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 been opened, it needs to be refrigerated. It should be discarded 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, wash your hands.
Follow the directions 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.
Before opening the can, wipe the lid to remove dust and dirt from it.
Before preparingthe infant formula, leave the cold tap water running for 30 seconds to a minute. Themeaning for this is to allow any contaminants to run through. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, you should never cook or mix infant formula using hot water from the tap. The plumbing may have lead or lead solder and hot water can concentrate the lead. Only using cold water can help reduce your baby’s exposure to the lead from tap water. Boiling the water doesn’t get rid of the lead either, but you can use water filters which do remove lead from the drinking water.
Boiling water should only be done once. You should boil it for 5 minutes. If you boil it more than once, then you’ll change the concentration of minerals in the water.
After you’ve boiled the water, allow it too cool. Once it has cooled, pour it into the bottle. Once it has been filled, then add the powder formula. If you add the powder formula first, it will stick to the bottom of the bottle.
Again abide by the instructions 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.
Babies like their milk warm. You can place the bottle in a pan of hot water not boiling water. You can also buy a bottle warmer which works very well. NEVER 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 allow a few drops fall on your wrist. The infant formula should feel warm on your arm.
Always throw out the leftover formula from the bottle. The bacteria from you baby’s mouth are mixed in with the formula. It’s not safe to reuse.