Slow flow nipples are ideal for newborns. During the first few weeks, your baby will be learning how to eat on their own and could easily gag on the fast flow teats. The flow rate on a slow flow nipple is similar to breastfeeding, allowing your baby to get used to the sensation of feeding. Slow flow nipples are not a necessity, but they can help prevent your baby from gagging and choking on formula. We’ve narrowed down our top picks for slow flow nipples for newborns and have reviewed our choices below.
Our best overall pick is the Philips Avent Slow Flow Nipples and our best budget choice is this package of 60 NUK Premium Nipples. If you’re looking for more options, we’ve included our reviews of other popular slow flow nipples below. We’ve also included a guide to choosing the best slow flow nipples for your baby.
10 Best slow flow nipples for newborns Reviews in 2023
Do you want to know why many parents go for the slow flow nipples? The answer is because of the choking hazard. When your baby is just born, they may not be used to drinking or eating. As they grow old, they will learn to control their swallowing. At that point, you can start introducing them to fast flow nipples.
Slow flow nipples are also good for breastfed babies. Babies may have issues latching on.
1. MAM Bottle Nipples Extra Slow Flow Nipple Size 0, for Newborn Babies and Older, SkinSoft Silicone Nipples for Baby Bottles, Fits All MAM Bottles, 2 Pack
Features :
- LIKE MOM – The SkinSoft BPA-free silicone nipple feels just like mom’s skin during breastfeeding, which is why 94%** of newborn and older babies accept MAM nipples.
- FOR NEWBORNS – These Extra Slow Flow nipples deliver breast milk or baby formula at a slow and steady pace, satisfying the appetite of newborns.
- NIPPLE DESIGN – Due to their unique flat and symmetrical design, MAM baby bottle nipples fit perfectly into baby’s mouth. They also fit all MAM feeding bottles.
- PERFECT FIT – The symmetrical shape and small mouthpiece are ideal for newborns. Air valve prevents nipple collapse, allowing babies to drink at a comfortable pace.
- PRODUCT DETAILS – MAM Extra Slow Flow Level 0 Nipples (Set of 2), Suitable for Newborns & 0+ Months, Extra Slow Flow SkinSoft Silicone Nipples for Baby Bottles, Baby Feeding Essentials
Additional Info :
| Color | Extra Slow Flow, 2 Pack |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 4.72 |
| Width | 3.74 |
| Length | 2.2 |
| Weight | 0.06 |
| Release Date | 2019-05-03T00:00:01Z |
This Mam Bottle Nipple Extra Slow Flow is ideal for newborn babies and older. It is made of skin-soft silicone. It fits all Mam bottles perfectly. It comes in a set of 2. This is a perfect nipple for feeding and can be used as a sippy cup too. This product is BPA free, dishwasher safe and can be sterilized in a steam sterilizer.
It is suitable for making homemade baby food. This nipple is extra slow flow, which is ideal for newborns and infants. It is also suitable for those who have trouble with sucking because of the cleft palate. This product is one of the best sellers in Baby Bottle Accessories in Amazon. It received 4.
2. Tommee Tippee Closer To Nature Baby Bottles Extra Slow Flow Breast-Like Nipple With Anti-Colic Valve (5oz, 4 Count)
Features :
- The original breast-like bottle: Shaped like a breast because babies prefer it that way, our award-winning Closer to Nature baby bottle could just be the best thing for baby, since you!
- Breast-like: Our soft silicone, breast-like nipple feels closer to skin and flexes like mom for a comfortable feed and supports in the transition from breastfeeding to bottle feeding
- Anti-colic: Sensitive Closer to Nature nipple with anti-colic valve reduces excessive air flow, so little ones ingest more milk and less air, preventing symptoms of colic
- A latch made in heaven: 95% of moms say baby accepted our nipple* – the most easily accepted and breast-like nipple, ever, to encourage a natural latch
- Mom recommended: 95% of moms would recommend Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature bottles to others*..
Additional Info :
| Color | Clear |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 3.3 |
| Width | 4.9 |
| Length | 9.4 |
| Weight | 0.44 |
| Release Date | 2014-05-05T00:00:01Z |
These Tommee Tippee bottles are great for those who’d like to transition from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding. The anti-colic valve ensures a steady flow of milk. The wide base, like that of a breast, also makes it easier for babies to maintain a steady latch on the nipple. These bottles are dishwasher safe and come with a vent system that prevents overheating.
However, the vent system can be a bit tricky to clean, especially if you use a dishwasher. Also, some parents have complained about the bottles leaking at the vent system, especially when washed in the dishwasher.
