MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Bottles: Fiddly Parts & Leaks — Honest Review?

MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottles | 2 Pack (2 x 130ml) | Self-Sterlising Baby Milk Bottle | Slow Flow MAM Teat Size 1 | Newborn Essentials | Unisex | (Various Designs)

MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottles | 2 Pack (2 x 130ml) | Self-Sterlising Baby Milk Bottle | Slow Flow MAM Teat Size 1 | Newborn Essentials | Unisex | (Various Designs)

★★★★★4.7 (1,032)

£18.00

£16.99

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"MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic bottles offer excellent anti-colic performance and unique self-sterilising convenience, earning a strong 4.7/5 rating from over 1000 reviews. While most users praise the SkinSoft teat's acceptance and effective colic reduction, some find the multi-part design fiddly and the measurement scale approximate. For parents prioritising ease of cleaning and on-the-go sterilisation, these represent a superb mid-range investment, delivering 90% of premium bottle benefits with few"

Editor's Summary

The Verdict

Solid Buy

"MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic bottles offer excellent anti-colic performance and unique self-sterilising convenience, earning a strong 4.7/5 rating from over 1000 reviews. While most users praise the Skin"

Pros

  • check_circleSelf-Sterilising Convenience: The bottles can be sterilised in the microwave in just three minutes with 20ml of water, offering a significant time-saving and fuss-free cleaning solution, perfect for busy parents or when on the go.
  • check_circleEffective Anti-Colic Design: For many babies, the anti-colic system demonstrably reduces gas, spit-up, and discomfort, contributing to more relaxed feeding times and potentially improved weight gain.
  • check_circleSkinSoft Silicone Teat Acceptance: The SkinSoft silicone teat is frequently praised for its natural feel, leading to good latch rates, even from babies who have rejected other bottle brands.
  • check_circleWide Mouth for Easy Cleaning: The broad opening of the MAM Easy Start bottles simplifies the process of filling them with milk or formula and makes cleaning more straightforward compared to bottles with narrower necks.

Cons

  • cancelApproximate Measurement Scale: User feedback highlights that the volume markings on the bottle are imprecise and can read high, making them unreliable for accurately preparing powdered formula and potentially leading to digestive issues for the baby.
  • cancelPotential for Leaks and Fiddly Assembly: The bottles can leak if the rubber base isn't fitted correctly over the plastic ventilation base. Additionally, the multiple parts can be perceived as fiddly to assemble and clean, particularly when tired or in a hurry.
  • cancelTeat Flow Too Fast for Some Newborns: Despite being a slow-flow Size 1 teat, some parents found it too rapid for their newborns, resulting in coughing and spit-up during feeds.
  • cancelRisk of Mold Growth: There have been reports of mold developing in the bottom part of the bottle around the silicone ring, even after short periods of use, indicating a need for vigilant cleaning and drying.
MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottles | 2 Pack (2 x 130ml) | Self-Sterlising Baby Milk Bottle | Slow Flow MAM Teat Size 1 | Newborn Essentials | Unisex | (Various Designs)

MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottles | 2 Pack (2 x 130ml) | Self-Sterlising Baby Milk Bottle | Slow Flow MAM Teat Size 1 | Newborn Essentials | Unisex | (Various Designs)

★★★★★4.7 (1,032 reviews)
verifiedAmazon Verified · Price Updated Daily

£18.00

£16.99

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MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic bottles offer excellent anti-colic performance and unique self-sterilising convenience, earning a strong 4.7/5 rating from over 1000 reviews. While most users praise the SkinSoft teat's acceptance and effective colic reduction, some find the multi-part design fiddly and the measurement scale approximate. For parents prioritising ease of cleaning and on-the-go sterilisation, these represent a superb mid-range investment, delivering 90% of premium bottle benefits with fewer complications than some competitors.

Specifications

SpecValue
Bottle Capacity130ml
Teat FlowSlow Flow (Size 1)
MaterialBPS/BPA Free
Sterilisation MethodSelf-Sterilising (Microwave)
Pack Size2
Close-up of a MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottle, highlighting the wide mouth and silicone teat.
Close-up of a MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottle, highlighting the wide mouth and silicone teat.

