Whether you’ve decided to give your baby formula or need to supplement with formula because breastfeeding isn’t working out for you, it is important to be extra careful with the preparation of your baby’s milk.

Dos

• Do check if the formula milk you are using is ideal for your baby’s weight and age. This is to ensure that your child gets the nutrients that he or she needs at that particular stage.
• Do check the expiration date on the container of formula. Also ensure that it is not damaged. Check to see the container is sealed properly when you first open it.
• Do practice cleanliness and good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly prior to preparation. Sterilize all baby bottles, nipples, rings, and caps regularly.
• Do mix and measure carefully. Use the right amount of water to mix with the amount of formula indicated on the package instructions.
• Do check the temperature of the milk in the bottle prior to feeding. Ensure that it is body temperature by squiring a few drops of milk on the top of your hand.
• Do find the right position for you and your baby. Make yourself comfortable, and hold your baby at a 45-degree angle to reduce the amount of air consumed by your child while feeding.

Don’ts

• Don’t return formula to the refrigerator if it is unfinished. Always discard formula if it has been in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Also do not use formula that has been at room temperature for over two hours.
• Don’t force your baby to finish the bottle if he or she starts to show signs of being full, as forcing your child to finish a bottle may lead to excess weight gain. Remember that the formula-fed baby does not generally eat as frequently as a breastfed baby.
• Don’t heat milk bottles in the microwave. It not only destroys nutrients found in your formula milk, but could also lead to hot spots in the milk that might scald your baby’s mouth.
• Don’t leave your baby unattended with the bottle, even if he or she is able to hold the bottle independently.