exposure to air in conventional bottles.

How does it work? The internal vent system eliminates vacuum pressure and reduces oxidation caused by air bubbles. Air routes through the internal vent system to bypass the milk and give your baby a comfortable feeding experience.

The vent system is also designed to work with the silicone nipple, which has a slow flow for more controlled feedings.

Dr. Brown’s Original Bottles are made of BPA-free plastic and silicone. We love that the bottles attach directly to most of the best breast pumps without needing any extra bottles.

If your baby has colic or gas, we definitely suggest trying out Dr. Brown’s. They may also be a good choice for babies who still breastfeed regularly since this brand consistently earns good reviews when it comes to avoiding bottle confusion. Dr. Brown’s boasts that it is similar to breastfeeding because both don’t have any extra air in the milk.

The original bottle holds 4 ounces, but other size options are available; each bottle features convenient measurement markings.

Pros
  • Clinically proven to reduce gas, colic, spit-ups, and burping.
  • Helps preserve essential vitamins for the baby’s health.
  • Slow-flow nipple allows for paced feeding.
  • Fits most breast pumps for easy pumping and storing.
  • Helps prevent nipple confusion.
Cons
  • It requires extra work when cleaning the vent system.
  • Measurement markings can be hard to see.

5. PopYum Anti-Colic Baby Bottles

Best Baby Bottle for Formula

View on Amazon

View on Walmart

View on BuyBuyBaby

View on Popyum

If you’ve ever used formula, you know it’s not easy, like many people assume. While it may be easier than breastfeeding in some ways, it can be harder in many other ways.

Think of all the measuring and mixing you constantly have to do! You have to make sure you always have sanitized bottles at the ready, that you’ve packed enough formula in your diaper bag, and that the milk is always at the right temperature.

If your baby doesn’t get fed right away, this can lead to an unhappy baby, which equals an unhappy mom.

That’s why we like this bottle from PopYum. They have a funnel which makes it super easy to load the formula into the bottle. Then it also stops the formula from falling into the water chamber.

With only one hand, you can prepare a bottle. The bottle stores the formula and water separately so you can set up the formula in the bottle for later. Then, when you need the bottle, simply press the bottle’s buttons, shake it up, and then it’s ready for your baby.

If you’re a breastfeeding mom, you might also want to have a look at this cool bottle. It’s great for breast milk since you can isolate it at the bottom of the bottle. In addition, it won’t touch the nipple or vents until you’ve pressed the buttons.

Pros
  • Anti-colic nipples and vents can relieve colic symptoms.
  • Easy to prepare bottles one-handed so that you can hold your baby in the other arm.
  • Available in five and nine-ounce bottles.
  • Only five parts included, which is much less than some other options.
Cons
  • Some babies struggled to get milk out, while others got milk too fast.
  • Many parents found the bottles leaked.
  • Not very durable, which is disappointing considering the high price.
  • The nipples are short and wide, which many babies didn’t like.

6. Playtex Nurser with Disposable Liners

Best Baby Bottle for Travel

Check Price

If there’s one way to keep things neat and clean while you travel, it’s disposable liners. Once your baby is done feeding, simply throw the liner away. The bottle stays clean and you don’t have to worry about anything lingering in your diaper bag and smelling bad.

Playtex has made a super simple liner system: all you have to do is drop the liner into the bottle and you’re good to go. The bottles have a special lip at the top to catch onto the bottle, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping down or moving.

Then, just fill up the liner, screw on the nipple lid, and the bottle is ready.

When you’re done, all you have to do is remove the liner and dispose of it. We understand there are a lot of eco-friendly moms out there, but don’t worry — the liners are recyclable. (In the plastic bag recycling bin at grocery stores, not the regular recycle bin).

One of the reasons we really like these is because they weren’t just designed to make life easier; they actually improve your baby’s feeding experience. This is because the soft liner collapses down as your baby feeds, so the flow mimics a natural breastfeeding experience. And prevent air bubbles from mixing with the milk.

Both the bottle and the liners are made from BPA-free, PVC-free and phthalate-free plastic. The liners have even been pre-sterilized so you can open them up and add them to the bottle without extra steps.

Pros
  • Simple liner system is easy and quick to use everyday or while traveling.
  • Liner is designed to mimic the breastfeeding experience.
  • Anti-colic and anti-gas.
Cons
  • Saving the bags to recycle at a grocery store can get irritating.

7. Medela Breast Milk Collection Bottles

Best Baby Bottle for Exclusively Pumping

View on Amazon

View on Walmart

View on BuyBuyBaby

How much milk do you produce? How much milk does your baby actually drink each time they feed?

Chances are, there will always be a difference between the two. That’s why a mom who breastfeeds needs to make sure they have a collection of bottles on hand to store that difference.

One of our favorite picks is from Medela. These collection bottles are affordable and come in a six-pack and are great to use when you’re exclusively pumping. They’re the number one physician-recommended breastmilk storage product in the United States.

Each BPA-free bottle holds five ounces and comes with a screw-on lid to keep the milk safe in the refrigerator or freezer. These plastic baby bottles have been designed to retain the breastmilk’s beneficial properties, even after storage.

