The 10 Best Glass Bottles for Breastfed Babies
Glass baby bottles are a great option for breastfed babies. They’re the healthiest, most eco-friendly, and safest option on the market.
Parents who use glass bottles with their breastfeeding babies know that they have many benefits over plastic or silicone options – but these parents often feel like there’s not enough information out there to help them make an informed choice when it comes to choosing which kind of bottle is best for their baby.
I’ve done all of the hard work for you by compiling this list of top 10 reasons why glass baby bottles are better than other options available on the market today.
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Glass vs. Plastic Bottles
What is the difference between using a glass bottle over a plastic bottle? Most parents will tell you that there is a huge difference in the way that glass vs plastic bottles feel to the touch
Glass baby bottles aren’t as cold or slimy as plastic ones, making them more comfortable for their babies to hold and drink from. Even small preferences like this can impact how well your baby feeds when using a different type of bottle, so it’s important to consider before making the switch.
Glass baby bottles don’t have that plastic smell or taste, which can ruin a feeding session if you’re using the wrong bottle for your child. If your child is experiencing problems with a certain bottle type, switching to glass could be exactly what you need to solve them!
Are Glass Bottles Better for Your Baby?
Plastic bottles can leak harmful chemicals in the milk. They can also hold on to smells that could deter your baby from drinking out of it. Glass baby bottles are made from borosilicate glass, which is resistant to breaking and containing a lot of safe elements
Parents who have switched to using glass bottles with their babies unanimously agree that the glass bottle benefits far outweigh any downsides. If you’re trying to decide whether or not you should switch to a glass bottle with your baby, here are 10 reasons why glass bottles are better than what you’re currently using.
Why Glass Baby Bottles?
Glass baby bottles have several benefits that make them a smart choice for feeding your baby, including the following…
BPA-Free
Little ones are more exposed to certain chemicals than adults, so it’s important to take that into consideration when choosing a bottle type for your baby
Eco-Friendly
Glass bottles are the most environmentally friendly option on the market today, so by using them you can feel good about not only what they’re made of but how they’re put together and shipped out to retailers as well
Straightforward Design
Glass bottles are simple in design, which makes them easy to clean and care for. You won’t find any complicated pieces here – just a straightforward bottle that’s designed to make your life easier when feeding your baby
Crystal-Clear
Parents love glass bottles because they’re free of cloudiness or other impurities, giving the milk inside the bottle a clear and appetizing look that can entice their babies to drink
No Flavor Retention
Glass bottles are made from multiple layers of borosilicate glass, which is resistant to retaining the flavors of the liquids that go inside it, unlike other products on the market like plastic baby bottles
Air Flow Ventilation System:
Airflow ventilation systems are built into some glass baby bottles to prevent the milk or formula inside from spilling out of the bottle while your child is feeding. This helps make it easier for parents and babies to use since you don’t have to worry about making a mess during a feeding session!
Dishwasher-Friendly
Glass is the perfect material for dishwashers, since it won’t retain any flavors or smells after being put through the cycle and coming out clean on the other end
Fewer Leaks
Although glass bottles may seem like they lead to more spills than plastic ones, studies have shown that this is often not the case. Parents who use glass baby bottles find that leaking is not a problem, which can save you a lot of frustration in the long run
Shatter-Resistant
If you’ve ever dropped a glass object before, then you know how easily it could shatter on impact if it’s not strong enough to handle the fall. Glass baby bottles are made from tempered glass, which makes them shatter-resistant and able to withstand high falls without breaking
Economical
Since you can reuse glass bottles multiple times before needing to replace them, this helps save parents money in the long run. Plus, since they’re dishwasher friendly, you don’t need to spend a lot of time scrubbing them clean by hand.
What Bottles are Best for Breastfed Babies?
There are a lot of options out there for new parents that want the best glass bottle for their breastfed baby.
Best Glass Baby Bottles
Philips Avent
Glass bottles are well suited for either primary or secondary usage, making them perfect to use as your baby’s main source of nutrition or just as a backup.
