Types of Bottle Nipples
With recent developments in technology and materials, there are now enough varieties of bottle nipples to satisfy even the fussiest infant. Nipples can be made of sturdier or softer materials, and different designs result in different sucking behavior. It is ultimately the infant, not the parent or guardian, who decides which nipple type is the best fit, a decision that may change repeatedly as the baby grows.
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Material
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Almost all bottle nipples are made of either latex or silicon. Latex nipples are softer, more flexible, and retain the milk's odor, but do not last as long as their rubber and silicone counterparts. Silicone nipples are firmer, sturdier and dishwasher-safe.
Design
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Nipples come in a variety of different shapes. The standard nipple is dome-shaped, rounded at the base and tapering to a round nub. Orthodontic nipples have a shape that fits the curvature of an infant's mouth -- narrow in the middle and widening at both ends. There are also flat-topped nipples and nipples that imitate a breast's natural shape.
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Size
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Nipples come in a range of sizes. As your infant's mouth grows in size, you will need to use larger nipples. Size one is for infants aged zero to six months. Size two nipples are intended for older babies and toddlers. There are also special sizes for premature infants.
Flow Speed
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The size of the nipple hole determines the flow speed. The nipple hole should be wide enough so that, when turned upside down, a few drops immediately escape, after which there should be no dripping. If your infant is struggling to get enough milk at a time, consider switching to a higher-flow-speed nipple.
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References
- Photo Credit baby on the bottle image by marilyn barbone from Fotolia.com
