How to teach your baby to bottle-feed - 9 tips

The WHO recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed until they are 6 months old. However, there may be times when a new mother needs to leave her baby with someone for an extended period, or even return to work or school. This may necessitate teaching the baby to drink from a bottle. The transition from breast to bottle can sometimes be more challenging for the baby than expected. Here are some helpful tips for teaching your baby to drink from a bottle:

1. Be patient when switching from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding

First and foremost, you need to be patient. A baby who is used to breastfeeding may not want to drink from a bottle at first. No matter how much the nipple resembles the mother's breast, some babies will find it difficult to accept.

If you are returning to work and know that bottle-feeding your baby will be necessary, start at least two weeks in advance. Your baby needs time to learn to drink from a bottle and get used to it.

A calm, well-rested baby is more likely to accept a bottle. To optimize your baby's routines and sleep, check out our guide on baby sleep and practical tips.

2. Choose the right nipple and bottle

Since every baby is different, you need to choose the right bottle and, most importantly, the right nipple. The nipple should be appropriate for the child's age. A flow that is too small can be frustrating, while a flow that is too large can lead to a choking hazard. The nipple should be dynamic to function well in the child's mouth.

Don't forget! The nipple should be replaced at least every two months and at the first sign of deterioration. The Mammafeel bottle is specially designed to facilitate the transition from breast to bottle, mimicking the natural feel of the breast and helping your baby adapt gently.

3. Ask your partner for help

A baby may not want to take a bottle if fed by its mother. It may expect to be breastfed by her. Therefore, if the baby refuses the bottle, try to involve your partner, grandmother, or someone who will be caring for the baby in your absence.

4. Find the right position to introduce your baby to the bottle

Bottle-feeding is different from breastfeeding. It's important to find a comfortable and appropriate position for your baby. A wrong position can lead to reflux, colic, abdominal pain, and even poor speech development. The comfort of both the baby and the person feeding them is important.

5. Don't wait until your baby is very hungry

A hungry baby is an irritable baby. They will have difficulty getting used to new things, latching correctly, and eating calmly. So, don't wait until your child is too hungry. A calm, well-rested baby is more inclined to accept and try something new.

6. Lubricate the nipple with your milk to get your baby used to the bottle

If you have been breastfeeding and are wondering how to teach your baby to drink from a bottle, remember that your baby is used to the warmth of your breast and the taste and smell of your milk. Bottle-feed your baby with your own milk. Before offering the bottle, dip the nipple in your milk, which will be familiar to your baby. This increases the chances of your baby trying to suck the nipple. You can also warm the nipple by pouring warm water over it to make the contact more pleasant for your baby. To learn more about relactation and how to restart your milk production, check out our complete guide on successful relactation.

7. Do not force your baby to use a nipple

Don't try to push the nipple into your baby's mouth. Instead, place the nipple near their mouth so they have the opportunity to grasp it themselves. Make sure the baby covers the entire nipple with their mouth and doesn't just grasp the tip.

8. Choose the right formula milk

How to teach a baby to drink from a bottle if you can't express your milk? First, choose the right formula milk. There is a wide choice, but it's important to adapt the milk to the child's age and individual needs. You may need a hypoallergenic or soy-based formula if your baby is allergic to cow's milk protein.

9. Teach your baby to drink from a bottle at the right time

Do not try to introduce the bottle when your baby is sick or during significant changes in their life (moving, returning to work, etc.). Always try to choose a time when there are no major events affecting your child's mood or well-being.