The Best Anti-Colic Bottles That Prevent Gas and Tummy Troubles for Your Babe

If your baby has colic, first of all, we’re here to tell you that things will get better. And though we’re not able to give you a miracle cure here, we do know that feeding them with an anti-colic bottle can often help at least one of the problems that may be causing their discomfort. The best anti-colic bottles reduce the amount of air your baby swallows while drinking milk to prevent painful gas from forming in their tummy, which is thought to be a trigger of those relentless colic crying spells. These bottles usually contain a special valve that improves airflow, different nipples to help milk flow at the right speed, and/or a built-in vent system that balances the air pressure inside the bottle. 

While colic typically resolves by 4 months of age, that may seem like a long way off, and it’s important to use the right bottle to help your baby through those first few months. According to our experts, the right nipple makes a world of difference. “Look for a bottle that is shaped like your own nipple,” says Wendy Hunter, M.D., a pediatrician in California and host of The Pediatrician Next Door podcast. The bottle should also have different levels of nipples that correspond to a baby’s age. 

You should also consider the material from which the bottle is made, the type of vent or valve it has, and how many parts it contains (since this will dictate how easy it is to clean). At the same time, Dr. Hunter reminds Parents that while some babies will take any bottle, others may need to try a few different brands to find the one that works best for them. 

We surveyed dozens of parents on staff about their favorite baby bottles, and whether their babies were colicky or not, many listed anti-colic bottles as their top picks—because no baby loves painful gas! With those answers, our expert’s input, and our own research, this list should help you narrow down your choices.

Our Favorite Anti-Colic Bottles

• Best Overall: Dr. Brown’s Anti-Colic Options+ Narrow Baby Bottle
• Best for Breastfed Babies: Lansinoh Breastmilk Feeding Bottles
• Best for Newborns: Philips Avent Glass Natural Baby Bottles
• Best for Reflux: Nuk Smooth Flow Pro Anti-Colic Baby Bottle 
• Easiest to Hold: Comotomo Baby Bottle
• Easiest to Clean: Mam Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottle
• Best Travel-Friendly: Boon Nursh Reusable Silicone Baby Bottle 
• Most Durable: Chicco Duo Hybrid Baby Bottle

Best Overall

Dr. Brown's Natural Flow Options+ Narrow Glass Baby Bottles, 4oz, 2 Pack

$17 $16 at Amazon

Why We Like It

A multi-year recipient of our Best for Baby Awards, the Dr. Brown’s Anti-Colic Options+ bottle is a tried-and-true favorite here at Parents, and it appeared multiple times in our staff survey. The vent system in the bottle redirects air that could otherwise cause painful gas, burping, and spitting up. As your baby outgrows colic, you can remove the funnel-like vent and feed them with the same bottle. It also comes with a slow-flow nipple that’s shaped just like the real thing to allow your baby to feed at their own pace. 

After it was recommended to her by a lactation consultant, a parent on our staff said she used this Dr. Brown’s bottle to feed her baby and had a positive experience doing so. “The anti-colic features really help prevent [my baby] from swallowing extra air when he eats,” they said. This bottle is available in glass or plastic, but we appreciate that the glass version is recyclable and safe to use in microwave and electric sterilizers or boiling water. 

But Take Note

This Dr. Brown’s bottle comes with several parts, which take up extra space on the drying rack and make it time-consuming to clean. However, you can save time and effort on cleaning by placing this bottle and its parts on the top rack of your dishwasher. 

The Details:

• Material: Glass (also available in BPA-free plastic)
• Capacity: 4 and 8 ounces 
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Best for Breastfed Babies

Lansinoh Momma Breastmilk Feeding Bottle

$14 at Amazon $18 at Target $17 at Walmart

Why We Like It

“My daughter was exclusively breastfed for four months and immediately took to this bottle," said another parent on our staff. That may be because this Lansinoh bottle’s NaturalWave nipple is made from soft, flexible silicone and has a lifelike conical shape with a wide base that breastfeeding babies will be familiar with. It also has a matte surface to help babies get a secure latch and seal while drinking. The brand claims this shape encourages babies to use the same motions they would while breastfeeding, thus avoiding nipple confusion.

