Plastic vs Glass Baby Bottles: Which Should I Choose?

Article By
Stu
Published On
01 Jun, 2025
Read Time
3 minutes

When it comes to choosing the best baby bottle for your baby, the decision between plastic and glass can be a tough one.

Each option has its pros, and understanding them can help you make an informed choice that suits your family's needs. 

 

Plastic Bottles 

Glass Bottles 

Material 

Polypropylene 

Borosilicate glass 

Weight 

Lightweight and easy to carry 

Heavier, especially when full 

Durability 

Won’t shatter if dropped 

Strong and long-lasting but may break if dropped on hard surfaces 

Safety 

BPA- and phthalate-free 

Naturally free from chemicals 

Cleaning 

May stain or absorb odours over time 

Stain-resistant and odour-free 

 

Benefits of plastic baby bottles 

  • Practicality: Lightweight and easy to carry around, perfect for on-the-go parents. 
  • Durability: Resilient against accidental drops and everyday wear and tear. 
  • Variety: Available in a wide range of designs and colours to suit your style. 
  • Safety: BPA-free and free from other harmful chemicals. 
  • Recyclable: When made from type 5 plastic (polypropylene), many baby bottles can be recycled through appropriate local channels. 

Are plastic baby bottles recyclable?

Yes, plastic baby bottles are recyclable. In Australia, Polypropylene (PP) is identified as plastic type 5, and items like baby bottles made from polypropylene can often be recycled if your local recycling service accepts plastic type 5.

However, not all local councils collect polypropylene for kerbside recycling, so it depends on your area. It’s always best to check with your local council to confirm whether polypropylene is accepted in your recycling bin.

Benefits of glass baby bottles

  • Safety: Naturally BPA-free and free from other harmful chemicals. 
  • Long lasting: Are reusable and look like new for longer. 
  • Hygienic: Scratch, stain and odour resistant. 

Do glass bottles break easily?

Glass baby bottles are more robust than you might think. They’re made from borosilicate glass that's stronger than regular glass and so can withstand everyday use and are less prone to breaking compared to standard glass.  

However, they're still glass, so they may break if dropped on a hard surface. 

Borosilicate glass is a type of glass specially designed to handle heat, shocks, and everyday wear. Unlike regular glass, it’s made with boron trioxide, which means that it’s:  

  • More heat-resistant and won’t crack with sudden temperature changes  
  • Stronger, more durable and less likely to shatter if knocked or dropped  
  • Chemical-resistant and won’t absorb smells, stains, or leach anything into liquids  

It’s used to make things like laboratory beakers, cookware, and increasingly, baby bottles. For parents, it means a bottle that stays crystal clear, handles repeated sterilising, and gives peace of mind with every feed.   

Borosilicate glass baby bottles are not typically accepted in standard kerbside recycling programs in Australia. This is because borosilicate glass has a different chemical composition and melting point compared to standard container glass, such as that used for beverage bottles and jars.  

Other disposal options 

  • Check with local recycling facilities: Some specialised recycling centres may accept borosilicate glass. It's advisable to contact your local council or waste management facility to inquire about proper disposal methods. 
  • Repurpose: If the bottle is still in good condition, consider repurposing it for other uses, such as storage for small items or as a decorative container. 
  • Donation: Some charities or community groups may accept clean, usable baby bottles for reuse. 

Always ensure that any items donated or repurposed are thoroughly cleaned and safe for their intended use. 

Explore the Range

Glass & Plastic Baby Bottles

Choosing the best baby bottle for you (and them)

Ultimately, the choice between plastic and glass bottles depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and what works best for your baby. Whether you opt for the lightweight convenience of plastic or the long-lasting benefits of glass, Tommee Tippee offers a range of options designed with your baby's safety, nourishment and comfort in mind. 

Explore our full range of plastic and glass baby bottles, each thoughtfully designed to help you feel confident, whichever bottle you choose. 

Shop Bottles