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After diapering, feeding is the next logical area to examine when it comes to babies. I will not get into breastfeeding versus formula, but I do know that whatever you choose to feed your infant, you will probably be using bottles at some point. Although the FDA has required manufacturers to remove all bisphenol-A from plastics used for baby bottles, the jury is still out on the safety of other plasticizers since little kiddos are more susceptible to chemical effects than adults. Because of this, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends to avoid microwaving food in plastic (including infant formula/breastmilk) and to skip the dishwasher. If you are exclusively bottle feeding, then that is a lot of extra handwashing work! The good news is that the AAP does recommend using glass or stainless steel if possible, and over the past 10 years since my first kid was born, I’ve noticed an explosion of new baby safe bottles on the store shelves. So if you have a newborn, take a look at some bottle options.
Today’s Challenge: Switch to non-plastic bottles. Most brands keep the same shape as their plastic counterparts and have a silicone nipple. There are tons of brands out there now, which means you will have lots of options for trying out what will work best for your baby. Here are a few brands that are available. I’ve only listed brands that you can safely place in the microwave or dishwasher and have no plastic components that would touch the contents.
- Lifefactory: Comes in a variety of sizes and nipples and is compatible with most breast pumps, including Medela. Has a nice silicone sleeve to protect the glass if accidentally dropped. Some come with a sippy cap adapter so that when you are done with bottle feeding you can use it as a sippy cup (cap is plastic). Downside is the cost, so you might want to try one before investing in a whole set.
- Phillips Avent: Durable, thermal shock resistant glass made in the USA. The linked gift set comes with one bottle sleeve for protection and insulation, but you can purchase different size sleeves separately.
- Chicco NaturalFit: You can purchase an optional silicone sleeve for protection against breakage. Also has a choice of an angled or regular nipple.
- Nuk Simply Natural: Inexpensive, standard glass bottle option. Made from thermal shock resistant glass.
- Comotomo: Both the nipple and the actual bottle are made from silicone. You don’t have to worry about dropping this one.
Whatever you choose, pay attention to what all components are made of. It isn’t a big deal if the ring that holds the nipple in place is made from plastic, but it is more of a problem if there is a plastic venting straw sticking down into the bottle.
Have a toddler or older child? Spend your challenge today looking for a stainless steel sippy cup or water bottle. I like Thermos brand with a silicone straw and snap top that makes it leak proof when closed.
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