Dr Brown's Anti-Colic Bottle: How It Works and Benefits
By Dr Browns | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Product Reviews
Learn how Dr Brown's unique vent system reduces colic and gas, and discover the key benefits of using their anti-colic bottles for a more comfortable feeding experience.
Quick answer
Dr Brown's anti-colic bottles use a patented internal vent system that creates a vacuum-free feeding environment. This design prevents air from mixing with milk, significantly reducing colic, gas, and spit-up for a more comfortable feeding experience.
The science behind the vent system
The key innovation in Dr Brown's anti-colic bottles is the internal vent system. This system includes a vent tube and a reservoir that work together to eliminate air bubbles in the milk. When your baby feeds, the vent tube allows air to bypass the milk and enter the bottle, preventing the formation of a vacuum. This means your baby isn't swallowing air along with the milk, which is a primary cause of colic and gas.
Key benefits for your baby
The vacuum-free design offers several benefits. First, it reduces colic symptoms, leading to a happier and more settled baby. Second, it minimizes gas and spit-up, which can make feeding less messy and more comfortable. Third, the vent system helps preserve essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, which can be degraded by air exposure in traditional bottles.
Options+ vs. standard models
Dr Brown's Options+ bottles, like the Wide-Neck and Narrow Neck options, offer the same proven vent system but with added flexibility. The Options+ feature allows you to remove the vent system once your baby is older and less prone to colic, transitioning the bottle into a standard feeding bottle. This gives you a two-in-one solution that adapts to your baby's changing needs.
Frequently asked questions
- How does the vent system reduce colic?
- The vent system prevents air from mixing with milk, so your baby swallows less air. This reduces gas buildup in the stomach, which is a primary cause of colic discomfort. A vacuum-free feed means less gas and fewer colic episodes.
- Can I remove the vent system later?
- Yes, with Options+ bottles, you can remove the vent system once your baby is around 6 months old or when colic symptoms subside. The bottle then works like a standard bottle. This gives you a two-in-one bottle that grows with your baby.
- Are these bottles dishwasher safe?
- Yes, all parts of Dr Brown's anti-colic bottles are top-rack dishwasher safe. For thorough cleaning, the vent system parts can be easily disassembled and washed. Convenient cleaning without compromising hygiene.
Product facts
- Dr Brown's Anti-Colic Options+ Wide-Neck Baby Bottle, 5oz/150ml, 2-Pack - Designs: This 2-pack of Dr Brown's Anti-Colic Options+ Wide-Neck Baby Bottles (5oz/150ml) features jungle or woodland-inspired designs and includes the patented vent system. The wide-neck design makes it easier to clean and fill, while the fun designs add a touch of charm to feeding time. The vent system is clinically proven to reduce colic.
- Dr Brown's Options+ Narrow Neck Triple Pack 250ml: The Dr Brown's Options+ Narrow Neck Triple Pack (250ml) includes three bottles and three Level 1 teats, all featuring the enhanced 100% vacuum-free vent system. This pack offers great value for newborns, providing multiple bottles for feeding and storage. The narrow neck is compatible with most standard bottle accessories.
