Parent Library

Bottle Feeding

All Article Topics

Plastic vs Glass Baby Bottles: Which Should I Choose?

Choosing the right baby bottle might seem simple, until you’re faced with a shelf (or website) full of options. One of the biggest choices? Plastic or glass. 

Both materials have their strengths, and both are safe when made to the right standards. So how do you decide? 

Truthfully, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It’s about what will work best for you, your baby, and your feeding routine.  

At Tommee Tippee, we know lots about baby bottles. Here’s a straightforward look at both options, so you can feel confident, whichever type of baby bottle you choose. 

Plastic baby bottle benefits 

A go-to for many parents, plastic baby bottles are lightweight, durable and widely used. Most are now made from BPA-free polypropylene (PP) or similar materials, which are tough enough to handle daily use and repeated sterilising.  

Their lightness makes them easy to pack in a nappy bag and simple for little hands to hold, especially during early attempts at self-feeding.  

Benefits of glass baby bottles

Glass bottles, especially those made from borosilicate glass, are growing in popularity. Why? They’re naturally free from chemicals, scratch-resistant, and built to handle temperature changes without cracking.  

Many parents like the reassurance of a clean, pure material, and find they last longer, without turning cloudy or holding onto smells. While they’re a little heavier than plastic, today’s glass bottles are toughened and designed with real life (and real babies) in mind. 

Glass or plastic, what’s best for baby?

  • Peace of mind: When it comes to feeding, peace of mind matters. Modern plastic bottles are typically BPA-free and tested to meet strict safety standards. But some parents still prefer to steer clear of plastic altogether. That’s where glass comes in. Borosilicate glass is completely non-toxic and naturally resistant to chemicals. It doesn’t absorb smells or stains, and it won’t degrade over time. 
  • Weight and portability: Plastic bottles are lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for feeding on the move. Glass bottles are a little heavier, but that added weight can make them feel sturdy and stable in your hand or on a surface. 
  • Durability: Glass is tough, especially borosilicate glass, and resists scratches and staining over time. While it can break if dropped, many are now designed to be shock-resistant and some come with a protective silicone coating. Plastic won’t shatter but can show signs of wear with frequent use and sterilising. 
  • Ease of use: Both baby bottle types are designed for everyday use. Glass often feels smoother and stays looking fresh for longer, while plastic is a popular pick for its lightweight ease, especially when juggling feeds on the go. 
  • Hygiene: Both plastic and glass bottles are designed to be sterilised, but glass has an edge when it comes to long-term cleanliness. It’s less prone to scratches, which can harbour bacteria, and will look like new, even after months of feeding, washing and sterilising.  

Are plastic baby bottles recyclable?

Are glass baby bottles recyclable?

So, are glass bottles better than plastic for babies?

Both plastic and glass baby bottles come with their own benefits. Plastic bottles are lightweight and great for on-the-go, while glass bottles are long-lasting and stain-resistant. 

The right choice depends on your family’s lifestyle, priorities, and everyday needs. There’s no wrong answer, just what fits best for you and your baby. 

Rest assured, whichever you pick, choosing bottles that are always BPA-free and made to trusted safety standards, like ours, means you’re giving your baby a safe start.  

At Tommee Tippee, we’re here to support your feeding journey every step of the way, whatever you choose. 

Do glass bottles break easily?

What is borosilicate glass?

Can I use both plastic and glass bottles?