These bottles are made from premium quality borosilicate glass which is durable and resistant to thermal shock or breakage. The wide breast-shaped nipple promotes a natural latch on and the shape of the bottle is ergonomically designed for maximum comfort and control. An Airflex valve is integrated into the nipple, allowing air to flow away from your baby’s tummy, discouraging gassiness and colic. The slow-flow nipples are not only beneficial for reducing feeding issues but they also allow you to continue using this bottle as your child grows. You can see why Philips Avent makes some of the best bottles on the market today.
PROS:
The wide breast-shaped nipple promotes a natural latch.
CONS:
Some moms have said it isn’t completely leakproof
Buy it on Amazon here
Joovy Boob
The nipple is made of medical-grade silicone and free of BPA, BPS, lead, and phthalate. Also compatible with most leading breast pumps.
PROS:
Dishwasher safe
Comes with a sleeve for a good grip and added protection from breakage
Compatible with most leading breast pumps
Temperature and shock-resistant
CONS:
Some have said the flow is faster than other bottles.
Buy it on Amazon here
Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Glass Bottles
This version can be used with all Dr. Brown’s nipples and most leading breast pumps.
PROS:
Comes with a sleeve for extra grip and added protection,
Sturdy glass won’t break if dropped or hit against something.
CONS:
Some have said the glass bottles don’t fit the Dr. Brown’s Bottle Warmer as well as other dr. brown’s bottles do.
Buy it on Amazon here
Nuk Glass Bottles
The NUK Simply Natural line of glass bottles is completely BPA-free. The wide base design helps promote healthy feeding habits by reducing the amount of air ingested by your baby, which helps reduce colic. The bottle’s nipple has a simple design that is very close to the mother’s own nipple, allowing for an easier transition between breast and bottle. It also features anti-colic air ventilation channels to eliminate bubbles in the milk/formula as it feeds, reducing gas and spit-up.
PROS:
The nipple is very close to the mom
The vent system reduces the amount of air ingested by the baby
CONS:
The glass bottles are heavy and you can have a hard time fitting them into some bottle warmers
Buy it on Amazon here
Life Factory
The 4 oz glass baby bottle comes with Stage 1 (0-3 months) slow flow nipples.
The 9 oz glass baby bottle comes with Stage 2 (3-6 months) medium flow nipples.
The Lifefactory glass baby bottle is eco-friendly and it’s safe for babies to use. All parts of the glass baby bottle can be used in the dishwasher or can easily be hand washed.
PROS:
Dishwasher safe
eco-friendly
glass bottles don’t leach chemicals as they are not made from plastic
CONS:
The nipple does not have a very wide nipple base, so some babies have a harder time latching onto it.
Buy it on Amazon here
Chicco Natural Fit
The double anti-colic valve is great for preventing colic in your baby. The angled neck also helps to reduce gas in your infant when feeding.
The nipple is wide to help keep a good latch for breastfeeding. The silicone is soft for a natural feel. It’s a great option for your baby if they are refusing a bottle. It helps keep them close to mom just like breastfeeding.
PROS:
Wide Base for easy cleaning
Great for protecting baby’s latch
CONS:
The price is a bit high compared to other bottles.
Buy it on Amazon here
Evenflo Vented Glass Bottle
The Evenflo Classic Baby bottles are timelessly shaped. This fun design is ergonomically shaped to make it easier for the baby to hold, while the contoured shape provides a comfy, stable grip for the mom. The nipple’s ultra-sensitive shape is designed to mimic the breast which helps make your baby feeding experience all the more natural and enjoyable.
Evenflo Classic Glass Bottles are BPA free, dishwasher safe in top rack only, come with Proflo venting technology, and have wide neck openings which allow for easy cleaning.
PROS:
BPA Free
Dishwasher Safe on the top rack
Proflo Venting Technology
Can pump directly into the bottle
CONS:
Some moms find that these bottles can be hard to clean because of their narrow neck design.
Buy it on Amazon here
Haakaa Gen. 3 Natural Glass Bottle
New moms rave about this bottle on Amazon. They are easy to clean with a wide neck. There are grooves in the bottle that make it easy for your baby to hold it. The borosilicate glass is lightweight and durable, while the silicone nipple is soft and flexible.
