Transition cup: a complete guide with everything you need to know

A very present utensil in the lives of moms, dads and caregivers is the transition cup. You’ve definitely seen one! The transition phase from the mother’s bottle or breast to the cup is very important for the baby. That’s why this little cup has that name!

Despite being common, this subject involves some doubts. It can be difficult to decide which model to use, which occasion to use, and even if it’s worth using the transition cup. Thinking about helping you in this mission, we talked to pediatric dentist Mariana Oliveira Andrade Brandão (CRO-MG 42180) to clarify these and other questions!

What is a transition cup and its types

The transition cup is used to help the child move from the mother’s bottle or breast to the cup. They are usually plastic, with a hard or soft spout in a lid with handles to hold.

According to pediatric dentist Mariana, when babies reach about 5 or 6 months, they are already able to make the transition and start using a normal cup to drink liquids. She does not advise using the transition cup and recommends going straight for the capless cup.

Even so, many people use the cup with a lid for its practicality. The lid on the transition cup prevents the drink from falling and getting the baby wet. There are several models and each one has a function. Below is a list of types:

• Anti-leakage: helps the child avoid spillage situations and allows them to start the transition to the cup without accidentally turning the liquid over them. As the name implies, its main advantage is not leaking.
• With silicone nipple: the softer nipple is good for smaller babies. One advantage is that the nozzle can be purchased separately and replaced.
• With straw: this cup has no spout, it has a straw and the baby needs to suck the liquid. Some children are not used to sucking and may have difficulties. Another disadvantage is cleaning the inside of the straw which, if done improperly, can create mold.
• With valve: in this type you can choose between non-leakage or free flow, always suitable for baby’s abilities and needs. Just remove the valve and the liquid flows continuously through the nozzle. The advantage of flow control prevents the passage of a large volume of beverage at once. The disadvantage is that you forget the valve free and leaks happen.
• 360º Cup: The model of this cup does not have a spout and this allows babies aged 6 months and older to simulate drinking from an open cup without the spills. The advantage is that it only comes with three main parts and is dishwasher safe.
• Cup with handle: The handle allows the child to hold the cup more securely and easily. Often the handles are ergonomic, designed especially for baby’s little hands.

Even with so many types of transition cups, your baby may have a hard time adapting. It is important to remember that each child has their own way of being and their time in developing skills.

Frequently asked questions about transition cup

There are several models of transition cups to choose from and with that different indications. As it is a transitional phase, having doubts is more than normal. We interviewed dentist Mariana Oliveira Andrade Brandão (CRO-MG 42180) specialist in pediatric dentistry to help with some of these questions. Read below:

What is the transition cup for? It is a cup that helps the child to pass from the bottle or breast to the cup in a safe and controlled way.

What are the advantages? Support for motor and cognitive development, promotion of new habits and a sense of confidence.

Are there any problems or contraindications? I do not recommend the transition cup. I advise going straight to the regular cup, or from the bottle to the cup if applicable, in children’s size and rounded edges. If the child has difficulties, use the transition cup for water only. As disadvantages, the child would have to have more than one cup for each type of drink and the spouts can pierce.

From what age is it recommended to use a transition cup? When the child is around 6 months old, he is already able to use a normal cup without a lid.

What precautions should be taken with hygiene? The same as the person in charge is already used to nipple and bottle. Sterilize with boiling water and dry well before storing to avoid mold.

When to use a transition cup and when to use a bottle? If for some practical reason the caregiver wants to use the transition cup, it is still better than using the bottle. And the ideal is to use the hard nozzle to avoid the suction force.

Also according to the pediatric dentist, we must respect the rhythm of each child. Maybe it takes a little longer for her to get the movement to bring the glass to her mouth correctly. The father, mother or caregiver has to assess the child’s ability at the time of development.

Transition cup experiences and reviews

Learn about the experience of those who used the transition cup, advantages and disadvantages. We separate 3 videos with reports from mothers and interviews. Watch!

Conversation with speech therapist about transition cups

In this video, the speech therapist emphasizes that babies should be exclusively breastfed at the mother’s breast until they are 6 months old. She also check out other tips on how and why to use a cup.

Baby trousseau consultant talks about which cup is ideal

Here, the consultant talks about the various cup models and which one is ideal for your child. Cups are introduced when the child is no longer breastfed or bottle fed.

Transition cup models review

The first cup you offer to the child is not always the cup he will adapt to. In this video, see some transition cup models that have been tested and approved.

Use these tips to help you decide whether or not to use a transition cup, as well as choosing the model and when to start.

Always remember to be patient. Learning to use a cup is a skill that can take your child a while to learn. If you still have questions about it, consult your pediatrician or pediatric dentist to help at this stage!