The feature we like most for pumping moms is the versatility. All Medela bottles are designed to work with a variety of breast pumps so you won’t have to worry about purchasing a different pump if you already have one.

This kit doesn’t come with nipples, but the bottles are compatible with Medela nipples and collars and some other brands of nipples may work, too.

They can go in the dishwasher and the millimeter markers let you know exactly how much you’ve pumped. They’re easy to clean and hold up better in the refrigerator than disposable bags because they aren’t as prone to ripping or leaking.

Pros
  • Since it comes with six bottles, you’ll have a lot of total storage space.
  • The millimeter markers remain even after repeated washing.
  • Affordable when compared to other bottle sets.
  • Bigger bottles available (8oz).
Cons
  • Some moms have complained about how thin these bottles are.
  • No way to write on or label the bottle.

8. Pura Kiki Stainless Steel Infant Bottle

Best Stainless Steel Baby Bottle

Check Price

Bottles are essential for a certain period and then, once your baby grows, you suddenly find yourself with a bunch of bottles to store away in the back of the cabinet.

This bottle from Pura helps solve that problem. It has a unique bottle evolution system: simply trade out the silicone lids to adapt the main base to your child’s needs. It starts off as a bottle, but can then be used as a sippy bottle, straw bottle, a regular sports bottle, or even a snack container.

You might think this means its performance as a baby bottle is just so-so, but rest assured you’ll get everything you need with this model.

Because it’s stainless steel, you eliminate the risk of chemicals seeping in as you might experience with plastics. Plus it won’t break when dropped. Even though the stainless steel is lightweight, the bottle also has a tapered design and included silicone sleeve to add grip and make it easier for your baby to hold.

The wide neck more closely resembles breastfeeding and, better yet, makes it compatible with most other nipples from leading brands. The included nipple has a medium flow anti-colic valve design.

We love that this bottle is good for your baby, good for the environment, and good for your pocketbook. If you’re looking to cut down on the number of bottles in your home and get more use out of the baby products you buy, this is a great choice.

Pros
  • Stainless steel is safe, eco-friendly, and easy to wash.
  • The bottle evolution system lets you use the product for years instead of months.
  • Compatible with many other leading brand bottle products.
  • Silicone grip and a tapered design make it easier for the baby to hold.
Cons
  • You need to buy other accessories to change the bottle’s function.
  • A little on the larger size, so small babies may struggle to hold it themselves.
  • Can’t see the amount in the bottle, measurements are on the inside.

9. NUK Simply Natural Glass Bottles

Best Glass Baby Bottle

View on Amazon

View on Walmart

View on BuyBuyBaby

NUK bottles are a classic choice, beloved by moms for years, and it’s easy to see why. These bottles are easy for your baby to hold, but very hard to break.

Glass baby bottles are popular because they can be cleaned and sanitized easily and are completely free of the dangerous chemicals found in many plastics. NUK meets those requirements but takes it one step further.

With only three pieces – the body, the ring and the nipple, each bottle is easy to assemble and disassemble during feedings. Plus, the entire thing can be put in the top rack of your dishwasher for stress-free sterilization.

They can hold 4 ounces of liquid and have a one-piece integrated advance anti-colic system.

Pros
  • Easy to clean, but hard to break.
  • BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.
  • Affordable price for parents on a budget.
  • Designed to mimic the breast thus great for transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding.
  • Integrated valve system in the nipple.
Cons
  • The glass doesn’t freeze well and may crack if put in the freezer.

10. NUK Disney Bottle

Best Bottle for Toddlers

Check Price

Keep your toddler happy and entertained with these fun Disney-themed bottles.

The pack includes three Mickey Mouse bottles with orthodontic nipples and an angled top. This will help your baby use the correct tongue and mouth position while drinking. The hourglass nipple shape lets your toddler’s lips close in a way that cuts back on how much air they swallow.

The asymmetrical design will encourage the right jaw positioning to avoid developmental problems which are a risk for children who use bottles past the age of one.

Toddlers will love the fun design and parents will like that this bottle holds 10 ounces of liquid so they won’t have to be refilling it constantly.

The bottles are BPA-free and can be cleaned in the dishwasher. These have an anti-colic air system built into the nipple so your toddler won’t have as many digestive issues.

We like these baby bottles for moms with multiple kids because they work for both babies and toddlers, so you’ll save money by not buying a separate set of bottles for everyone.

Pros
  • The nipple design is great for supporting your growing child’s development.
  • Holds up to 10 ounces, perfect for a toddler’s appetite.
  • Fun Disney design will keep your toddler smiling.
Cons
  • For best results, you have to line up the anti-colic symbol under your baby’s nose while drinking — that’s hard to control with toddlers.
  • Your toddler may quickly transition to a sippy cup, making the nipple less useful.

11. Sassy Baby Food Nurser

Best Bottle for Cereal

View on Amazon

View on Walmart

View on BuyBuyBaby

Help your baby transition from bottles to solid foods with this unique set. You get two bottles in each pack; one with a traditional nipple and the other with a small spoon attached.

Using them in conjunction can help your baby become accustomed to spoon-feeding while also having a nipple with a large enough opening to allow baby cereal to flow through.

