Sippy Cups and Drink Bottles

Transitioning from baby bottles to independent drinking is a big milestone and sippy cups make that whole process so much easier. They bridge the gap between bottles and open cups, helping babies develop the oral skills needed for drinking without constantly soaking themselves (and you and the floor, and everything nearby). Whether you're after spill-proof options for the car or trainer cups for learning, there's a cup designed for every stage of this (gulp) process.

What Is the Difference Between a Sippy Cup and a Drinking Bottle?

Sippy cups and drinking bottles serve different purposes as your child grows.

Sippy Cup

Sippy cups are designed for babies and toddlers learning to drink independently. They typically have spill-proof spouts or straws, handles for little hands to grip, and valve systems to prevent leaks. They are used from around 6 months onwards when transitioning from bottles. 

Read more about feeding your toddler for developmental guidance.

Drinking Bottles

Drinking bottles for toddlers and kids are like mini water bottles, usually with flip-top lids, straws, or sports caps. They're for older children who've mastered drinking skills and need portable hydration for preschool, sports, or outings. Less spill-proof than sippy cups but easier to drink from quickly, when they are ‘desperate’ for some water.

How to Know Which Type You Need?

Different cup styles suit different stages and needs:

• Sippy cups – Traditional spout design for first-time cup users (6+ months). Familiar feel similar to bottles which makes transition easier. Good for milk or water.

• Straw cups – Encourages proper oral development and coordination (9+ months). Easier for some babies who resist spouts. 

• Trainer cups – Handles on both sides for better grip, often with removable lids (6+ months). Builds confidence before moving to open cups.

• 360° / rimless cups – Drinks from any edge like an open cup but spill-proof when not sipping (12+ months). Promotes healthy oral development.

• Drinking bottles for toddlers & kids – For independent drinkers who need portable water bottles for childcare, kindy, or sports (2+ years).

What Key Features Should You Look For?

We always like considering these features when choosing cups and bottles:

• Spill-proof / leak-resistant – Valve systems prevent leaks in bags and reduce mess during learning. Essential for car trips and outings.

• BPA-free materials – All our feeding items are BPA-free, phthalate-free, and food-safe.

• Easy-grip designs – Handles or textured surfaces help little hands hold cups independently. Look for ergonomic shapes that fit small hands.

• Insulated options – Keep drinks cool for longer periods, especially useful in summer or for longer outings. Great for milk or water.

• Dishwasher-safe – Makes cleaning easier when you're washing multiple cups daily. Check all components are dishwasher-safe.

You can also browse our complete range of feeding essentials and bottle cleaning & sterilising products to support the whole journey.

Why Choose our Sippy Cups?

With over 40 years of experience in baby products, we know what works and what doesn't. We carefully curate our range, searching globally for sippy cups and drinking bottles that meet genuine quality standards. Every cup we carry has been chosen because it solves a real problem for families: proper spill-proof seals that actually work, BPA-free materials you can trust and designs that help babies develop drinking skills safely.

The Final Word

Learning to drink independently is messy, takes practice and involves plenty of practice spills. All completely normal. The right cup makes it slightly less chaotic while helping your little one build the skills they need. Be patient, keep towels handy and celebrate the small wins.