Deciding when to wean your baby from the breast to the bottle or cup is an individual decision. There is no right or wrong time to wean. However, it should be done gradually so that your body has time to adjust and reduce the amount of milk production. Here are some things to consider before you make the transition.

Is It Time?

• If you’re returning to work, the baby will have to take breast milk or formula from a bottle. Don’t wait until the day before your child begins child care to try a bottle, because your baby will likely resist the switch. Your baby should be able to take a full feeding easily from a bottle before you head back to work.
• You may have to try several different formulas to see which type your baby tolerates best. You can always opt to use a breast pump and continue to give your baby breast milk in a bottle.
• Some women decide to wean at between four to six months when the baby begins to take solid foods. Remember, a baby’s primary source of nutrition should be breast milk or formula for the first year.
• A baby who is over one year can drink whole cow’s milk.

How to Switch from Breast to Bottle

• Avoid abruptly stopping breastfeeding. This can be physically painful to you and emotionally traumatic to your baby.
• Begin by offering your baby formula or breast milk in a bottle occasionally.
• The father, grandparent, or caretaker may need to offer the bottle. Your baby may resist taking it from you.
• Gradually increase the number of bottles your baby takes each day.
• You can always continue to breastfeed in the morning or before bedtime while the caretaker gives bottles during the day.

How to Switch to a Cup

• Usually babies will be able to start drinking from a cup when they are 10 to 12 months old.
• Offer your baby a spill-proof cup with breast milk, formula, or cow’s milk occasionally.
• Start by offering the cup during the mid-day meal. Then gradually replace other feedings with the cup as your baby becomes proficient at drinking this way.
• You can keep the breast or bottle as the last feeding at night for a while because this is often a bonding time for mother and baby.
• If an older toddler still insists on the bottle or breastfeeding, try distracting her with a snack or cup of juice.

The weaning process can be frustrating, especially if your baby resists the transition. But if you take it slowly and remain patient, your baby will eventually master this step toward independence.