Welcoming a new baby into the world can be an exciting time full of joy! Especially if you're a first time parent. With so many things to discover and plans to organise, it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming when it comes to the basics.
One of those basics can be how to feed your baby. And there are a few factors to consider, such as:
Feeding Method: Are you exclusively bottle-feeding, combining bottle and breastfeeding, or using bottles occasionally for expressed milk or formula.
Baby’s Age: Newborns feed more frequently than older babies, which means you may need more bottles during the early months.
Daily Routine: Consider how often you’ll have time to wash and sterilise bottles.
How Many Bottles Does a Newborn Need?
Newborns typically feed 8-12 times a day, every 2 to 4 hours. So, for breastfeeding parents who plan to use bottles occasionally, 2-4 bottles may be sufficient. You’ll only need them for expressed milk or when someone else is feeding the baby.
If you’re exclusively bottle-feeding, you may want around 6-8 bottles available. This ensures that you’re not constantly washing and sterilising between feeds, especially during those first few weeks where they are only drinking a few ounces at a time.
Really, it depends on how often you want to wash and sterilise your bottles! Some parents like to do them in bulk at the end of the day, whilst others may want to wash and sterilise as they go. This again, depends on preferences and also the method of sterilising you choose to use.
When Your Baby is a Little Older...
From 3-6 months, frequency of feeds may reduce down to about 6-8 times a day as their little tummy grows and can hold more inside it! At this stage, you may find that 6 bottles are still plenty if you’re exclusively bottle-feeding. Combination feeders can stick with 4 bottles, while occasional bottle users may only need 2 bottles throughout the day.
By 6 months and beyond, babies start eating solid foods, which means even fewer bottle feeds and you could also start to introduce a small sippy cup if you feel your baby is ready.
Using Baby Bottles at 12 Months Onwards...
UK Health Visitors will advise you to stop using a bottle with your baby from 12 months onwards and transition them to a cup. Which cup you use is personal preference, as there are a plethora available on the market. You will also find that different groups, parents, organisations, healthcare professionals etc will advise slightly varying things!
You can slowly reduce the bottle usage by only option to give a bottle at certain times of the day, such as nap or bed time. Or you could try and go cold turkey and remove them completely if you feel ready.
Ultimately do what works best for you.
Investing in a few extra bottles can save time and reduce stress, especially in the early days. With Dr Brown’s bottles, you’re giving your baby a feeding experience that’s comfortable and colic-free. Whether you need a full set or just a couple of bottles for occasional use, Dr Brown’s has you covered.
Still unsure? Reach out to one of our team directly. We’re here to support you every step of the way!