How to get an infant to take a bottle: A comprehensive guide
Struggling with how to get an infant to take a bottle? You’re not alone. Many parents face this challenge, especially when transitioning from breastfeeding. With a little patience and the right strategy, your baby can learn to bottle feed comfortably and calmly.
Understanding how a baby bottle works
Before diving into technique, it helps to understand how a baby bottle functions. The bottle’s nipple is designed to replicate breastfeeding, releasing milk when your baby sucks. Choosing a bottle with a slow or age-appropriate flow helps avoid overwhelming your baby, especially in the early stages.
Preparation is everything
- Choose the right bottle: Look into both plastic and glass bottles. Select a shape that closely resembles the breast to ease the transition.
- Select the correct nipple: Newborns typically need a slow flow to feed at a safe, natural pace.
- Prep properly: Always clean bottles thoroughly and warm the milk to body temperature for comfort. Discover helpful tools in our bottle accessories collection.
How to offer a bottle to a newborn
Ready to try? Here’s how to give a bottle to a newborn with care:
- Create a calm space: Feed your baby in a quiet, low-stimulation setting.
- Use a semi-upright position: This is the safest and most natural bottle feeding position for digestion and comfort.
- Let baby explore: Gently touch the nipple to your baby’s lips to stimulate interest before offering the bottle fully.
- Mind the angle: Keep the bottle tilted just enough to keep the nipple filled with milk. This reduces air intake and discomfort — often referred to as the optimal bottle feeding angle.
Common questions about bottle feeding
- How fast should a newborn drink a bottle? Ideally, bottle feeding should take about 20 minutes to simulate breastfeeding pace and prevent overfeeding.
- Can a baby drink lying down? It’s safer to wait until your baby can hold their own bottle (around 6 months) before allowing them to feed lying down.
Extra bottle feeding tips
If your baby still resists the bottle, try these supportive tactics:
- Use familiar scents: Feeding with a parent’s shirt nearby or a soft cuddle cloth may help soothe your baby.
- Switch caregivers: Some babies are more willing to take a bottle from someone other than their breastfeeding parent.
- Stay relaxed: Your calm energy makes a big difference. Don’t push it if your baby is upset — try again later.
Helping your infant take a bottle isn’t always a quick process. It’s about building familiarity and trust. By choosing the right bottle, positioning your baby well, and creating a peaceful environment, you’ll ease the transition and make feeding time enjoyable. For more tools and tips, explore our baby feeding collection.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only. Activities should always be adapted to suit your child’s age, abilities, and individual needs. Ensure proper supervision and a safe environment at all times. If you have concerns about your child’s motor development or physical abilities, please consult a pediatrician or qualified healthcare professional. BIBS products should always be used according to the provided safety instructions.
