It’s probably fair to say that not all baby bottles are created equal. Aside from the many features that offer various benefits to both mama and baby, there is an initial choice to be made about the composition of your baby’s bottle; will you stick with plastic or pass for glass?


Let’s explore so you have total confidence that you are choosing quality bottles, that are safe and suited to your bub.

Plastic PP

Polypropolene bottles are the most common type of baby feeding bottles because they are the cheapest option, lightweight and easy to use. Even bubs can grasp and hold a PP bottle as they grow and develop independence.

PP is durable and can withstand acceptable washing and sterilising temperatures, although not as high as PPSU or glass therefore it is dependant on the method of cleaning and sterilising you choose to use, as to whether PP will be a suitable option. It is advisable to check dishwasher and steriliser manuals for specific information on cleaning temperatures.

PP bottle quality and transparency will wear out over time with frequent use and cleaning, therefore these bottles are likely to have a shorter life span. It is recommended that PP bottles be replaced at least every 6 months, depending on frequency of use and how many you have on rotation. If you are regularly using bottles they will likely need to be replaced throughout baby’s feeding journey, so the budget-friendliness of PP may not be key for you.

Plastic PPSU

Polyphenylsulfone is a premium, medical-grade plastic. PPSU is break-resistant and can tolerate higher heat than PP so frequent, high temperature cleaning, steaming and sterilising won’t impact its integrity. Hence why it is common in medical applications. Plus, it won’t go cloudy like other bottles might because it doesn’t absorb odour or colour. PPSU bottles will still look fresh and clean over time.

PPSU is still lightweight for comfortable parent-led feeding and baby-led weaning, and for easy portability if you need to pack one or four in your bulging baby bag! And it is naturally BPA free so folks can rest assured it is safe for precious littlies.

Due to its supreme durability, PPSU is ideal for regular use and perhaps when you intend to bottle feed over a longer period. PPSU bottles are usually priced somewhere in between PP and glass bottles so they offer a happy medium that will go the distance of bubs bottle-feeding journey.

PPSU is still lightweight for comfortable parent-led feeding and baby-led weaning, and for easy portability if you need to pack one or four in your bulging baby bag! And it is naturally BPA free so folks can rest assured it is safe for precious littlies.

Glass

If you’re a fan of the old school, then glass might be a good option. It has been around for many years and in terms of health and hygiene it is a material that is free from toxins and can withstand very high cleaning and sterilising temperatures. Glass is also highly durable, if cared for well it can last the duration of your baby’s bottle-feeding days and then some!

One issue folks have with glass bottles is the weight. Carrying a baby and managing a glass bottle can be a bit tricky, particularly with a fussy or wriggly baby. And as bub grows and reaches out to grasp and hold the bottle to self-feed, the weight of a glass bottle may not be ideal. And of course, if it accidentally slips or drops when in use it can crack or break. Glass is one of the more expensive options too, so this needs to be considered when purchasing a complete set of bottles or when needing replacements.

Choose Wisely!

Like all things baby related, when it comes to choosing bottles there are a few things to consider like safety, health and hygiene, suitability for baby’s age, specific needs and feeding style. Do a little research and then consider what is most practical and affordable for you.

Marie Sarantos

A happy (mostly!) mama of three. Spends her days searching for the perfect balance between being a full-time mama, part-time b.box wordsmith and dedicated coffee consumer. Understands how hectic work and life can be and uses this mantra to live simply: The plan is, there is no plan, just stay as informed as you possibly can. Make choices to suit your family and you. And never apologise for seeing it through. Also, affectionately known as Mama Marie for her random acts of nerdy mumsiness and life mantras!

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