How Long Is the Ideal Use of a Baby Bottle and When Should It Be Replaced?
Every baby feeding product, including bottle nipples, has a usage limit that must be followed because it can directly affect the baby’s health and development. Parents must fully understand how long can a baby bottle be used and how long a nipple is safe for feeding. So, how long can a baby bottle be used ideally before it needs to be replaced?
Using a baby bottle is very common among mothers who provide breast milk to their babies in addition to direct breastfeeding. However, not everyone has a clear understanding of how long can a baby bottle be used safely.
Every baby product that is used repeatedly certainly has a shorter lifespan since it is constantly used to store breast milk and cleaned after each use.
As long as the nipple is still in good condition and does not show signs of wear, it is usually fine to continue using it. But for your baby’s safety, it is important to understand how long can a baby bottle be used and replace the nipple immediately if it shows signs of wear and tear because it is no longer suitable for use.
General Standard on How Long Can a Baby Bottle Be Used Safely
Ideally, baby bottle nipples and the seal should be replaced every 2 to 3 months to prevent exposure to bacteria or mold that may stick to them.
The safe usage period of a nipple also depends on how often you check its condition. As for how long can a baby bottle be used, bottles themselves should generally be replaced every 4 to 6 months of use.
Some signs that indicate a baby nipple needs to be replaced include:
- The nipple is torn at the milk channel and forms a larger hole.
- The nipple color changes to yellowish.
- The nipple becomes thinner. To check, gently pull the nipple tip to ensure its thickness. If it returns to its original shape, the thickness is still good.
- The nipple feels sticky or adheres to other surfaces.
Always check the condition of the baby’s nipple before use to ensure daily feeding needs are met properly. If any of the above signs appear before the 2–3 month mark, replace it with a new nipple immediately.
The Advantages of Hegen Bottles with Longer Lifespan
While baby bottles from other brands usually last only about 4 to 6 months, Hegen bottles can be used for up to 2 years.
After the breastfeeding stage, mothers can continue using Hegen bottles or containers for other purposes simply by changing the lid. They can be used as MPASI containers, baking jars, juice bottles, snack jars, and more. Hegen bottles are excellent for supporting both the weaning and complementary feeding stages.
This long lifespan is supported by PPSU material (a combination of glass and plastic) and the consistent quality of Hegen bottles, ensuring they deliver the same maximum value as when first purchased.
Hegen’s Durable and Hygienic Baby Nipples Recommendation
Hegen offers a wide range of high-quality bottles and nipples to support mothers in providing essential nutrition for their babies every day. After understanding how long can a baby bottle be used, here are some recommended Hegen feeding bottles and teats you can choose from.
HEGEN PCTO™ 60ML/2OZ BREAST MILK STORAGE PPSU (6-PACK), one pack of newborn feeding bottles that can hold 60 ml of milk, perfect for early feeding. The ergonomic square-round shape of Hegen bottles makes them easy to hold and prevents slipping during use.
For the nipple, mothers can choose HEGEN TEAT SLOW FLOW (2-PACK) for babies aged 0–3 months with a slow flow rate. When the baby grows to around 3–6 months, you can switch to another variant such as HEGEN TEAT MEDIUM FLOW (2-PACK).
All Hegen nipples have a single hole with different flow rates, made from 100% BPA-free silicone, super soft, and with an extra-wide base that mimics a mother’s breast. This natural feel makes feeding comfortable for babies.
To extend the lifespan of Hegen nipples, wash them gently using your fingers or Hegen’s Bottle Brush & Teat Cleaner to ensure no breast milk residue remains. Run water through the anti-colic hole to clean blockages and do not flip the nipple inside out. After washing, sterilize them properly.
Mothers can go ahead and checkout to enjoy the convenience of shopping online for bottles and baby nipples only at the official Hegen store.
References
Kumparan.com. Kapan Botol Susu Bayi Harus Diganti? https://kumparan.com/kumparanmom/kapan-botol-susu-bayi-harus-diganti-1wX4jwWsT7e
Halodoc.com. Seberapa Sering Harus Mengganti Dot Bayi? https://www.halodoc.com/artikel/seberapa-sering-harus-mengganti-dot-bayi
