Bottlfeeding FAQs
Welcome! We hope that you find answers to your questions. click on the words to learn more about breastfeeding or pumping milk. To find a lactation consultant, click here.
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Visit these sites for more information:
http://www.healthychildren.org
Apps: Feed BabyPro
How do you prepare a bottle?
There are several simple steps written on the back of the infant formula. Remember to use sterile water and a clean bottle each time you make a bottle.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/a555284/making-up-a-bottle
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Do I need to use sterile water?
Use only sterile water when preparing infant formula. You can sterilize water at home with a few steps. Use cold tap water. Allow the water to run out of the faucet for at least 10 minutes. Do not use hot water. If you are using bottled water, there is no need to refrigerate it before sterilization. Next add the water to a clean pot. Bring the water to a boil. Do not add the hot water to the formula immediately. Allow the water to cool. Follow the directions on the formula to determine the appropriate amount of water and formula to mix together. Do not use a microwave to sterilize the water. Sterile water cannot be replaced with very hot tap water.
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/532147-do-you-have-to-sterilize-water-that-you-put-into-a-baby-bottle/#ixzz2FeFU8U6c
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Do I need to make a fresh bottle every time?
Unless you're using ready-made milk, always make a fresh feed for your baby. Don't store bottles of formula that you've already made. This is because bacteria can grow rapidly in formula milk kept at room temperature and can grow slowly in the fridge.
How often does a baby need a bottle?
Every 2 to 3 hours.
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/pregnancy-newborns/caring-for-newborns/breastfeeding-formula.html
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How do I know if the baby had too much or too little?
On average, a newborn consumes about 1.5-3 ounces (45-90 milliliters) every 2-3 hours. This amount increases as your baby grows and is able to take more at each feeding. Your newborn's diapers are another good indicator of when your baby is getting plenty to eat. You'll probably be changing at least six wet and four dirty (soiled or "poopy") diapers each day at first. Be aware that baby's have growth spurts where they will demand more food. These occur around 7-14 days old, between 3-6 weeks, 4 months, and 6 months.
http://www.babycenter.com/404_how-do-i-know-if-my-baby-is-getting-enough-formula_9137.bc
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How do you clean a bottle?
Wash all parts separately. Use hot, soapy water. Clean with a bottle brush. Rinse the bottles and attachments. Sterilize once. You need to sterilize bottles, nipples, rings, etc., only before the first use. The one exception: if you have well water. If that's the case, you might want to sterilize more often.
http://www.parents.com/baby/care/american-baby-how-tos/how-to-clean-baby-bottles/
What are the types/brands of formulas?
There are many types of baby formula:Soy, milk, extra special lactose free, etc. These are made by many brands: Store Brands, Similac, Enfamil, Gerber, Nestle Carnation, Earth’s Best. It is normal to switch from formula to formula until you find which one is best for your baby. The following link is an article on the best baby formulas. http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/baby-formula/buying-guide.html
Brands:
https://similac.com/baby-formula
https://www.enfamil.com/
http://www.gerber.com
http://www.nestleusa.com/
http://www.earthsbest.com/node/12
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Can a baby have an allergy to baby formula?
Yes. Talk with your pediatrician if you are concerned. Some common signs are excessive fussiness and a diaper rash. You will probably need to switch to a formula for sensitive babies.