Victorian "murder bottle"
These bottles contributed significantly to infant mortality rates in the late 1800's, where only 2 out of 10 babies normally survived until 2 years of age. Their use led to the deaths of thousands of babies. The rubber tubes connecting the bottle to the nipple were nearly impossible to clean and developed cracks over time, making them potent breeding grounds for numerous diseases that caused horrifying and painful deaths.
The public often ignored practical medical advice and actual facts, as demonstrated in the popular 1861 book,Mrs. Beeton's Household Management , a guide on managing a Victorian household. Mrs. Beeton advised new mothers that it was not necessary to wash the nipple for two or three weeks, allowing the bacteria to flourish and become deadly. This only added to the already problematic “banjo” design and tubing.
These bottles were kept in existence until the 1920s, even though Buffalo, NY had outlawed them in 1897 giving them the term “murder bottles”. Much of the ongoing popularity was attributed to the fact that the baby could be left unattended to feed, even before the baby was old enough to hold the bottle. The bottles were even packaged as rug cleaners and other household goods that once used up could be converted into a baby bottle!
We do offer combined shipping on orders, please send a message regarding your order so shipping can be properly calculated. online
Product code: Victorian ornate Daisy brand "murder bottle" online