Bottle types
There are three types of baby bottles are available: glass, plastic and
plastic with disposable plastic liners. Glass bottles are very durable but they
are a little heavier to use and they are breakable. Plastic bottles are also
very sturdy and are more lightweight. Bottles with liners are convenient since
the liners don't need to be sterilized but they can also be expensive to use.
Some plastic bottles are shaped at an angle to minimize the amount of air the
baby takes in her stomach when feeding.
You can choose several styles of nipples in either rubber or silicone. You
should buy new nipples every three months. As your baby gets older, buy nipples
with larger holes.
Most babies are content with formula that is at room temperature. If your
baby prefers warmed-up formula, heat the bottle (with the formula already in it)
by running it under hot water from the faucet. This way you can ensure the
liquid is not too hot and you can frequently check the temperature by shaking
some formula on your wrist. Don't microwave formula because the liquid heats
unevenly. Even though the bottle may be cool to your touch, the liquid inside
could be burning hot and scald your baby’s throat.
Feeding time is usually an enjoyable experience for the person feeding the
baby and the baby. Cuddling with your baby is important and feeding time is the
perfect opportunity to get in some skin-to-skin contact. When your baby is about
halfway finished drinking the formula in the bottle, take a break and burp her
to release any gas that may be accumulating in her tummy.
A general rule of thumb is to burp your baby after every 2 ounces eaten. If
you forget to do this, your baby will wake up from her restful sleep crying due
to the need to burp.
