Mastering the Art of Bottle Feeding: A Guide for New Mums

Hi Mummas!

We recently covered breast feeding for new mums and had such an overwhelming response we thought we should do the same for those mummas who or are bottle feeding their little ones. Bottle feeding can be a great option for new mums who want or need to supplement breastfeeding, or who choose to exclusively formula feed their baby. While breastfeeding is often considered the "gold standard" for infant nutrition, there are many reasons why a mother may choose to use a bottle instead, including difficulty with breastfeeding, returning to work or school, or just plain old personal preference.

We want to help you master the art of bottle feeding, whether it be for yourself or even for your partner or friends to be involved in the feeding process. While bottle feeding may seem overwhelming at first, with the right information and techniques, you can become confident and comfortable feeding your baby from a bottle. Whether you're a first-time mum or have experience with bottle feeding, this guide is for you. So let's get started!

Bottle Feeding a Newborn: How to Choose the Right Bottle

When it comes to choosing the right bottle for your baby, it can be very overwhelming with all the options available. Its hard to navigate through the different types and features, but selecting the right bottle can make all the difference in your baby's feeding experience. We believe the most important factors to consider when selecting are as follows:

• Material: Bottles are typically made from glass, plastic, or silicone. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks. Glass bottles are durable and easy to clean, but they can break if dropped. Plastic bottles are lightweight and shatterproof, but they may not last as long as glass bottles. Silicone bottles are soft and easy to grip, but they may be more expensive.

• Shape: Bottles come in a variety of shapes, including angled, wide-necked, and standard. The shape of the bottle can affect how easy it is for your baby to grip and how quickly they can drink from it. Angled bottles can help reduce air intake and prevent colic, while wide-necked bottles can make it easier to clean and fill.

• Size: Bottles come in different sizes, typically measured in millimeters . The size you choose will depend on your baby's age and feeding habits. Newborns may only need 60-90mls per feeding, while older babies may require 180-250mls .

• Teat: The teat is an important part of the bottle, as it determines how easily the milk flows and how much air your baby takes in. Teat come in different shapes, sizes, and flow rates. Some babies prefer a slow flow teat, while others may need a faster flow. It may take some trial and error to find the right teat for your baby.

How to Prepare a Bottle for a Newborn:

Once you've chosen the right bottle for your baby, the next step is to prepare the formula or breastmilk and get the bottle ready for feeding time. Here are some steps to follow when preparing a bottle:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling any baby equipment.

2. Sterilize the bottle and teat by boiling them in water for 5-10 minutes or using a sterilizer. This step helps to kill any bacteria that may be present.

3. Follow the instructions on the formula package to prepare the formula. Different types of formula may require different amounts of water and powder, so be sure to measure carefully.

4. Once the formula is prepared, check the temperature by dropping a few drops on your inner wrist. The formula should feel warm, but not hot.

5. Fill the bottle with the formula, leaving enough room at the top for the teat. Screw the teat onto the bottle and make sure it's securely in place.

6. Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle and gently tap the bottom to remove any air bubbles.

7. Test the flow of the bottle by turning it upside down. The milk should flow steadily, but not too fast or too slow.

8. If you're not using the bottle right away, store it in the refrigerator. Formula can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to feed your baby, warm the bottle by placing it in a bowl of warm water or using a bottle warmer.

It's super important to make sure that you sterilize both the bottle and the teat during this process.

Mastering Bottle Feeding: Techniques for Newborns

Feeding your baby from a bottle can be a bonding experience for both you and your little one. There are many different techniques and really no correct way to feed from the bottle. What's most important is that both you and your baby are comfortable. Our best tips are as follows:

1. Hold your baby close and cuddle them while feeding. This skin-to-skin contact can help promote bonding and comfort.

2. Tilt the bottle so that the teat is always filled with formula. This helps to reduce the amount of air your baby takes in and prevents colic and wind. 

3. Look for signs that your baby is hungry or full. Some babies may fuss or cry when they're hungry, while others may turn away or push the bottle away when they're full. You can also look for cues like rooting or sucking on their hands.

