• Nipples for baby bottles are available in numerous materials, shapes and sizes.Jeffrey Coolidge/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  Baby bottle nipples are available in a wide range of types, which is a big change from the days of just one type of nipple being an option. The baby should be in the driver's seat when it comes to deciding which nipple is the best type for him. Initially, it is best to buy one of each of a variety of nipples and try those out. Then you can observe your baby while feeding to determine which nipple he prefers and takes most readily. From there, you can purchase a larger quantity of that type.
  
  

Material

• You have several choices when it comes to the material from which bottle nipples are made. Nipples for baby bottles typically consist of latex or silicone and sometimes rubber. Although latex nipples are softer than silicone, they are not as sturdy, and thus you will have to replace them more frequently. Silicone nipples are more firm and usually easier to clean.
  
  

Shape

• In terms of shape, the standard bottle nipple is tall and shaped like a dome. Breastfed babies might prefer flat-topped nipples, because they are designed to resemble the mother's breast shape more closely. The orthodontic nipple, as the name implies, is intended to mesh well with the shape of the baby's mouth. Ultimately, your baby will give you cues as to which nipple shape he prefers and which is compatible with his sucking style. This is likely the nipple shape that you should continue using.
  
  

Size and Flow

• There are various types available in nipple size and flow speed. The nipple hole out of which the liquid in the bottle flows should be the appropriate size for your baby, because otherwise your baby's feeding speed could be too slow or fast. The nipple hole size controls the speed of the liquid flow from the bottle. As is the case with nipple shape and other factors, you will probably need to experiment with various nipple size and flow choices to find the best one for your baby. If it seems that the milk is not coming out of the bottle quickly enough, your baby may need a nipple that has a larger-sized hole, but try a nipple with a smaller hole if the liquid is flowing too quickly from the bottle.
  
  

Age

• Nipples are available in different types for different ages of babies and toddlers. It is important to get the correct type based on your child's age. If your baby is a newborn, you can get the smallest-sized nipples. The nipple packaging is often marked to indicate the size and thus the age of child for which that nipple would be appropriate. Examples of sizes are size one and size two, with size one most likely being a good match for newborns.