What You Need:

• 6-8 bottles, glass or plastic. Buy the 240ml size with clear markings for the amounts.
• 6-8 teats. Try a few different types until you discover which best suits your baby.
• An insulated carry pack.
• Plastic knife (which can be sterilised) to level off scoop.
• Bottle brush for cleaning.
• Jug or bowl for warming bottle (or an electric bottle warmer).
• Formula dispenser for travel.
• Handy Hint
• Whether you choose to bottle feed, or need to use an occasional bottle, here are some handy hints to make it enjoyable for you and your baby.

How to Make up Formula:

• Sterilise bottles after buying and before each feed.
• Wash hands before preparation.
• Boil enough water for the day's feeds, let it cool down so it is warm, then measure water into bottles.
• Add formula to each bottle, using the scoop provided in the tin.
• Don't pack down the formula, but scoop it up loosely and level off with a sterilised plastic knife.
• Put the teats on upside down, put the caps on, shake until formula is dissolved, then store in the back of the refrigerator (not the door).
• If your formula doesn't mix well (i.e. it is lumpy) the water may be too hot or too cold.
• Warm bottle in a jug of hot water or use an electric bottle warmer.
• Microwaves heat unevenly, so it is vital to shake the bottle well and test.
• Never put the cap and teat in a microwave, as this can burn baby's mouth, or even melt in his throat.
• Don't keep made-up formula for more than 24 hours, even though it is refrigerated.

How Many Feeds?

Newborns: about 6 feeds in 24 hours. By 8 weeks they may be on 5 feeds, and by 6 months on 4 feeds. As the number of feeds decreases, the amount in the bottle increases.

Which Formula?

• Infant formulas are manufactured to provide all of baby's nutritional needs.
• Choose one brand, and use it consistently.
• There are two age categories of formula: 0-6 months, and 6-12 months (after 12 months, you can switch to cows milk).
• Most formulas are made from cows milk: but if there is a strong history of allergies in your family, a soya formula may be recommended.
• Discuss this with your Child Health Nurse.