Comparing Dr Brown’s Natural Flow and Options+ Bottle: Which is Better?

Dr. Brown’s is a popular brand known for its innovative baby bottles that aim to reduce feeding issues such as colic, burping, and gas. Two of their most well-known bottle lines are the Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow and Dr. Brown’s Options.

The Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow bottle was the original bottle introduced by the brand. It features an internal vent system that helps reduce the negative pressure and air bubbles during feeding. This system creates a vacuum-free feeding experience, similar to breastfeeding, which can help prevent colic and other digestive issues in babies.

The internal vent system in the Natural Flow bottle consists of a blue vent that must remain in place during feeding. This vent effectively eliminates air bubbles from mixing with the milk or formula, reducing the oxidation of nutrients and preserving essential vitamins. The result is a more nutritious and comfortable feeding experience for both mother and baby.

On the other hand, Dr. Brown’s Options bottle offers a unique feature that sets it apart from the Natural Flow bottle. The Options bottle retains the same internal vent system but gives parents the flexibility to use it with or without the vent. While the brand still recommends using the vent for optimal results, some parents may choose to remove it once their baby has become more skilled at feeding.

The ability to remove the vent in the Options bottle allows for a more controlled flow of milk or formula, which can be beneficial as the baby grows and develops their feeding skills. It also makes transitioning from breast to bottle feeding easier, as the Options bottle can mimic the natural flow of breastfeeding.

In terms of design, Dr. Brown’s offers both Standard/Narrow bottles and Wide-Neck bottles in both the Natural Flow and Options lines. The internal vent system has received an enhanced update in the Options bottles, incorporating features from the Original Bottle while still allowing for vent removal when desired.

It is important to note that the Natural Flow bottle requires the blue vent to be in place at all times, as it is essential for the proper functioning of the bottle. The vent ensures a 100% vacuum-free feeding experience, promoting the well-being of both mother and baby.

Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow and Options bottles offer innovative solutions to common feeding issues faced by parents. The Natural Flow bottle features an internal vent system that creates a vacuum-free feeding experience, while the Options bottle allows parents the flexibility to use the vent or remove it as their baby’s feeding skills develop. Both bottle lines offer the same consistent nipple flow levels and are available in Standard/Narrow and Wide-Neck designs. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the specific needs and preferences of parents and their babies.

What is the Difference Between Dr Brown’s Natural Flow And Options?

The main difference between Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow and Options is that the Options bottle gives parents the choice to use it with or without the internal vent. The Natural Flow bottle, on the other hand, only comes with the internal vent and is designed to be used with it.

Here are some key points to understand the difference:

1. Internal Vent: The internal vent system in the Dr. Brown’s bottles is designed to prevent the mixing of air with the milk or formula, reducing the chances of colic, spit-up, and gas in babies. This is a unique feature of the Natural Flow bottle and is recommended for optimal feeding.

2. Flexibility: The Options bottle, as the name suggests, offers parents the option to use it with or without the internal vent. This means that if parents feel that their baby no longer needs the vent or prefer a more traditional bottle feeding experience, they can remove the vent.

3. Transitioning: Dr. Brown’s recommends using the internal vent system initially to provide the benefits of reduced colic and gas. However, as the baby grows and becomes more comfortable with feeding, some parents choose to remove the vent, making it more like a traditional bottle.

4. Similarities: Both the Natural Flow and Options bottles are designed to mimic breastfeeding and have features like a narrow nipple shape and controlled flow rate. They are also both BPA-free and come in various sizes and designs.

While the Natural Flow bottle is designed to be used with the internal vent for optimal feeding benefits, the Options bottle offers parents the choice to use it with or without the vent, allowing for more flexibility as the baby grows and develops.

dr brown natural flow vs options

Is There a Difference in Dr Brown’s Bottles?

There are differences in Dr. Brown’s bottles. They offer both Standard/Narrow bottles and Wide-Neck bottles. These two types of bottles have some variations in their design and functionality, but there are also similarities between them.

Here are the similarities between the two types of bottles:

1. Internal Vent System: Both Standard/Narrow bottles and Wide-Neck bottles feature the same internal vent system. This system helps to reduce feeding problems such as colic, burping, and gas. It also helps to preserve essential vitamins in the milk or formula by preventing oxidation.

2. Consistent Nipple Flow: Both types of bottles offer the same consistent nipple flow levels. This ensures that babies can feed comfortably and at a pace that suits them. The consistent flow also helps to prevent nipple confusion when transitioning between bottle feeding and breastfeeding.

Now, let’s talk about the differences between the two types of Dr. Brown’s bottles:

Standard/Narrow Bottles:
– Design: Standard/Narrow bottles have a more traditional, slim design. They are narrower in shape compared to Wide-Neck bottles.
– Feeding Experience: Some parents find that Standard/Narrow bottles offer a more natural feeding experience for their babies. The slim design allows for a secure grip, making it easier for both parents and babies to hold during feeding.