To help with colic and other gas problems, the air ventilation system is in the nipple itself. 

But Take Note

We love that this bottle is dishwasher-safe. However, one parent found that it developed a pinkish-red hue after multiple wash cycles. This type of staining can be caused by tomato-based products or food coloring, so try to keep your dishwasher free from food products that may stain your bottles and dishes. 

The Details:

• Material: Polypropylene
• Capacity: 5 and 8 ounces
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Best for Newborns

Philips Avent Glass Natural Baby Bottle with Natural Response Nipple

$40 at Amazon $30 at Target $30 at Walmart

Why We Like It

For our tester, the straightforward and high-quality nature of this Philips Avent bottle was just right for her newborn. “I love that these bottles are glass and that they come in small and large sizes, both of which our baby loved. They’re [also] easy to hold, clean, transport, and warm up.” 

We also think this bottle is right for newborns because of its Natural Response nipple. This soft, silicone nipple mimics a breast in that when a baby stops sucking, the milk flow pauses, too. The nipple also has a tiny vent built into it to prevent air bubbles from sneaking into the baby’s tummy. We also like that this bottle is made from borosilicate glass, which doesn’t absorb chemicals or particles and is resistant to temperature changes.  

But Take Note

Because this bottle is made from glass, it’s fragile. If you’re worried about dropping it, consider the BPA-free plastic versions of the Philips Avent, which all work with the same nipples. 

The Details:

• Material: Borosilicate glass
• Capacity: 4 and 8 ounces
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Best for Reflux

Nuk Smooth Flow Pro Anti-Colic Baby Bottle

$24 at Amazon $20 at Walmart

Why We Like It

Acid reflux or spitting up after eating is fairly normal for babies and usually resolves around 12 to 18 months of age. However, if your baby is spitting up and is extremely fussy, it can mean they have colic—and this particular bottle may help. Its Y-cut nipple allows babies to control the flow of milk, while the tube venting system minimizes bubbles, both of which help them swallow less air while drinking. We like that the nipple and collar are one piece, making it easy to assemble and clean. Bottles also have a SafeTemp indicator to show when the milk is too hot for babies to consume. 

But Take Note

As your baby grows, you have the option to remove the anti-colic venting system from this bottle (because that gives you less to clean). This can cause the bottle to leak, according to some parents, which may be more frustrating than keeping the vent intact. 

The Details:

• Material: Polypropylene
• Capacity: 5 and 10 ounces
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Easiest to Hold

Comotomo Baby Bottle, Green, 5 Ounce (2 Count)

$18 at Amazon $23 at Nordstrom $23 at Nordstrom

Why We Like It

This soft silicone bottle is a favorite of many parents on our staff (and beyond) for a few reasons, not the least of which is its unique round shape. That shape and the lightweight, slightly textured silicone make it easy and appealing for babies to hold. The wide-based nipple that also looks like the real thing and the wide mouth of the bottle make it a lot easier to wash by hand. As for anti-gas/anti-colic features, you’ll find two small vents in the nipple that allow air to escape while the baby is drinking. 

“Both my boys could easily hold them, and I liked that they were made from silicone and not plastic and not glass (which I find to be too heavy and would make me nervous with drops/durability),” one parent told us. 

But Take Note

Some products, like bottle warmers or insulated bags, are not designed to hold these wide bottles, so check reviews and manufacturer info before buying those. Also, some parents have said it’s difficult to read the measurements on the side because they’re printed in a clear font. 

The Details:

• Material: Silicone
• Capacity: 5 and 8 ounces
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Easiest to Clean

MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottle

$31 at Amazon $9 at Target $9 at Walmart

Why We Like It

Not only is the Mam Easy Start Anti-Colic bottle one of the most affordable anti-colic bottles around, but parents have also praised it for how easy it is to clean compared to the more complicated vented bottles like Dr. Brown’s. That’s because instead of a straw vent, the Mam has a vented base with a silicone gasket that fits over it. This vent eliminates air bubbles and creates a steady, even flow of milk to prevent gas, burps, and other colic-related symptoms. The base unscrews from the bottom for cleaning, leaving no hard-to-reach places to clean. To top it off, this bottle has a handy trick up its sleeve: It can sterilize itself. After filling its base with water and assembling the bottle, you simply place it in the microwave for three minutes—no bottle sterilizer required. 