3. Medela Slow Flow Bottle Nipples with Wide Base, 3 Pack, Baby Newborns Age 0-4 Months, Compatible with All Medela Breast Milk Bottles, Made Without BPA
Features :
- Slow-flow works best with newborns 0-4 months
- May be cleaned in the dishwasher, micro steamed, boiled or washed by hand
- Made without BPA
- Slow and medium flow available
- Compatible with all Medela breast milk bottles
- Can only be used with wide base collars
Additional Info :
| Color | Transparent |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 5.118110231 |
| Width | 3.7401574765 |
| Length | 1.7716535415 |
| Weight | 0.05 |
| Release Date | 2015-11-23T00:00:01Z |
, phthalates and bisdeThe Medela Slow Flow Bottle Nipples with wide base are perfect for moms who would like to use Medela breast milk bottles as bottles. These bottle nipples are compatible with all Medela breast milk bottles and can be used with the Calma, Pump & Go, On-the-Go, and Take-Along Breast Milk Bottle feeding systems. These bottle nipples do not have a valve in the bottle, which is perfect for moms who pump directly into the bottle.
They are made from medical grade silicone and are BPA, PVC, and Phthalate free.
4. Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Slow Flow Baby Bottle Nipples, Newborns+ – 2pk
Features :
- Breast-like shaped bottle nipple for a natural latch – acceptance guaranteed
- Anti-colic valve in nipple reduces air ingestion and discomfort for baby
- Smooth silicone bottle nipple feels closer to skin
- Replacement nipples available in extra slow flow, slow flow, medium flow, fast flow, variable flow, and Y-cut for thicker feeds
- Compatible for use only with Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature milk bottles
Additional Info :
| Color | Clear |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.97 |
| Width | 2.6 |
| Length | 4.72 |
| Weight | 0.09 |
| Release Date | 2016-01-20T00:00:01Z |
These Tommee Tippee slow flow bottle nipples are designed to reduce gas, colic, and spit-up by limiting the amount of air consumed by baby. They feature a built-in anti-colic valve that works like a one-way check valve to prevent swallowed air from entering baby’s tummy. The Tommee Tippee nipples are designed with a wide base to allow a natural latch for an optimal breastfeeding experience.
They are also designed to be compatible with most popular baby bottles on the market, including Tommee Tippee, Avent, Playtex, Dr. Brown’s, and others.
5. Playtex NaturaLatchNipple, Slow Flow, 2-Count
Features :
- Most like mother
- Standard surface area to mimic average nipple sizes
- Available in slow, medium and fast flow
- Silicone, BPA free
- Compatible with all Playtex bottles: Playtex ventaire and Playtex nurser with drop ins liners
Additional Info :
| Color | Clear |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 7.6771653465 |
| Width | 5.4724409393 |
| Length | 9.7244094389 |
This Playtex nipple is made of a latex-free, BPA-free, and phthalate-free natural gum rubber. The nipple is available in two flow rates: a fast flow, which mimics the flow rate of a nursing baby, and a slower flow, which is ideal for older infants who have a hard time keeping their mouths open. The slow-flow nipples can be purchased in a 2-count pack. The Playtex nipple also has a self-sterilizing feature.
After each use, all you need to do is place the nipple on the base, and it will go through a self-sterilization process that lasts for two minutes. The base is compatible with most Playtex bottles.
6. Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow® Level 1 Wide-Neck Baby Bottle Silicone Nipple, Slow Flow, 0m+, 100% Silicone Bottle Nipple, 2 Pack
Features :
- WIDE-NECK NEWBORN NIPPLE. Dr. Brown’s Slow Flow Nipple offers a flow perfect for newborns.
- ANTI-COLIC BABY BOTTLE WITH NIPPLE. Level 1 Nipple, with Anti-Colic internal vent system, is clinically proven to reduce colic. Decreases spit-up, burping and gas and provides a more comfortable feeding experience for baby.
- CONSISTENT FLOW RATE. Vacuum-free feeding is closest to breastfeeding and Dr. Brown’s Slow Flow Nipples provide a consistent flow so babies can feed at their own pace.
- DEPENDABLE NIPPLE FLOW. Each nipple level provides clinical consistency within the flow rate, so baby’s feeding experience is constant and comfortable.
- BREASTFEEDING SILICONE NIPPLE. The breast-like nipple shape encourages a proper latch for a more natural bottle feeding experience and eases the transition from breast to bottle and back again.
- PRESERVES NUTRIENTS. The Level 1 Nipple and Anti-Colic vent system is proven to help preserve bottle milk nutrients and aid in digestion for a better night’s sleep.
- SOFT 100% SILICONE. Silicone nipple fits all Dr. Brown’s Options+ wide-neck bottles.
