What do I need for bottle feeding?

Bottles and teats suited to your baby's age, a way to sterilise them, and a bottle brush for cleaning. A steriliser and a few spare bottles make the early weeks much easier.

Do I need a steriliser?

Feeding equipment should be sterilised for young babies. Electric, microwave and cold-water sterilisers all work, so choose based on convenience and how many items you sterilise at once.

When do I need weaning gear?

Weaning usually starts around six months, so bowls, soft spoons and bibs can wait until then. There's no need to buy weaning kit before your baby is ready for solids.

Baby Feeding Essentials: What You Need for the Early Days…

Feeding a new baby can feel like it needs a cupboard full of gear, but the essentials are fairly short, whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding or a mix of both. Start with the basics, add as you go, and you’ll avoid buying things you never use. Here’s a calm rundown.

The short version

However you feed, keep it simple to start. Bottle feeders need bottles, teats and a steriliser; breastfeeding needs less kit but a few comforts help. Weaning gear can wait until around six months. Add as you learn what you actually use.

If you’re bottle feeding

The core kit is straightforward: bottles and age-appropriate teats, a way to sterilise them, and a brush for cleaning. Anti-colic designs can help with wind, and having a few spare bottles saves constant washing. A steriliser (electric, microwave or cold-water) keeps everything safe for young babies.

If you’re breastfeeding

Breastfeeding needs less equipment, but a few things make it more comfortable. A supportive feeding pillow, breast pads and, if you’re expressing, a pump and storage for milk are the common additions. Start with what you need and add based on how feeding actually goes for you.

Storage bags make expressing and storing milk simple. Check price on Amazon →

Weaning comes later

There’s no rush on weaning gear. Solids usually start around six months, so bowls, soft-tipped spoons, bibs and beakers can all wait until your baby is ready. Buying it too early just means it sits in a cupboard, so hold off until you’re actually starting.

Keep it simple at first

It’s tempting to buy everything at once, but you’ll learn quickly what works for you and your baby. Start with the basics, add spares of the things you reach for most, and skip the gadgets until you know you need them. Simple usually wins in those early weeks.

Ready to choose?

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