How to Formula Feed Your Baby Safely

Whether you feed your baby breast milk or formula, your baby depends on you to help them eat well.

Mixing Formula Safely

Follow mixing directions exactly. Use the instructions on the can or from your health care provider. This ensures your baby gets the right nutrition.

Teach others how to mix it. If someone else cares for your baby, make sure they know how to prepare formula correctly.

Storing Formula

Throw away leftover formula one hour after your baby starts eating
If you prepare bottles ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator
Only make enough bottles for 24 hours at a time
Use refrigerated bottles within 24 hours

Warming Up Formula

Never use a microwave. Microwaving creates hot spots that can burn your baby's mouth.

Warm the bottle by placing it under warm running water or in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. Test the temperature by putting a few drops on your wrist. It should feel warm, not hot.

What Goes Into a Bottle

Babies get everything they need from formula and water. Ready-to-feed formula is already made, so you don’t need to add water. Don’t add sugar, juice, or infant cereal to your baby’s bottle.

How to Feed

Hold your baby upright when bottle feeding. Your baby likes to see your face.
Never prop the bottle. This can cause your baby to choke and may lead to ear infections.
Let your baby set the pace. Some days they'll want to eat more, especially during growth spurts. This is normal.

If you have more questions or concerns around bottle feeding, get in touch with WIC staff.