This is a great bottle for babies transitioning to solid foods for a few reasons. First, the vacuum disk keeps air out while encouraging the cereal to flow out of the nipple without clogging. Second, you simply press the bottom of the bottle to load some cereal onto the attached spoon.

No matter which lid your growing baby uses, they will have easy access to their food. If they struggle with the spoon, let them use the nipple bottle for a bit. You can slowly add the spoon into their routine as they get used to the food.

You can use it for other thicker foods too, for example, yogurt or applesauce if your baby is a fan. We like this because it means you get a lot of use out of the bottle as your baby grows.

These bottles were designed for babies six months and up. Each one holds approximately four ounces of food and is made of BPA-free plastic, but both the spoon and the nipple are made of silicone.

Pros
  • The spoon-bottle can handle the thickness of cereal, unlike other nipple bottles.
  • You can teach your baby the basics of spoon-feeding with this bottle.
  • The spoon is soft like a nipple so it won’t hurt a baby’s teeth or gums.
  • Comes with a hygienic lid.
  • A portable way to carry homemade baby food.
Cons
  • For the first few attempts, the plunger on the spoon bottle is hard to push up.
  • These aren’t fun to hand wash.

Do I Need Baby Bottles?

At first glance, it may seem like you only need to be concerned about baby bottles if you don’t plan on breastfeeding.

However, we think all moms should be prepared to use bottles for a number of reasons:

Proper early nutrition is a top priority for every mom. Get the most from your baby bottles by doing a little research to find which type is best for you and your baby.

Types of Baby Bottles

There are 10 main types of baby bottles on the market, each designed with some specific benefit in mind.

  • Plastic Baby Bottles: Plastic is one of the most common baby bottle materials and it is a great option for moms looking for something durable. Overall, plastic baby bottles are inexpensive, widely available, and they are typically BPA-free.
  • Glass Baby Bottles: Glass is one of the safest materials to use and also some of the easiest to clean.
  • Stainless Steel Baby Bottles: Easy to clean and can’t shatter or break.
  • Breastfeeding Bottles: Breastmilk bottles are specifically created to mimic the natural nursing process as closely as possible.
  • Anti-Colic Bottles: Designed to prevent air bubbles from passing through the milk to your baby.
  • Preemie Bottles: Premature babies have some special needs due to their size and development.
  • Exclusive Pumping Bottles: Have millimeter markers to let you know exactly how much you’ve pumped and also act as storage containers.
  • Cereal Baby Bottles: Help your baby become accustomed to spoon-feeding while also having a nipple with a large enough opening to allow baby cereal to flow through.
  • Toddler Bottles: These bottles are designed for older children as their diet gradually evolves.
  • Travel Bottles: Designed specifically for families who are on-the-go.

Can’t decide which one is for you? One of the great things about baby bottles is that you can get a whole selection for a variety of situations.

How to Choose Baby Bottles

Regardless of what bottles you’re thinking of purchasing, you want to make sure they meet a few basic requirements first. If the one you’re looking at meets some or all of these five criteria, you can be pretty confident it’s a quality pick.

BPA Free

BPA stands for bisphenol A, and is an industrial chemical used to make plastic. Research has found some of the chemicals can leach into your food or drinks if they are in containers made out of BPA (4).

If you choose plastic baby bottles, make sure they are BPA-free to prevent any chemicals from getting into your baby’s milk. All BPA-free bottles should say so on the packaging or in the product description.

Easy to Wash

Newborn babies need a lot of sustenance to support their growing bodies. On average, babies need anywhere between 8 to 12 feedings a day. This can lead to a lot of dirty bottles!

So, make sure you look for bottles that are easy to connect and clean. Ideally, they should have a simple design without too many nooks and crannies for milk to dry in and mold. We also love bottles that can be put into the dishwasher.

Venting System

Nothing is as miserable as a baby with gas or colic! The air they swallow gets trapped in their digestive tracts, making them very uncomfortable (5). And we all know that if a baby is uncomfortable, mom will be too.

One of the primary culprits of gas is a baby bottle that aerates milk and fills your baby’s belly with millions of tiny bubbles. That’s why you want one with a venting system to prevent air from getting trapped inside the milk, helping you avoid painful gas and colic.

Measurement Marks

Nursing and feeding your child can feel like a science sometimes, especially if your baby is facing any health issues. Accurately track how much milk you produce and how much milk your baby drinks with a bottle that has measurement marks.

Be careful though! Recent studies have shown a good percentage of baby bottles with measurement marks are inaccurate. Make sure to read the reviews on a product first to see what other moms say about the measurement accuracy.

Pumping Compatible

More than 80 percent of moms begin by breastfeeding (6). However, it can be emotionally and physically demanding, and at some point, you may want a break. It’s convenient to pump directly into a bottle and go out for the evening or even just errands solo (it can feel like a mini-vacation!) Whether this means the bottle can attach directly to the pump or is simply designed to make storing breast milk easier, it’s helpful to make sure the bottle is pumping compatible.

Finding the Perfect Nipple Size

Just as important as the bottle you choose is the nipple size. The nipple size controls the flow of milk out of the bottle. Younger babies generally need slower-flowing nipples while older babies and toddlers need faster-flowing nipples.

