In searching for the right type of baby bottle, there are many things to consider.
First of all, the bottle must be BPA-free. What’s the problem with BPA?
Bisphenol-a is a chemical used to make polycarbonate, a clear and rigid plastic found in many household containers. The problem with baby bottles made of polycarbonate is the potential for BPA to leach from the plastic to the milk. BPA has the ability to mimic the hormone estrogen and create an “endocrine disruption†that can interfere with a child’s normal development. Many studies published over the past decade have linked exposure to BPA to increased rates of breast and prostate cancer, reproductive abnormalities, ADHD, obesity, and diabetes. In spite of this, the FDA stands by its decades-old approval of polycarbonate based on two studies – both of which were funded by the plastics industry. {thecradle.com}
Second of all, colic control is very important. Bottles that help vent out excess air will help reduce colic and in some cases middle ear infections.
Third, glass is the most sustainable so I’d prefer to go that route. Also acceptable is recyclable plastics, although not my first choice.
And the winner is:
Available at Babies ‘R Us, Whole Foods, Target, CVS, and other retailers, this brand is very accessible. What I like about them is that they have glass bottles in two different sizes. Even their plastic bottles are BPA-free and PVC-free, which is good for baby and the planet. You can get rubber sleeves to make the glass bottles easier to hang on to. Pretty much any bottle or pacifier from them would be good.
Also up for consideration:
While these bottles are plastic, they are free of the dangerous chemicals you’d worry about. They are dishwasher safe, which is great. And most of the bottle is recyclable. These would be ok too.
This comparison chart from TheCradle.com was very helpful!