Dr Brown's Glass vs Plastic Bottles: Which Is Better?

Quick answer

For parents prioritizing purity and longevity, Dr Brown's glass bottles are the better choice. They resist scratches and odors, and the Options+ vent system works the same in both glass and plastic versions. Plastic bottles are lighter and unbreakable, making them more practical for on-the-go feeding.

Why material matters for baby bottles

The material of a baby bottle affects how long it lasts, how easy it is to clean, and how it handles daily wear. Glass bottles don't absorb odors or stains and stay clear after repeated sterilization. Plastic bottles are lighter and shatter-resistant, but they can develop scratches over time that harbor bacteria.

Dr Brown's offers both glass and plastic versions of their popular Options+ bottles, so you can choose based on your lifestyle without giving up the anti-colic vent system.

Durability and longevity

Glass bottles can last through multiple children if handled carefully. They don't warp in the dishwasher or discolor from tomato-based formulas. The downside is they can break if dropped on a hard floor, especially once your baby starts holding the bottle.

Plastic bottles are virtually unbreakable, which is why many parents prefer them for travel or for older babies who like to throw things. However, plastic can develop micro-scratches from scrubbing, and some parents prefer to replace plastic bottles every few months.

Weight and handling

A 150ml glass bottle is noticeably heavier than its plastic counterpart. For newborns who are bottle-fed while lying down, the extra weight is less of an issue because you're holding the bottle. But for toddlers who self-feed, a lighter plastic bottle is easier for small hands to manage.

If you're building a stash of bottles for daycare or long outings, the weight difference adds up in your diaper bag.

Trade-offs at a glance

• Glass bottles: More durable in terms of scratches and odors. Heavier and breakable. Best for home use and parents who want a bottle that lasts.
• Plastic bottles: Lightweight and shatter-resistant. Prone to scratches and may need replacement sooner. Best for travel and older babies who feed themselves.
• Anti-colic performance: The Options+ vent system works the same in both materials. Your choice of material doesn't affect how well the bottle reduces gas and spit-up. Focus on material based on handling needs, not on colic relief.

Product facts

• Dr Brown's Options+ Anti-Colic Baby Bottle 150ml Glass Twin Pack: The Dr Brown's Options+ range feature a unique internal vent system that channels air away from baby's feed to reduce colicky symptoms. This vent system works identically in both glass and plastic versions, so you don't have to choose between material and colic relief.

  

Which should you choose?

Best for

• Parents who want a long-lasting, stain-resistant bottle for home use
• Families who prefer glass over plastic for peace of mind about chemicals

Not ideal for

• On-the-go feeding where breakage is a concern
• Toddlers who self-feed and may drop the bottle