There are as many different nipple sizes and types as there are bottles. However, most will fit into three categories: slow, medium, and fast (7). They may also be labeled with numbers, such as stage 0 (newborn), stage 1 (1+ months), stage 2 (3+months), and stage 3 (6+ months).

Each nipple you purchase, whether it comes with a bottle or not, should have an age range and flow speed listed. Your baby doesn’t need to match this exactly, but these are usually helpful guidelines to consider. Slower is typically better for breastfed babies.

Related Reading: Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Review: Are the Closer to Nature Bottles the Best? 

When Will My Baby Need a Bottle?

The truth is, there is no right or wrong answer. Every mom and baby is different.

You can breastfeed exclusively for the first six months before introducing solid foods. You can also use formula in a bottle from the day they are born. What you choose is up to your health, what your baby needs, and your personal preferences.

Bottles provide freedom to a new mom, especially after breastfeeding has been established. Being able to leave your milk for your baby with a different caregiver allows you to go back to work, go shopping, or simply have a break.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it’s best to try and have your child weaned from the bottle by the time they turn one. The older your child gets, the harder it will be for them to give up the bottle.

How to Transition to a Bottle

It is common practice for a mom to start off breastfeeding and then slowly transition to a bottle as their child grows. This process can be tricky!

Here are five tips to help you make the transition:

  • Use breast milk inside the bottle. If you’re transitioning to formula starting off with your milk in the bottle helps the baby use the bottle because it’s milk they are used to.
  • Find a bottle with a slow-flow nipple. These are designed to imitate the suckling effect during breastfeeding and prevent nipple confusion.
  • Find a bottle with a wider base. It will feel more like your breast and be easier to latch on to.
  • Choose a bottle made of soft silicone or one that has a silicone cover. Your baby is used to your soft skin and silicone can help replicate that experience.
  • Choose relaxed feedings to try a bottle. If your baby is super fussy and upset, they may be more likely to reject a bottle. Choose a time when they’re more relaxed and happy.

If your baby constantly rejects bottles, try looking at both the bottle itself and what’s inside it. You may have to try a few different bottles to find one your baby likes.

Something to consider for your registry is a baby bottle sample pack.

Do I Need a Baby Bottle Warmer?

Some babies like a warm bottle! To warm the milk, simply place the filled bottle into a container with hot water, which will heat it through evenly.

You can also purchase baby bottle warmers that will keep track of the temperature and take some of the guesswork out of the process. After all, you do not want to give your baby a bottle that’s too hot and scald them.

Warning

Never heat a baby bottle up in the microwave. Microwaves heat unevenly, which could leave hot spots that could burn your baby.

How Do I Store Baby Bottles?

Empty baby bottles should be cleaned, dried, assembled, and stored in a protected environment such as a kitchen cabinet (8).

If your bottle is filled with breast milk or formula and hasn’t been used for a feeding, it can be stored in the fridge or freezer. The length of storage time will depend on the type of liquid in the bottle and what the bottle is made of.

If your baby has already had a portion of the bottle, it needs to be used within two hours or disposed of (9).

How Do I Clean Baby Bottles?

So, how can you clean your baby’s bottles properly?

Baby bottles are made from a variety of different materials with different care instructions. Some can be placed in the dishwasher, while others can’t. Most are safe to be put in the top rack of the dishwasher, but always confirm this by reading your bottle’s care instructions first.

Pro Tip

However you clean your baby’s bottle, make sure to completely disassemble it. Some bottles have smaller parts that need to be cleaned with a bottle brush too.

Every once in a while, it’s also a good idea to fully sanitize your baby bottles. You don’t need to do it after every use, but we suggest sterilizing bottles before you use them for the first time and after your baby has been sick.

The easiest way to sanitize them is to boil them in hot water for approximately five minutes. If your bottle can’t be boiled, look into buying one of the best bottle sterilizers.

We suggest only purchasing bottles that can be washed in the dishwasher and easily sanitized.

Baby Bottle FAQs

Can Baby Bottles Cause Ear Infections?

Bottles themselves don’t cause ear infections. However, your baby may get one if they use a bottle while they’re flat on their backs. This is because the milk may enter the eustachian tube, a canal that connects the ear and the throat, increasing your baby’s risk of infection (10).

Prevent ear infections by keeping your baby as upright as possible when they use a bottle, especially if they’re self-feeding.

Are Baby Bottles Allowed on Airplanes?

You can carry bottles of breast milk or formula onto airplanes. Anything containing a liquid may be subject to testing and examination, so make sure you’re using easy-to-open, clear containers.

According to the Transportation Security Administration, bottles filled with more than 100 millimeters (3.4 ounces) of milk can be inside your carry-on and you don’t need to put them in any plastic bag (11). You’re also allowed to have a variety of ice packs to keep the bottles cool, and needn’t actually be traveling with your child at the time.

Can Baby Bottles Be Recycled?

You will need to check what your bottles are made of before you try and recycle them. Today, many types of plastics and glass can be recycled; take a look at the bottle itself, especially on the bottom, for the recycle symbol.

If you can’t find any information from the bottle or the packaging, check out the product listing online or contact the company for more information.

Can Baby Bottles Be Reused or Donated?

