Seeing your baby in pain is heartbreaking. When gas and colic strike, you feel helpless, tired, and willing to try just about anything to stop the tears. While there is no magic cure-all, the right gear can make a massive difference.
We spent hours researching the science behind air ingestion, talking to exhausted parents, and comparing the top contenders on the market. We’ve narrowed it down to the seven best bottles for colic and gas. With one of these in your rotation, we hope those tummy troubles (and the screaming) become a thing of the past.
- Unique internal venting system
- BPA-free
- Preserves nutrients in milk
- Simple, classic design
- Clinically tested
- Firm nipple prevents collapsing
- Flexible, natural feeling
- Handles are available for self-feeding
- True slow-flow nipple
- Nipple mimics breastfeeding
- Simple design
- Includes low flow nipples
- Soft and skin-like nipple
- Comfortable to hold
- Regulated flow
Do Anti-Colic Bottles Work?
To understand if they work, you have to look at the cause. The primary culprit of infant gas is swallowed air. When a baby gulps down milk, they often gulp down air with it. If that air gets trapped in the digestive system, it causes pressure (1).
If that pressure isn’t released via a good burp or passing gas, you get a screaming, uncomfortable baby.
Anti-colic bottles are designed to tackle the physics of feeding. By reducing the vacuum inside the bottle and minimizing air bubbles in the milk, they limit the amount of air your baby swallows. Less air in means less gas out.
While the exact cause of colic remains a mystery, we know it involves extreme fussiness without a clear medical reason (2). Unfortunately, all that crying makes babies swallow more air, creating a vicious cycle.
The right bottle can help break that cycle by:
- Preventing air intake: Vents and valves keep air out of the nipple.
- Reducing bubbles: Keeping the air away from the milk prevents aeration.
- Pacing the feed: Slowing down the flow helps prevent tummy upsets.
How to Choose an Anti-Colic Baby Bottle
Most modern baby bottles have some sort of venting technology, but they all go about it differently. Since every baby latches and drinks differently, it helps to know what to look for.
Here is a breakdown of the features manufacturers use to keep air out of your baby’s belly:
The Nipple Flow
Flow is everything. If the milk comes out too fast, your baby has to gulp to keep up, swallowing massive amounts of air in the process. This leads to a distended, painful tummy.
However, if the flow is too slow, your baby might suck harder to get the milk out, which also introduces air and leads to fussiness and frustration.
You need to find the “Goldilocks” zone. Look for brands that offer a wide range of nipple stages, specifically a “slow flow” or “newborn” option, so you can adjust as your baby grows.
The Nipple Shape
Marketing often claims a nipple is “just like mom,” but human anatomy varies, and so do bottle nipples. Some babies get a better seal on a wide, slope-shouldered nipple, while others prefer a narrower, longer shape.
A poor latch creates gaps at the corners of the mouth, allowing air to sneak in while they drink. If you are breastfeeding, try to match the bottle shape to your own anatomy to reduce nipple confusion and ensure a tight seal.
The Nipple Valve
As your baby sucks, they create a vacuum inside the bottle. If that pressure isn’t released, the nipple collapses, or the baby has to break the latch to let air in.
Many anti-colic nipples have a tiny built-in valve (usually a small hole or slit on the rim). This allows air to flow back into the bottle to equalize pressure without the baby having to stop drinking.
The Bottle Shape
Function sometimes follows form. While straight bottles are standard, angled bottles are designed to keep the nipple full of milk (and free of air) even when the baby is feeding in a more upright position.
If your baby suffers from reflux or gas, pediatricians often recommend feeding them upright. An angled bottle makes this much easier on your wrists while ensuring the baby isn’t sucking on an air pocket.
Bottle Vents
This is the heavy artillery of anti-colic features. Internal vent systems (like straws or tubes down the center) channel air from the nipple collar to the bottom of the bottle.
This bypasses the milk entirely, meaning air bubbles never travel through the liquid. It is generally the most effective method for severe gas, but there is a trade-off: more parts to clean.
Bottle Liners
Think of these like a disposable bag inside the rigid bottle shell. As the baby drinks, the liner collapses, similar to how milk glands empty during breastfeeding (3).
Because the bag shrinks, no vacuum forms, and no air needs to enter the bottle to replace the missing liquid. It is highly effective, but it does create ongoing waste and requires you to keep buying refills.
Product Reviews
We put the top contenders to the test to see which ones actually reduce the bubbles (and the tears).
Dr. Brown's Natural Anti-Colic Bottle
Best Internal Vent Bottle
Dr. Brown’s is often considered the gold standard for colicky babies, and for good reason. The magic lies in the internal green vent system. Unlike other bottles where air mixes with the milk, this tube funnels air directly to the back of the bottle.
