Formula Choice and Preparation

If you bottle-feed your baby, ask your doctor what kind of formula is best for her. Formula is sold in three ways.

• Powdered formula is the cheapest. You have to mix the powder with sterilized water.
• Concentrated formula is a liquid, but it is thick and must be mixed with water. It costs more than powdered formula.
• Ready-to-feed formula comes already mixed with water. It costs the most but is the easiest to use.

Follow formula mixing instructions carefully. There is a date on the formula. Don't use the formula after this date. The formula is not safe to give to your baby after this date.

Wash reusable bottles made of plastic or glass. Also wash all equipment used to prepare formula. Use hot, soapy water. Rinse the bottles in clean tap water. If you have well water, boil bottles for five minutes in a covered pot or sterilizer. You should do this until your baby is 3 months old. You may also put bottles in the dishwasher.

This is how to prepare formula.

• If you have well water, boil it for five minutes and let it cool. Then mix it with powdered or concentrated formula. City water is okay without boiling.
• If you use bottles with disposable liners, throw away liners after use.
• Keep already mixed formula cold in the fridge. Use it within 48 hours. Throw out any formula left in the bottle after a feeding.

To heat a bottle of formula, run hot water over it. Never heat formula in the microwave. It can get too hot. Check the temperature by shaking a few drops on your wrist. When it feels warm (not hot) on your wrist, it is cool enough to give to your baby.

(Adapted from MCHB, Healthy Start Grow Smart, Your Newborn: www.ed.gov/offices/OESE/earlychildhood/healthystart)