Antique Victorian Baby Feeding Bottle - "Murder Bottle"

Antique Victorian Baby Feeding Bottle - "Murder Bottle" No chips or cracks.

Victorian “Murder Bottle” – Historical Background

During the late 19th century, the Victorian feeding bottle became a common household object, reflecting new ideas about infant care and convenience. These bottles were typically banjo-shaped or pear-shaped, made from glass or glazed earthenware, and fitted with a long rubber tube and nipple. The design allowed babies to feed without being held, which appealed to mothers and caretakers seeking an easier feeding method.

However, the very design that made these bottles popular also made them deadly. The narrow necks and long rubber tubes were nearly impossible to clean thoroughly. At the time, knowledge of germ theory and sanitation was limited, and cleaning instructions in household manuals often advised washing the tubing only once every few weeks. As milk residue spoiled inside the tubing, it created a breeding ground for bacteria.

By the 1870s–1890s, infant mortality rates in Britain were alarmingly high, and doctors began linking many of these deaths to contaminated feeding bottles. The devices eventually earned the grim nickname “murder bottles.” Public health reformers and medical professionals condemned their use, calling for sterilizable designs and promoting open-top glass bottles with removable teats instead.

By the early 20th century, improved bottle designs replaced the original “murder bottles,” incorporating heat-resistant glass, detachable parts, and easier cleaning methods. Today, surviving examples serve as striking reminders of the dangers of early childcare innovations before modern hygiene practices were understood.

All items in this store are antiques and collectibles, not for use.

• Intended strictly for display, collection, or educational purposes.

• Not for consumption, use, or medicinal purposes, including antique instruments.

• References to historical substances are for historical context only; items are non-functional and safe to handle.

• These items are over 100 years old and therefore fall outside modern regulations on controlled substances or medical devices.