Dr. Brown's Nipple Level Guide

Dr. Brown's Nipple Level Guide is perfect for new moms who are getting ready to bottle feed their child.

Whether you're a brand-new mom or a seasoned pro, you know that the right bottle nipples can help enhance your baby's feeding experience. As your little one grows, you'll need to adjust their nipple level to make sure they're still comfortable.

As one of the leading brands in this space, Dr. Brown's knows how to make the bottle-feeding experience as enjoyable and effective as possible. If you've chosen to use these bottles, it's important to keep all the right accessories nearby.

We know these steps can be complicated, so we're here to make them a little easier. Today, we're breaking down the differences between Dr. Brown's bottle nipples, and when to make the transition.

When Should I Switch Nipple Sizes on My Baby's Bottle?

Despite which specific manufacturer you go with, most bottle brands offer various nipple sizes, or levels. These are designed to fit your baby as they reach a specific age range. For instance, you might find some nipples that are designed to be used when your baby turns three or six months old. 

While this is a helpful gauge, keep in mind that all babies have their own, unique feeding styles. For instance, some may prefer nipples that are slightly smaller than their age-appropriate size. These babies might not be super-heavy feeders and will be content to stay on Level 1 until they're ready to start solids. 

Then, there are others who may be more voracious feeders. These babies may gravitate toward bottle nipples that are bigger, which allow them easier access to their milk or formula. As such, there's no right or wrong time to change your baby's nipple level.

Signs to Look Out For

The key is to look for signs that the milk flow is too slow or too fast for your baby. If it appears to be too fast, try a smaller size to slow it down a little. If it's too slow, you can try upgrading to a larger size.

Some signs that your baby isn't feeding comfortably and it's time to re-evaluate their nipple size include:

• Your baby becomes fussy or irritable while eating
• Your baby takes a long time to complete a feeding session
• Your baby falls asleep while feeding

As your baby grows, these signs will usually indicate that the nipple is too small, and they need easier access to their milk. However, it's also important to watch for signs that the nipple flow is too fast, especially with newborns. These signs include:

• Swallowing hard
• Gulping
• Choking 
• Coughing
• Refusing the bottle
• Milk dribbling from your baby's mouth

Dr. Brown's Nipple Level Guide

Now that we've discussed signs that it's time to change bottle nipples, let's talk about which ones to choose. Here's a quick guide to the Dr Brown nipple level selection.

0+ Months: Preemie Nipple

The Preemie Nipple is best for premature babies. It can also be useful for babies who prefer a slower feeding experience. Try this nipple if you're switching from breastfeeding to bottle feeding, as the slower flow mimics the flow of milk from the breast.

Note that for some babies, even a Preemie Nipple could be too big. In this case, your pediatrician may recommend the Dr. Brown's Ultra-Preemie Nipple, which offers the lowest flow rate you can get from this line of bottles. 

0+ Months: Level 1 Nipple

The Level 1 nipple is a basic starter nipple that's included with most of the Dr. Brown's bottles. Most babies prefer to start with this nipple, especially if they're feeding well and don't have any challenges in that regard. 

3+ Months: Level 2 Nipple

Have you noticed that your baby has started to grow, and their Level 1 nipple is flowing too slowly for their appetite? If so, it may be time to upgrade to a Level 2 nipple. 

This is also a good nipple to use if your baby has started to accept early solid foods, or if you need to thicken their milk according to your pediatrician's recommendations. It has a slightly larger opening than the Level 1 nipple and is a great choice for babies who are ready to progress beyond early feeding. 

6+ Months: Level 3 Nipple

Does your baby seem to be working extra hard or taking a long time to extract milk from their Level 2 nipple? This is a sign that they're ready to move to a Level 3 nipple on their Dr. Brown's bottle.

Your baby may also be ready for this nipple if they're eating more solid food or already sitting up. If your pediatrician recommends thicker milk or formula, they'll also need a bigger opening to ensure a steady flow. 

9+ Months: Level 4 Nipple

Like the transition from Level 2 to Level 3, you may notice that your baby needs a bigger size if they're taking a long time to feed with the Level 3 nipple. 

By the nine-month age range, your baby should be able to eat a large amount at your breast or through the bottle. If they're eating consistently and aren't showing any struggles at this point, then the Level 4 nipple may be appropriate. Again, this can help if you're thickening their milk, but this isn't the only sign that your baby is developmentally ready.

A Level 4 nipple might also be best if your baby has transitioned to finger foods or knows how to successfully drink from a sippy cup. These signs indicate that they're ready for the faster flow and it will not be an issue for them to handle. 

9+ Months: Y-Cut Nipple

If your baby is around nine months old and showing all of the growth signs listed above, you may also consider using a Y-Cut Nipple. This nipple is larger than the Level 3 nipple and is best for thicker milk, formula, and cereal.

Optimize Your Baby's Feeding Experience

Feeding is a great time to bond with your baby, nourishing their little bodies so they can grow. 

However, this experience can turn challenging if your baby is struggling to feed with a nipple that isn't well-suited to their needs. Use this guide to help you choose the right Dr. Brown's nipple level, every time.

At 1 Natural Way, our team is dedicated to enhancing the feeding experience. Check out our product guides, services, and other resources to learn more about how we can help. You can also set up an account or call (888) 977-2229 for more information!

About the Author

Cindy Puppos is 1 Natural Way's Customer Service Manager, so she has a good idea of all the different and wonderful questions that moms have for her team. Thankfully, as the mother of two boys (who are now grown!) and a veteran of the company and breastfeeding, Cindy is always knowledgeable about breastfeeding, pumping and all the latest and greatest pumps!