Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet

Family and Consumer Sciences

1787 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210

Keep Baby's Formula Safe

MOB-004-99

Cheryl L. Barber, R.D., L.D.
Fulton County Extension Agent
Family and Consumer Sciences

If you have decided it is best for you to formula feed your baby, you need to know the right ways to mix the formula, and how to make and keep the bottles safe. Use these tips to help your baby start out on the right path to good health.

Step by Step Guide to Use as You Make Baby's Formula Safe

1. Wash your hands with soap and hot water.
2. Wash all bottle items: bottles, nipples, covers, can openers, and other things, inside and out, in hot, soapy water. Rinse and let air dry. Wipe off the formula can each time you use it.
3. Before you mix the formula, boil the water you will use with formula for at least five minutes.
4. Use the type of formula suggested by your doctor. Follow the doctor's instructions and use strict measurements when you make the formula.
5. Fill each bottle with formula for just one feeding.
6. Make only bottles needed for one day and do not keep made up bottles longer than 48 hours.
7. Make sure the made up bottles are kept between 35-40°F until ready to use. Any formula left outside the refrigerator, or a cold cooler, for more than two hours is spoiled and should be thrown out.
8. You may heat the bottle of formula so that it is warm to the touch, but not hot. If you want to heat the bottle, you should place the made up bottle in a pan filled with water and heat it on the stove. If you choose to heat the bottle in the microwave, make sure that the bottle is not too hot. Microwaves cause hot spots in food and liquid. Test the formula before you feed it to your baby, it may feel warm, but as the baby drinks, he or she may burn his/her tongue or throat from formula in a hot spot. To be safe, heat 6-8 ounce refrigerated bottles for 30-45 seconds and 4 ounce refrigerated bottles for 25-30 seconds. In addition, shake the bottle after heating and let it sit for a minute or two before testing it and feeding it to your infant.

Resources

Konzelmann, K. L., O.B. Wood, D. Vandergraff, S.J. Barkman, J. Roepke. 1994. "Have a Healthy Baby: Instructor handbook," Purdue Research Foundation, West Lafayette, IN.

Lackey, C.J. 1994. "The Notebook of Food and Food Safety Information," Cooperative Extension Service, Raleigh, NC.

Satter, E. 1991. "Child of Mine: Feeding with love and good sense," Bull Publishing, Palo Alto, CA.

Reviewed by: Alma M. Saddam, PhD, RD, Extension Specialist, Nutrition.