How to Bottle Feed

(492 Words)
Many mothers bottle feed either breastmilk, which is best, or formula to their babies. Mothers should learn all about bottle feeding to make it as easy a process as possible.
You will find many different bottles from which to choose, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The bottles range in size and materials. The two most common materials are glass and plastic. Glass can be heavy and shatter if dropped, but plastic can contain chemicals such as BPA. Make sure any bottle you buy is free of BPA (as most of the new ones are).
Look at the different bottles, as well as the reviews; some have special features. For instance, Playtex makes a series of bottles that have “drop-in” liners. With these bottles, you will only have to wash the nipple and the ring around it instead of the entire bottle. It also makes it much more portable because you can bring one bottle and a lot of liners and nipples. Another advantage is that the liners get sucked in as the baby drinks, which can make it easier for the baby to drink. The baby can drink without turning the bottle upside down.
Some bottles are made to reduce gas. The nipples range in material and style, all trying to best replicate the real thing to make it more comfortable for the baby. You should look at the different options and see what your baby likes best. Also, the nipples will list the flow rate, so make sure that you get one that is right for the age of your baby. WebMD suggests checking the nipples regularly and discarding any that are broken or cracked.
Before you use a bottle, sterilize them by putting them in boiling water. In most cases, detergent is safe after that. Because of some issues with chemicals and plastic, you may want to consider hand washing if they are plastic.
Breastmilk is best, and after that use formula. It is generally not recommended to give newborns water or juice. Make sure that the liquid is not too hot. Do not use the microwave because it could heat unevenly and cause burns. You can put it in a cup of warm water instead; always make sure to test it before you give it to the baby.
Before you feed, protect yourself and the baby with a burp cloth. Many babies spit up, so you may want to have something handy for that as well. Hold your baby in a cradle position with his or her head propped up. Always keep a hold on the bottle. Burp regularly.
You will learn your own baby’s signals that he or she is done. Generally, they stop eating or push the bottle away. If there is formula left in the bottle then discard it.
Bottle feeding can be a challenge, but you will soon get the hang of it. With time and effort, it will become a simple process.