Feeding your Baby with a Bottle
Whether you’re using expressed breast milk or infant formula, it’s important to know how to prepare and use bottles safely. On this page, you’ll find guidance on preparing formula, sterilising equipment, and safe feeding practices.
Equipment and Sterilizing
If you choose to bottle feed, you’ll need:
- Bottles – many parents start with smaller ones and move up in size as their baby grows.
- Teats – these come in different shapes and flow speeds; younger babies usually need a slower flow.
- Bottle brushes – to keep everything clean.
- Sterilising equipment – sterilising removes harmful germs that could make your baby unwell.
Ways to sterilise include:
- Steam sterilising (electric or microwave steriliser)
- Cold water sterilisation (using sterilising solution)
- Boiling bottles and teats in water for at least 10 minutes
Paced Feeding
Paced feeding is a technique that mimics breastfeeding, allowing babies to drink at their own pace and reducing the risk of overfeeding.
To pace feed:
- Hold your baby upright and close to you. Gently touch the teat to their lip to encourage them to open their mouth.
- Keep the bottle horizontal, so your baby actively sucks rather than milk flowing continuously.
- Let your baby pause during feeding—withdraw the teat slightly if needed.
- Watch for signs that your baby wants a break, such as turning their head away.
Formula Feeding
Infant formula
All formula milk sold in the UK meets strict nutritional standards. A first infant formula is recommended unless your baby has allergies or medical needs, in which case seek advice from a healthcare professional.
At around 12 months, babies no longer need formula and can switch to whole cow’s milk. Unsweetened, calcium-fortified alternatives like oat or soya milk are also suitable after age one. Rice-based drinks should not be given to children under five.
Tip: Limit the number of people who bottle feed your baby. Having just one or two regular feeders helps your baby feel secure and strengthens bonding.
Safe Preparation
Making formula correctly is vital for safety. If prepared too far in advance or left at room temperature, bacteria can grow.
Steps for safe preparation:
- Clean your hands and work surfaces.
- Use freshly boiled tap water cooled for no more than 30 minutes (still above 70°C).
- Always add water to the bottle before the powder.
- Assemble and shake the bottle until the powder dissolves.
- Cool under running water and test on your wrist before feeding.
- Discard any unused formula after a feed.
Avoid bottled, pre-boiled, or softened water.
Infant Formula Preparation Machines
Some families prefer using machines to prepare bottles. These aren’t safer than hand-preparing, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Remember:
- The water must reach at least 70°C to kill bacteria.
- Use a thermometer to check.
- Stop using the machine if water doesn’t reach 70°C and contact the manufacturer for support.
Reasons for Bottle Feeding
Some families introduce bottles because of:
- Medical reasons – e.g. medication or health conditions affecting breastfeeding.
- Returning to work/study – bottles allow others to feed the baby.
- Sharing responsibilities – partners or relatives can help with feeding.
- Baby’s needs – some babies struggle to latch and may be advised to use bottles.
- Personal preference – some parents simply find it works best for them.
Mixed Feeding
Mixed (or combination) feeding means using both breastfeeding and bottle feeding, either with expressed milk or formula. Some parents choose this if they’re worried about milk supply or are advised by a health professional.