Cup Drinking for Babies: When and How to Start

When to Introduce a Cup

Most babies are ready to start cup drinking around 6 months, alongside their first solid foods. At this stage, babies can usually sit upright with support and are developing the coordination needed to bring objects to their mouth. Offering small sips of water in a cup at mealtimes helps them learn without replacing breast milk or formula.

Both the NHS and AAP recommend introducing a cup early and aiming to reduce bottle use by around 12–18 months. Starting earlier makes the transition smoother because your baby learns the skill gradually. Waiting too long can make it harder to break bottle habits later.

In the beginning, your baby will mostly play, spill, and explore the cup. That’s expected and part of learning. Keep offering small amounts (1–2 tablespoons or 15–30 ml of water) during meals, and focus on practice rather than intake.

• arrow_rightStart around 6 months when solids begin
• arrow_rightOffer small sips of water with meals
• arrow_rightUse practice, not pressure, as your goal
• arrow_rightContinue breast milk or formula as the main drink
• arrow_rightExpect spills and mess-it’s part of learning

Types of Cups Explained

There are several types of cups marketed for babies, and each supports slightly different skills. The most recommended options are open cups and straw cups, as they promote natural oral development and drinking patterns. Sippy cups with valves are less encouraged because they can mimic bottle sucking.

An open cup is simply a small cup your baby drinks from without a lid. It helps develop lip control, tongue movement, and coordination. A straw cup requires your baby to suck liquid through a straw, which supports oral strength and coordination in a different way.

Some parents use both types of cups, offering variety and flexibility. The key is to avoid prolonged reliance on no-spill sippy cups, as they can delay skill development and prolong bottle-like habits.

• arrow_rightOpen cup: supports natural drinking skills
• arrow_rightStraw cup: builds oral strength and coordination
• arrow_rightSippy cup: less preferred for long-term use
• arrow_rightStart with small, lightweight cups
• arrow_rightChoose easy-to-clean designs

How to Teach Cup Drinking

Teaching your baby to drink from a cup is a gradual, hands-on process. Start by offering a small open cup with just a little water. Hold it for your baby and gently tip it toward their lips. Let them explore the sensation of sipping without expecting them to drink much.

For straw cups, you can demonstrate by exaggerating sipping actions or using a cup that allows you to gently squeeze liquid up the straw. Many babies learn quickly through imitation. Repetition and consistency are key-offer the cup at most meals.

Keep sessions relaxed and positive. Avoid correcting or rushing your baby, as this can create resistance. Over time, your baby will develop better coordination and begin drinking more independently.

• arrow_rightStart with 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) of water
• arrow_rightHold the cup and guide it to their mouth
• arrow_rightModel drinking behaviour
• arrow_rightPractice daily during meals
• arrow_rightExpect gradual progress over weeks

Open Cup vs Straw Cup

Both open cups and straw cups are considered good choices, and many experts suggest offering both. Open cups support natural sipping mechanics and help your baby learn to control liquid flow. They also encourage better posture during drinking.

Straw cups are often easier for babies to manage earlier because they require less tilting. They can also reduce spills and allow babies to drink more independently sooner. For some families, straw cups are more practical when out and about.

There’s no need to choose just one. Offering both types allows your baby to develop a wider range of skills. What matters most is avoiding prolonged use of bottles or spill-proof cups that mimic sucking.

• arrow_rightOpen cups: best for oral development
• arrow_rightStraw cups: practical and portable
• arrow_rightBoth can be used from around 6 months
• arrow_rightRotate to build different skills
• arrow_rightAvoid long-term reliance on sippy cups

Common Challenges and Fixes

Spilling is one of the most common concerns, especially with open cups. While messy, it’s a normal part of learning. Using small amounts of liquid and practicing at predictable times (like meals) can help manage this stage.

Some babies refuse cups at first, especially if they are used to bottles. In this case, try offering the cup when your baby is calm and not overly hungry. You can also let them explore the cup without pressure, or try a different type such as a straw cup.

Gagging or coughing can happen if too much liquid flows too quickly. Slow down, use smaller sips, and support your baby’s posture by keeping them upright.

• arrow_rightUse small volumes to reduce spills
• arrow_rightPractice when baby is calm and alert
• arrow_rightTry different cup styles if needed
• arrow_rightKeep baby upright during drinking
• arrow_rightStay patient-skills take time

Weaning from the Bottle

The AAP recommends beginning to transition away from bottles around 12 months and completing the transition by 18 months. Prolonged bottle use is linked to dental issues and can affect appetite for solid foods.

Start by replacing one bottle per day with a cup, often beginning with daytime feeds. Gradually reduce bottle use over weeks rather than stopping suddenly. Many parents find the bedtime bottle is the hardest to remove, so it’s often tackled last.

Offer milk in a cup during meals instead of between meals. This helps your baby associate cups with drinking and supports structured eating habits.

• arrow_rightBegin reducing bottles around 12 months
• arrow_rightReplace one bottle at a time
• arrow_rightKeep bedtime bottle for last if needed
• arrow_rightOffer milk in a cup with meals
• arrow_rightAim to stop bottles by 18 months

How Much Should Babies Drink?

For babies aged 6–12 months, breast milk or formula remains the primary source of nutrition. Water is introduced mainly for practice, with small amounts (up to 60–120 ml per day) offered alongside meals. Excess water can reduce appetite for milk feeds, so moderation is important.

After 12 months, whole milk becomes a key drink, with recommended intake around 350–400 ml per day according to NHS guidance. Water should also be offered regularly, especially with meals and snacks.

Cup drinking helps regulate thirst naturally. Let your baby decide how much to drink, while ensuring regular opportunities throughout the day.

• arrow_right6–12 months: small sips of water (60–120 ml/day)
• arrow_right12+ months: 350–400 ml milk daily
• arrow_rightOffer water at every meal
• arrow_rightAvoid sugary drinks and juices
• arrow_rightFollow baby’s hunger and thirst cues

Safety and Hygiene Tips

Always supervise your baby while drinking, especially when using an open cup. Make sure your baby is seated upright to reduce the risk of choking or coughing. Avoid letting your baby walk or crawl while drinking.

Clean cups thoroughly after each use, especially straw cups which can trap residue. Regularly check for mould or buildup in valves and straws. Sterilising is recommended for younger babies under 12 months, depending on your local guidance.

Avoid putting anything other than water or milk in cups for babies. Sugary drinks and juices increase the risk of tooth decay and are not recommended by the NHS or WHO for infants.

• arrow_rightAlways supervise drinking
• arrow_rightKeep baby seated upright
• arrow_rightClean cups thoroughly after each use
• arrow_rightCheck straws and valves for buildup
• arrow_rightAvoid juice and sugary drinks

❓Frequently Asked Questions