Switching to a cup

Drinking from a cup

At 6 months, babies are ready to start learning to drink water from an open cup.

Tips to help your baby drink from a cup:

• Start with giving your baby water in a cup.
• Take away all bottles by 12 months. Only use a cup after 12 months.
• Use a small plastic cup with handles. No lids or spouts needed. It's okay if it spills

Transitioning to a cup 

Drinks your baby needs

From 6-12 months, the only drinks your baby needs is breastmilk, or formula, and cool boiled water.

After 12 months, you can give your child full fat cow's milk instead of formula milk.

Toddler follow-on formula milks are not needed

Do not give your baby juice, soft drinks, sweet or herbal teas. These have too much sugar and can cause tooth decay.

Start early with the cup and your baby will get used to it. Ask your doctor if you need help.

For more information download the brochure "drinking from a cup" 

Appropriate drinks