These bottles come with a slow-flow nipple that’s got a slightly flat shape and a matte finish where the baby’s lips go, helping them grasp the nipple and drink at their own pace. A parent on our staff added that she can attach this bottle to her Spectra breast pump flanges. (It’s not a perfect fit, but it works for her!) 

But Take Note

If the silicone gasket or the nipple isn’t inserted correctly, you may find that your bottle will leak. Double-check these before you pour!

The Details:

• Material: Polypropylene
• Capacity: 5 and 9 ounces 
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Best Travel-Friendly

Boon Nursh Reusable Silicone Baby Bottles

$25 $17 at Amazon $20 at Target $33 at Walmart

Why We Like It

You’ll have one less thing to worry about when traveling with your baby if you pack these collapsible Nursh bottles from Boon. Made entirely from silicone, the Nursh bottle folds down flat and fits neatly into a Nursh Storage Bun (sold separately), which is great for storing pacifiers and other small items, too. As your baby drinks, the milk pouch collapses, which reduces the amount of air they swallow to prevent gas, burping, and tummy troubles. And unlike other milk storage pouches, the Nursh silicone pouch is reusable again and again. 

But Take Note

This bottle has a tendency to leak if each of the pieces isn't secured just right. Also, the Stage 1 Slow Flow nipple only fits with the 4-ounce bottle (not the 8-ounce), which can be problematic if your older baby prefers a slower feeding pace.

The Details:

• Material: Silicone 
• Capacity: 4 and 8 ounces
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Most Durable

Chicco Duo Hybrid Baby Bottle

$23 at Amazon $23 at Walmart $20 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Why We Like It

With their sensitive sense of taste and smell, many babies don’t like the way some plastic bottles pick up residue after multiple uses and washes, and this should resolve that. But parents and caregivers won’t have to worry about the bottle shattering when it inevitably gets dropped or thrown. This hybrid bottle from Chicco has the best of both worlds in terms of materials. While the outside of the bottle is made from durable, lightweight plastic, the inside is made from break-proof glass, which ensures that your baby’s milk never comes in contact with plastic. 

This bottle comes with a nipple that positions a baby’s tongue and lips for a natural, comfortable latch. What’s more, it has an anti-colic valve in the nipple that directs air away from the nipple to keep it out of your baby’s tummy. 

But Take Note

Keep in mind that while this bottle is made with glass, the outside of it is plastic—so it’s not going to have the same heavy, luxurious feel that other glass bottles do. 

The Details:

• Material: Glass and plastic
• Capacity: 5 and 9 ounces
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Other Notable

Babies can be very picky when it comes to their bottles, especially if they’re colicky. The following bottles could be right for your little one, even if they didn’t make our short list.

• Nanobebe Flexy Silicone Baby Bottle: Although it’s soft and squishy, this bottle doesn't collapse. It won’t tip over, thanks to its unique stable base. It also has a non-collapsible nipple that’s equipped with three anti-colic vents to help your baby maintain a latch and prevent them from ingesting excess air while they drink. 
• Babylist Bottle Box: If you want to try a few different bottles to see which your baby prefers, this box comes with models from five of our favorite brands: Nanobebe, Comotomo, Philips Avent, Dr. Brown’s, and Boon.

Our Review Process

In addition to using our own experience as parents, we researched and tested dozens of bottles to narrow down our recommendations for the best anti-colic bottles. We also relied on the expertise of a pediatrician and other parents to inform us before we selected these bottles. Specifically, we focused on the bottles' anti-gas vent or valve, materials (glass, plastic, or silicone), nipple flow options, ease of use, and ease of cleaning. 

