The transition from breastfeeding to bottle feeding can be one of the hardest parts of raising a baby. Many parents find that it is very difficult to get a baby to drink out of a bottle after being exclusively breastfed, with some babies being more difficult to catch on than others. When beginning the transition, there are many factors to consider with the bottle that you choose-- such as durability, safety and cost. We have compiled a list of some of the best bottles for a breastfed baby who refuses bottles to help make the transition and choice much easier.
Nanobebe Breastmilk Baby Bottle (Award Winning Innovation for Breastfed Babies)
The Nanobebe is popular among parents due to its ease of use. This bottle warms up quickly and is easy to clean, while being responded to very well by breastfed babies. The design of it is extremely similar to a breast, and the child can even hold onto it on their own. The baby is able to use instinct to connect to the bottle, making the transition much easier for a baby who has been primarily breastfed.
The bottle also cools very fast to prevent the growth of bacteria, and the vented system prevents air that would cause gas for the baby. It even includes a breast pump adapted for pumping directly into the bottle. Not to mention, the bottles are stackable which makes them very easy to store.
The Nanobebe is high-tech and convenient as a first bottle for a breastfed baby, however the holes in the nipple do not change size, and some babies do not take as well to a heavier flow, making it a bit difficult for a breastfed baby who refuses bottle to adapt to the change.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Warms up quickly and easily
Design similar to breast, which the baby will respond to and recognize Prevents bacterial growth with a vented system built in Breast pump compatible |
Holes on nipple do not change size for different flow levels
Heavy flow without the option to change it Harder for babies who do not take to a heavy flow |
Mimijumi Very Hungry with FR-2 Nipple
The Mimijumi has a larger hole in the nipple for babies that are more used to receiving more milk at once, and is a great option for those who want to both breastfeed and bottle feed. The design ensures that the baby has control, and the long nipple is an integrative design which babies recognize instinctively. The design of this bottle is a hit or miss for many babies, who may or may not take to the unique yet soft design.
Although the Mimijumi does not have as many features as the Nanobebe, it is a very easy to use product in that it is hand washable with no bottle brush needed. The product can be put into a dishwasher, however the product is not microwave safe. This bottle is more of a basic option for transition, without any added extras or breast pump options. It does provide for easy transition for babies who do take to it, making it still a great option for a bottle for breastfed babies.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be controlled by baby and is easily held
Hand washable and dishwasher safe Long nipple-like design is instinctive for the baby to recognize |
Not microwave safe for quick and easy warming
No breast pump option, primarily for formula Difficult for some babies to take to |
NUK Simply Natural Baby Bottle, Clear, 9 Ounce (Pack of 3)
The NUK is more of a traditional design in that it is not made to resemble a human breast, but rather a traditional baby bottle. The pros of this bottle come with the ease of use for the parent—it does not break in the wash and has no small parts that need to be cleaned. There are multiple holes for a more natural flow, and each size comes with a varying amount of holes to help balance out the flow to the ounces.
Like the Nanobebe, this bottle features an anti-colic air system to prevent the child from spitting up or swallowing air. The nipple is made to mimic a human nipple while still keeping with a traditional baby bottle appearance, giving the NUK an innovative design compared to most bottles for breastfed babies transitioning.
The design does make it harder for children to latch, and they cannot hold it on their own as some of the previous designs. This does not improve based on whether or not the child is used to using pacifiers. The NUK requires the parent to feed the child, and does not in any way resemble a sippy cup, and may break more easily than other bottles when dropped
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sturdy and durable, does not break when put into a dishwasher
Various flow options for a baby’s particular needs Anti-colic air system prevents air buildup Mimics a human nipple for the baby to respond to |
Baby cannot hold it on their own
Breaks when dropped often, somewhat fragile Not human-like, harder for the baby to latch or adapt to |
Philips Avent Anti-colic Baby Bottle with AirFree Vent, Clear
This bottle is another more traditional design, created to reduce problems with gas for the baby. The air vent is designed to keep the nipple full of milk and keep air out, so that the baby does not burp or spit up after use. This makes it comparable to the designs we have mentioned previously. There are many flow rates available that you can purchase for it, making it suitable for babies as young as one month. It is still a great bottle for a previously breastfed baby of any age, and is very versatile for the baby’s needs. Flow levels can be a make or break for many parents who are looking for a flow option that is not as heavy as some models such as the Nanobebe.
This bottle can be held in a horizontal position and while still keeping milk in the nipple without excess air. This design is extremely versatile in that as you baby grows, Philips offers various products that you can use the vent with. You can use their breast pump and bottle parts interchangeably, making it a great option economically as a botte for a breastfed baby who refuses other bottles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Air vent prevents gas for the baby
Multiple flow rates for various baby’s needs Can be held horizontally without spilling |
Cannot be held by the baby, assistance is always required
Gets very hot when heated, a hazard for the baby or parent |
There are definitely some great options on the market for bottles for a breastfed baby, but not many offer as many advantages over disadvantages as the Nanobebe. The fact that it warms up easily and prevents bacterial growth with its design definitely make it one of the safer options on the market today for bottles for a 6-month-ld breastfed baby who refuses bottles. There are definitely a number of factors to consider, including breast pump compatibility, air vents, and durability to a few. However, all are great options depending on your baby’s unique needs, and it truly all comes down to the comfort levels of both the parent and baby for each individual product.
