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Feeding a preemie isn’t the same as feeding a full-term baby, no siree. These tiny little ones need a bit more attention and the right tools to make sure they’re getting their grub smoothly. That’s where bottles designed especially for preemies come into play.
These bottles ain’t your average milk delivery systems. They’re designed keeping in mind the needs of these precious little souls, like reducing air intake to avoid the risk of gas and ensuring the right nipple flow for easy feeding. So, buckle up as we take you through the best preemie bottles of 2023, talk about their pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision.
Top-Rated Preemie Bottles
1. Philips Avent Anti-Colic Baby Bottle
First up, we’ve got the Philips Avent Anti-Colic Baby Bottle. This ain’t just a bottle, it’s a lifeline for preemies. Designed with anti-colic technology, this bottle ensures minimal air ingestion, keeping your baby’s discomfort at bay while feeding. The bottle design also includes air vents that work to decrease feeding issues related to colic, reflux, and gas.
What sets this bottle apart is the fact that it’s made from BPA-free plastic. That means you don’t have to worry about any nasty chemicals leaching into your baby’s milk. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, saving you some precious time and effort.
But that ain’t all. This Philips Avent bottle also boasts a nipple design that’s shaped to be like a mother’s breast. It encourages a natural latch, which is especially handy if you’re doing both bottle and breastfeeds. Ain’t that something?
Pros
- Anti-colic technology
- BPA-free plastic
- Dishwasher safe
- Shaped nipple for a natural latch
- Minimizes air ingestion
Cons
- Not suitable for upright feeding
- Prone to nipple collapse
2. Comotomo Natural Feel Baby Bottle
Next on the list is the Comotomo Natural Feel Baby Bottle. This silicone bottle is designed to mimic breastfeeding, making the transition from breast to bottle a lot smoother for your little one. The soft, squeezy bottle design is unique – it’s like holding a small, cute, milk-filled balloon.
What’s cool about this bottle is its dual anti-colic vents. They do a bang-up job of keeping unwanted air out, making it a solid choice for babies dealing with colic. The bottle also comes with slow-flow nipples for the tiny ones and medium-flow for those a bit older.
And let’s not forget about the cleaning. This bottle is a dream to clean, thanks to the wide neck design. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, so you can just pop it in and let the machine do the work. Now that’s what I call convenience.
Pros
- Mimics the shape of the mother’s breast
- Comfortable for formula feeding
- Features anti-colic valve
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Easy for caregivers to hold while feeding
Cons
- May not be suitable for all babies
- Some babies might not adapt to the wide-necked nipple
3. Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Bottle
They say the best things in life are close to nature, and this Tommee Tippee bottle seems to agree. It’s got a design that’s all about mimicking the shape of a mother’s breast. This attention to detail is a big hit with the formula-feeding crowd and even breastfeeding moms who want to introduce the bottle. It’s like having the best of both worlds for your kiddo.
Unlike some of those high-falutin’ bottles out there, this one’s got a unique shape that’s easy on the hands. It’s a cinch for caregivers to hold while feeding the little one. And let’s not forget the anti-colic valve. This handy feature helps cut down on excess airflow. That’s less burping and more comfortable feeding for your preemie.
And when it’s time for cleanup, you won’t be huffing and puffing. This bottle is so easy to clean, that you can pop it right into the dishwasher. No more fumbling with teeny-tiny bottle brushes or squinting to see if you got all the formula residue out. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.
But remember, not all bottles are a hit with every baby. While many little ones take to the wide-necked nipple, some might need a bit of time to adjust. After all, every baby is unique in their own cute, adorable way.
Pros
- Designed to mimic the mother’s breast for a smooth transition
- Wide-mouth nipple for easy cleaning
- Thick material, not flimsy or bendy plastic
- Easy grip for young babies
- Combination feeding made easy
Cons
- May warp when boiled for sanitizing
- Despite their thickness, they may crack easily and need to be replaced
4. NUK Simply Natural Baby Bottle
The NUK Simply Natural Baby Bottle is like a superhero in disguise. It’s designed to mimic a mommy’s breast as closely as possible, making the breast-to-bottle transition smoother than a baby’s bottom. Whether you’re a breastfeeding mom looking to introduce the bottle or a formula-feeding parent, this bottle makes feeding time a breeze.
One thing’s for certain, this ain’t no flimsy bottle. The material is thick, not bendy plastic that’ll crack at the first sign of trouble. Plus, it’s got a wide-mouth nipple that makes cleaning easy as pie. Stick your hand right in and clean without struggling with tools and sponges. Just be careful when sanitizing with boiling water, as it can warp the bottle.
Now, any parent will tell you, that feeding a baby isn’t just about the milk. It’s also about those little hands learning to grip and hold. This bottle’s got a small indention that makes holding it a little easier for your preemie. Seems like a minor feature, but trust me, it can make a huge difference in the feeding experience.