The breast-shaped nipples are perfect for transitioning between breastfeeding and bottle feeding. The soft silicone is gentle on your little one’s mouth and the shape provides a natural latch meaning less air swallowing meaning a happier baby.
These anti-colic vents help to prevent gas while drinking which prevents bubbles from forming in the bottle while feeding.
With the movement to natural baby products, borosilicate glass resists stains and offers more transparency than other types of glass. It is resistant to high temperatures which makes it one of the best materials for baby bottles.
PROS:
Durable with borosilicate glass
Stain-resistant
Anti-colic vents
Wide base for easy cleaning and easy transition to bottle
CONS:
It only holds 3 ounces so it wouldn’t be a good fit for older babies.
Buy it on Amazon here
BFree Glass Bottles
PROS:
high-quality silicone nipple
BFree offers two size bottles for every stage of feeding
CONS:
Can be harder to clean
Buy them on Amazon here
Should You Use Glass Baby Bottles?
Are glass bottles right for your family? Glass baby bottles are a good choice for parents who want to provide their children with an eco-friendly option. They may cost more than other types of baby bottles, but you’ll be using them for several years, so this can help make up for the added expense in time.
Using glass bottles will ensure that your child’s milk or formula is free of chemical additives often found in plastic baby bottles and that your little one gets a full meal thanks to the straightforward design. With fewer leaks, less maintenance, and a variety of color silicone sleeve options available (including clear glass), it’s easy to see why so many parents are switching over to glass!
The Disadvantages of Glass Bottles
Here are some things to consider when you’re thinking of buying a glass bottle for your baby.
– They are breakable. Make sure you are okay with this before making the switch to glass.
– It is usually harder to pump and feed your baby with a glass bottle than it is with a plastic one. There are some brands out there that make it easier but in general, they aren’t the easiest things to work with.
– Glass bottles are heavier and bulkier than plastic ones. That may not seem like a problem but if you have to carry them around in your diaper bag every day, it will likely become an issue as time goes on.
– Cleaning glass bottles isn’t much of a hassle but some parents find that they get milk stuck around the nipple area. With some brands, you can boil them to get rid of milk but others suggest not boiling. It all depends on the brand you choose and what they suggest.
As with anything in life, there are certain good things that come with glass baby bottles and bad things as well. Make sure to weigh both sides before making your decision!
Do Glass Baby Bottles Break Easily?
If you are concerned about glass bottle breaking you can try one with a silicone sleeve. This will help you and your baby have a better grip on the bottle to avoid dropping it as well as absorb any shock if it is dropped.
How to Warm Glass Baby Bottles
Typically you can warm a glass bottle the same as you would warm a plastic bottle. Read the best way to warm milk here.
Can Glass Baby Bottles Be Washed in the Dishwasher?
Yes. Glass baby bottles can be washed in the dishwasher. Be sure to check the care instructions for each bottle to make sure you are properly caring for them.
Can You Microwave Glass Baby Bottles?
If you are using the microwave to sterilize them that is fine as long as it is in a steamer that is designed to steam clean baby bottles.
Please note that breast milk and formula should never be warmed in the microwave. As this will cause hot spots and you will lose most of the nutrients in the milk. For the best way to thaw and warm milk read this. You can also use a bottle warmer to warm the milk.
Can You Put Glass Baby Bottles in the Freezer?
Most glass baby bottles are not ok to be put in the freezer with the exception of Joovy Boob and Life Factory. Breast milk expands when you freeze it so you will need to leave some room in the bottle.
It’s best to store your breast milk in breast milk storage bags. You can read more about the best storage bags here. If you want a more eco-friendly option the silicone Haakaa storage bags.
Conclusion
Choosing the right baby bottle for your child is a big decision. Glass bottles can be expensive and they are breakable, but there are plenty of benefits to using them as well. If you’re concerned about glass bottles breaking or if their weight will become an issue with time, consider purchasing one that has a silicone sleeve so it’s easier to grip. You may also want to check out brands like Joovy Boob and Haakaa which have specially designed products specifically for breastfed babies. In addition, when warming milk in these bottles make sure not to microwave it because this could change the nutrient composition of your formula or breastmilk – instead use a steamer or warmer which will do just fine!
