Bubs’ Baby Formula Dos & Don’ts
Knowing which baby formula is best for your bub (and how to prepare it correctly) can be overwhelming at first, but we’re here to help. Read on for all the formula feeding advice you need to keep your little one happy and healthy:
Dos
How long does formula last?
Baby formula typically has a long shelf life, meaning you can stock up on it if you wish. However, it’s important to know how to store it properly. Your chosen formula will have storage tips on the label, but a few tips to keep in mind include:
- Keep unopened formula in a cool, dry place.
- Once opened, store it in a cool, dry place, ensuring the lid is tightly closed.
- Take note of the day you opened the container to ensure you use it by the last recommended day. To make things easy, you can simply write down the date on the tin!
- Toss the formula out if the ‘use by’ date has passed.
How to find the right formula for your bub?
It all depends on the baby. Some may love cow’s milk formula, while others may prefer goat’s milk – truly, every bub is different! Our advice is to try different types of formula and see which one your baby seems to enjoy the most (keeping allergies in mind, of course!).
Which feeding bottle is best?
While shopping for your little one, you’ll notice several types of feeding bottles on the market. There are standard bottles, with a narrow and cylindrical shape, and wide-necked bottles, which are shorter and wider. There are also anti-colic bottles – a bit more expensive but potentially helpful with colic symptoms.
All of these can be excellent options for your baby, but it is a good idea to choose a trustworthy brand that makes high-quality products.
Tips on preparing baby formula
One of the most important things when preparing formula is ensuring everything is as sanitised as possible. That’s why you should always start by thoroughly washing your hands and the area where you’ll be making your baby’s meal. It’s also recommended to sterilise the feeding equipment by boiling it in a large pan for at least 10 minutes.
How to mix formula?
Baby formula mixing instructions are typically listed on the tin. For safe formula feeding, follow the instructions carefully and use the exact measurements recommended.
Dont's
How long can formula sit out?
Our advice is to prepare a bottle before you feed your bub and avoid using formula that’s been out at room temperature for more than one to two hours.
How to prepare formula?
Always read the instructions on the package when preparing formula. If heating it up, avoid using the microwave – it makes it difficult to heat milk evenly, and you run the risk of burning the little one’s mouth.
Instead, put the bottle under running warm water, and before feeding your baby, check that the milk isn’t too hot by putting a couple of drops on your wrist or the back of your hand.
Do you have to warm up formula?
No, you don’t have to warm up your baby’s formula before feeding, but you may find that your bub prefers it that way. If that’s the case, remember what we said before: no microwave!
Formula storage tips
As mentioned earlier, we recommend mixing formula at feeding time. If, for any reason, you need to prepare some bottles in advance, pop them in the fridge immediately and use them within 24 hours.
Knowing how to prepare formula is key to keeping your bub well-fed, happy and safe. Be sure to read the instructions on the package carefully, and if you’re unsure, remember you can always reach out to your little one’s doctor for expert advice.
Built on Bubs® Trusted Nutrition, our formula is made with high-quality ingredients to give your little one all the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong. Shop premium baby formula at Bubs Australia.
