In case you missed it, baby bottle self-feeding devices were permanently banned by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) back in May.
Baby bottle self-feeding devices are designed to allow bubs to drink from a bottle without an adult holding it. Some use pillows or a body worn holder to prop up a bottle in the baby’s mouth, while others use flexible tubes or straws that connect a teat to a bottle.
These devices have been linked to life-threatening risks of choking, suffocation or aspiration, which is when liquid enters the lungs instead of the stomach. An ACCC investigation found these were unacceptable safety risks.
As a parent or carer, you may think these self-feeding products make things easier, especially when you’re busy juggling multiple tasks, but babies cannot safely manage feeding on their own. Unlike older children, babies cannot regulate the flow of milk or remove a bottle if they start to choke.
Another danger is the potential lack of active supervision. You could miss the important signs that your bub is in distress, such as gagging or discolouration of the lips, tongue or nose that may signal respiratory problems.
For parents and carers, the safe feeding advice is clear that babies should always be actively supervised, and bottles should never be propped up or left in a baby's mouth unattended.
If you own a baby bottle self-feeding device, you should stop using it immediately and dispose of it safely so it cannot be used by anyone else.
The ban also places legal obligations on businesses. It is now illegal to manufacture, advertise, sell, supply or offer to supply these products in Australia. Businesses that continue to sell banned products may face significant penalties.
Supplemental nursing systems used to support breastfeeding, or sippy cups and trainer cups designed for older infants and toddlers learning to drink independently are not affected by this ban.
Parents and carers who see baby bottle self-feeding devices being sold are encouraged to report the products to Consumer Protection’s product safety team – consumer@lgirs.wa.gov.au
For more safe feeding advice, visit the Department of Health.
Examples of banned baby bottle self-feeding devices from ACCC Product Safety
