How to Prepare Baby Formula Safely Every Time

Preparing formula is one of the main differences between formula feeding and breastfeeding. Powdered formula is easy to store, but it requires careful measuring, mixing, and preparation to help keep your baby safe during feeding.

Baby formula labels include preparation and storage instructions, as well as a “use-by” date. Following those directions carefully is important because using too much or too little water, preparing formula improperly, or using expired formula can affect its safety and nutritional balance.

Proper mixing instructions

Wash your hands and clean the preparation surface before mixing baby formula. Bottles and nipples should also be clean. For babies younger than two months, babies born prematurely, or babies with weakened immune systems, additional sanitizing precautions may be recommended.

Measure the amount of water and powdered formula carefully, following the instructions on the formula container. Use the scoop provided with the formula, since scoop sizes can vary by product. Too much water can dilute the formula and prevent your baby from getting the nutrition they need, while too little water can make the formula too concentrated.

When preparing powdered formula, measure the water first and then add the correct amount of powder. Follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly rather than adding extra formula or water.

Prepared formula does not need to be warmed before feeding. If you choose to warm it, never use a microwave, which can create hot spots that may burn your baby’s mouth. Instead, place the bottle under warm running water or in a container of warm water for a few minutes. Test a few drops on the inside of your wrist before feeding to make sure the formula feels warm, not hot.

Water safety

Tap water can generally be used to prepare baby formula if it comes from a safe drinking-water source. If you are unsure about the safety of your tap water, contact your local health department or water provider for guidance. Bottled water can also be used, although most bottled water is not sterile unless the label specifically says so.

During emergencies such as natural disasters, flooding, or water main breaks, tap water may not be safe for preparing formula. Follow local water advisories carefully. Ready-to-feed formula is the safest option when safe water is unavailable because it does not need to be mixed with water.

If powdered formula is your only option during a water emergency, use bottled water when available. If local officials advise boiling tap water to make it safe from germs, follow their instructions before using the water to prepare formula.

How to Clean and Sanitize Bottles

If you have a dishwasher, completely disassemble the bottle, including the nipple, cap, rings, valves, and other removable parts. Rinse the pieces and place them separately in the dishwasher. Small parts should go in a closed basket or mesh bag so they do not fall into the dishwasher filter.

If possible, use hot water and a heated drying cycle or sanitizing setting. Once the cycle is finished, wash your hands before removing the items. Allow anything that is still wet to air-dry completely before storing it in a clean area.

If you wash bottles by hand, take them apart and rinse each piece under running water. Wash the parts in a clean basin used only for infant feeding items rather than directly in the sink. Use hot water, dish soap, and a clean bottle brush, then rinse thoroughly and allow everything to air-dry on a clean, unused dish towel or paper towel. Do not rub or pat the items dry with a dish towel, which could transfer germs back onto them.

Bottles should be cleaned after every feeding. Daily sanitizing provides additional protection and is especially important if your baby is younger than two months, was born prematurely, or has a weakened immune system. For older, healthy babies, daily sanitizing may not be necessary if bottles are cleaned carefully after every use.

One way to sanitize bottles is to place the disassembled, cleaned parts in boiling water for five minutes, as long as the manufacturer says the items can be boiled. Remove them carefully with clean tongs and allow them to cool and air-dry completely before using or storing them.

If you use a dishwasher with hot water and a heated drying cycle or sanitizing setting, a separate sanitizing step is generally not necessary.

Storing Baby Formula

Throw out any formula left in a bottle after feeding. Formula that has come into contact with your baby’s mouth should not be saved for later because bacteria from their saliva can grow in the formula.

Prepared formula should generally be used within two hours of preparation and within one hour after feeding begins. If you prepare a bottle but do not plan to use it within two hours, refrigerate it immediately and use it within 24 hours. After that, it should be discarded.

Powdered baby formula should be stored in a cool, dry place, such as a cabinet, and should not be refrigerated. Keep unopened and opened containers away from excessive heat, moisture, and potentially contaminated storage areas such as garages or outdoor spaces.

Once a container of powdered formula has been opened, it typically should be used within one month, although you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Writing the date you opened the container on the lid or label can help you keep track.

Infant formula containers must include a “use by” date. Do not use formula after that date.

Formula Mixing Errors

One of the most common formula-preparation mistakes is using too much or too little water. Do not try to “eyeball” the amount. Formula is designed to provide the right balance of nutrients only when it is mixed according to the instructions on the container. Even small changes in the amount of water can make the formula too diluted or too concentrated.

Scoop mistakes can also affect the mixture. Always use the scoop that comes with the formula container, since scoop sizes can vary between products and brands. Measure the powder exactly as directed on the label, and do not pack the scoop or add extra powder unless the instructions specifically tell you to do so.

Careful measuring and mixing can help ensure that your baby receives formula in the concentration intended by the manufacturer. When switching formulas, always read the new product’s preparation instructions rather than assuming the measurements are the same.

Premature infants can have different feeding needs and face a greater risk of NEC. If your baby was born at 36 weeks gestation or earlier, was fed a qualifying infant formula or fortifier shortly after birth, and then developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), Morgan & Morgan can review what happened and help you understand your legal options. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.