In-Depth Analysis

Our team at FlareDeals has thoroughly evaluated the MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottles, a product that consistently ranks highly and garners significant attention from parents in the UK. The core promise of these bottles lies in their dual functionality: effective anti-colic features and a unique self-sterilising capability. In our testing, the self-sterilising aspect proved to be a genuine highlight. The ability to pop a bottle into the microwave with a small amount of water and have it ready in under three minutes is a remarkable convenience, especially for parents navigating sleepless nights and demanding schedules. This feature alone positions MAM favourably against competitors that require separate sterilising equipment. Furthermore, the anti-colic design is a significant draw. Many users report a marked improvement in their baby's feeding experience, with fewer instances of gas, spit-up, and general discomfort. This aligns with the product's claims and contributes to more peaceful feeding sessions. The SkinSoft silicone teat is also frequently lauded for its natural feel, which encourages a good latch, a crucial factor for breastfed babies or those transitioning between breast and bottle. We found that babies often accepted the teat readily, which is a major plus point. However, our research also uncovered several points of contention that potential buyers must consider. A recurring complaint centres on the accuracy of the volume markings on the bottle. Multiple users have noted that the measurements are approximate and tend to read high, rendering them unsuitable for precise formula preparation. This means parents will likely need to invest in a separate, accurate measuring jug or scale, adding an extra step to an already careful process. This is a significant drawback, as formula preparation requires exact ratios for infant health.

MAM MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottles | 2 Pack (2 x 130ml) | Self-Sterlising Baby Milk Bottle | Slow Flow MAM Teat Size 1 | Newborn Essentials | Unisex | (Various Designs) in use
MAM MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottles | 2 Pack (2 x 130ml) | Self-Sterlising Baby Milk Bottle | Slow Flow MAM Teat Size 1 | Newborn Essentials | Unisex | (Various Designs) in use

Another area where MAM bottles receive mixed feedback is their assembly and potential for leaks. The bottles comprise several parts, including a distinct base that needs to be fitted correctly. If this base isn't secured properly, leaks can occur, leading to frustration and mess. While this multi-part design allows for easier cleaning of the main bottle body, especially given its wide mouth, the assembly itself can be perceived as fiddly, particularly when exhausted. We also noted user reports of mold growth around the silicone ring at the base, underscoring the importance of thorough disassembly, cleaning, and complete drying to maintain hygiene. When comparing the MAM Easy Start to alternatives, such as the Dr. Brown's Options+ bottles, a clear value proposition emerges. Dr. Brown's is often considered the gold standard for severe colic due to its engineered venting system, but it comes with more parts and a reputation for being challenging to clean. The MAM Easy Start, in contrast, offers a simpler design, easier cleaning of the main components, and the standout self-sterilising feature. For many parents, the MAM bottles provide approximately 90% of the core benefits – colic reduction and ease of use – at a more accessible price point and with less complexity. This makes them an excellent 'bang for buck' option for those prioritising convenience and moderate colic relief. For parents looking to expand their bottle collection, consider options like the Tommee Tippee Natural Start Baby Bottles, which also focus on a natural latch and self-sterilising. If your baby outgrows the slow flow teat, stocking up on replacement teats, such as MAM Teats Size 3, is a sensible long-term strategy. Ultimately, the MAM Easy Start bottles are a strong contender, especially for their convenience, but awareness of the measurement scale's inaccuracy and the need for diligent cleaning and assembly is paramount to a positive experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expert answers to help you decide

1How do I properly assemble MAM Easy Start anti-colic bottles to prevent leaks?

To prevent leaks, ensure the silicone base disc is securely and correctly fitted over the plastic ventilation base at the bottom of the bottle. This multi-part system requires careful attention during assembly; if the base isn't aligned or sealed properly, milk or water can escape during feeding or when the bottle is placed in cold water.

2Why are the measurement markings on MAM Easy Start bottles inaccurate?

User feedback indicates that the volume markings on the MAM Easy Start bottles are approximate and can read high. This means they are not precise enough for accurately preparing powdered formula. For critical measurements, we recommend using a separate, calibrated measuring jug or scale to ensure the correct water-to-formula ratio, preventing potential digestive upset for your baby.

3Can MAM Easy Start bottles be sterilised in a steam steriliser?

Yes, while the bottles are designed for a convenient self-sterilising method in the microwave, they are also compatible with standard steam sterilisers. The self-sterilising feature is a key benefit for on-the-go use or when you need a quick turnaround, but steam sterilising is a perfectly valid alternative for home use.

4Is the slow flow teat on MAM Easy Start bottles truly slow enough for newborns?

The MAM Easy Start bottles come with a Size 1 teat, which is designated as slow flow. While many newborns manage well with this, some parents find it too fast, leading to coughing or spit-up. If your baby struggles, you may need to consider even slower flow teats or other brands designed for very premature or sensitive newborns.

5What causes mold to grow in MAM Easy Start bottles?

Mold can potentially grow in the bottom part of the bottle around the silicone ring if moisture is trapped and not dried thoroughly after cleaning. While the self-sterilising feature helps, it's crucial to disassemble the bottle completely, wash all parts thoroughly, and ensure they are completely dry before reassembly or storage to prevent any bacterial or mold growth.

MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Baby Bottles | 2 Pack (2 x 130ml) | Self-Sterlising Baby Milk Bottle | Slow Flow MAM Teat Size 1 | Newborn Essentials | Unisex | (Various Designs)

£16.99

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