Sippy

A sippy cup, commonly referred to simply as a sippy, is a child-sized drinking cup designed to help infants and toddlers transition from bottle drinking to regular cups. It typically features a spill-resistant lid with a spout or straw and may include one or two handles for easy gripping. Many models use a valve-based seal to reduce leaks, though no cup is entirely leak-proof when inverted.

Designs vary, but most sippies use BPA-free plastic or silicone, with some versions made of glass or stainless steel. Handles and ergonomic shapes support early self-feeding skills, while soft spouts reduce jaw pressure for teething children. Cleaning is a consideration; many cups are dishwasher-safe, but some parts require hand washing to maintain seals.

Introduction and use: Parents commonly introduce a sippy cup between six and nine months as part of the weaning process, continuing to rely on it through the toddler years. The aim is to help the child learn to drink from a cup with minimal spills, eventually progressing to open or straw cups. Care should be taken to inspect valves and lids for wear, and to replace any cracked components to maintain safety.

Variants and terminology: The category includes spout cups and straw cups; some models feature non-slip bases or removable grippers. Among caregivers and retailers, the term sippy is widely understood as shorthand for a spill-resistant training cup.