parenting

Lansinoh Nipple Flow Rates and Size Chart: 2S, 3M, 4L

By
Lansinoh Nipple Flow Rates and Size Chart: 2S, 3M, 4L

Lansinoh NaturalWave nipples come in extra-slow, slow, medium, and fast. The less obvious part is the code molded into the rim: 2S, 3M, and 4L identify the primary slow-to-fast progression.

Lansinoh nipple size chart

Lansinoh NaturalWave flow markings

NaturalWave optionRim markingHow to use the label
Extra-slowCheck the current package/rimSlowest option in the current 4-count lineup
SlowSize 2SCommon early starting flow
MediumSize 3MNext cue-led step after slow
FastSize 4LFaster option for coordinated feeders who find medium too slow

Lansinoh's current NaturalWave product page says there is no exact age when a child should switch flow. Watch feeding habits instead.

Where is the Lansinoh nipple size?

Remove the nipple from the collar and inspect the bottom rim in bright light. On current nipples, slow reads Size 2S, medium reads Size 3M, and fast reads Size 4L.

Keep replacement nipples separated by flow after cleaning if more than one child or caregiver uses the bottle system. The tiny translucent code is easy to miss during a 2 a.m. feed.

Signs to try a faster Lansinoh nipple

Lansinoh gives a useful cue: if your child sucks for a long time but cannot get milk as quickly as before, a faster nipple may help. Look for a consistent pattern across feeds rather than one off day.

Before moving from 2S to 3M or 3M to 4L:

  • Check the opening and air ventilation system for residue
  • Confirm the nipple is centered and seated correctly in the collar
  • Rule out overtightening or damaged silicone
  • Consider whether the baby is tired, congested, or distracted

Then test one adjacent flow. Our bottle nipple flow guide walks through the decision.

Signs to use a slower flow

Lansinoh says milk spilling onto the baby's neck can indicate the need for a slower nipple. Also watch for repeated gulping, coughing, hard swallowing, leaking from the mouth, pulling away, or difficulty fitting breaths between swallows.

Return to the previous flow if a new nipple causes those signs. See what too-fast bottle flow looks like. Repeated coughing or choking should be discussed with a clinician.

What bottles fit NaturalWave nipples?

Lansinoh describes NaturalWave nipples as a universal fit across its own feeding bottles, pumps, and storage products. That means the Lansinoh system—not every brand marketed as a standard neck.

Do not assume cross-brand fit. Venting and collar geometry matter even when a nipple seems to snap into place.

Cleaning NaturalWave nipples

Lansinoh says to sanitize before first use, separate the nipple after feeding, wash it in a dedicated clean basin rather than directly in the sink, rinse well, and air-dry. It also lists top-rack dishwasher and compatible steam-sanitizing methods.

The CDC similarly recommends cleaning after every feed and daily sanitizing for extra protection when a baby is under 2 months, was born prematurely, or has a weakened immune system. Read the complete CDC method.

Inspect before every use and replace damaged or weakened silicone. Do not stretch, cut, or enlarge the hole.

Compare Lansinoh with other nipple charts

This guide is educational and does not replace individualized feeding advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 2S mean on a Lansinoh nipple?
Lansinoh identifies its slow-flow NaturalWave nipple as Size 2S. Medium is Size 3M and fast is Size 4L.
Where is the Lansinoh nipple size marking?
The code is molded into the bottom rim of the nipple. Remove it from the collar and rotate it in bright light.
What age should I switch Lansinoh nipple flow?
Lansinoh says there is no exact switching age. Use feeding behavior: long, effortful feeds may suggest faster flow, while spilling, gulping, or coughing may suggest slower flow.
Do Lansinoh nipples fit every standard bottle?
Lansinoh describes compatibility across its own bottles, pumps, and storage products. Do not assume compatibility with another brand unless both manufacturers confirm it.
What Lansinoh flow comes after 3M?
Size 4L is the fast option after 3M medium. Move only when the current flow is consistently too slow and the faster flow remains comfortable and coordinated.