Baby bottle holders and self-feeding devices are made to hold or prop the bottle so a baby can feed without an adult holding it. This includes products that clip, prop, or secure a bottle so a baby can feed on their own. It also includes using cushions, bedding, rolled towels or other household objects to prop a bottle in place.
Although these products and methods may appear helpful or convenient, they can be dangerous for babies and should not be used. Babies need an adult to hold the bottle and stay with them during feeding so they can be supported and watched closely throughout the feed.
Some self-feeding products have been recalled or removed from sale. The image below shows an example of one of these products.
Source: OPSS
Why these products are unsafe
Babies cannot feed safely without close supervision. Without an adult present, milk may flow too quickly or in the wrong way. This can lead to milk going into the baby’s lungs or causing choking.
Babies may also swallow too much air or stop feeding safely without anyone knowing they need help.
Safe feeding
Always:
- Hold your baby during feeding
- Stay with your baby for the whole feed
- Watch your baby closely while they feed
Never:
- Leave a baby alone with a bottle
- Use a device to hold a bottle in place
- Prop a bottle on cushions, bedding or other objects
Top tips
- Always buy feeding products, such as bottles, from trusted retailers
- Do not use baby bottle holders or self-feeding devices
- Never prop a bottle using cushions, bedding, or household objects
- Always hold your baby during feeds
- Never leave a baby alone with a bottle
- Watch your baby closely while they feed
- Stop feeding if your baby seems uncomfortable or unsettled