How to Introduce an Open Cup to Babies Without the Mess
By Expert-Designed Baby and Toddler Feeding Products | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: How-to Guides
Teach your baby to drink from an open cup with less mess. A step-by-step guide using the Tiny Cup, from first sips to independent drinking.
Quick answer
Start with a small, open cup like the Baby-LedTM Tiny Cup, fill it with just 1–2 teaspoons of liquid, and hold it to your baby's lips during a calm mealtime. Let them sip, then take the cup away. Practice once a day, and expect spills for the first few weeks—that's part of learning.
Why an open cup is worth the mess
Open cup drinking supports healthy oral and speech development, aids with teething, helps baby learn to have a strong swallow, and may help to prevent tooth decay. Unlike a sippy cup, an open cup teaches babies to use their lips and tongue together, which builds muscles for speech. The mess is temporary; the skills last.
When to start open cup practice
Most babies can begin open cup practice around 6 months, when they start solid foods and can sit upright with support. Look for signs of readiness: good head and neck control, interest in your cup, and the ability to bring hands to mouth. If your baby was born prematurely or has feeding difficulties, consult your pediatrician before starting.
Setting up for fewer spills
Choose a small, open cup that fits your baby's hands and mouth. The Baby-LedTM Tiny Cup is designed for this stage. Fill it with only a small amount of liquid—breastmilk, formula, or water—so a spill is no big deal. Use a bib and place a towel under the high chair. Sit facing your baby so you can guide the cup.
Step-by-step open cup practice
- 1. Prep the cup and your baby: Fill the Tiny Cup with 1–2 teaspoons of liquid. Seat your baby upright in a high chair, facing you. Put on a bib and place a towel under the chair. Checkpoint: Baby is calm and not overly hungry—this is practice, not a full feeding.
- 2. Model the sip: Hold the cup to your own lips and take a sip. Smile and say 'mmm.' Then bring the cup to your baby's lips, tilting it just enough for liquid to touch their lips. Let them sip or lick. Common mistake: Tilting the cup too far and pouring liquid into their mouth. Let them control the pace.
- 3. Hand over control gradually: After a few successful sips, help your baby hold the cup with both hands. Guide it to their mouth, then let them try on their own. Expect spills—they're learning. Checkpoint: If baby grabs the cup, let them explore. Bring a second cup if needed.
- 4. End on a positive note: After 1–2 minutes or when baby loses interest, say 'all done' and take the cup away. Offer praise. Clean up together. Next step: Repeat once daily. As skills improve, offer the cup at every meal.
Product facts
- Baby-Led™ Tiny Cup: The Baby-LedTM Tiny Cup helps baby transition from bottle to cup. It can be used with breastmilk, formula, and purees. You can use the same cup for milk and early purees, simplifying mealtime routines.