Our Experts

Before and after we researched and tested anti-colic bottles, we spoke to the following healthcare professional to determine what to look for in anti-colic bottles and how to use them safely: 

• Wendy Hunter, M.D., a pediatrician and host of The Pediatrician Next Door podcast

Factors to Consider When Buying an Anti-Colic Bottle

• Baby’s age: Once your baby is around 3 weeks old, you may start to notice symptoms of colic. Introducing an anti-colic bottle with a nipple that corresponds to your baby’s age can help reduce and prevent symptoms. 
• Vent or valve: Anti-colic bottles are always equipped with some sort of vent or valve that reduces the amount of air the baby will swallow. Some vents look like straws or tubes, while others are holes in the nipple or elsewhere. Some nipples use a valve instead. 
• Nipple options: Typically, there are two main types of nipples: wide and narrow. Wide nipples are shaped more like a breast, which may feel more comfortable and natural for your baby. However, every baby is different, so be prepared to experiment to find the right fit for your little one. 
• Materials: BPA was banned from baby bottles in 2012, so parents no longer have to worry about it being present in plastic baby bottles. You still may prefer a glass bottle, but keep in mind that these are more prone to breakage and may not be allowed in some daycares. Silicone is another alternative that’s durable and lightweight.
• Ease of use and cleaning: While bottle feeding has its conveniences, it does come with a learning curve and extra cleaning. In addition to learning how to assemble your anti-colic bottle, you should also keep in mind that anti-colic bottles sometimes contain more parts than traditional bottles (which, inevitably, means more to clean). It will be worth the extra effort if it keeps your colicky baby comfy and tear-free.  

How to Use Anti-Colic Bottles

Before using an anti-colic bottle, disassemble its parts and wash them in warm, soapy water. Then, sterilize the bottle in a bottle sterilizer, the microwave, or boiling water. Alternatively, you can place the bottle in the dishwasher with hot water and a heated drying cycle, which takes care of both the cleaning and the sanitizing.

After this, you’re ready to assemble the bottle. Every bottle is different, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for tips on how to put it together. Be sure all of the pieces are intact and attached correctly to prevent any leaks. When your baby is done feeding, rinse and wash the bottle parts and allow them to air dry on a clean towel before using them again. 

When bottle feeding your baby, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends: 

• Angle the bottle so that your baby doesn’t suck in a lot of air.
• Burp your baby during and after feedings to help them release gas bubbles.
• Adjust the nipple as needed. Your baby may prefer a certain shape and the nipple level should correspond with their age.

Dr. Hunter also recommends the paced bottle feeding method, which mimics breastfeeding and allows your baby to control the pace at which they drink. In turn, this will help your baby swallow less air, so they don’t experience painful gas.

Your Questions, Answered 

How does a vent in a baby bottle help with gas?

Anti-colic bottle vents redirect the air that babies might swallow, instead sending it out of the bottle or into the unfilled portion of the bottle. This prevents painful gas bubbles from forming in a baby’s stomach. 

Does warming a bottle help to reduce gas in a baby?

While the temperature of a bottle has no impact on gas formation, your baby may prefer a bottle that is at room temperature or closer to the temperature of breast milk. You can warm a cold bottle by placing it in a baby bottle warmer or in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes, then sprinkling a few drops on your wrist to make sure it feels lukewarm. Formula and breast milk should never be warmed in the microwave, as this causes the milk to heat unevenly and may change the overall composition of breast milk. 

How long should you use an anti-colic bottle? 

As a baby’s nervous system matures, parents should be able to wean their baby off an anti-colic bottle. Dr. Hunter explains that this happens around 3 to 4 months of age, which is typically when a baby's gastrointestinal tract is more developed and their suck-swallow coordination improves. “We often call this the ‘fourth trimester,’” says Dr. Hunter. “Colic symptoms should also improve as babies start to sit upright and transition to solid foods around 4 to 6 months of age.” 

Who We Are

Laura Lu, MS, is a writer for Parents and mom of two children who loved their bottles. During the first two years of her son’s life, she owned more than 20 different variations of Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Bottle. She also loves the simple, easy-to-clean design of the Mam Easy Start Anti Colic Baby Bottle, which she used to feed her daughter during her 12-week-long bout of colic.