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Preparing and Storing Baby Formula
Formula comes in either powder or liquid. Knowing the right way to prepare and store it is important for your baby’s health and safety. The first thing you want to do when you’re purchasing formula is to check the date on the container. Grocery stores are not always on top of the expiration dates as they should be. A few times I have noticed expired formulas sitting on the shelf.
You will have to decide which formula will suit your needs. The powdered ones are the most convenient as you can prepare one bottle at a time or make a whole days supply. They’re easy to take with you in your diaper bag because when they’re not mixed yet, they don’t need to be refrigerated. However, the already mixed, liquid formulas will need to be kept cold immediately after opening.
Once opened and mixed, baby formula is only good for 24-48 hours even if kept in the refrigerator. Remember to keep them tightly covered. Powdered containers of formula shouldn’t be kept in your cabinet for longer than a month once it’s opened. Only purchase cans of formula that are not dented or damaged in any way.
Wash your hands before you begin to make a bottle. If you are using powdered formula it is recommended that you use sterilized tap water. You can sterilize the water by boiling it for 5 minutes. Once the water has boiled, make sure you let it cool before you pour it in the bottle and continue. Bottled water is not really recommended in preparing a bottle because many times too many nutrients are taken out in the process of bottling it.
Many states include fluoride in their drinking water. Fluoride is essential in the development of strong, healthy teeth and bones. If your water naturally contains fluoride, you definitely wouldn’t want to use bottled water since it may not contain any fluoride.
To get an accurate measurement of fluid and powder, make sure you pour the designated amount of water into the bottle first, before you add the powder. Follow the directions and measurement on the label. Once the water has been poured into the bottle, you can then add however many scoops of powder you need. Put the top on the bottle and shake vigorously.
If you find that the powder and water are not well mixed, you might want to open the bottle up and use a teaspoon to stir it. If you’re using the already mixed formula, just wipe the top of the can off first before opening it with a can opener. If you have a bottle warmer you can pour the desired amount into the bottle and them place the bottle directly in the warmer for heating. If you don’t have a bottle warmer you can always use a coffee mug or a tupperware.
Fill either one with hot water and then place your filled bottle inside. It usually takes only a few minutes to heat. The most important thing to remember is always check the temperature of any bottle before giving it to your baby. This prevents any chance of them getting scalded or burned.
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