A baby is meant to be nursed AND HELD during a feeding. If one chooses not to or cannot nurse for other reasons, then at least hold the baby while bottle feeding. Babies absolutely need the physical contact that nursing affords them. Propping the bottle deprives them (and the parent)of a very crucial developmental bond, which can affect their emotional development also (I am not making this up). Babies who are not held for feeding, do not thrive in the same way as babies who are. Nursing is best, but it is not for everyone, so at least give the baby the cuddling aspect of the nursing experiencing by holding him/her during a feeding. Some experts even feel it is a good idea (if feasible, of course) to hold the baby to one’s skin while bottle feeding, to simulate whatever is lacking when not being nursed.
If Golfer’s scenario is what is going on in your house, GET SOMEONE ELSE TO HOLD AND FEED THE OTHER BABY. Please don’t prop the bottle. This is a very hot button issue with me.