The Kiinde Twist System promises to simplify breastfeeding, and this review dives deep into whether it delivers on that promise. We explore the system's unique features, including its versatile Twist bags that seamlessly transition from freezer to pump to bottle, eliminating the need for messy transfers. This detailed review covers the entire process, from direct pumping (with a discussion of potential challenges) to warming milk using the Kiinde Cozy warmer, and finally, the actual feeding experience with the innovative bottle design. We examine both the advantages and disadvantages, offering a balanced perspective for expecting and new parents considering this system.This comprehensive assessment looks beyond the convenience of the Twist bags, analyzing the overall design of the bottle, nipple, and warmer. We'll discuss the system's effectiveness in preventing colic, promoting a natural feeding experience, and potentially aiding in the continued success of breastfeeding alongside bottle feeding. Ultimately, we aim to provide you with the information you need to decide if the Kiinde Twist System is the right choice for you and your baby's needs.
Pros And Cons
- Twist bag can be frozen and refrigerated.
- Twist bag fits into the bottle shell and can be turned into a bottle with a nipple.
- Direct pump capabilities with adapter (requires separate adapter for some pumps).
- Nipple is easy for baby to hold.
- Hard plastic bottle shell makes it easy to see how much milk is left.
- Bottle design may help with anti-colic and anti-gas.
- Cozy warmer can heat milk from frozen.
- Cozy warmer is versatile and can be used with various containers.
- Direct pumping into the twist bag may not work for all pumps due to insufficient suction.
- Difficult to accurately measure milk volume when pumping directly into the bag without blowing it up.
- Twist bags are described as disposable, although reviewer suggests possible reuse with careful cleaning when filling from a bottle.
Read more: Top 10 Breast Milk Storage Bags 2017: A Comprehensive Review
Kiinde Twist Bags: Freezing, Refrigerating, and Direct Pumping
The Kiinde Twist bags are a unique feature of this system. Their versatility is a major selling point. They can be frozen, refrigerated, and even used directly with a pump, eliminating the need for transferring milk.
The bags hold 6 oz (175 ml) and are designed to fit perfectly into the Kind Express bottle shell, converting easily into a ready-to-feed bottle with the addition of a nipple.
While marketed as disposable, some users find them reusable after rinsing if used properly at home with good hygiene practices. The direct pump compatibility is a huge time saver for busy parents.
Direct Pumping Challenges and Alternatives
While direct pumping into the Kiinde Twist bags is an advertised feature, the reviewer found it challenging due to insufficient suction with their Medela pump. This resulted in difficulty accurately measuring the milk collected.
As a solution, the reviewer prefers to pump into a bottle first and then transfer the milk into the Twist bags for better tracking and control of the volume.
The reviewer suggests that direct pumping might be more effective with different pumps or may be a personal issue related to their specific pump and nipple.
Kiinde Bottle Assembly, Disassembly, and Warming
The Kiinde system comprises several parts: the nipple, outer shell, and the Twist storage bag. The reviewer praises the nipple's design for easy baby grip.
The hard plastic outer shell allows for visibility of the remaining milk and aids in anti-colic feeding. The reviewer explains how to assemble and disassemble the bottle.
Warming milk is crucial. The reviewer highly recommends the Kiinde Cozy warmer, which efficiently and safely thaws and warms milk, including frozen bags. This helps maintain the cream and fat content of the breast milk.
Cozy Warmer: Safe and Efficient Milk Warming
The Kiinde Cozy warmer is a significant component of the system. It can warm milk from both the refrigerator and freezer and is designed to ensure even heating.
The reviewer emphasizes the importance of proper use, ensuring the milk is fully submerged, there's backflow of water, and the warmer is sealed to prevent water from entering the bag.
The Cozy's versatility extends beyond Kiinde bags; it can also warm other bottles and containers. It is sold separately or as part of various system bundles.
Final Assembly and Feeding
After warming, the reviewer reassembles the bottle. This includes remixing the cream that separated during freezing, checking the temperature, and ensuring proper nipple placement.
The reviewer highlights how the nipple design prevents excessive milk flow, promoting a more natural feeding experience similar to breastfeeding.
The reviewer emphasizes that the system's design encourages the baby to work for the milk, preventing the bottle from being seen as a high-volume, easy-to-consume source of milk, promoting continued breastfeeding success.
Overall Review and Conclusion
The reviewer gives the Kiinde Twist System a five-out-of-five-star rating, particularly recommending it for breastfeeding mothers returning to work.
While direct pumping proved challenging, the system’s convenience in freezing, storing, warming, and feeding is a huge advantage.
The ease of use, the anti-colic design, and the ability to promote breastfeeding make it an excellent option for maintaining a breastfeeding routine while introducing bottles.