Pros
- BPA-free plastic makes it safe for the baby
- The internal vent system helps prevent gas and colic
- Designed for smooth transition from breast to bottle
- Slow-flow nipples suitable for preemies
- Preemie nipple attached mimics breastfeeding
Cons
- The bottle nipples are prone to leaks
- Its wide shape may not be easy for all caregivers to hold
5. Lansinoh Breastfeeding Bottles With NaturalWave Nipple
The Lansinoh Breastfeeding Bottles with NaturalWave Nipple are a popular choice for many, and it ain’t hard to see why. These bottles are made from BPA-free plastic, which means they’re safe for the little ones. Plus, they come with an internal vent system. This ain’t your regular air traffic control kind of vent, but it works wonders for preventing colic and gas. So your little preemie will have less of those bothersome tummy troubles.
But that ain’t all. Lansinoh bottles are designed specifically to make the transition from breast to bottle easier. It’s like a smooth passage from one realm to another. The slow-flow nipples are gentle on the baby’s feeding experience and mimic the flow of breastfeeding. It’s like your baby is getting the real deal while using the bottle. The preemie nipple attached is designed to imitate breastfeeding closely, making it easier for preemies who are juggling between breastfeeding and bottle feeding.
The Lansinoh bottle set does have a few drawbacks though. For starters, the bottle nipples have been known to leak. It’s like getting a soda with a hole in the bottom, can be a bit of a bummer. And the bottle’s wide shape might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Some folks find it a bit awkward to hold, especially if they’ve got smaller hands. But overall, this bottle set is a solid choice for your preemie.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Easy to clean
- Encourages natural suckling actions
- Convenient for both breastfeeding and bottle feeding
- Offers baby’s feeding at the right pace
Cons
- Not the most budget-friendly option
- Some babies may reject the nipple style
Buying Guide: Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Bottles for Preemies
When it comes to buying the best bottles for your preemie, you don’t just walk into a store and grab the first one you see. It’s a bit more complicated than that. It’s like going on a scavenger hunt, you gotta know what you’re looking for. Glass bottles or plastic ones? What size is just right for the little mouth of your preemie? And can it handle frequent feedings without a hitch?
It’s not just about the bottle itself, but also the newborn pacifier that comes with it. You gotta consider how well your preemie will latch onto it, and whether it’s soft enough for their tender gums. And let’s not forget the caregiver feeds. That’s right, you gotta think about who’s gonna be using the bottle too. Grandpa with shaky hands? Or a big sister with her small hands?
And let’s not forget about the brands. Some brands, like Philips Avent Anti-colic, have a good reputation when it comes to preemie bottles. But don’t just take my word for it, do your homework. Read reviews, talk to other parents, and consult with your pediatrician. After all, every preemie is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. So take your time, consider all these factors, and you’ll surely find the best bottle for your precious little one.
Safety
Let’s get one thing straight, folks: Safety first! Whether you’re feeding your bundle of joy with breast milk or formula, it’s important to keep the feeding bottles clean and sterile. And no, a quick rinse under the faucet isn’t gonna cut it! Even a speck of milk residue can turn into a playground for germs that can harm your little one.
So, how do you ensure the bottles are safe for your preemie? First, give them a good scrub with a bottle brush to clean out all the nooks and crannies. Once that’s done, it’s sterilizing time. There are a bunch of methods you can use – steam, boiling, cold water sterilization, or using a sterilizing solution. Perfectly clean and sterile bottles? Check! Your baby’s safety? Double check!
Anti-Colic Options
Have you ever heard of the saying, “Slow and steady wins the race”? Well, it turns out it applies to feeding babies, too! Bottles with unique slow-flow designs are all the rage these days, and for good reason. They let out milk at a pace that even the most sensitive tummy can handle, reducing the risks of colic. Ain’t that something?
Now, if you’re thinking that’s all these anti-colic options have to offer, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Some brands even have a SafeTemp indicator that changes color depending on the temperature of the milk. No more having to do the wrist test every time you want to feed your baby. Innovation at its finest, don’t ya think?
Baby Preferences
Fun fact: Babies have preferences, too, when it comes to their bottles. I am not kidding! Some bottles are designed to mimic breastfeeding, making them a hit among preemies who are transitioning to breastfeeding. These bottles are round like a breast, and the texture is soft and squishy, just like a real one. Kinda cool, huh?
But what if your tiny tot doesn’t take to these bottles? No problemo! There are bottles with different nipple shapes that you can try. Some brands even offer nipples that can be purchased separately, so you can find the perfect one that your baby will love. After all, a happy baby equals happy parents, right?
Nipple Flow
Let’s talk about nipple flow, shall we? It’s all about finding the perfect balance – not too fast, not too slow. You want the milk to flow at a pace your preemie can handle without choking or gulping air, which can lead to colic and gas. That’s where bottles with an internal vent system come in handy. They keep the air at bay and the milk at just the right flow.
