How to Make Baby Formula: Complete Preparation & Measurement Guide

Step-by-Step Formula Preparation

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Dry with a clean towel.

Step 2: Prepare Clean Bottles

For babies under 3 months, premature babies, or immunocompromised infants:

• Sterilize bottles and nipples by boiling for 5 minutes
• Or use a steam sterilizer
• Let air dry on a clean surface

For healthy babies over 3 months, washing with hot soapy water or dishwasher is sufficient.

Step 3: Prepare Water

For most healthy full-term babies:

• Use cold tap water (let it run for 30 seconds first)
• Bottled water is fine but not necessary
• No need to boil water in most areas with safe municipal water

When to use boiled water:

• Baby is under 3 months old
• Baby is premature or immunocompromised
• Well water (not municipal)
• Travel or unknown water source
• During boil water advisories

If boiling water: Boil for 1 minute, let cool to at least 158°F (70°C) before adding powder, then cool to body temperature before feeding.

Step 4: Measure Water

Always add water to the bottle FIRST. This ensures accurate measurement.

Use the markings on the bottle or a measuring cup. For accuracy:

• Place bottle on flat surface
• Check measurement at eye level
• The bottom of the water meniscus should touch the line

Step 5: Add Formula Powder

Standard ratio: 1 level scoop (unpacked) per 2 fl oz of water

How to level a scoop:

1. Dip scoop into powder
2. Don't pack or tap the scoop
3. Use the flat edge of a clean knife to level off excess

Step 6: Mix Thoroughly

• Cap the bottle securely
• Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds
• Check that no powder clumps remain
• Swirl gently to reduce air bubbles

Step 7: Check Temperature

Before feeding, test on the inside of your wrist. It should feel lukewarm—not hot, not cold.

Ideal temperature: 98-100°F (37°C), close to body temperature

To warm a bottle:

• Place in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes
• Use a bottle warmer
• Never microwave—creates dangerous hot spots

Formula Storage Guidelines

Prepared Formula

Opened Powder Container

• Use within 1 month of opening
• Store in cool, dry place (not refrigerator)
• Keep lid tightly closed
• Don't use if expired

Unopened Formula

• Check expiration date on can
• Store in cool, dry place
• Don't buy dented or damaged cans

Formula Measurement by Brand

While most formulas use 1 scoop per 2 oz, always check your specific formula:

Note: European formulas (Kendamil, HiPP, Holle) use different scoop sizes and metric measurements. Always follow package instructions.

Common Formula Preparation Mistakes

❌ Adding extra powder for "more nutrition"

Risk: Concentrated formula can cause dehydration, kidney strain, and constipation. Always follow exact ratios.

❌ Adding extra water to "make it last longer"

Risk: Diluted formula doesn't provide adequate nutrition and can cause water intoxication in infants.

❌ Using hot tap water

Risk: Hot water heaters can harbor bacteria and leach lead from pipes. Always use cold tap water.

❌ Packing the scoop

Risk: Packing or tapping adds extra powder, making formula too concentrated.

❌ Reheating leftover formula

Risk: Bacteria from baby's saliva multiply quickly. Discard any formula baby doesn't finish within 1 hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare bottles in advance?

Yes, you can prepare up to 24 hours of bottles and store them in the refrigerator. Label with date/time and use oldest first.

Do I need to use bottled water?

In most US cities with safe municipal water, tap water is fine. Use bottled water if your water supply is from a well or you're unsure of quality.

Can I use a Baby Brezza or formula maker?

Yes, formula makers are safe when used correctly. See our Baby Brezza settings guide for proper configuration.

My formula is clumpy—is it safe?

If clumps don't dissolve after thorough shaking, the formula may have absorbed moisture. Check if the container was left open or stored in humid conditions. When in doubt, use a fresh container.