Wide-Neck Bottles:
– Design: Wide-Neck bottles have a wider opening, or mouth, compared to Standard/Narrow bottles. This design feature makes them easier to fill, clean, and assemble. The wider opening also mimics the shape of the breast, which can be helpful for babies transitioning between breastfeeding and bottle feeding.
– Formula Preparation: Wide-Neck bottles are particularly useful for parents who need to mix formula directly in the bottle. The wider opening allows for easier pouring and measuring of formula powder or liquid.

While both Standard/Narrow bottles and Wide-Neck bottles from Dr. Brown’s have the same internal vent system and consistent nipple flow levels, they differ in design and functionality. The choice between the two types of bottles depends on personal preferences and individual needs, such as ease of cleaning, formula preparation, and the baby’s feeding experience.

What Does Dr Brown’s Options Plus Mean?

Dr. Brown’s Options+ bottles are a line of baby bottles that come in both narrow and wide-neck sizes. The Options+ bottles feature an internal vent system that has been recently updated to include enhanced features. This new design combines the benefits of the original bottle with the option to remove the internal vent system as your baby’s feeding develops.

Here are some key points about the Dr. Brown’s Options+ bottles:

1. Internal Vent System: The bottles include an internal vent system that helps reduce feeding problems such as colic, spit-up, burping, and gas. This system works by directing air to the back of the bottle, preventing it from mixing with the milk or formula.

2. Enhanced Update: The internal vent system in the Options+ bottles has been enhanced with new features. While the specific details of these enhancements are not mentioned, they are intended to improve the overall performance and functionality of the bottles.

3. Best of Both Bottles: The Options+ bottles offer the best of both worlds. They retain the benefits of the original Dr. Brown’s bottles, known for their ability to reduce feeding issues, while also providing the flexibility to remove the internal vent system when your baby’s feeding needs change. This allows for a smooth transition as your baby grows and develops.

Dr. Brown’s Options+ bottles are a range of baby bottles that feature an internal vent system, which has been updated with enhanced features. These bottles offer the benefits of the original Dr. Brown’s bottles, while also allowing for the removal of the internal vent system as your baby’s feeding needs evolve.

Can Dr Brown’s Natural Flow Be Used Without Vent?

The Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow bottle cannot be used without the blue vent in place. The blue vent is an integral part of the bottle’s internal vent system, which is designed to create a vacuum-free feeding experience for both mother and baby.

Here are some reasons why the blue vent must remain in place:

1. Vacuum-free feeding: The internal vent system in the Dr. Brown’s bottle helps to eliminate air bubbles in the milk or formula, reducing the risk of colic, spit-up, and gas in babies. Removing the blue vent would disrupt this system and potentially lead to discomfort for the baby.

2. Best for mom and baby: The vacuum-free feeding provided by the blue vent is beneficial for both mothers and babies. It helps to preserve the nutrients in the milk or formula, ensuring that babies receive the full benefits of their feedings. Additionally, the reduced air intake can help babies feel more satisfied after feeding, promoting better sleep and overall well-being.

3. Maintains bottle performance: The blue vent is designed to work in conjunction with the bottle’s other components to provide optimal performance. Removing the vent could affect the flow of the liquid, potentially leading to leaks, spills, or uneven feeding.

4. Prevents colic and gas: The internal vent system in Dr. Brown’s bottles is specifically designed to reduce colic symptoms and gas in babies. By keeping the blue vent in place, parents can help minimize the discomfort associated with these issues.

The blue vent in the Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow bottle is essential and should not be removed. It plays a crucial role in creating a vacuum-free feeding experience that is best for both mothers and babies, reducing the risk of colic, spit-up, and gas.

Conclusion

Dr. Brown’s bottles, both the Natural Flow and Options+, offer innovative features that enhance the feeding experience for both parents and babies. The Natural Flow bottle, with its internal vent system, ensures 100% vacuum-free feeding, providing the best possible experience for both mother and baby. On the other hand, the Options+ bottle provides parents with the flexibility to use the bottle with or without the internal vent system, depending on their preference and their baby’s feeding development.

Both types of bottles, whether Standard/Narrow or Wide-Neck, have the same consistent nipple flow levels, ensuring a seamless transition for the baby. Additionally, the Options+ bottles have an enhanced internal vent system that incorporates features from Dr. Brown’s Original Bottle, giving parents the best of both worlds.

It is important to note that the blue vent in the Natural Flow bottle must always remain in place, as it is essential for creating a vacuum-free feeding experience. However, the Options+ bottle allows parents to remove the internal vent system once their baby has mastered feeding, providing even more convenience.

Dr. Brown’s bottles are designed with both the baby and parent’s needs in mind. With their innovative features and flexibility, they offer a superior feeding experience that promotes comfort, reduces colic and gas, and ensures a smooth transition from breast to bottle.

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Nancy Sherman

Nancy Sherman has more than a decade of experience in education and is passionate about helping schools, teachers, and students succeed. She began her career as a Teaching Fellow in NY where she worked with educators to develop their instructional practice. Since then she held diverse roles in the field including Educational Researcher, Academic Director for a non-profit foundation, Curriculum Expert and Coach, while also serving on boards of directors for multiple organizations. She is trained in Project-Based Learning, Capstone Design (PBL), Competency-Based Evaluation (CBE) and Social Emotional Learning Development (SELD).