Baby bottles are safe and easy to reuse or donate as long as they don’t have any cracks or missing parts. All you have to do is sterilize them thoroughly.

If you don’t have another child you can save the bottles for, consider contacting your local women’s or refugee shelter to see if they are in need of bottles.

Can Baby Bottles Expire?

Most bottles can last indefinitely as long as you take good care of them. However, it’s normal for wear and tear to occur. If you notice any of the following signs on the bottle or the nipple, you may want to get rid of it (12):

  • Cracking, chipping, or breaks.
  • Swelling or other signs of a distorted shape.
  • Thinning.
  • Discoloration.
  • Fast pouring of milk through the nipple.

When Do Babies Hold Their Own Bottles?

Most babies begin to hold their own bottles between 6-10 months. It all comes down to your child’s fine motor skills.

If your arm is getting tired, consider finding a bottle specifically designed to be gripped by your baby.

Feedback: Was This Article Helpful?

Thank You For Your Feedback!

Thank You For Your Feedback!

What Did You Like?

What Went Wrong?

9 Best Baby Bottles of 2023

Written by Jenni Gritters

Updated February 24, 2023

Feeding your baby takes a herculean amount of effort when you’re a new parent, whether that means breastfeeding, formula feeding with a baby bottle, or a combination of the two.

Your little one will probably need to eat every few hours and the choice of which bottle to introduce can feel like a huge decision. Each baby's unique needs will likely factor in when figuring out which bottle works best for your baby, but there are some universal bottle qualities that will make your life easier as a parent.

After researching and testing nine of the most popular baby bottles, we found that the Comotomo Baby Bottle (available at Amazon for $19.63) is the best baby bottle on the market. It’s easy to clean and fill, made with a squishy silicone, and has a wide-neck, rounded nipple design that makes latching a fairly easy process for most babies.

Credit: Reviewed / Betsy Goldwasser

The Comotomo bottle is our favorite of the ones we tested.

Best Overall

Comotomo Baby Bottle - 8oz

  • Material: Silicone
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack
  • Available sizes: 5 ounce, 8 ounce

If you’re introducing a bottle to an exclusively breastfed baby, the Comotomo Bottle is an ideal choice. Our baby took to the squishy, silicone bottle quickly—compared to other bottles we tested, it came closest to mimicking a breast. After just a day of using these bottles, we immediately added them into our family’s rotation.

The Comotomo bottles are wide-necked, which means they’re easy to fill with refrigerated or pumped breast milk or to mix formula in with minimal spillage. The top of the bottle is easy to open and close, and the silicone nipple pops out for straightforward cleaning, plus there are few crevices for dried milk to get stuck in. We love that this bottle can be put in the dishwasher (top rack), and that it’s microwave safe.

During our leak tests, which involved dropping the bottle (with a cap on) from hip height, letting our 11-month-old shake the bottle, and tucking it into a diaper bag during trips to and from the grandparents’ house, the Comotomo was the best of the bunch.

These bottles are slightly squishy, which means they’re also easier to store than most of their competitors, and they don’t retain that sour-milk smell that can sometimes permeate plastic bottles. With over 17,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.7 out of 5-star rating, it’s clear that parents agree: The Comotomo bottle is a winner.

The Comotomo is available in various colors, and you can also buy a transitional sippy cup spout for the bottle.

Credit: Reviewed / Betsy Goldwasser

Dr. Brown's bottles are ideal for preemies and newborns.

Best for Preemies and Newborns

Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Original Baby Bottle - 8oz

  • Material: BPA-free plastic or glass
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack
  • Available sizes: 2 ounce, 4 ounce, 8 ounce

Finding the best bottles for newborns or preemies can be a challenge. If you have a preemie who needs to use bottles from birth, or if you decide to introduce bottles for breast milk or formula from the start, you’ll find that many doctors and NICU professionals recommend Dr. Brown’s Original Baby Bottles. Their slow-flow nipple design, which is purported to reduce colic and spit-up, makes them a favorite.

Dr. Brown’s bottles come with a filter, and the controlled flow rate allows babies to drink at their own pace. As they become more adept at bottle feeding, you can up the nipple size. (Typically you’ll start with a preemie nipple, then graduate sizes every few months.)

Dr. Brown’s bottles are fairly leak-proof, as long as they’re sealed well. (We found that after about six months of using these bottles, however, that there were more rogue drips during car trips.) These bottles don’t mimic a breast, but they’re still fairly easy to latch onto, especially for babies who use bottles from birth.

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. The skinny neck can also make the bottles a bit harder to fill and mix formula in, but they’re not the worst of the bunch. (Many parents opt to use a funnel.)

All of the separate parts—the filter, cap, nipple, and bottle—come apart. Make sure you clean them well or you’ll find bits of formula or dried milk in the crevices, which can lead to a sour smell.

Other Baby Bottles We Tested

Lansinoh Breastfeeding Bottles with NaturalWave Nipple - 8oz

  • Material: BPA-free plastic or glass
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, but hand washing recommended
  • Available sizes: 5 ounce, 8 ounce

The Lansinoh bottles were just fine—not stellar, but not problematic. The bottle design is easy for an older child to hold, and the nipple shape (purported to reduce colic based on a “unique air venting system”) is intended to mimic breastfeeding, and was fairly easy for our baby to latch onto. However, if your child leans their cheek up against the nipple, as they might on a breast, it can add pressure to the bottle, which causes air bubbles.

