Infant Formula
7 Ways to Mix It Safely
1. Make Sure the Formula Is Not Expired
Before using baby formula, always check for a “use by” or expiration date on the container. Expired formula can lose quality and become unsafe. Avoid using any formula that is out of date or if the package looks damaged or swollen.
2. Clean Hands Before Mixing
Wash hands with soap and water before touching bottles, scoopers, nipples, or other feeding items. Dry hands well and clean the surface where you will prepare the formula to keep germs away.
3. Sanitize Bottles and Equipment
Sanitize bottles and parts before first use, especially if the baby is younger than two months, born early, or has a weak immune system. Wash bottles, nipples, caps, and cleaning tools with hot, soapy water. Let everything air dry.
Sanitizing Methods
| Method | How to Do It |
|---|---|
| Dishwasher | Use a sanitizing cycle if available. |
| Boiling | Place items in boiling water for 5 minutes. |
| Microwave bag | Use a microwave steam sterilizer bag. |
| Steam sanitizer | Use a standalone electric steam sterilizer. |
| Bleach solution | Mix 1 gallon of water with 2 tsp bleach, soak items for 2 minutes, then air-dry. |
You usually only need to sanitize bottles before first use, unless the baby is very young, was premature, or is ill. After every use, always clean bottles and tools thoroughly.
4. Mixing Water With Powder or Concentrate
Infant formula comes in three forms: ready-to-feed, concentrated liquid, and powdered.
- Ready-to-Feed: You can pour it from the package straight into a clean bottle.
- Concentrated Liquid and Powdered: Mix with water as the label directs.
Water safety
Use safe, clean water to prepare formula. Tap water is usually fine. If you use well water, have it tested for bacteria, chemicals, and minerals. If you have any concerns or the baby has special needs, boil water for one minute and let it cool before using. At higher elevations, boil for a little longer. Let boiled water cool to room temperature and use it within 30 minutes.
Fluoride
Some tap water has added fluoride, which helps protect teeth. Bottled water like distilled, deionized, purified, or demineralized has very little fluoride. Using only low-fluoride water to mix formula all the time can affect the baby’s teeth and health. If your baby only drinks formula mixed with low-fluoride water, a health professional might suggest fluoride supplements.
5. Use the Right Amount of Formula
Mix the right amount of water and formula to keep your baby healthy.
- Too much water makes the formula too weak and reduces nutrients.
- Too little water can be hard on your baby’s kidneys and digestion.
How to Measure
- Follow the instructions on the formula label.
- Use the scoop that comes with the powdered formula.
- For concentrated liquid, measure both water and formula as directed.
- For ready-to-feed, pour it into the bottle—do not add water.
Extra Steps for High-Risk Babies
For infants under 2 months, born early, or with weak immune systems:
- Boil water, let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Measure after boiling.
- Mix with formula, then cool bottle quickly under cold water before feeding.
6. Warming the Bottle if Needed
You can serve formula at room temperature or cold. If your baby prefers warm, place the bottle in a bowl of warm water or run it under warm water. Test the formula by dropping some on your wrist—it should feel warm, not hot. Do not warm bottles in a microwave, as this can cause uneven heating and hot spots that could burn your baby’s mouth.
7. When to Keep or Toss Formula
Bacteria can grow quickly in leftover formula. If your baby does not finish a bottle in one hour, throw out the rest. Even storing it in the fridge does not make the leftovers safe. For unused ready-to-feed, cover and refrigerate the original package. Discard it if not used within 24 hours.
Storing Bottles for Later
- Label each one with date and time it was mixed.
- Keep bottles cold in the fridge.
- Throw away any bottle older than 24 hours.
- If unsure about safety, it’s better to throw it out.
Table: Formula Storage Guidelines
| Formula Type | Storage After Mixing | Discard If Not Used Within |
|---|---|---|
| Ready-to-feed (opened) | Covered, in fridge | 24 hours |
| Concentrate or powder made | Covered, in fridge | 24 hours |
| In the bottle after feeding | Not recommended—discard | 1 hour |
Tips for Safe Preparation
- Use clean hands and tools.
- Follow the formula’s label for correct dilution.
- Choose the right formula for your baby’s needs, such as iron-fortified, hypoallergenic, lactose-free, or formulas with added DHA or ARA. Some babies need special formulas, such as extensively hydrolyzed or soy-based types.
- Store all ingredients and prepared bottles properly.
Note: For more information on ingredient choices (like milk-based, soy, organic, or non-GMO), or what to look for in specialized or gentle formulas, consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for guidance.
Quick Reference List: Common Formula Types
| Type of Formula | Main Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Milk-based formula | Cow’s milk protein, often with added lactose | Most healthy infants |
| Lactose-free formula | No lactose, sometimes corn syrup added | Lactose intolerance |
| Soy formula | Soy protein, no cow’s milk | Milk protein allergy, vegan families |
| Hypoallergenic formula | Proteins already broken down | Milk protein allergy, digestion issues |
| Partially hydrolyzed | Partly broken down proteins | Sensitive tummies |
| Extensively hydrolyzed | Fully broken down proteins | Severe milk or soy allergies |
| Organic formula | Certified organic ingredients | Parents seeking organic options |
| Specialized formula | For specific health conditions | Reflux, metabolic needs, or other issues |
| Iron-fortified formula | Added iron | To prevent iron deficiency anemia |
