When to Switch from Bottle to Sippy Cup: A Parent’s Guide

Why Timing Matters

Moving on from a bottle to sippy cup isn’t just a developmental milestone; it’s important for your baby’s health, too. Prolonged bottle use can increase the risk of tooth decay, speech delays and can even affect the way their jaw develops. It’s also about encouraging independence and helping your little one transition to more grown-up drinking habits.

So when is the right time to make the switch?

Recommended Age to Progress to A Sippy Cup (UK Guidance)

According to NHS guidance, babies should start learning to drink from a cup from around 6 months old, and bottles should ideally be phased out by 12 months.

That might sound early, but the idea is to introduce an open or free-flow cup gradually while still offering bottles for milk feeds. Over time, as they get used to the new method, the bottle can take a back seat.

Signs Your Baby Is Ready for a Sippy Cup

Every baby is different, but here are a few signs they might be ready to give it a go:

• They can sit up unsupported
• They’re starting solids and sipping water with meals
• They’re showing an interest in your cup or water bottle
• They seem bored or frustrated with the bottle

It doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing switch, many parents do a gentle phase-out.

What Kind of Cup Should You Start With?

There are loads of options, and it can be a bit of a minefield. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Free-flow spout cups: Encourage natural sipping and are better for teeth development
• Straw cups: Good for babies who don’t like tilting cups — promotes oral motor skills
• Open cups: Great for Montessori-style weaning; builds control and coordination early
• No-spill cups: Handy for mess but some require strong sucking, which can delay oral development

If you’re unsure, start with a free-flow cup and introduce a straw cup later for variety.

How to Make the Switch (Without the Meltdown)

Here are a few tried-and-tested tips for a smoother transition:

• Start with water during mealtimes in a cup to build confidence
• Offer a choice of cup styles to see what they prefer (see our Babychino cups)
• Let them copy you — babies love mimicking their grown-ups
• Mix it up: try putting milk in the cup occasionally, not just water
• Be patient — it’s normal for them to resist at first

It doesn’t have to be perfect right away — small steps add up.

What If Your Toddler Refuses the Cup?

Some toddlers are very attached to their bottles — especially if it’s part of their bedtime routine. If that sounds familiar, try these:

• Offer the cup during the day but keep the bedtime bottle (for now)
• Slowly water down the bottle feeds over time
• Make it fun! Let them choose their own “big kid” cup
• Give lots of praise for small wins

If all else fails, speak to your health visitor — they’ll have tips tailored to your child’s routine.

Conclusion
There’s no perfect age to say goodbye to the bottle, but most babies are ready to start using a cup by around 6 months and make the full switch by 12 months. Keep it relaxed, be consistent, and follow your baby’s lead — they’ll get there.

Ready to shop for your little one’s first cup? Or still comparing bottle types? Read our guide on glass vs plastic baby bottles for more helpful tips.

References

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/weaning-and-feeding/drinks-and-cups-for-babies-and-young-children
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-matters-child-dental-health/health-matters-child-dental-health