We found these bottles to be fairly easy to clean, as they have very few parts—just the nipple, cap, and bottle—with a neck that’s wide enough for easy filling, too. During leak testing, they emerged victorious with no stray drips.

MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic 9oz Baby Bottle

  • Material: BPA-free plastic
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack
  • Available sizes: 5 ounce, 9 ounce

The MAM bottles were initially a favorite. Our son latched onto the nipple shape right away, despite it being a bit flatter than many other options we tested, and we loved that they had a 9-ounce capacity, with easy-to-see markings.

But we quickly realized that the MAM bottles had many weak points—the bottom screws on and off, which occasionally meant that all the milk came pouring out of the bottom if it wasn’t fastened on just right, and the lid had to be put on just-so to prevent leaking. In fact, this was the leakiest bottle we tested.

MAM’s anti-colic technology works well for slowing the flow of milk for young babies. Like Dr. Brown’s options, MAM allows you to size up on nipples as your baby gets older. The semi-wide neck of these bottles also makes them fairly easy to fill and clean, and the brand notes that you can self-sterilize the bottles by putting them in the microwave for three minutes.

Pros

  • Anti-colic

  • Easy to latch

  • Easy to clean

  • Easy to fill

  • Large capacity

Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottle - 9oz

  • Material: BPA-free plastic
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack
  • Available sizes: 4 ounce, 9 ounce, 11 ounce

Another “just okay” option, the Philips Avent had a generic shape that was difficult for our baby to hold himself. The nipple shape was also harder for him to latch onto than many of the other options we tested, likely because the nipple attachment was fairly rigid.

The bottles have an airflex valve to reduce colic, although we didn’t notice that the flow from this bottle was particularly slow. Like many of the other anti-colic options, you can size up on nipples as your baby grows more adept at feeding.

The fairly wide mouth made these easy to fill and clean, but the top didn’t easily seal, which made leaking a frequent occurrence.

Cons

  • Very leaky

  • Tough to seal

  • Tough to latch onto

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Baby Bottle - 9oz

  • Material: BPA-free plastic
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack
  • Available sizes: 9 ounce

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature bottles are one of the most popular on the market, possibly because they are so inexpensive. Unfortunately, they feel cheaper than their competitors, with a rigid nipple and tinny-feeling plastic. The ounce-markings are obvious and they’re easy to fill and clean (by hand or in the dishwasher), given their short and squat shape.

They’re also easy to store, due to their small size, and they didn’t leak. However, our son found the large nipple size difficult to latch onto.

Nuk Simply Natural Baby Bottle - 5oz

  • Material: Plastic and glass
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack
  • Available sizes: 5 ounce, 9 ounce, 10 ounce

Inexpensive pricing shows on this product, too. The nipple is rigid, which means it presses against your baby’s face rather than giving a bit as they lean into it, and the nipple’s shape (flat on one side, rounded on the other) may be tough for your baby to latch onto.

That said, the wide-mouth shape of the bottle makes it easy to clean and fill, and it didn’t leak.

Pros

  • No leak

  • Easy to clean

  • Easy to fill

Munchkin Latch - 4oz

  • Material: BPA-free plastic
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack
  • Available sizes: 4 ounce, 8 ounce

The shape of the nipple pulled the Munchkin bottle out of the running from the start: Like the NUK, it was rigid and didn’t give when our baby leaned his face up against it. The straight nipple shape also made it tough for our baby to latch.

However, the wide-mouth setup was easy for him to hold, and made for a straightforward filling and cleaning experience.

Then came the true kicker: The Munchkin leaked when it was shaken, as well as when it was being transported. There are simply better options available.

Pros

  • Easy to fill

  • Easy to clean

  • Easy to store

Cons

  • Tough to latch onto

  • Rigid nipple

  • Very leaky

Kiinde Twist Squeeze Bottle

  • Material: BPA-, PVC-, and phthalate-free plastic
  • Dishwasher safe: Yes, top rack
  • Available sizes: Works with Kiinde breastmilk bags up to 6 ounces

It’s tough to compare the Kiinde to the other bottles in this guide because it’s a whole different beast. The Kiinde Twist Squeeze is basically a plastic holder with a nipple, which allows you to slide bags of breast milk right inside. If you’re pumping breast milk into Kiinde bags, this saves you the step of needing to transfer the milk from a bag to a bottle.

The Squeeze is a great concept, but filling the milk bags is tough unless you pump right into them. (We experienced a lot of leaking, due to the small opening.) It’s also easy to leak more milk onto the counter when you remove the bag’s lid to screw it into the Squeeze bottle.

You won’t need to do as much washing—the only part that really needs to be cleaned is the nipple—but throwing away many plastic bags per day is not the most sustainable option. We also worried about the holder’s materials, which are made with a simple, thin plastic and feel likely to break over time. The nipple also was difficult for our son to latch onto, and the bottle’s shape makes it difficult for little ones to hold.

