Helping your baby move on from bottles is an important milestone for their health — and their smile!
In Ireland, the HSE recommends:
From 6 months: start introducing a free-flow training cup (a cup without a valve)
By 12 months: your child should be drinking from an open cup
This change supports healthy teeth, good oral development, and independence.
Choosing the Right Cup
Not all cups are the same. “Non-spill” or “no-valve” cups may seem handy, but they act just like bottles — your child has to suck, not sip.
Instead, look for cups that encourage sipping:
- A cup with a snap-on or screw-on lid that has a spout, but no valve
Cups with two handles for easy holding
- Small, sturdy open cups with weighted bases to stop them falling over.
Yes, they can be a little messy at first but every sip is great practice!
What to Put in the Cup
The drinks you choose make a big difference to your child’s teeth:
✅ Tap water (with fluoride to protect teeth)
✅ Plain milk (breastmilk or formula; from 12 months, plain whole cow’s milk can be offered)
❌ No fruit juice, fizzy drinks, or cordials — even diluted, these can damage teeth and cause cavities.
Remember: water and milk are the best choices every day.
When and How to Use Cups
Learning to use a cup takes time and a bit of patience! Here are some tips:
Offer small sips of water between meals in a free-flow or open cup
At mealtimes, encourage your child to sip from a real cup
Start with small amounts to reduce spills
Never let your child walk around drinking from a cup, it can lead to accidents
At bedtime: only offer water. Milk or juice at night can cause tooth decay
A Healthy Habit for Life
By helping your child move from bottles to cups from 6 months, and encouraging open cup drinking by 12 months, you’re supporting:
Healthy teeth and gums
Good oral and speech development
Independence and confidence
It’s a small change but one worth celebrating!