Some bottles are a shoo-in when it comes to breast-to-bottle transition, like Brown’s natural flow ones. They’ve been a hit since 1996, and preemies seem to love them, too. They come with super slow-flow nipples and a size that’s just perfect for feeding little ones without overloading them. Who knew picking a bottle could be this scientific, huh?
Shape
The shape of bottles for babies might not seem like a big deal, but let me tell ya, it can make a world of difference. Traditional bottles are straight and narrow, but these ain’t always the best for preemies. They might find it tough to hold, especially if their tiny hands are on the smaller side. You might want to consider a bottle with a curved or angled shape. These can be easier for your little one to grip and hold onto. Plus, an angled shape helps to keep the milk at the nipple, even when it’s nearly empty, which can help prevent your baby from swallowing air.
But that’s not all when it comes to shape. The shape of the nipple also matters. Some bottles sport a wide, breast-like nipple. This can be a good pick if your preemie is being breastfed as well, as it mimics the shape of a breast and can help prevent nipple confusion. On the other hand, some bottles come with narrow, traditional-style nipples. These can be easier for preemies to latch onto. So, the best shape? It depends on your little one’s preference.
Size
Next up, size. When it comes to picking bottles for babies, especially preemies, size is an important factor to consider. Most baby bottles come in two sizes: 4 ounces and 8 ounces. Now, as tempting as it might be to buy the bigger size thinking it’ll last longer, remember this – preemies usually take in less milk than full-term babies. So, a 4-ounce bottle will likely be more than enough for each feeding session.
Why does the size matter, you ask? Well, filling a large bottle with a small amount of milk can lead to more air being taken in, and we don’t want that. More air equals more chances of gas and colic. Plus, smaller bottles are easier for preemies to hold. When your little one starts wanting more milk, you can always switch to larger bottles. But for those early days, smaller is usually better. Remember, it ain’t a race. It’s about finding what works best for your little champ.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do preemie moms produce less milk?
Well now, this is a loaded question. The truth is, it’s not about quantity, it’s about quality. Just because a baby comes into the world a bit earlier, doesn’t mean mom’s milk factory is going to slow down. That being said, preemies do tend to have a more difficult time swallowing milk since their digestive systems are still catching up. That’s why you might see preemie bottles like Dr. Brown’s – they limit the flow of milk to an amount that’s easier to swallow. It’s like they got a built-in traffic cop, controlling the flow of milk traffic.
2. How many ml of milk should a premature baby drink?
Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. The amount of milk a preemie should drink is like trying to figure out how many bags of chips are enough for a Super Bowl party – it varies. But, there are bottles out there designed to mimic breastfeeding as closely as possible, which is ideal for preemies. They keep the flow steady, cutting back on gas and making the transition to breastfeeding smoother. It’s important to note though, that these nifty features may be purchased separately.
3. How do you hold a preemie for breastfeeding?
Now, hold your horses – or rather, your baby. Holding a preemie for breastfeeding is not like clutching a football. Preemies, born before the 37th week, have a harder time swallowing milk. Combine that with their smaller mouths, it’s like trying to sip a milkshake through a coffee stirrer instead of a straw. That’s where Dr. Brown’s preemie bottles come into play, easing the flow of milk to an amount that can be more easily digested. Just think of it as giving your baby a helping hand, or in this case, a helping bottle.
4. Do premature babies need different bottles?
Well now, that’s like asking if everyone needs a different size shoe. Every preemie is different and their needs will dictate the best bottles for them. Some might need special preemie bottles, while others will do just fine with the regular plastic bottles. Now, if you’re looking at options, Dr. Brown’s got a good selection.
Not only do they have different nipple shapes, but they also have preemie nipples that can help with your baby’s feeding. Just remember, picking a bottle isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. You gotta choose what’s right for your little one, like a tailor fitting a suit.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, folks. We’ve walked through some of the top-rated bottles for preemies out there on the market. From the Philips Avent Anti-Colic Baby Bottle to the Lansinoh Breastfeeding Bottles with NaturalWave Nipple, each of these bottles brings its own set of advantages to the table. You can stash them right in your diaper bag, and they have your back when your little one needs a swift refill, no matter where you are.
Remember, preemies are not your regular newborns. In medical lingo, a preemie is a baby born before the 37th week of pregnancy. They’re a bit more delicate, requiring a touch more care and consideration, particularly when it comes to feeding. And, that’s why it’s crucial to pick the right bottle for your little trooper.
But don’t let that scare you. Armed with the info you got here, you’re more than ready to make an informed decision. Think about your baby’s needs, from the safety of the bottle to the nipple flow and size. And don’t forget to consider anti-colic options. Every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another. But you know your baby best, so trust your gut. With a little trial and error and a lot of love, you’ll find the perfect bottle that’ll make feeding time a breeze for both you and your preemie.
Hi, I’m Emily, a dedicated blogger and expert in infant nourishment and care. Parenthood is a beautiful journey, but it can be overwhelming. My mission is to make it easier for you. I’m here to share my knowledge, offer guidance, and provide nurturing advice as you navigate the world of baby care.
