Formula Feeding Essentials

Hey there, mama! While breastfeeding may steal the limelight, we know that formula feeding is a valid and loving choice for nourishing your little one. Today, we'll dive into practical tips to help you navigate the world of formula feeding with confidence and grace. If you want to know more about why I decided to formula feed, check that out here. 

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As you embark on your formula feeding journey, having the right tools and supplies can truly make a difference. Let's dive into a list of must-have items that will set you up for feeding success!

Formula:

Although each formula has a similar nutritional makeup, there are differences in the ingredients used by formula brands, so it is usually recommended not to change up your formula brand or type unless there are signs showing your baby needs to try something else. If your baby isn’t responding well to your current formula, we recommend consulting with your pediatrician or family doctor to help you find what your baby needs and explore potential allergies and sensitivities. Whether you opt for a standard formula or have specific dietary considerations, having at least one extra formula on hand is a smart move to avoid any last-minute stress or trips to the store. 

Bottles:

We recommend starting off with a bottle sampler pack (US / Canada). We believe wholeheartedly in following your baby’s lead and getting to know your unique baby. Your baby will have preferences and you’ll want to stock up on the one your baby responds to best. Starting with a few bottles and gradually expanding your collection as needed will ensure that when your baby picks a favourite brand of bottle, you won't have over-invested in another brand. This also ensures that you'll have enough on hand without overwhelming your kitchen cabinet.

Look for high-quality bottles specifically designed for formula feeding. Look for bottles that are BPA-free, easy to clean, and feature anti-colic features. Anti-colic bottles, equipped with venting systems or specialized nipples, help reduce the amount of air your baby ingests during feeding, minimizing discomfort and gas. 

Bottle Nipples:

Choosing the right nipples for your baby is crucial for their feeding comfort and success. Nipples come in various shapes, sizes, and flow rates. For newborns, opt for slow-flow nipples that allow for a controlled flow of milk, mimicking the pace of breastfeeding. As your baby grows and develops their feeding skills, you can transition to medium or fast-flow nipples to accommodate their increasing demands. Pay attention to your baby's cues and adjust the nipple flow rate accordingly to ensure they're receiving their milk comfortably and efficiently.

Each time our baby was ready for the next size nipple, he suddenly started taking forever to drink his bottle then pulling away after only eating a little bit, seeming frustrated. The first time, it took us a couple days to figure out what was happening. He was frustrated with how much work was required to get his milk - it was time to size-up the bottle nipple. 

Once your baby chooses a favourite bottle brand, we recommend stocking up on all the nipple sizes so you have them on hand when your baby is suddenly ready for another size. 

Bottle Brush:

A reliable bottle brush is a true ally in keeping your baby's bottles clean and pristine. Look for a brush with soft bristles that can effectively reach all the nooks and crannies of the bottle. A small brush at the tip is especially useful for reaching into bottle nipples and ensuring thorough cleaning. Consider a brush with a sturdy handle for a comfortable grip during those cleaning sessions. Regularly cleaning and sanitizing your bottles is essential for maintaining proper hygiene and ensuring your baby's health and safety.

Sterilizer or Sterilizing Solution:

Maintaining proper hygiene in formula feeding is paramount. Consider investing in a sterilizer machine or using sterilizing solutions that are safe for baby items. Sterilizing bottles, nipples, and other feeding equipment helps eliminate harmful bacteria, providing a clean and safe environment for your baby's meals. Depending on your preference and budget, you can choose from electric steam sterilizers, microwave sterilizers, or sterilizing solutions that can be used in conjunction with water. Our favourite is the Baby Brezza Sterilizer and Dryer as it’s an all-in-one solution that makes this whole process SO EASY. 

Formula Dispenser:

While not necessary, we absolutely loved the Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advance. We called it the Baby Keurig and it truly made formula feeding so much easier. The pricetag may stop you, but it was truly one of our most used items. If you formula feed from the start, you’ll use this every 2-3 hours for a YEAR. That’s only 50 cents a day and what you gain is baby formula, mixed for you to the right ratio and bottle size with the press of a button. 

For on-the-go feedings, a formula dispenser container takes the stress out of preparing. These convenient containers feature individual compartments that allow you to pre-measure formula powder for each feeding. By doing so, you can accurately portion the formula and eliminate the need for measuring on the spot while you're out and about. Formula dispensers are compact, portable, and mess-free, making them an essential item for travel or when you're away from home. Look for a dispenser that is easy to use, has secure closures to prevent spills, and is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning - this is the one we used.

Formula Mixing Pitcher:

A budget alternative is a formula mixing pitcher.  This allows you to mix larger batches of formula in advance. Prepared formula can be in this pitcher in the fridge for up to 24 hours. These pitchers typically feature measurement markings and a mixing mechanism that ensures thorough blending of formula powder and water. It's a great option for parents who prefer the convenience of having pre-mixed formula on hand. Look for a pitcher that is easy to clean, has a secure lid, and is made of BPA-free materials.

Bottle Warmer:

I recommend not starting with warmed milk as some babies will take formula cold or room temperature and save you this hassle… but if your baby is particular about temperature, while this is not a necessity, a bottle warmer can be a valuable addition to your feeding routine. It quickly and evenly warms the formula to a safe and comfortable temperature, mimicking the warmth of breast milk. A bottle warmer is especially handy during nighttime feedings when you want to minimize disruptions and make the process as seamless as possible. If you use the Baby Brezza, it will heat the formula to your desired temperature for you. If not, look for a bottle warmer that is compatible with various bottle sizes and materials, has adjustable temperature settings, and offers a gentle warming option to preserve the nutrients in the formula.

Burp Cloths:

Be prepared for those adorable little milk spills and burping sessions with a stash of soft and absorbent burp cloths. These trusty companions protect your clothing and surfaces from spit-up and offer a cozy spot to burp your baby. Look for burp cloths made from gentle and absorbent fabrics like cotton or muslin. Consider having multiple burp cloths on hand, as babies tend to have a knack for surprising you with unexpected messes. We used these ones and loved them.

Nursing Pillow:

Although typically associated with breastfeeding, a nursing pillow can also be a valuable companion during formula feedings. Nursing pillows provide crucial support for your baby, helping position them comfortably at the optimal angle for feeding. By reducing strain on your arms and promoting a relaxed feeding environment, a nursing pillow can make feeding sessions more enjoyable for both you and your baby. Look for a nursing pillow that is adjustable, has a removable and washable cover, and offers sufficient support for your baby's head and neck.

Bibs: 

While we normally think of the silicone bibs for solids, I found using these soft, absorbent bibs to be remarkably helpful when formula feeding. Our little guy was a “spitter” and these kept us from changing his outfit 10x a day. These are not necessary, or even that cute, but they are oh so helpful. 

As you embark on your formula feeding journey, having the right items can greatly enhance your experience and create a nurturing environment for your baby. From formula essentials to feeding equipment and helpful accessories, this comprehensive list covers the must-have items for formula feeding success. If you’d like to know more about formula feeding, we’ve created a whole formula feeding guide for you with safety information and extra tips to ease the mental load of caring for your little one.

With these essential items at your disposal, you'll be well-equipped to provide your little one with the nourishment they need while enjoying precious bonding moments along the way.

Our Baby Registry Checklist includes all the essentials for Formula Feeding.

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Please note: The Mama Bestie content is for educational purposes only and is not meant to be medical advice. Please consult with your doctor for medical advice.

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