• Bottle
    Weaning

BYE BYE, BOTTLES

Weaning your baby from the bottle is a big step for her. It can be exciting, but many parents feel nervous, too. Be patient and make a plan to help your baby succeed.

Weaning happens over time and every baby is different.
Switching from Bottles to Cups

Making the switch from bottles to cups is a major step for you and your baby. It marks the beginning of more independence for both of you.

Not only does it teach your baby an important skill, it also protects her health. Weaning lowers your baby’s risk of ear infections, tooth decay and speech delays. It is another way that you are giving your baby the best possible start.
Start Off Right (Birth to 6 Months)

Setting the stage for successful weaning from the bottle starts well before your baby uses a cup for the first time. Make sure to only use bottles for breastmilk or formula — never juice or other liquids. “At this age, your little one gets everything she needs to grow from breastmilk or formula,” says Akata Sanghani, RD, IBCLC, Texas WIC dietitian and lactation consultant.

Only offer your baby a bottle when she is showing signs of hunger. Find ways to soothe your baby without giving her a bottle. Repeating sounds, playing with soft toys and cuddling can all help your baby feel comforted and safe.
Make Small Changes (6 to 12 Months)

Even before you start giving your baby a cup, you can help her get used to them. Choose cups that are fun, colorful and easy to hold. Let your baby play with them. Pour water with them at bath time, stack them like blocks or bang them together like musical instruments. Making the cup a normal part of life will help make the switch easier for everyone. 

Most experts recommend gradual weaning from bottle to cup. “Gradual weaning makes the change easier for you and your baby,” says Noemi Hernandez, RD, IBCLC, Texas WIC dietitian and lactation consultant.

One way to begin replacing bottles is to provide breastmilk or formula in a cup at mealtime. As your baby gets used to this, continue replacing one bottle at a time until all bottle feedings are replaced with cups. It may take time, but you’ll get there. 

Tips to Avoid Spills

  • Small, lightweight cups are easier for your baby to hold.
  • Make sure your little one is always seated when drinking from the cup.
  • Only put a small amount of liquid in the cup and refill it as needed.
  • Stay nearby when your baby is drinking from the cup.
  • Until your baby gets the hang of it, help her steady and ti

  • If your baby refuses breastmilk or formula in a cup, that’s OK! Feed your baby breastmilk or formula as usual to meet her nutritional needs. Continue offering her the cup with small amounts of water at other times.  
Nearing the Finish Line (12 to 15 months)

At this point, your child is probably comfortable with using a cup. Since she’s mostly getting her nutrient needs from food, giving up the bottle is right around the corner.

Point out when other people use a cup and give your child lots of praise when she drinks from a cup. If your child asks for the bottle before a nap, at bedtime or when she is upset, help her find other ways to calm herself. Give her extra snuggles or a special stuffed animal. Consider making a new bedtime routine that doesn’t involve the bottle – like reading a book or singing a special lullaby. Be patient – it takes time.

  • Next Steps

       Want to learn more about weaning from the bottle? Chat with your health care provider                                     or WIC nutritionist and take our web lesson on bottle weaning.

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