Proven Tips for Getting Your Baby to Take a Bottle
Bottle refusal can be stressful — for both parents and babies. Whether you’re returning to work, sharing feeding responsibilities, or simply want flexibility, a baby who rejects the bottle can leave you feeling frustrated and worried.
The good news? Many parents have been where you are, and with patience and the right techniques, you can help your baby make the switch. Here are 10 proven bottle refusal tips to make the transition smoother.
- Pick the Right Time: Offer the bottle when your baby is calm but slightly hungry — not overly tired or screaming. A relaxed state increases the chances they’ll accept the new feeding method.
- Try Different Nipples: Some babies prefer a slower or faster flow, or a particular shape that feels more like breastfeeding. Testing a few options can help you find the best match.
- Warm the Nipple: A cold bottle nipple can feel unfamiliar. Warming it under hot water until it’s just above room temperature can mimic the warmth of breastfeeding.
- Switch Feeding Positions: If you always breastfeed in one position, try something new for bottle feeding. Some babies do better upright, in a rocker, or facing outward.
- Have Someone Else Feed: Babies often associate their mom with nursing. Having another caregiver offer the bottle can sometimes reduce resistance.
- Offer While in Motion: Gently rocking, walking, or using a baby swing can comfort a baby and make them more receptive to bottle feeding.
- Start with Small Amounts: Don’t overwhelm your baby with a full bottle. Begin with an ounce or two to make the experience less intimidating.
- Try a “Dream Feed”: Offer the bottle while your baby is drowsy but not fully awake. Some babies will accept feeding more easily in this relaxed state.
- Be Consistent: Offer the bottle daily, even if your baby only drinks a small amount. Regular exposure can help them become more comfortable over time.
- Add Comfort Through Scent: Babies recognize and are soothed by their parent’s scent. Wearing a small fabric pad against your skin and then attaching it to the bottle — like with the Bottimals Bottle-Lovey — can bridge the gap between breast and bottle, making feeding feel safe and familiar.
Final Thoughts
Overcoming bottle refusal is often about patience, experimentation, and finding what works for your unique baby. These bottle refusal tips have helped many families transition more smoothly.
If you’re looking for an easy way to add scent comfort — one of the most effective tricks in the book — Bottimals offers a simple, adorable, and proven solution.