Deciding what to feed your baby and how to store formula and breast milk can be stressful! We recommend breastfeeding when possible, as this provides the best, most complete nutrition for your baby and has many health benefits for mom. If you are unable to breastfeed, or if you need to supplement, work with your provider to choose the right formula for your baby.
How to prepare formula:
- Wash your hands and ensure that the prep surface is clean to prevent contamination. Wash bottles/nipples thoroughly after each use
- Prepare the water - boil tap water for 1 minute, then allow it to cool to room temperature You can also use nursery water
- Add one unpacked, level scoop of formula for every 2 ounces of water. Replace the dry scoop into the can
- Put the cap on the bottle and shake thoroughly
- Test the temperature by placing a drop on your inner wrist
How to store formula:
- Formula at room temperature must be used within 1 hour.
- Formula that has been partially fed to your baby must be discarded after 1 hour. Never reheat or store a partially used bottle
- Formula that has been prepared but not fed to baby can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
- Ready-to-feed formula that has not been fed to baby can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours once opened
- Sanitize bottles and nipples after every feed
- Discard an opened can of formula if not used within 1 month
How to store breastmilk:
- Wash hands and thoroughly clean all pump parts/bottles between use. Never reuse breast milk storage bags
- Freshly, cleanly expressed breast milk can be safely stored at room temperature for up to 4 hours, in the fridge for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator freezer for up to 9 months
- Freeze milk in small amounts to prevent waste
- Thaw frozen breast milk by holding it under warm running water, placing the sealed container of milk in a bowl of warm water, or allowing it to thaw in the refrigerator. Do not microwave frozen breast milk. Once thawed, it can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
- Never reheat or store breast milk that has already been partially fed to baby
- Never refreeze breast milk that has been thawed
At Arundel Pediatrics, we recognize that it is an honor and a privilege to serve the families in our community. Our goal at Arundel Pediatrics is to continuously strive to provide the highest level of personal and medical care to our patients and their families. We strive to educate and inspire our families to reach the pinnacle of health and wellness. Our providers have decades of experience caring for children. Each provider partners with their patients and families in an effort to provide the highest level of medical care. In an effort to be at the forefront of pediatric medicine, our providers remain current on policies and procedures as the recommendations are set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Our staff members are knowledgeable, highly trained, caring professionals and our offices provide a fun and friendly atmosphere for our patients.