This design eliminates the vacuum effect entirely. Because the air never bubbles through the milk, it also helps prevent the oxidation of nutrients. Clinical studies suggest this helps retain higher levels of vitamins C, A, and E (4).
It mimics the mechanics of breastfeeding quite well since there is no vacuum resistance to fight against. Your baby can feed at their own pace without gasping. The trade-off is the cleaning process; you need to use the tiny included wire brush to clean the vent tube, which can be tedious at 3 AM.
Pros
- Internal vent system eliminates vacuum pressure.
- Proven to preserve milk nutrients.
- Fully BPA free.
- Top-rack dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Multiple parts make cleaning more time-consuming.
- Narrow neck can be harder to fill with powder formula.
Our Ratings
Philips Avent Anti-Colic Baby Bottles
Best Nipple Vent Bottle
When you are a sleep-deprived parent, simplicity is a lifesaver. These Avent bottles consist of just four straightforward pieces: bottle, nipple, ring, and cap. They are easy to assemble and fully dishwasher safe.
The “AirFree” vent is unique because it’s integrated into the nipple assembly. It is designed to keep the nipple full of milk, not air, even when the bottle is held horizontally. Clinical tests have backed this up, showing that these bottles reduced nighttime fussiness by approximately 60% compared to standard bottles (5).
Another bonus is compatibility. These mix and match with most of the Philips Avent range, so you can swap parts with their toddler cups later on. The nipples are ribbed to prevent them from collapsing during a vigorous feed.
Pros
- Minimal parts make for easy cleaning.
- Clinically proven to reduce fussiness.
- Ribbed nipple texture prevents collapse.
- Compatible with the wider Avent ecosystem.
Cons
- The “slow flow” might still be too fast for preemies.
- You must align the vent properly to prevent leaks.
Our Ratings
Comotomo Baby Bottles
Best Anti-Colic Bottle for Breastfed Babies
The Comotomo bottle is immediately recognizable by its soft, squeezable silicone body. This isn’t just for comfort; the flexible material allows the bottle to collapse slightly as the baby drinks, mimicking the physics of breastfeeding.
Dual anti-colic vents on the nipple ring ensure good air circulation without any extra tubes or straws to wash. The super-wide neck is a dream for cleaning; you can actually fit your whole hand inside to scrub it, meaning you might not even need a bottle brush.
It is heat resistant and dishwasher safe. Because the silicone is grippy and soft, it’s also a great option for older babies learning to hold the bottle themselves.
Pros
- Soft silicone mimics natural skin and breast shape.
- Super wide neck makes cleaning incredibly easy.
- Dual vents prevent vacuum buildup.
- Safe for microwave, boiling water, and dishwashers.
Cons
- Silicone takes longer to warm up in a bottle warmer.
- Ideally requires two hands to screw the lid on tight.
Our Ratings
MAM Anti-Colic Bottles
Best Vented Base Bottle
The MAM Easy Start bottle is a favorite among European parents and is gaining massive traction in the US. The vented base is highly effective; studies show that 80% of parents reported a reduction in colic symptoms after switching to MAM.
The nipple is flat rather than round, designed to fit the baby’s mouth more like a human nipple does during nursing. This makes it an excellent choice for switching between breast and bottle.
But the real game-changer is the cleaning. The bottle unscrews at both the top and the bottom. Even better, it is self-sterilizing. You simply stack the parts, add a little water, and pop it in the microwave for three minutes. No bulky steam sterilizer required.
Pros
- Self-sterilizing function works in the microwave.
- Flat nipple shape is widely accepted by babies.
- Vented base prevents air mixing with milk.
- Easy to clean since the bottom unscrews.
Cons
- More parts to assemble than standard bottles.
- If the bottom gasket isn’t seated perfectly, it can leak.
Our Ratings
Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Bottles
Best Low Flow Bottle
Tommee Tippee’s “Closer to Nature” line focuses on the latch. The extra-wide nipple promotes a deep, natural latch that seals the corners of the mouth, preventing air intake from the outside.
The nipple features a sensitive anti-colic valve that eliminates excessive airflow, and the “easy-vent” technology keeps pressure equalized. The silicone is designed to flex and stretch, moving with your baby’s tongue rather than against it.
The bottle shape is short and curvy, allowing you to hold the baby close during feeds. The markings are clear, preventing the accidental overfeeding that often leads to spit-up and discomfort.
Pros
- Realistic nipple flex and stretch.
- Wide base encourages a proper, deep latch.
- Compact shape is easy to hold.
- Includes low-flow nipples ideal for newborns.
Cons
- Nipple can sometimes collapse if the valve gets stuck.
- The shape can be bulky for travel bags.