How We Test Baby Bottles

The Tester

I’m Jenni Gritters, a journalist with a decade of experience writing about all things health and science. I previously edited longform product reviews about the outdoors, parenting, and travel at the New York Times product review site, Wirecutter. You can also find my bylines in all sorts of publications, like the New York Times, the Guardian, the REI Co-op Journal, Gear Patrol, and beyond.

I had my first baby—a little boy named Liam—in December 2019, and since then I’ve been reviewing baby gear and writing about the psychology of parenting. In the past, I’ve covered infant vitals monitors for Wirecutter and baby swings and baby baths for Reviewed. I was also an exclusive pumper because Liam was born prematurely and spent time in the NICU, so I have many, many months of experience under my belt spent filling, washing, and feeding him from bottles.

The Tests

I used each bottle in this guide for at least two days. I filled them with infant formula or breast milk, offered them to my son Liam (who was 8 months old when we started this guide), then cleaned the products by hand and in the dishwasher. I even tried to fill them all with one hand while holding my 20-plus pound kiddo.

I also did some serious leak-testing by packing the bottles in a diaper bag for car trips to the park. I also dropped them all—both purposefully and accidentally—to see if they remained intact, and allowed my son to play with them (which meant they all got a very good shake).

7 Things to Consider When Selecting a Baby Bottle

1.) It should be easy to assemble and fill

You should be able to easily put the pieces of the bottle together, which usually means popping in a nipple and screwing on the top. The bottle should also have a mouth that’s wide enough to pour milk into without dumping it onto the counter. Or, if you’re using powdered formula, the bottle should allow for easy stirring. (Pro tip: We like to use a chopstick.)

2.) It should be easy to wash

When choosing a bottle, look for a shape that makes it easy to clean. Sour milk or extra formula powder can get stuck in the cracks and corners, which can lead to bad smells and make the bottle unsafe for a baby to use. Most bottles can be put in a dishwasher, but we prioritized bottles with a wider-neck shape, which made them easier to clean with a good bottle brush.

3.) It needs to be leak-free

There’s nothing worse than discovering a puddle of breastmilk on the floor of the car next to a tipped-over bottle. Thus, we searched for bottles that sealed tightly and didn’t leak, even after being shaken up or dropped. Most came with lids, and we made sure that they sealed well and didn’t fall off in transit.

4.) It needs to be durable

You’ll be using these bottles for at least a few months, if not for a full year, so we looked for bottles that could handle being used daily for many months without picking up nasty smells or cracking.

5.) It should be easy to store

While no baby bottle is completely convenient to store, we picked options that could at least be tucked into a bin or a drawer, or easily stored in the pocket of a diaper bag.

6.) Your baby needs to like it

Most babies have varying nipple preferences, based on the shape of their mother’s breast, so this measure is a bit subjective. But based on online reviews and our personal experiences, we noticed that certain nipple shapes were easier for most babies to latch onto. Wider, shallower-shaped nipples with a skinnier teat made for an easier experience, especially if the bottle's nipple had a little bit of give, just like a mother’s breast might.

7.) You might need colic-free technology

Some bottles, Dr. Brown’s in particular, are made with anti-colic vents, which limits the amount of milk your baby can take in and helps to reduce gas or air bubbles in their stomach. While this isn’t necessary for older babies, pediatricians often recommend this option for infants under the age of 6 months, and especially for babies born prematurely.

Meet the tester

Jenni Gritters

Contributor

@jenni_gritters

Jenni Gritters is a Seattle-based freelance journalist who covers health, psychology, business, and travel. You can find her bylines in The Guardian, Wirecutter, Outside magazine, 538, Mindbodygreen, and beyond. When Jenni isn't working with words, she's teaching yoga and mindfulness; hiking, camping, and snowshoeing in the Pacific Northwest mountains; and running with her husband and puppy.

See all of Jenni Gritters's reviews

Checking our work.

Our team is here for one purpose: to help you buy the best stuff and love what you own. Our writers, editors, and lab technicians obsess over the products we cover to make sure you're confident and satisfied. Have a different opinion about something we recommend? Email us and we'll compare notes.

Shoot us an email

Bird feeders: sizes, types, selection rules

Content:

  • Why do we need feeders?
  • Types of feeders
  • Selection and installation guide
  • Things to remember
  • Which feed can be used
  • Useful findings

"Small little birds are chilled,0022

and Blizzard with a rally frantic
Knights Svetal









































Remember these lines from Yesenin's poem? In winter, birds have a hard time. Lack of food becomes a problem. Food is needed in order for the body to produce heat. Ornithologists have calculated that in frosts 90 percent of birds die from lack of calories. The task of a person is to come to the aid of birds. One feeder , hung behind a window or on a tree, provides food for several hundred birds.

Why do we need feeders?


1. This is to help flying friends get the food they need for life.

2. Making or attaching feeders together is an excuse to spend time with your family.

3. Children will be happy to follow the replenishment of food . This will teach a responsible attitude towards our smaller brothers.

4. Knowing that there is a feeder on your site, the birds will fly in in the summer and protect the trees from insects

5. Feeders can become a beautiful element of decor in the garden.

6. For pecking feed Birds are interesting to watch for both children and adults.

When we were kids, we made bird feeders out of milk cartons. Today, it can be made from a variety of materials or you can choose a ready-made version that will decorate your backyard or apartment window.

