Avent is currently one of the top brands for feeding bottles used by parents the world over. Currently, they have two bottle options to choose from – Avent Classic vs Natural. But, which is better for your baby?
My personal recommendation is the Avent Natural because it’s easy for your baby to combine breastfeeding with bottle feeding. I have however drawn up a comparison between the two so that you can decide which would suit your baby better!
What’s the main difference between Avent Classic and Natural?
Essentially, the main difference between Avent Classic and Natural is their nipples. The Natural bottle has a breast shape as well as “comfort petals” which make the nipple softer and more flexible. The Classic has a plain nipple and is an anti-colic bottle.
Differences Between Avent Classic vs Natural
To get a clearer picture of the key differences between an Avent Classic and an Avent Natural option here are the features that differentiate these two Avent ranges.
Anti-colic / gas
All Avent bottles have anti-colic functions. Both the Natural and Classic options make use of a unique anti-colic Airflex vent technology that’s specifically designed to reduce feeding discomfort and colic symptoms.
As your baby feeds, an integrated valve flexes, allowing air into the bottle. This valve pushes air away from the baby’s tummy which in turn reduces the build-up of gas. Other colic symptoms such as burping, spit-up and tummy cramps are also greatly reduced.
Nipples
The Natural range features a breast-shaped nipple. This makes it easier for babies to transition between breast and bottle. The Classic offers a plain nipple which has been an Avent standard since 1984. Classic range nipples are designed to minimize nipple collapse allowing your baby to feed comfortably.
Since they’re very different in shape, the Classic and Natural nipples can’t be interchanged. That means you can’t use a Natural nipple on a Classic bottle.
Both options have nipples available in different flow rates for different feeding stages. Knowing when to change your bottle nipples can be challenging. I’ve made it easier by listing a few easy-to-look for signs in my article on how often you should change your bottles, as well as nipples.
The flow rates for Avent nipples are listed below:
- Newborn flow nipple – 1 hole (0M+)
- Slow nipple – 2 holes (1M+)
- Medium flow nipple – 3 holes (3M+)
- Fast flow nipple – 4 holes (6M+)
I recommend that you familiarize yourself with the reasons why your bottles leak – it will go a long way to avoid a mess during every feeding session!
Material
Avent uses BPA-free polypropylene to make their bottles. This means there’s no exposure to harmful plastics. The Natural range also has a glass bottle available for parents who don’t feel comfortable using plastic.
Pharmacy-grade borosilicate glass is used, making it heat and thermal shock-resistant. The glass option is compatible with all Natural range nipples for different flow stages. It’s worth noting that the glass option will be slightly more expensive.
A plus point with the materials used is that both Avent ranges are very easy to clean. In fact, you can simply pop them into the dishwasher for proper cleaning since Avent bottles are dishwasher safe.
Price
The Natural bottles are generally more expensive than the Classic options. The main reason for this is that the Natural options include glass and colored bottle choices. While this might be a hiccup for some parents, the good news, many retailers often have promotional offers available on the Natural options. Be sure to look out for them!
If you’d like to compare the Comotomo brand with Avent, read my article comparing Comotomo to Philip Avent bottles. This will give you a more extensive comparison!
Avent classic bottles
Features
- Features a traditional nipple
- Clinically proven to reduce colic symptoms with its anti-colic system
- Made up of 4 parts that make assembly quick
Pros
- Cheaper than the Natural option
- BPA free
- Compatible with all Avent breast pumps & cups
- Good reputation with parents since 1984
Cons
- Nipple doesn’t imitate breast – might be difficult to transition between breast and bottle
Avent natural bottles
Features
- Wide breast-shaped nipple facilitates natural latch on
- Unique anti-colic Airflex valve reduces feeding issues
- Ergonomic shape makes it easy to grip and hold for parents and baby
- Different flow nipples available for different drinking stages
Pros
- BPA Free glass option
- Easy to assemble
- Compatible with any Avent breast pump
- Easy to clean
- Ultra-soft nipple
Cons
- Prone to leaking if not assembled correctly
- Nipples are thinner than those offered on the Classic option
For a more extensive listing of the Avent Natural’s benefits, watch this short clip!
Can you alternate between Avent Natural and anti-colic bottles nipples and nipples?
According to the Avent Philips website Avent Natural nipples are only compatible with the Avent screw rings so it cannot be used with the anti-colic bottle’s screw rings. The same goes for the Avent anti-colic nipples. The nipples can only be used with the Avent anti-colic bottle’s screw rings.
Conclusion
As one of the top brands on the market, it’s easy to see why Avent bottles are so popular. When it comes to choosing the option best suited for your baby, consider all the features I’ve discussed.
Avent Natural’s simple grip makes it easy for parents and babies to hold. They’re also well known for reducing colic symptoms. Avent Natural is the best option for babies who need to transition between breast and bottle!
Last update on 2024-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