Our Ratings
Playtex Ventaire Baby Bottle
Best Bottle for Upright Feeding
The ergonomic angle of the Playtex Ventaire isn’t just for looks; it allows you to keep the bottle tilted enough to fill the nipple with milk while your baby sits upright. This prevents them from gulping air at the start or end of the feed.
Like the MAM, this bottle vents from the bottom. The micro-channel vents keep air at the back of the bottle so it never mixes with the liquid. It’s a smart design that prioritizes digestion.
The bottle comes apart at both ends for cleaning. One thing to note is that because of the bottom vent, you cannot heat this bottle in a traditional steam warmer (it might leak or melt the mechanism). You’ll need to warm the milk separately or use a warm water bath.
Pros
- Angled design supports upright feeding to reduce reflux.
- Bottom vent keeps air away from the nipple.
- Compatible with a wide variety of nipple shapes.
- Great for babies transitioning from breast to bottle.
Cons
- Cannot be used in most standard bottle warmers.
- Multiple parts require careful assembly to avoid leaks.
Our Ratings
Munchkin Latch Bottles and Transition Cup
Best for Weaning
The defining feature of the Munchkin Latch is the accordion-style nipple base. It stretches and pumps like a breast, allowing the baby to maintain a latch even if they move their head around or shift position.
An anti-colic valve at the bottom of the bottle ensures no air bubbles travel through the milk. Once your baby is ready to move on, you can swap the nipple for a spout and add handles, turning it into a transition cup.
This is a great system for parents who value longevity and want a bottle that adapts to a wiggly, active baby.
Pros
- Accordion nipple flexes to maintain latch during movement.
- Anti-colic valve located at the base.
- Converts to a sippy cup with handles.
- Great for active or fussy feeders.
Cons
- The accordion ridges can be tricky to clean thoroughly.
- Transition flow might be too slow for some toddlers.
Our Ratings
Tips for Reducing Colic While Bottlefeeding
Buying the bottle is step one. Using it correctly is step two. Even the best gear won’t work if the technique is off.
Here is how to set your baby up for success:
- Watch the angle: Never feed the baby flat on their back. Elevate their head above their tummy to let gravity help the gas bubbles rise and escape.
- Tilt the bottle: Ensure the nipple is full of milk, not air. If you see an air pocket in the tip of the nipple, tilt the bottle up further.
- Check the latch: Fish lips are the goal. Your baby’s mouth should be wide open and flanged outward, covering the wider base of the nipple, not just sucking on the tip like a straw.
- Listen for noise: Feeding should be relatively quiet. If you hear clicking or smacking noises, the latch is broken, and they are swallowing air.
- Size matters: If your baby is choking or spitting up milk, the flow is too fast. If they get frustrated or fall asleep before finishing, the flow is too slow.
- The mid-meal burp: Don’t wait until the bottle is empty. Pause halfway through to burp your baby. This releases pressure before it builds up and becomes painful (6).
FAQs
What is the Best Bottle to Reduce Colic and Gas?
While every baby is different, the bottles with the most effective air-elimination systems are usually the Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow (internal vent) and the Philips Avent Anti-colic (nipple vent). The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature is also excellent for latch-related issues.
What Bottles Do Pediatricians Recommend?
Pediatricians frequently recommend Dr. Brown’s bottles because their internal vent system is clinically proven to reduce air intake and preserve vitamins. However, many doctors simply advise parents to try different “slow flow” options to see which one the baby tolerates best.
What Formula is Best for Gassy, Fussy Babies?
If the bottle isn’t solving the problem, the formula might be the issue. Partially hydrolyzed formulas like Enfamil Gentlease or Gerber Good Start Soothe are designed to be easier to digest and generate less gas. Always consult your doctor before switching.
At What Month Does Colic Start in Babies?
Colic typically kicks in around 2 to 3 weeks of age. It tends to peak around the 6-week mark and usually resolves itself by the time the baby is 3 to 4 months old.
What Does a Colic Cry Sound Like?
A colic cry is distinct from a “hungry” or “tired” cry. It is often described as louder, higher-pitched, and more urgent, sometimes sounding like screaming or an expression of pain. The baby may also clench their fists or arch their back while crying.
How Do You Calm a Colicky Baby?
Aside from using anti-colic bottles, try the “5 S’s”: Swaddle them snugly, place them on their Side or Stomach (while holding them), Shush loudly (white noise), Swing them gently, and give them something to Suck on (like a pacifier). Warm baths and bicycle kicks with their legs can also help release trapped gas.
Are Glass Bottles Better for Colic?
Glass bottles are easier to clean thoroughly and don’t retain odors, but the material itself doesn’t prevent colic. However, some parents find that glass bottles warm up more evenly, preventing hot spots in the milk. Dr. Brown’s and Philips Avent both offer glass versions of their anti-colic bottles.
