Glass Bottles

Before the widespread use of plastic, all baby bottles were made out of glass. When plastics began to be widely used, bottle manufacturers began to make baby bottles out of plastic rather than glass. The idea was that plastic was more durable and was not susceptible to breakage and cracks like glass. Also, plastic bottles proved to be of a lighter weight and less expensive than glass baby bottles.

Glass baby bottles went totally out of fashion for several decades until a 1999 study reported in Consumer Reports magazine. The study confirms that plastic bottles heated at high temperatures were expected to give away toxic chemicals into milk that could have a harmful impact on babies.

Since that study, baby glass bottles have come back to a limited popularity.

Glass Vs. Plastic Baby Bottles
The debate about glass vs. plastic baby bottles continues today. Some parents believe that the glass baby bottle is superior because it is easy to clean and sterilize. Glass baby bottles can be washed in the dishwasher. Also, there is no possibility of infectivity by unsafe chemicals with glass baby bottles. If you choose to use a glass baby bottle, inspect it for chips and cracks before each use. Look for tempered glass baby bottles because they resist chipping and cracking better than regular glass.

On the other hand, parents who prefer plastic baby bottles argue that the chance of chemical contamination is slim if bottles are not heated at high temperatures. You should never heat plastic bottles in the microwave. Plastic does not break or chip like glass baby bottles might. They are also less expensive and come in more shapes and styles. If you are a parent, you can feel pretty confident that using plastic baby bottles will not harm your baby. Even Consumer Reports agrees that more studies need to be done on the matter.
The main manufacturer of glass baby bottles today is Evenflo. Evenflo markets a clear glass bottle called Sensitive Response, which has micro air vents so that baby does not swallow air. These glass baby bottles come in four and eight ounce sizes and are dishwasher safe.

Collecting Glass Bottles
Many people who collect glass and bottles love to collect glass baby bottles. Antique glass baby bottles are very desirable among glass collectors. Since the baby bottle is so frequently and vigorously used, it is hard to find antique glass baby bottles in perfect condition. Antique Evenflo glass baby bottles are especially sought after and make any glass collection more valuable.

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