Most of us will have very few opportunities to make a bottle of formula before having a baby of our own. The good news is that the process is very easy and it only takes a few to turn you into a pro. Always wash your hands before making up the formula, and sterilise all parts of the bottles before you begin. The following steps show how to make up the perfect bottle each time you are feeding your baby.
How to Make a Baby Bottle?
#1 Fill the Kettle With Tap Water
Throw out any water that is already in the kettle and fill it with clean tap water. Using tap water instead of bottled water is important because the added minerals can be a bit too harsh for your baby’s sensitive tummy.
#2 Boil the Water & Kill the Germs
Boil the water and ensure that it doesn’t cool for more than 30 mins. The water should be hot enough to kill any bacteria that are in the formula, and this can only be achieved if the water is 70 degrees and above.
#3 Follow the Instructions
Following the instructions that come with your specific brand of formula, pour the required amount of water in the bottle. Measure the water at eye level by bending down if necessary to ensure that you are using the correct amount.
#4 Add Scoops of Formula
Add the recommended number of scoops of formula to the water. A scoop is provided with each container and the powder should be level with the top of the scoop. Using too many scoops can cause the baby to become dehydrated which in turn causes constipation, and too few will mean that they are not getting enough nutrients.
#5 Place the Sterilised Teat & Shake Well
Holding a sterilised teat by the edge, place it on the bottle and screw the retaining ring on tightly. Placing the sterilised cap on the bottle shake well until all the powder is completely dissolved.
#6 Test the temperature
Always test the temperature of the milk on the inside of your wrist before giving it to your baby. The formula should be body temperature and should feel neither hot nor cold when touching your skin. If the formula is too hot place the bottom half of the bottle under cold running water until it cools down sufficiently. If the formula gets too cold before use, it can be reheated by placing in a pan of hot water. Never heat formula in the microwave because this can create hot spots in the milk, caused by uneven heating which can burn the baby.
#7 Preserve the Bottle & Formula
Any milk that the baby does not drink should be discarded because it is possible for bacteria to grow in the formula. Also, throw away the entire bottle if the baby doesn’t drink it within two hours. Store bought ready-made formula can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours after it has been opened, because the contents have been sterilised before sealing.
Hopefully these steps have been helpful to get you started mixing formula for your baby, you now know how to make a baby bottle so good luck with making their first feed!
