If you’re reading this, I believe it’s time to upgrade your baby’s feeding strategies. The shift from breastfeeding to formula milk is never easy. There is always uncertainty, especially for first-time moms. Though breast milk is highly recommended, some situations require a formula intervention.

Infant milk formula needs thorough evaluation to ensure the baby receives the right amount. Formulas should be taken until the baby turns 12 months and should be given in the right measures. It’s a procedure that calls for clean equipment, sound measurements, and safety to avoid any healthy issues.

Introducing baby formula

Infant formula is readily designed for babies who are partially breastfeeding or completely not breastfeeding. The product works for newborns up to 12 months old. Like breast milk, babies using formula milk should be fed exclusively until 6 months. From the 6-7 month, the mother or guardian can introduce solid foods.

Doctor or Midwife intervention

It’s wise to consult your doctor or midwife about the new formula feeding. This will allow you to review different formulas and settle for the best. Most baby infant formulas are made from cow milk, which is compatible to most babies.

Cow milk formula

Once you have concluded on introducing infant formula, getting the right cow-milk formula becomes challenging. The market possesses multiple formulas, which are okay based on the user’s experience. There are flavored formulas and standard formulas. One can also avail special formulated flavors such as hypoallergenic anti-reflux or lactose-free baby formulas.

The flavors are designed to fit each baby’s preference. However, before settling for flavored or special baby infant formulas, ensure to involve your doctor.

What to check when purchasing baby milk formula

Now that you’re settled on a particular milk formula. There are several points to check before purchasing the milk.

• Expiration Date

You can never make the mistake of purchasing an expired formula. I believe we don’t want to start on the wrong footing. Always check the dates to ensure it will withstand the said duration. The dates will be indicated by:

Use by or best before, or expires before.

• Infant milk formula stages

Most manufacturers indicate the stages suitable for feeding the formula. For example, infants aged 0 to 3 or 0 to 6 can have their particular formula. After weaning, one can avail milk formula from 6 months to 12 months (1 year).Parents/guardians need to check the right stages to ensure they feed the right amount of nutrients.

• Products

There is no harm in reading the products that make up the formula. Suppose your baby has an allergy to a specific product. This will allow one to avoid the particular formula. Check for flavors to see what your baby likes or doesn’t like.

Must have for the Baby formula feeding process

With the right formula in hand, you need to check on equipment or feeding requirements. The items should be clean and well-sterilized to avoid germs and bacteria buildup. Parents/guardians need to avail the following:

• Baby feeding bottles

A complete feeding bottle comes with teats, caps, sealing discs, and collars. Based on the baby’s age, choose the right type of bottle or teat for adequate feeding.

• Bottle and teat brush

There are special brushes designed for cleaning the teat and bottle to ensure every part is thoroughly done. This keeps the equipment fresh and clean all the time.

• Sterilizing equipment

For the sterilizing process, one can set apart a pot to help in boiling the feeding items. One can opt for a steam sterilizer or chemical sterilizers (cold water). However, boiling works for most users as no additives are required.

• Covered container

Infant formula requires some warm water, which should be boiled and left to cool. For germ free cooling process, avail a well-covered container. Always clean the container after the water is used to avoid residues sticking to the basement.

Cleaning and sterilization procedure for all feeding equipment

The cleaning and sterilizing stage is quite significant as babies develop infection-related issues fast. This is likely obtained from feeding bottles (teats) due to dirt or germs. It’s advisable to clean and sterilize the equipment using warm water. Proper rinsing also comes in handy to remove any residues and soap.

Here is a simple cleaning and sterilizing procedure to follow:

• Wash your hands using running water and soap.
• Next, clean and sterilize the sink or working area. Using a clean cloth, clean and dry off the area.
• Using warm or hot water, clean the feeding items with the brush to ensure every corner is clean.
• Now, rinse every equipment with running water as you proceed to the sterilizing process.

Sterilizing process

• The procedure should be conducted until the baby is 6 months old. However, one can opt to continue for safety reasons.

Sterilization options

• Boiling
• Steaming
• Sterilizing tables/solutions.

Parents/guardians can sterilize the feeding bottles by boiling them to kill germs and potential infections. After washing and rinsing the items, immerse the bottles in water in a large boiling pot. Next, cover the pot and let the water boil for a minute or two. Once done, don’t remove the cover and let the bottles rest; remove them when needed.

For steam and table sterilization, ensure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for effective response. The bottles should remain in the solution of the sterilizer until required for feeding. To keep a continuous cycle, one should keep their hands and surfaces clean.

Baby Infant milk Formula Preparation

Caution

• Babies should be fed fresh formula every time or with each feeding. It’s possible for formulas to harbor bacteria that can cause serious infection in the baby.
• Before preparing, ensure to review the labels and guidelines indicated on the formula.
• Check the dates to avoid expired milk.
• After use, close the containers tightly and keep it cool and dry.
• Remember to use the formula within the set range (4 weeks).

Preparation process

• Boil clean water and pour it into the water container. Cover and let it cool you can also place it outside to allow direct sunlight (if possible).
• Ensure the water is from a clean source, either tap, tank or purchased. However, based on location and water source, always boil to make sure it’s safe.
• With the working surface clean and dry. Wash your hands and read the instructions on how many scoops to make for a particular water level.
• Next, pour the correct amount of water from the container.
• Open the can and scoop the right amount. Note, never add the formula amount or reduce to avoid complications on the baby’s health. Also, always pour water before the formula.
• Proceed to attach the collar and teat to the bottle. Don’t hold the teat top.
• Continue to cover the teat and shake the bottle gently to give an even formula distribution.
• When properly mixed, check the temperature to ensure its fit for the baby.
• Hold the baby in the right position and feed the baby. Suppose the baby does finish the whole bottle, don’t keep it for more than two hours. Pour the milk out, clean the bottles again, and sterilize them for next use.

What happens if I prepare the infant milk formula before feeding time?

It’s not advisable to prepare infant formula beforehand to avoid germs and infections. However, some moms prefer to prepare the milk before leaving for work or errands. This gives one peace of mind that the baby won’t be fed more or less by the child minder.

For such cases, parents/guardians can prepare the formula on an individual bottle and store in the refrigerator. However, the formulas shouldn’t stay beyond 24hours. It’s also advisable to consult your doctor or health professional for proper information.

When to feed your baby

We all check out for different signs like crying, thumb sucking, rooting, and more. However, parents/guardians can set feeding times to allow rest. Most babies feed after every 2-3 hours or 3-4 hours based on age. The baby can feed four/five times, again based on the age and “hunger” levels.

Conclusion

Infant formulas work well if prepared and served as directed. Always consult with your doctor if you notice any changes or reactions in the baby. However, when done in the right way, it’s among the best ways to keep your baby healthy and well-fed.