BPA-Free Much has been written about the hazards of bisphenol-A, the chemical used to make polycarbonate (clear rigid plastic). The debate is over whether or not BPA can leach into your baby’s milk or formula, causing potentially harmful exposure to a hormone-disrupting chemical. Despite the latest press releases refuting the danger of BPA (
including these from the FDA and JPMA), The Cradle’s position is that it is better to be safe than sorry. And with so many choices on the market today, The Cradle recommends using a BPA-free bottle.
Phthalate-Free This applies more to nipples than it does to bottles. Some nipples are made from soft PVC (polyvinyl chloride) that often contains phthalates, another group of hormone-disrupting chemicals. Most manufacturers offer silicon or latex nipples that are phthalate-free. In addition, some studies have shown that latex can leach carcinogens known as nitrosamines over time. Unless you have a finicky baby who only prefers latex nipples, try to start off with a silicon nipple.
Neck Width The two popular sizes available are “standard” neck or “wide” neck. (A wide-neck bottle supports… you guessed it, a wide-necked nipple. These nipples are sometimes preferred by breastfeeding moms since the wider base is similar to the shape of the breast, and may help avoid “nipple confusion.”)
Nipple Shapes Traditional, orthodontic, or flat-topped. Orthodontic nipples, designed to accommodate your child's palate and gums, have a bulb that's flat on the side that rests on your child's tongue. Flat-topped nipples emulate the shape of a mother's breast. Traditionally shaped nipples are, well, traditional. Nipples are also available in a range of sizes and flow speeds. You may need to experiment here – ultimately, your baby will let you knows which type and size he/she prefers.
Nipple Stages/Flows Nipples come with different flows (slow or fast) depending on your baby’s age.
Measuring Scale Markings on the outside of bottles to make measuring easy.
Colic Control Many bottle systems offer flow control that prevents the ingestion of air (which can promote colic).
Removable Base A feature that makes cleaning easier.
Sealing Cap Good for traveling and preventing leaks.
Easy Wash Some are easier to clean than others. It’s good to go with a model that has been made with this in mind.
Eco-Friendly Some manufacturers go the extra mile and make the bottles, as well as the packaging, environmentally friendly.
Bottle Sizes You'll find bottles ranging from 4 to 11 ounces; most brands offer at least two sizes. You might choose to go with smaller bottles when your baby is a newborn and larger bottles once your baby’s appetite increases.
Easy Grip A few bottles offer special shapes or grips to make it easier for little hands to hold on.
Bottle Sleeve To protect glass bottles from breaking.
Disposable Liners Some bottles allow you to use pre-sterilized disposable liners.
