It’s normal to want to ‘get it right’ with bottle feeding. On paper, it can sound simple, when actually, the details can take a bit of getting used to. Whether you’ve bottle-fed from the start or are combining with breastfeeding, our guide will take you through common questions, so you feel prepared.
What can seem intimidating at first, will soon become routine with a little preparation and patience. You’ll soon discover what works for you!
Let’s get straight into it!
What supplies are best for bottle feeding?
Getting the right equipment can make a massive difference, so look around, ask other parents and do your research before going ahead and making the purchase!
The essentials:
- Several bottles (simple designs can be easy to clean)
- Teats with different flow options
- A bottle brush
- Sterilising equipment
See our recommendations for baby cups here!
How to know what teat to choose:
- Gulping frantically or seeming overwhelmed? – Try a slower flow
- Working very hard? – Try a faster flow
Tips for safe preparation:
- Boil water to at least 70 degrees
- Follow instructions carefully when mixing powder
- Cool straight away under cold water
- Check the temperature on your wrist (it should be lukewarm)
The best techniques to bottle feed a baby
Bottle feeding is a wonderful opportunity for bonding, and having this close contact can be great for the baby too. There are a number of ways to feed your baby, so keep trying new techniques until you find one that works for you.
We recommend:
- Hold them in a semi-upright position with their head above their body.
- Making eye contact and chatting to them (they might not understand the words, but they’ll feel the love!).
- Skin-to-skin contact during feeds helps you both relax and strengthens your bond
- Consider limiting the number of primary feeders to two people in the early weeks, allowing your baby to feel safe and secure whilst building close relationships.
- To introduce the bottle, gently brush the teat against your baby’s lips. When they open their mouth wide, guide the nipple in. Keep the bottle roughly horizontal (just slightly tipped) to ensure a steady, controlled flow.
- Tilt it so the neck and teat are filled with milk before your baby latches – this prevents them from swallowing air bubbles.
- Follow your baby’s lead and cues, giving them plenty of time. When they pause, gently lower or remove the bottle to stop the milk flow.
Common concerns
You’re not alone!
Why is my baby taking in air when bottle feeding?
If your baby seems uncomfortable or cries during feeds, they may be swallowing air. Keep the teat filled with milk and hold them upright, gently rubbing or patting their back to release trapped air.
Why is my baby spilling milk while bottle feeding?
A little posseting (spitting up) is completely normal. However, if milk spills from their mouth during feeding, they might need a break. Check that the teat hole isn’t too large, causing milk to flow too quickly. If your baby seems to have reflux, keep them upright during and after feeds, and try a sitting position on your lap with their back against your chest. Seek advice if they’re violently sick, in pain, or struggling to feed.
Why does my baby fall asleep while bottle feeding?
When your baby dozes off at the end of a feed, they’re simply telling you they’re full and satisfied.
Do bottle fed babies cluster feed?
Yes, bottle-fed babies do cluster feed, especially during the first three to four months or during growth spurts. Follow their cues for breaks – splayed fingers or toes, stopping sucking, turning away, or pushing the bottle away. Never force extra milk.
Equipment to support your feeding experience
At Munchkin, we understand how important it is to have confidence in feeding. Knowing the right techniques is essential, but having the right equipment can make a difficult task seem easy.
If you’re combining breast and bottle feeding, it can be tricky to know how much milk your little one is getting. Our Flow Nipple Shield + allows breastfeeding mums to see milk flowing whilst nursing, so you can stay confident that your baby is receiving the nutrition they need.
The best advice we can give to mothers, fathers and caregivers is to trust yourself, pay attention to your baby for cues, and contact your GP with any concerns.
You’re doing brilliantly.
And for more advice on breastfeeding, check out our other guides.
Looking to learn on the go? Listen to our podcast, wherever you are, in the car, strolling with the stroller or otherwise!
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