Sippy cups have gotten a bad rap lately. There has been an array of articles posted recently regarding potential problems with tooth decay and difficulties with proper speech development with prolonged use of the beloved sippy. Yes, it’s convenient and easy for a child to use, and it’s hands free for parents. However, do the pros outweigh the potential cons? That’s for you to decide…
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by a vendor I have chosen to work with. I have received either paid compensation and/or free product in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own based only on my own experience.
If you do choose to forgo the sippy altogether here are my top three choices for great alternatives:
1. Doidy Cup

Pros: easy to drink from, dishwasher safe, mimics breastfeeding, easiest open rim cup on the market, easy for child to put back down
Cons: doesn’t have a lid so when your child first is holding it by themselves be ready for some spill
Available: http://connectmommies.com/doidy-cup/where-to-buy/. Sold for $9.95ea
2. EIO Cups

Cons: it’s glass so possibly breakable, can be a bit pricey
Available: http://www.eiokidscup.com/retail-locations.htmlsold for $18.99 ea
3. Straw Sippy
Unfortunately, I have never personally used one of these so I don’t feel comfortable recommending one over the other. But if your heart is really set on a traditional sippy, this is a very good alternative as it’s probably the closest thing to. The sucking action required can be good for developing muscles in the mouth necessary for proper speech development. However, the problem with tooth decay is still present if your child is constantly sipping on anything other than water.
Pros: most like traditional sippy, has a lid, cost effective, better for speech development
Cons: not as sterile, can have lots of parts to assemble/clean, potential risk of tooth decay, can be difficult for child to learn to drink from.
Available: at any major retail store carrying baby supplies. Most available under $10.
Further reading on problems with sippy cups:
http://colerainfamilydentistry.com/problems-with-sippy-cups.html
http://voices.yahoo.com/three-potential-problems-if-child-uses-sippy-205991.html
http://children.webmd.com/news/20080212/so-long-sippy-cups-hello-straws
I would love to hear your thoughts on any of these products or others you have found that work well for your family!
http://www.rubbermaid.com/category/pages/ProductDetail.aspx?Prod_ID=RP091206&CatName=Beverage
These are the containers my kids have always used. Easy to replace the straw.
Nice Nicole! Yes I used these a lot as a kid as well for all of my school lunches! Thanks for sharing!