To ensure that you are giving your baby the right amount of nutrition, and to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination, it is essential to prepare and refrigerate formula properly.

Most formulas come in three types: ready-to-feed, liquid concentrate and powder. Requiring no preparation, ready-to-feed formula is typically the most convenient, but also more expensive. Concentrated formulas need to be diluted with water. Powder formula, which also requires mixing with water, is usually the most economical.

Step-by-Step

Ready-to-Feed

• No mixing required
  
  
• Pour ready-to-feed formula directly into a sterilized bottle
  
  
• To warm ready-to-feed formulas, put the bottle in hot water until it is lukewarm (1-2 minutes)
  
  
• Once opened, the can with the remaining ready-to-feed formula must be immediately covered and stored in the refrigerator to be used within 48 hours

Concentrate

• Boil water for 5 minutes and let cool before using
  
  
• Shake formula can and clean can top before opening
  
  
• Pour equal amounts of formula and water into a sterilized bottle. Cap and shake well
  
  
• Once opened, immediately cover and store the can with the remaining concentrate formula in the refrigerator to be used within 48 hours

Powder

• Boil water for 5 minutes and let cool before using
  
  
• Pour desired amount of water into bottle, then add appropriate number of scoops of powder
  
  
• Cap bottle and shake well until powder is completely dissolved. Prepare one bottle at a time

Important Notes

• Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing.
  
  
• Always refer to the mixing instructions on the package.
  
  
• To ensure optimal feeding conditions, feed your baby immediately after preparing the bottle.
  
  
• Do not use a microwave oven to warm formula, as it can produce hot spots in the bottle that can burn your baby.
  
  
• Always test warmed formula, using the inside of your wrist or the top of your hand, before feeding.

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