Anytime you’re going to buy infant formula you need to check the expiration date. You do not want to use it, If the expiration date has passed. Don’t even consider buying it. Also, pay attention to the condition of the formula container. If the container is damaged, such as, dents, bulges, leaks or rust spots don’t buy it. You should inform the store owner or manager of the problem.
There are two kinds of formula, one is the powder form and the other is liquid form. The ready-to-use formula, once it’s opened needs to be refrigerated and used up within 48 hours. You also should shake it well before opening it. When using either the liquid form or powder form make sure you read the instructions.
Before beginning, always wash your hands.
You must follow the instructions on the formulas. The instructions will varyfrom one formula brand to the next. Do exactly what it states so your baby will get the nutrients he/she needs.
Take a we wash cloth and wipe the lid of dirt, before opening it.
Now,turn the cold tap water on and allow it to run for 30 seconds to one minute before preparing the baby formula. Thegrounds for this is to allow any contaminants to run through. You should never cook or mix infant formula using hot water from the tap, says U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The pipes may have lead in them and the hot water can concentrate the lead. Using cold water can help your baby being exposed to the lead. If you want to boil the water, that will not work. You can use water filters which do remove the lead.
If you do need to boil water make sure to bring the water to a rolling boil for 5 minutes. Only boil the water once, otherwise doing it more will change the concentration of minerals in the water.
Using boiled water, allow it to cool before pouring into the baby bottle. Using cold water fill the baby bottle. Always, add the powder after you’ve added the water, otherwise the formula will be stuck in the bottom of the bottle.
Again abide by the directions of how much powder you need to add. The directions will be different from brand to brand. Make sure you put the lid make on the container.
Most babies like their milk warmed. Heat the bottle by placing it in a pan of hot water, not boiling water, for a few minutes. You can also buy a bottle warmer which works very well. DO NOT use a microwave. The formula will have hot spots and will burn the baby’s mouth. Shake the bottle after heating it, then turn the bottle upside down and let a few drops fall on your wrist. The infant formula should feel warm on your arm.
When done feeding, immediately throw out the leftover formula from the bottle; bacteria from the baby’s mouth are mixed with the formula during feeding. It’s not safe to reuse.