Cup Feeding: An Alternative When Baby Refuses a Bottle
Picture this: you’ve tried every bottle shape, nipple flow, and feeding position, and your baby still looks at you like, “Nah, I’m good.” If you’re heading back to work and your baby won’t take a bottle, don’t panic—you’ve got options! One great alternative is cup feeding. Yep, feeding a baby with a tiny cup isn’t just adorable—it’s practical, too!
What is Cup Feeding?
Cup feeding involves offering small sips of milk to your baby from an open or specially designed infant cup. It’s a tried-and-true method often used in hospitals for preemies or babies who can’t latch, and it can work wonders when bottles aren’t cutting it. Plus, it doesn’t interfere with breastfeeding, which is a win-win!
Why Try Cup Feeding?
🍼 No bottle drama: If your baby is rejecting bottles, cup feeding can bypass the entire issue.
👶 Preserves breastfeeding skills: Unlike bottles, cups don’t require sucking, so babies can go back to the breast without confusion.
⏳ Temporary solution: It’s a great option while your baby is learning to accept a bottle—or it might even become your go-to feeding method!
How to Start Cup Feeding
1. Choose the right cup
You can use a small open cup (like a shot glass or a medicine cup) or a silicone baby training cup. Some parents like using soft, flexible cups designed specifically for cup feeding.
2. Get comfy
Hold your baby upright, with their head supported. Place the cup at their lower lip and tilt it just enough for the milk to reach the edge—don’t pour it into their mouth! Let your baby lap or sip the milk at their own pace. (Spoiler: It might get messy at first. That’s normal!)
3. Be patient
It may take a few tries before your baby gets the hang of it, but most babies figure it out pretty quickly. Remember, they only need small sips at a time.
4. Go slow and steady
Cup feeding isn’t about speed—it’s about letting your baby take in just enough milk without overwhelming them. Watch for their cues, and don’t worry if it’s slow-going at first.
How Much Milk Should You Offer?
While newborns may only take ½ to 1 oz per feeding, older babies can manage a full 2–5 oz feeding with this method. Offer what you would normally give in a bottle, based on your baby’s age and hunger cues.
Final Thoughts
Cup feeding can be a lifesaver if you’re heading back to work and bottles just aren’t happening. It’s a flexible, gentle option that helps your baby get the milk they need without interfering with breastfeeding. Plus, it’s a cool party trick—who knew your baby could drink from a cup before they could even crawl?
Like anything with babies, cup feeding takes practice and patience, but you’ve got both in spades. Trust yourself, trust your baby, and keep doing what works best for your family. You’ve got this!