Possible materials are wood, metal, cardboard, plastic, plywood.

Basic types feeders :

1. Suspended. Such models are hung on a tree branch. They have an elongated shape and mesh sides, from which it is convenient for birds to get food . It is desirable that feeder be wide enough to accommodate several birds.

2. Platforms . They are a flat plane on which feed . Such feeders have a number of disadvantages - the grains get wet in the snow and rain, scatter from the wind.

3. Trays. Pallets with sides and a roof are not only a place to eat, but also protection from the weather.


Feeders-trays and trays are large, so a dozen birds can eat on them at once.

4. Peelers. Designed for small birds. In such feeders it is better to put bread, which will be held by a metal mesh. Birds will peck out food from the cells.

5. Hoppers. They are small in size, so feathered friends will have to queue up to peck at the grain. There are models with automatic grain feeding, which is practical, since the feed will not scatter.

6. Cottages. A suitable option for a summer cottage. These are flat areas with a roof, so the bird's meal will not be spoiled by moisture.

Selection and installation guide

1. Decide where feeder will be installed. Small options are suitable for the apartment window - peelers, bunkers, hanging ones. Large ones will look good on the plot - houses, trays, platforms.

2. Locate the "refectory" in a place where food will not get wet from snow or rain. If this is not possible, consider options with a roof.

3. Birds can be easy prey for cats and small predators. Feeder must be installed so that the animals cannot reach it.

4. The product must be well reinforced. You can screw it to a tree, but there is a chance of damaging the trunk. Much more efficient to attach feeder to a free-standing pole, which must be well dug into the ground.

5. If you are going to install a feeder in the forest, but do not have the opportunity to add feed daily, choose models with automatic grain feeding.

Things to remember


1. Birds find food thanks to their sharp eyesight. Feeder must be bright. Another way to attract attention is to hang a bright ribbon on it.

2. When making a "dining room" on your own, give preference to safe materials. Staining is permissible only on the outside - lacquer or paint contains toxic substances.

3. It is more difficult for large birds to find food than for small ones. Sparrows love to swoop down on food in a flock and quickly peck everything. If you do not have time to constantly replenish feeder , choose smaller models, such as hoppers. Only one bird can eat at a time.

Which food

can be used

It is recommended to feed the birds with grains and some types of natural food.

Can:

  • wheat, millet, oats;
  • frozen or dried berries;
  • bread crumbs;
  • fat - for tits;
  • pumpkin and watermelon seeds;
  • sunflower seeds.

Not recommended:

  • moldy bread;
  • rice, buckwheat;
  • chips;
  • fruit and vegetable peel;
  • certain types of nuts;
  • fried and smoked natural food.

If you are afraid of making a mistake with the choice of ingredients, you can purchase ready-made bird food . A mixture of grains, dried vegetables and fruits contains all the necessary nutrients that will saturate the body of birds.

Useful conclusions


  • in winter it is difficult for birds to get food without human help;
  • feeder you can make yourself or choose a ready-made option;
  • "dining room" for winged birds must be protected from predators, snow and rain;
  • Not every kind of food is good for birds. Opt for prepared foods containing grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts.

We also recommend

Tasty bird feeders, or how to make an eco-feeder with your own hands. Altai Regional Children's Ecological Center. AKDEC v.2

Today ECO FEEDERS are especially popular. What it is? Instead of wooden structures, plastic bottles and paper milk bags, you can make feeders without walls and a roof. They are simply not needed because such feeders consist only of grains. That is, there is no garbage suspended in the air after the old type feeder becomes unusable! Cereal feeders are very similar to cookies and are eaten to the last crumb.
All that is needed for such a feeder is a handful of grain or cereals. Of course, ready-made mixtures for birds are best suited, but you can also use what is always in the kitchen cabinet (millet, oatmeal, oatmeal, seeds, dried or frozen berries).

To make a feeder you will need: flour, cold water for adhesive base, mixture of seeds (or ready-made mixture for birds), dried berries, deep bowl, whisk for mixing, molds for dough or plasticine, jute or other thread, wooden sticks.
Pour flour into a bowl, pour cold water and mix thoroughly until sour cream is thick (exactly in this order and only with cold water, otherwise a homogeneous mass will not work).
Add seeds and berries. Mix until a homogeneous consistency.
We lay out the resulting mass in molds and carefully tamp.
Using a wooden stick, make a hole and take out our eco-feeder.
Put the eco-feeder in a cool place for 2-3 hours. Then we thread the rope through the hole. It is advisable not to overdry the feeders, as they can become hard and it will be difficult for the birds to extract seeds from them.
We hang feeders on trees. Bon appetit!
Here are some more recipes

Bird Pie
Animal fat can be given to birds in its pure form if it is hard, but if it is soft, it is better to mix it with other food, making the so-called "bird pie". To do this, millet, any grains and seeds, apple peels, oatmeal, nut kernels, chicken eggs, crackers, food crumbs, sugar, honey, syrup are added to softened unsalted fat or margarine - everything that is at your fingertips. For a better bonding of all components into a single "dough", you can add sunflower oil.

Learn more