- DISHWASHER SAFE. Safe for use in dishwasher (top rack only), electric and microwave sterilizers or boiling water. BPA Free.
Additional Info :
| Color | Level 1, 2 Pack, 0m+ |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 0.3937 |
| Width | 0.3937 |
| Length | 1.5748 |
These Dr. Brown’s nipples are extremely popular with parents and caregivers. With the wide-neck protective vent and the innovative double vacuum seal, they help reduce colic, spit-up, and burping. The Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Level 1 Baby Bottle comes with silicone nipples.
These nipples are slow-flow and can be used from 0-6 months (0-12 months in Europe). Level 2 nipples have a medium-flow and can be used from 6-12 months (12-24 months in Europe). Level 3 nipples are fast-flow and can be used from 6-12 months (12-24 months in Europe).
7. Enfamil Slow Flow Soft Nipples, Latex-Free & BPA Free, 12 Count
Features :
- ON THE GO: Enfamil nipples are individually wrapped and ready-to-use whenever your baby is ready to feed
- FITS MOST BOTTLES: Recommended to be used with our ready-to-use Nursete bottles, but Enfamil nipples fit most bottles with standard or classic size bottle openings
- CAN BE DISINFECTED: May be disinfected in a standard sterilizer
- SNAP ELIGIBLE: Eligible to be purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits
- SUBSCRIBE & SAVE: Choose Subscribe and Save for additional savings and convenience
Additional Info :
| Color | Blue |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 5.25 |
| Width | 5.5 |
| Length | 6.5 |
| Weight | 0.43 |
| Release Date | 2011-03-24T00:00:01Z |
These Enfamil nipple covers are latex-free and BPA-free and feature a slow-flow soft tip for easier transition from breastfeeding to bottle feeding. The slow-flow design helps limit overfeeding and keeps baby from guzzling too quickly. The nipple cover is also compatible with the Medela bottle. Some parents found these nipple covers to be a great transition tool, but others found they didn’t fit well into their bottles.
If you’re looking for a nipple cover that fits a wide variety of bottles, check out the Munchkin latch nursing bottle adapter. This product is BPA-free and comes in a two-count package.
8. NUK Simply Natural Slow Flow Baby Bottle Nipples, 2 Pack
Features :
- Multiple nipple holes and innovative, extra-soft nipple provide a natural feed-it feels just like mom’s breast
- Slow-flow nipple has 3 holes to provide baby’s most comfortable feed
- Advanced 1-piece anti-colic Air System helps reduce colic, gas, and spit up for greater comfort and fewer messes
- Flexible nipple allows for a continuous latch and is the same shape as mom’s nursing nipple during breastfeeding
- Accepted by 96% of babies – Based on 2019 independent market research amongst 203 mothers in Germany
Additional Info :
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 7.09 |
| Width | 2.36 |
| Length | 3.54 |
| Release Date | 2019-10-01T00:00:01Z |
For parents looking for an alternative to the standard silicone baby bottle nipple, NUK Simply Natural Slow Flow offers a natural experience for your baby. They are made from a material called latex, which is harvested from the tree of the same name. These nipples are BPA-free and also dishwasher-safe. Many parents commented on how easy these nipples were for their baby to take. Additionally, most babies were able to feed themselves easily with these nipples.
They are also compatible with most major baby bottle brands, including NUK and Avent. Users also appreciated the natural qualities of the latex, as it is a renewable resource. However, some parents had issues with the shape of the nipples and how they fit in certain bottles.
9. First Essentials by NUK Silicone Baby Bottle Nipples, Slow Flow, 6 Pack
Features :
- We changed our brand name and packaging design! First Essentials by NUK has replaced the Gerber brand name on many of our items. You will still receive the same, great product but packaging may vary.
- Fits all First Essentials by NUK 5 oz. and 9 oz. bottles
- Vented nipple helps reduce colic
- Ribbed nipple design helps prevent nipple collapse
- Includes 6 slow flow bottle nipples; ages 4m+
- Made of silicone; BPA-free and dishwasher-safe
Additional Info :
| Color | Slow Flow |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.4 |
| Width | 2.5 |
| Length | 4.5 |
| Weight | 0.06 |
| Release Date | 2010-03-26T00:00:01Z |
Silicone nipples are a great choice for those who want something more natural than plastic. These nipples are made of medical-grade silicone and are BPA-free and Phthalate-free. They’re also dishwasher safe and can be boiled for sterilization. They have a wide base that mimics the breast and is designed to reduce colic and gas. They’re compatible with most wide-neck bottles and are available in two flow rates; slow and medium.