4. Don't force your baby to finish the bottle if they're full. Overfeeding can lead to discomfort, spit-up, or even vomiting.

5. Burp your baby regularly during feeding and after they're finished. We love our Snuggly Jacks Burp Cloths for this process. They are super soft for your baby and prevent any spit up getting on you. This can help to release any trapped air and prevent colic.

6. Enjoy the feeding experience! This is a special time for you and your baby to connect and bond.

Troubleshooting Bottle Feeding Problems:

Sometimes, even with the best preparation and care, you may encounter problems when bottle feeding your baby. Remember this is completely normal! Babies don't come with a handbook and every little human has their own demands that you have to figure out. Here are some common issues and tips for troubleshooting them:

1. Nipple confusion: Some babies may have trouble switching between breast and bottle. To reduce nipple confusion, try to wait until breastfeeding is well-established before introducing a bottle. You can also try using a teat that mimics the shape and feel of the breast.

2. Colic and gas: Colic and gas can cause discomfort and fussiness in babies. To prevent colic and gas, make sure the teat is always full of formula and hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle to prevent air intake. You can also try using bottles with special venting systems or anti-colic teats.

3. Spit-up: Spit-up is common in babies, but if it's excessive, it may be a sign of overfeeding. Make sure you're not forcing your baby to finish the bottle and try burping them regularly during and after feeding.

4. Reflux: Reflux is a condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and spit-up. If your baby has reflux, talk to your pediatrician about special formulas or feeding techniques that can help.

5. Slow weight gain: If your baby is not gaining weight as expected, it may be a sign of underfeeding. Make sure you're offering enough milk and consider increasing the amount or frequency of feedings.

6. Rejecting the bottle: Some babies may reject the bottle for various reasons. Try different teat shapes, temperatures, or positions to see what works best for your baby. You can also have someone else feed your baby or try distracting them with toys or music during feeding time.

Remember, if you're concerned about your baby's feeding habits or if problems persist, don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or a lactation consultant for help and guidance. With patience and persistence, you can overcome common bottle feeding issues and provide your baby with safe and healthy feeding experiences.

Tips for Bottle Feeding Your Infant Easier

Bottle feeding can be a challenge, especially for new mums. Here are some tips to make bottle feeding easier and more manageable:

1. Prepare in advance: Make sure you have all the necessary supplies, including bottles, formula, and a clean feeding area, before starting the feeding. This can help reduce stress and make the process smoother.

2. Use a bottle warmer: A bottle warmer can help heat up the formula to the right temperature quickly and evenly. This can be especially helpful during nighttime feedings.

3. Try different positions: Experiment with different feeding positions, such as cradling your baby or holding them in a semi-upright position. Find what works best for you and your baby.

4. Make eye contact: Hold your baby close and make eye contact during feedings. This can help establish a strong bond between you and your baby and make the experience more enjoyable.

5. Take breaks: Don't rush through feedings. Take breaks to burp your baby or simply enjoy some quiet time together.

6. Get support: Don't be afraid to ask for help or support from family, friends, or professionals. A lactation consultant or pediatrician can provide valuable guidance and advice.

7. Be patient: When it comes to bottle feeding your newborn, it's important to remember that it's a learning process for both you and your baby. Don't get discouraged if it takes some time to get the hang of it. Be patient and persistent, and keep in mind that with practice, you'll both become more comfortable and confident with the process.

By following these tips, you can make bottle feeding easier and more enjoyable for both you and your baby. Don't forget to also take care of yourself during this time, by getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and staying hydrated. With a little patience, practice, and support, you can master the art of bottle feeding and provide your baby with safe and healthy feeding experiences.

Its important to remember that you are not the first mumma to go through this transition. Whether you are transitioning to bottle feeding as you can no longer breastfeed or whether breastfeeding just didn't suit or workout for you in the first place, you are not a failure. Each baby and mum has their own experience and you can make this an enjoyable transition for you both. 

We hope this guide has helped to relieve some of your stress and anxiety around bottle feeding. As always please reach out to us if you have any questions or if we can provide any further support to you.

xx
Katie