Bottles for Babies: Why Paced Bottle Feeding Matters

Feeding a baby isn’t just about giving them milk—it’s also about comfort, trust, and bonding. Whether a baby feeds from the breast, a bottle, or both, how they are fed is important.

Every baby and family is different, and there is no single “right” way to feed. However, learning about different feeding techniques, like paced bottle feeding, can help make feeding a calm and enjoyable experience for both baby and parent.

Regardless of the reason you are choosing to bottle feed, there are some universal things it is good to know.....

A Gentle Approach to Bottle Feeding

Many parents naturally place the bottle into a baby’s mouth to help them start feeding. While this often works just fine, some babies may find it overwhelming if the milk flows too fast. Babies have small tummies and sensitive mouths (notice how they experience the world with their mouth when they are a little bigger?), and feeding should be a relaxed experience. Paced bottle feeding is simply a way to help babies drink at their own speed, making it easier for them to regulate their intake and stay comfortable.

The Benefits of Paced Bottle Feeding

Paced bottle feeding allows babies to take their time with their milk, just as they would if they were breastfeeding. It’s not about doing things “wrong” or “right” but about offering an option that might make feeding easier for some babies. Some of the benefits include:

• Babies can take breaks and stop when they are full, reducing the chance of overfeeding.

• If a baby is both breast and bottle fed, this method makes the transition between the 2 smoother.

• Parents can watch for signs of hunger and fullness, making feeding a more interactive experience.

• Slower feeding can help reduce tummy troubles linked to being too full.

A note: the 'best' bottle? There isn't really one, although it is good if baby can latch deeply onto the bottle teat, like breastfeeding. More sloped teats with wide base tend to be better for this. But the bottle should be in your price range and accessible.

How to Try Paced Bottle Feeding

1. Upright: Instead of laying/holding them flat, hold them in a more seated position. This helps them control the flow of milk.

2. Baby Leads: Instead of placing the bottle straight in, gently touch the teat to their chin and lips and wait for them to open their mouth.

3. Copy breastfeeding: At the beginning there shouldn't be any milk in the teat. Just like breastfeeding, where copious milk isn't instant (we need to wait for the letdown), the bottle should be similar.

4. Low Angle: Keeping the bottle more level slows the milk flow, helping the baby drink at their own pace.

5. Pause: Every few sucks, tip the bottle slightly downward to let the baby pause and rest. Watching your baby is important. If they stop sucking, the bottle should be tilted down. When they resume, you can tilt it back up.

6. Watch for Fullness: If the baby turns away, slows down, or loses interest, they may be full and you should stop.

7. End the feed: Don't encourage baby to take more, or the 'last bit'. This can cause discomfort.

   
   

Every Baby is Unique

Feeding is a special time for both baby and caregiver, and there’s no single “best” way to do it—just what works best for your baby. Paced bottle feeding is one option that can help make feeding more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you choose to try it or stick with what’s already working for you, what matters most is that your baby is fed with love and care.

If you have any questions about bottle feeding your baby, then please do reach out.