They’re available in both natural and pink. The main complaint about these nipples is that they can be difficult to clean. Some customers said the nubs can be a little sharp if not thoroughly cleaned.
10. Enfamil Slow Flow Soft Nipples, Latex Free & BPA Free, 24 Count (Pack of 2)
Features :
- ON THE GO: Contains (24) Enfamil nipples that are individually wrapped and ready-to-use whenever your baby is ready to feed
- FITS MOST BOTTLES: Recommended to be used with our ready-to-use Nursete bottles, but Enfamil nipples fit most bottles with standard or classic size bottle openings
- CAN BE DISINFECTED: May be disinfected in a standard sterilizer
- SNAP ELIGIBLE: Eligible to be purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits
- SUBSCRIBE & SAVE: Choose Subscribe and Save for additional savings and convenience
Additional Info :
| Color | Green |
These slow-flow nipples are specifically designed to reduce colic, gas, and fussiness in your baby. They are angled to ensure that your baby is able to comfortably latch on and feed. They are also latex-free and BPA-free to ensure your baby’s safety. These slow-flow nipples are compatible with enfamil premium nurser bottles. Some parents found that their babies were more content after switching to these nipples.
They loved that they were easy to clean, and they were durable and resistant to cracks and breaks. However, some parents thought these nipples were too slow for their babies and caused them to choke. Some also found that their babies were able to break through them easily.
All You Need to Know About Buying slow flow nipples for newborns
Material
When shopping, pay close attention to the materials used for the nipple and the flow control valve. Nipples are usually made of soft, flexible silicone for a more comfortable latch. Some nipples are made with materials that are not safe for baby, such as BPA, PVC, and phthalates. Although these chemicals can be found in some plastics, they’re typically found in the plastic wrap and containers that bottles and nipples come in. You can avoid these chemicals by opting for nipples without packaging.
If a nipple is made with the right materials, it will have the materials listed on the bottle. Always double-check the materials to ensure you’re providing the safest nipple for your baby.
Size
Newborn nipples are usually 0 or 1 millimeters in diameter, which is the ideal size for young babies. As your baby matures and grows, you can transition to larger nipples, starting at 3 millimeters. Always check the size of the nipple before purchasing to ensure it’s the right fit for your baby.
Shape
Newborn nipples are designed to allow your baby to latch easily and comfortably. To accomplish this, the nipple is made in a natural, breast-like shape, with a broad base and a gentle curve. The nipple should fit comfortably in your baby’s mouth without being too stiff or too soft.
Features
There are no requirements for nipple flow rates, so all nipples are the same. Some brands add features to nipples to make them more comfortable or to help with alignment. Look for silicon teats with a range of flow rates, including fast flow and slow flow options. Nipples with a convex shape may also help with latching.
Care
Once you’ve purchased your bottle, you’ll need to properly care for the nipple. Most nipples are dishwasher safe or can be washed with warm, soapy water. Never boil or microwave nipples, as this can damage the material and affect the flexibility and shape. Also, avoid getting nipples wet before use, as this can create air bubbles that can cause nipple confusion.
Once you’ve found the best nipple for your baby, always wash and thoroughly dry it before each use.
Features
Some nipples have helpful features to make them even more user-friendly. One example is the Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Nipple, which has a teat with a wider base for easier latching and a natural nipple shape that closely mimics mom’s breast.
FAQ Questions and Answers
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What are slow flow nipples for newborns?
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Which are best slow flow nipples?
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Which nipples are best for newborns?
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Do newborns need special nipples?
Yes. Newborns need nipples that are softer, smaller, and slower-flow than the nipples provided by most nursers. If you choose to use a nurser, make sure you have the right nipple for the job.
Can I use a nurser until my baby is a year old Yes. But you may want to consider the following: The nurser nipple is not made for a year-old’s mouth.
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Do newborn nipples come in different sizes?
Newborn nipples come in many different sizes and shapes. Some newborns have nipples that are short, narrow and flat while other newborns have nipples that are long, wide and erect. What should I do if my newborn’s nipples are inverted Some newborns have nipples that are inverted and seem to be trapped inside the areola.
These nipples usually become erect when stimulated.
Conclusion
If you plan on breastfeeding, you don’t need to buy special slow flow nipples. Just make sure the nipple you are using is the correct size for your baby. As long as it’s the right size, it will flow at a rate that’s perfect for your baby. If you plan to bottle-feed, you don’t need to buy special slow flow nipples.
Just make sure the nipple you are using is the correct size for your baby. As long as it’s the right size, it will flow at a rate that’s perfect for your baby. If you are using a hospital-grade breast pump, you can buy special slow-flow bottles for it.