⚡ The Short Version
Breastfed babies often refuse bottles because they feel totally different. The trick is finding a bottle that mimics nursing as closely as possible. Comotomo and Dr. Brown's are the two most recommended by lactation consultants. Also: have someone OTHER than mom give the bottle - baby can smell you and knows the real thing is nearby.
Solution 1: Comotomo Baby Bottles
Comotomo Baby Bottles
These silicone bottles feel most like breastfeeding. After trying 5 brands, this is what finally worked. The wide nipple and soft squeeze mimics nursing better than anything else.
Currently: $14.99 on Amazon
Check Current Price →Solution 2: Dr. Brown's Natural Flow Bottles
Dr. Brown's Natural Flow Bottles
If Comotomo doesn't work, try these. The vent system reduces gas, and the slow-flow nipple works well for breastfed babies. Parents recommend these for nighttime bottles.
Currently: $34.99 on Amazon
Check Current Price →Solution 3: MAM Anti-Colic Bottles
MAM Anti-Colic Bottles
Third option if first two don't work. These have orthodontic nipples and our lactation consultant recommended them. Self-sterilizing feature is convenient.
Currently: $24.99 on Amazon
Check Current Price →Why Breastfed Babies Reject Bottles
It's not about being difficult - the mechanics are genuinely different. Breastfeeding requires a completely different tongue and jaw movement than bottle feeding. Baby has to relearn how to eat.
Tips that actually help (from lactation consultants and parent forums):
- Have someone else feed baby - Baby can smell mom and holds out for the real thing
- Try when baby is calm but hungry - Not starving, not full
- Use warmed breastmilk first - Familiar taste helps
- Pace the feeding - Don't let milk just flow; make baby work for it like nursing
- Try different positions - Some babies take bottles better upright, others lying back
The Reality
Some babies take to bottles quickly. Others take 2-3 weeks of daily practice. And a few genuinely never do (they go straight to sippy cups at 6 months). If you're going back to work, start trying at least 3 weeks before you need it to work reliably.
🎯 Ready to Try These Solutions?
Based on parent feedback, these are the most effective options. Every baby is different though - you might need to try a couple before finding what works for yours.