A popular anti-colic bottle, which is is well made, but slightly bulky when out and about
Dr Brown's Natural Flow Standard Bottle was the first bottle to feature an internal venting system, helping to prevent colic and wind, and is used by medical staff in a number of different countries.
Dr Brown's bottles were designed by a doctor in 1996 and were the first baby bottles to feature an internal vent system that eliminates the vacuum, air bubbles and negative pressure associated with conventional bottlefeeding. This unique design is supposed to mimic breastfeeding. Unlike other anti-colic/wind venting systems, the air never mixes with the breast milk or formula which minimises oxidation and helps maintain essential nutrients like vitamins C, A and E. We tried the 240ml size, which costs £6.49.
What we love
My tester, my 9-month-old Jack, found adapting to Dr Brown's from his usual brand of bottles really easy. There was little spillage and he wasn't alarmed by the difference in teat shape or flow speed, which appears consistent with his usual bottles.
It's also unique in its anti-colic venting system in that the air and milk never mix, which maintains the quality of the milk for longer. It also really does seem to help cut down on wind problems! The most recent bottles are BPA-free. There’s also the reassurance of a brand that's been around for ages.
What to watch out for
The only real downside of this style of bottle (and it's a problem common to all anti-colic designs) is that there are so many bits to assemble and wash and sterilise, and it becomes rather wearing. It's also not good news when your nearest and dearest is wailing for his milk and all the bits you require are in pieces in the steriliser.
The bottle is bulky, so it’s a pain to carry about. Also, it’s tricky to fill as the valve has to be out to get the milk in. This means that some of the sterilising goes to waste, unless you're prepared to wear rubber gloves each time! For younger babies where cleanliness is particularly important, this could be an issue.
Who is the Dr Brown's Natural Flow Standard Bottle best for?
Parents who want to cut down on colic and wind, with the confidence of a well-established brand and product.
The Dr Brown's Natural Flow Standard Bottle is a popular anti-colic bottle, which is well made, but bulky to carry with you and fiddly to clean and sterilise.
