Prepare the formula and pop it into the fridge (at below 5°C) straight away.
Storing prepared formula
This article gives you some of the basics of formula storage. You’ll learn how long formula lasts once it’s made, how to transport formula safely, and how to warm it up when your little one is ready for a feed.
How long does formula last once made?
It’s best to prepare a bottle just before baby is ready to feed. But there may be times when you need to make it up before feeding time.
How long the formula lasts depends on how and where you store it. Critically, the temperature at which you store it:
- Room temperature: You can make up formula in advance, however, it is important to follow the directions on the label, which will be specific for that formula.
- Refrigerator: If you need to prepare formula in advance, prepare your formula accordingly, then immediately place the prepared formula in the fridge at below 5ºC for up to 24 hours from when it was prepared. Discard the formula after 24 hours.
It is important to follow the specific directions on the formula tin, for preparation and storage, to ensure you are using the formula as recommended by the manufacturer. If formula has been left out for more than 1 hour or has an unusual smell or appearance, it’s best to throw it out.
Transporting prepared formula
If you need to take prepared formula with you on the go,
here are the steps you can take to transport it safely:
Make sure the formula is cold before removing the bottle from the fridge.
Always wait until just before you head out to remove feed from the fridge.
Use a cooler bag with ice packs.
Use the prepared formula within the time frame recommended on the label by the manufacturer. Remember: Cooler bags don’t always keep food well chilled.
Once you reach your destination, warm the formula in warm water for no more than 15 minutes. Prepared formula can be stored for up to 24 hours, however, check the label for the manufacturer recommendations on how to store formula.
Remember, it’s best to prepare bottles of formula at your destination, rather than transporting pre-made bottles.
Bacteria can grow and thrive in pre-made formula bottles. It’s risky to give your baby pre-made formula that’s been sitting in a car or baby bag for several hours, especially on a warm day.
How to warm up formula
Some babies will be happy to drink a bottle even if it’s a bit chilled. But other babies prefer warm milk. When your baby is ready to feed, here’s how to warm it up safely:
You should test the temperature of the milk before your give it to your baby. It should be around the same temperature as your skin. Test it by putting a few drops of milk on the inside of your wrist. It should not feel hot or cold on the skin. If it is too warm, you can cool it by running the bottle under cool water or place it in a container of cool water. Be sure to re-test it on your wrist again before giving the formula to your baby.
Place the bottle in a bowl of warm water:
Fill a bowl with warm water and place the bottle in it. Let it sit for a few minutes until the formula is warm. Don’t leave it for longer than 15 minutes.
How to warm up formula
Some babies will be happy to drink a bottle even if it’s a bit chilled. But other babies prefer warm milk. When your baby is ready to feed, here’s how to warm it up safely:
You should test the temperature of the milk before your give it to your baby. It should be around the same temperature as your skin. Test it by putting a few drops of milk on the inside of your wrist. It should not feel hot or cold on the skin. If it is too warm, you can cool it by running the bottle under cool water or place it in a container of cool water. Be sure to re-test it on your wrist again before giving the formula to your baby.
How to warm up formula
Some babies will be happy to drink a bottle even if it’s a bit chilled. But other babies prefer warm milk. When your baby is ready to feed, here’s how to warm it up safely:
You should test the temperature of the milk before your give it to your baby. It should be around the same temperature as your skin. Test it by putting a few drops of milk on the inside of your wrist. It should not feel hot or cold on the skin. If it is too warm, you can cool it by running the bottle under cool water or place it in a container of cool water. Be sure to re-test it on your wrist again before giving the formula to your baby.
Understanding
conditions that may impact on feeding
habits
Even with the best nutrition and care, many infants have
conditions or needs that may impact their everyday feeding
habits during the early years of life. Find out more about the
possible causes and tips on how to manage these conditions.
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