The decision to switch from breastfeeding to bottle feeding is a big one and the reality is that the journey you are about to start isn’t going to be all rainbows and butterflies. But not to worry! Laura from Lola&Lykke has gathered 10 tips to help you and your baby adjust with ease.
1. Timing Is Key
The general advice is to wait until your baby is about 4 to 6 weeks before introducing a bottle, to allow enough time for your baby to adapt to nursing and develop a strong latch. But it’s important to recognise that every situation is unique and you might need to start the transition earlier.
When you feel like it’s time to start practicing, it’s best to choose a moment when your baby is calm, alert, and slightly hungry but not overly fussy or tired. One bottle per day around mid-morning or early afternoon can work well!
2. Select The Right Bottle For Your Baby
As with any project, using the right equipment is crucial. Doing the research and finding the best bottles for bottle feeding can make all the difference. There are a lot of options out there, but in our opinion the most important features are: breast-like, slow-flow teats, anti-colic features, safe materials for your baby, and ease of cleaning.
3. Establish a Combi Feeding Schedule
Combination (or combi) feeding simply means combining breastfeeding and bottle feeding.
Creating a combi feeding schedule gives you the flexibility to balance breastfeeding and bottle-feeding with pumped milk. Switching between bottle and breast gives your little one chance to adjust to bottles at their own pace. You also get a well-deserved break from breastfeeding, and can include other loved ones as a part of feeding sessions.
4. Experiment with Different Positions for Bottle and Breastfeeding
Switching up feeding positions can make a big difference, especially if you’re using a combi feeding method. Feeding your baby in different positions for the bottle versus the breast, can help them distinguish between the two methods, and thus reduce any confusion. This small change can make the transition feel more natural for you both.
5. Make the Bottle More Inviting with a Drop of Milk
A little familiarity goes a long way! Before offering the bottle, try placing a tiny drop of pumped milk on the teat. You can squeeze the bottle slightly to release a few drops or even dip the teat into the milk. This simple trick helps your baby recognise the familiar taste of mum’s milk, making the transition feel more natural. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in helping your little one accept bottle-feeding with ease!
6. Let Loved Ones Join in Bottle-Feeding
The switch from breastfeeding to bottle feeding is a great time to involve your partner, grandparents, or other close family members in feeding time. Having different caregivers offer the bottle can help your baby adjust more easily while also creating special bonding moments.
This gradual change can gently shift your baby’s association with feeding from just breastfeeding to bottle-feeding as well. However, it’s important to find a balance—while giving others a chance to help, don’t feel pressured to step away completely. Your presence and comfort as a mother remain essential throughout this transition.
7. Use Short Breaks When Your Baby Refuses the Bottle
It’s perfectly normal for your baby to refuse to take the bottle every once in a while. If (and when) this happens, we don’t want to force the baby to bottle feed. This is the perfect time to try quick “training breakers” where you can step away from the bottle and spend some time relaxing, cuddling, or playing to calm you both down and let your baby get a little hungrier. After a few minutes, try the feeding again!
8. Be Patient and Consistent
This switch from breastfeeding to bottle feeding wont happen overnight. Every baby is different and needs their own time to adjust to this new situation. It might be frustrating if this journey takes longer than you expected, and that is perfectly normal. Try to stay calm and consistent while keeping the end goal in mind! Sharing your thoughts and experiences with friends and family can give you some reassurance that you are not alone—and most importantly, that you can do this!
9. Choosing the Right Breast Pump for Your Needs
If you’re planning to bottle-feed with expressed milk, having a reliable breast pump can make all the difference. Whether you’re pumping occasionally for flexibility or trying to pump milk into storage for bottle feedings, the right pump will help you express milk efficiently and comfortably.
Just like with the recommended bottles, different breast pumps come with a variety of features. Manual pumps are budget-friendly and great for occasional use, while electric pumps are more convenient for frequent pumping, saving time and effort. Your choice depends on your lifestyle, pumping needs, and comfort preferences.
If you are on the lookout for the best electric breast pumps in 2025, many mums swear by Lola&Lykke, Medela, Fraupow, Pippeta, Momcosy, and Elvie. These pumps come with various features designed for ease, efficiency, and comfort, helping to make the pumping journey smoother for both first-time and experienced mums.
10. Seek Professional Guidance
Our last tip might be the most important one, ask for help. And we’re am not talking about internet forums or professional Facebook mums.
Trained professionals like paediatricians or lactation consultants can give you personalised advice and techniques tailored to your unique situation. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength!
Thanks to Laura, the visionary co-founder behind Lola&Lykke, a groundbreaking women’s health company revolutionising maternal care with innovative products. Driven by her own experiences and a deep passion for improving women’s health, Laura is on a mission to ensure every mother receives the support and care she deserves. As the creator of the award-winning Lola&Lykke breast pump, she’s transforming the way women navigate motherhood, blending science, advocacy, and real-life solutions to make a lasting impact.
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