When you are a parent, you always look forward to little milestones that mark your baby’s growth. Aren’t you? The first smile, the first giggle, and the first time they roll over… and yes, the moment they reach out and hold their bottle. All these things might seem little to others, but anyone who's ever fed a baby at 3 AM while fighting sleep knows just how big of a deal it can be.

 If you’ve ever sat on the couch, arm going numb, holding a bottle while your baby stares off into the distance—completely relaxed and utterly unbothered—you’ve probably wondered: when do infants hold their own bottle?

But don’t worry! You’re not the only one who needs that answer. So, don’t leave without knowing this little not-so-secret about your baby holding bottle. 

When Do Babies Start Holding Their Own Bottle?

While every baby grow differently, but normally babies start holding bottle in 6 to 10 months. However, as with all developmental milestones, the exact timing can vary significantly from one baby to another. Some babies might surprise you by holding a bottle before 6 months, and some babies take their good time. But know that it is completely fine until your baby shows the signs of weak muscles. 

• Several factors influence when your baby will hold their bottle, including:

• Muscle development in their arms, hands, and neck

• Interest and motivation

• Personality (some babies prefer being fed for longer)

• How often they’ve had the opportunity to try holding the bottle

Signs baby is ready to hold their bottle

You might notice subtle hints before your baby actually grabs the bottle. Some signs to watch for:

• Improved hand-eye coordination is the biggest sign. When babies can reach for toys and bring them to their mouths accurately, it means they are ready to hold their bottles. 

• Sitting with support or independently signals toward healthy development of muscles. Good trunk and neck control often go hand in hand with the ability to hold a bottle.

• When your baby starts taking/showing Interest in the bottle, your baby might try to grab the bottle or place their hands around it while feeding.

• If your baby can grab and hold onto objects for extended periods, it shows grasp reflex development. Get ready to watch them hold the bottle any time. 

• Some babies want more control over the pace of feeding, and holding the bottle themselves gives them that autonomy. So if your baby shows the sign of Frustration when you're feeding too slowly, hold the bottle. 

How to encourage your baby to hold their bottle?

• Start by holding the bottom of the bottle while your baby holds the sides.

• Choose bottles that are slim and have grip-friendly shapes or handles. Shop the best quality feeding bottle for your little ones! 

• During playtime or before a feeding, hand the bottle to your baby when it’s empty or partially filled.

• Feed in a semi-upright position because babies often have more control over their arms when sitting semi-upright or propped up.