Formula feeding is very popular among today’s mothers. However, preparing formula may be more in-depth than you think. Here are a few tips on formula preparation.

1. Make sure the equipment used in preparing the formula is clean. Wash hands thoroughly with anti-bacterial soap and warm water. Wash bottles, artificial nipples, rings, and any other instruments on the bottle or used in preparation in warm water with an anti-bacterial cleaning soap. After cleaning, boil the bottle and all its components, as well as the spoon that will be used to stir the formula for five minutes. This will help decrease the amount of germs that reach your baby via the bottle.

2. Boil water in a clean pot for at least two minutes. Boil water even if it claims to be purified. Cool water in pot with a clean lid on. Mix the formula according to the manufacturers labels. Following these labels is extremely important to the health of your baby. For ready to use formula, do not add water, pour contents into bottles and screw caps on tight. For a concentrated liquid formula, measure the concentrate into a clean measuring cup. Add an equal amount of water and mix completely but with care. Pour formula into clean bottles and screw caps on tight. With powder formula, measure the appropriate amount of water into measuring cup. Make sure water has been boiled and cooled. Use the scoop inside the can, and level it with a freshly washed butter knife or equivalent. After measuring the appropriate amount of powder, mix thoroughly and with care. Pour into bottles, and secure lid tightly.

3. Formula may be given to your baby cool or warm. Warm baby formula should be no warmer than body temperature. Formula can be warmed by running bottle under warm water making sure to keep nipple out of water or placing the bottle in a pot or bowl or warm water. Make sure to always test heated formula on your wrist before giving it to your child.

4. Store unused formula in the refrigerator until desired feeding time. Dispose of unused formula or formula that has been subjected to room temperature or warmer conditions for more than two hours. Store dry powder formula in a cool, dry location. Unused formula that has been created from powder may sit in the fridge for one hour, but no longer. With ready to use formula and concentrated formula, you may keep unused portions in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap for up to 48 hours.

5. Never substitute juice for breast milk or formula. Juice is high in calories and sugar and lacks the essential nutrients that milk provides. 100% juice may be added to the baby’s diet after the baby reaches six months, but should be limited to six ounces per day, otherwise the baby will lose interest in milk or formula. The high sugar content in juice can upset a child’s stomach and promote tooth decay. If you decide to mix juice with your baby’s formula make sure to wait at least six months, although it might be beneficial to hold off longer if possible.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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