How do I prepare baby formula correctly?

Wash hands thoroughly, pour the needed amount of water into the bottle first (use 158°F/70°C water to kill bacteria), add leveled scoops of formula (typically 1 scoop per 2 oz water), roll the bottle gently to mix, then cool to body temperature (98-104°F) before feeding.

How long can prepared formula be stored?

Prepared formula can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours, or refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Once baby has started drinking from a bottle, any leftover formula should be discarded immediately due to bacterial growth risk.

What is the proper formula feeding position?

Hold baby at a 45-degree angle to prevent reflux. Keep the nipple filled with milk to prevent air swallowing. Make eye contact while feeding for bonding. Never prop the bottle or feed baby lying flat as this increases ear infection risk.

Complete Formula Feeding Guide

Q: Does my formula-fed baby need extra water?

Before 6 months, formula provides enough hydration and extra water is not needed. After 6 months, especially when starting solids, you can offer small sips of water between feedings.

Formula feeding provides complete nutrition for your baby. Learn the proper methods for safe and comfortable feeding.

1. Choosing Formula Types

Standard Formula

Cow's milk-based formula suitable for most babies. Available in stages: Stage 1 (0-6 months), Stage 2 (6-12 months), Stage 3 (12+ months).

Specialty Formulas

HA Formula (Partially Hydrolyzed): For allergy prevention, family history of allergies
Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula: For diagnosed milk protein allergy
Amino Acid Formula: For severe allergies
Anti-Colic/AR Formula: For reflux and severe colic
Soy Formula: For lactose intolerance or special cases
Preterm Formula: For low birth weight or premature babies

Note: Consult your pediatrician before choosing specialty formulas.

2. How to Prepare Formula

Basic Ratio

Most formulas: 1 scoop of formula per 2 oz (60ml) of water (Check the can instructions as ratios may vary by brand)

Proper Steps

Wash hands: Clean thoroughly with soap
Water first: Pour the needed amount of water into the bottle
Add formula: Level the scoop without packing
Mix gently: Roll the bottle side to side to avoid air bubbles
Check temperature: Drop some on your inner wrist to test

Water Temperature

When preparing: 158°F (70°C) or above (kills bacteria)
When feeding: Body temperature (98-104°F / 37-40°C)
Cool under running water if too hot
Avoid microwave heating (creates hot spots)

3. Feeding Amount Guide by Age

These are general guidelines. Each baby may vary.

Newborn to 2 Weeks

Per feeding: 1-2 oz (30-60ml)
Frequency: 8-12 times/day
Daily total: About 10-17 oz (300-500ml)

2 Weeks to 1 Month

Per feeding: 2-3 oz (60-90ml)
Frequency: 7-8 times/day
Daily total: About 17-24 oz (500-700ml)

1-2 Months

Per feeding: 3-4 oz (90-120ml)
Frequency: 6-7 times/day
Daily total: About 20-27 oz (600-800ml)

2-4 Months

Per feeding: 4-5 oz (120-150ml)
Frequency: 5-6 times/day
Daily total: About 24-30 oz (700-900ml)

4-6 Months

Per feeding: 5-6 oz (150-180ml)
Frequency: 5-6 times/day
Daily total: About 27-34 oz (800-1000ml)

6-12 Months

Per feeding: 6-8 oz (180-240ml)
Frequency: 4-5 times/day (alongside solids)
Daily total: Gradually decreases

4. Formula Feeding Position

Hold baby at a 45-degree angle (prevents reflux)
Keep the nipple filled with milk (prevents air swallowing)
Make eye contact while feeding
Never prop the bottle or feed lying flat (ear infection risk)

5. Burping Your Baby

Formula-fed babies swallow more air than breastfed babies, making burping important.

When: Every 2-3 oz (60-90ml) and after feeding
Method 1: Over the shoulder, patting the back
Method 2: Sitting on lap, supporting chin, patting back
Method 3: Lying face down across lap, rubbing back
If no burp after 5 minutes, it's okay to move on

6. Bottle Selection and Care

Bottle Types

Plastic: Lightweight, unbreakable (check for BPA-free)
Glass: Hygienic, heavy
Silicone: Lightweight and soft

Nipple Stages

Stage 0: Newborn, very slow flow
Stage 1: 0-3 months
Stage 2: 3-6 months
Stage 3: 6+ months
Change if flow is wrong (choking if too fast, fatigue if too slow)

Sterilization Methods

Boiling: 5 minutes in boiling water
Microwave sterilizer: Convenient
UV sterilizer: No heat sterilization
Cold water sterilization: Useful for travel
Every use for newborns, at least once daily afterwards

7. Formula Storage

Unopened: Cool, dry place
After opening: Use within 1 month
Prepared formula: Room temperature 2 hours, refrigerated 24 hours
Leftover from feeding: Discard immediately (bacterial growth)

8. Combination Feeding

Combination feeding (breastfeeding plus formula) is a great option.

Supplement with formula after breastfeeding
Or alternate between breast and bottle at different feedings
Breastfeed first if you want to maintain milk supply

9. Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I switch formula brands?

A. Yes, but switching suddenly may cause stomach upset. Mix the old and new formula gradually over 3-7 days.

Q. Should I make the formula more concentrated?

A. No! Always follow the exact ratio on the package. Too concentrated strains the kidneys; too diluted means inadequate nutrition.

Q. Does my formula-fed baby need extra water?

A. Before 6 months, formula provides enough hydration. After 6 months, especially when starting solids, you can offer small sips of water.

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO)