When it comes to feeding infants, parents have a variety of options for baby bottles. Two popular choices are glass and plastic bottles. Both have their own set of benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice for you and your baby will depend on your individual needs and preferences. We hope our latest blog post will help you make a more informed decision between glass vs plastic baby bottles.
Glass Baby Bottles
Glass bottles are made from tempered glass, which is a type of glass that is resistant to breaking or shattering. This makes glass baby bottles a safe choice for feeding infants, as they are less likely to break and create a hazard. Glass bottles are also more durable than plastic bottles, and can last for years with proper care.
One of the main advantages of glass bottles is that they do not contain any chemicals that could potentially leach into the milk or formula. This is especially important for parents who are concerned about the potential health risks associated with exposure to chemicals such as BPA (bisphenol A) and phthalates. Both of these are commonly found in plastic bottles. Glass bottles are also easy to clean and sterilize, as they can be washed in the dishwasher or sterilized using steam or boiling water.
However, although a more eco-friendly option, glass bottles do have some drawbacks. They can be heavy and awkward to hold, especially for parents who are bottle-feeding their infants for long periods of time. Glass bottles are also more expensive than plastic bottles, and may not be as convenient to take on the go due to their fragility. Always keep a look out for bargains though. We were fortunate enough to spot some on sale in Tescos and saved ourselves a very useful 30% off the ticket price.
Plastic Baby Bottles
Plastic bottles, on the other hand, are lightweight and easy to hold. They are also more affordable than glass bottles and are widely available at most baby shops. Plastic bottles are also convenient for travel, as they are more resistant to breaking and are easier to pack in a nappy bag.
However, plastic bottles do have some potential drawbacks. Some types of plastic can contain chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, which can leach into the milk or formula. This has raised concerns about the potential health effects of these chemicals on infants, particularly during the early stages of development. Some studies have suggested that exposure to these chemicals may be linked to a range of health problems, including hormonal imbalances, developmental delays, and increased risk of certain cancers.
To reduce the potential risks associated with plastic bottles, many manufacturers now offer bottles made from BPA-free plastic. These bottles are made from alternative materials such as polypropylene or polyethylene, which are believed to be safer and less likely to leach chemicals into the milk or formula. However, it is important to note that some studies have suggested that these alternative plastics may still have the potential to release chemicals into the milk or formula, although the risks are generally thought to be lower than with traditional plastic bottles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both glass vs plastic baby bottles have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Glass bottles are a safe and durable choice that do not contain any chemicals that could potentially leach into the milk or formula. However, they can be heavy and awkward to hold for babies that have reached a certain level of independence and are more expensive than plastic bottles.
Plastic bottles, on the other hand, are lightweight and convenient but may contain chemicals that could potentially leach into the milk or formula. To reduce the potential risks associated with plastic bottles, it is important to choose BPA free baby bottles. This should be clearly detailed on the product packaging. Ultimately, the best choice for you and your baby will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
If your baby has reached the toddler stage please read our article on choosing toddler cups.
