Feeding your baby

However you choose to feed your baby we hope you feel supported and informed in your choices. If you have any questions or concerns talk to your LMC, lactation consultant or your GP. 
Remember! Breastfeeding is natural BUT it is not always easy to begin with. It is a learned skill.
In this section you will find information on both breastfeeding and formula feeding.

 

Breastfeeding

Breastmilk and how your body produces it

Breastmilk is designed specifically to give your baby all the nutritional needs for the first six months of life and provides protection against some infections. 

How your body produces breastmilk 

The female breast anatomy consists primarily of mammary tissue, but it also contains milk-producing glands called lobules. These lobules hold tiny sacs known as alveoli and are linked by a network of thin tubes called ducts. The milk is made in the alveoli, when your baby feeds these alveoli contract pushing milk into the ducts and out via the nipple into your baby’s mouth. During the first days of breastfeeding the breastmilk is called colostrum, which contains a large amount of proteins and antibodies. You may have leaked a few drops of this thick, yellowish substance during the final weeks of your pregnancy (some women may have noticed this in the early months of pregnancy). The precious, easily digestible liquid is full of disease-fighting antibodies called immunoglobulins that strengthen your baby’s immune system. It also acts as a laxative, which helps to clear out meconium (the first dark-green motions) from the baby’s bowels.

Newborn babies take only a teaspoon or two of milk per feed in the first few days, since their stomach is very small and colostrum is a very rich food that is high in protein. After a few days colostrum begins its transition into mature breastmilk. Your milk is increasing in volume daily to meet your baby’s needs. This is an important time to demand feed. It takes 14 to 21 days before you have mature milk. 

 

    Starting to breastfeed

    Early initiation of breastfeeding is important for successful breastfeeding. You will usually be able to have skin to skin contact soon after birth. Most babies are alert and start to suck immediately. When your baby feeds, the nipple and areola are taken into the baby’s mouth. With suckling hormones stimulate the glands to let-down milk, baby will feed in bursts, pause and start again. Letting your baby finish the first breast and come off spontaneously helps your supply to establish in the early days. During the first days of feeding, you may feel some contractions in your abdomen as the baby feeds. The usually mild discomfort signals the release of the hormone oxytocin, which helps shrink your uterus back to its pre-pregnancy size.

    NOTE - If your baby is sleeping for long periods during the day, not waking for feeds, not feeding well, not having many feeds per day or is too tired to feed, it is important to contact your LMC, doctor or other health professional as soon as possible.

    Breast Size

    Breast size does not have an effect on the amount of milk or the quality of milk a woman produces. Supply and demand is a key concept when it comes to breastfeeding. It’s all about how your body produces the perfect amount of milk to meet your baby’s needs. When your baby latches onto your breast and starts suckling, both prolactin and oxytocin are released. Oxytocin helps the milk to come out of your breast. This is the demand part of the equation. The more your baby feeds, the more demand is placed on your body. Your body responds to this demand by producing milk through the release of prolactin. The supply part of the equation kicks in. The more frequently your baby breastfeeds and removes milk from your breasts, the more milk your body will make. It’s like a magical feedback loop. 

    Duration of feeds

    Don’t worry about timing your baby’s feeds. Like adults, babies may take different amounts of food at different times of the day. The volume of milk is higher in the early morning feeds and lower at night. The emptier the breast the higher the fat content. This is the rationale for baby’s feeding frequently later in the day to satisfy them for longer at night. 

    • allow your baby to suckle until satisfied at the first breast. When your baby starts playing at the breast you can offer the other breast 
    • if your baby does not want any more milk do not persist. Always start with the other breast at the next feed 
    • if baby falls asleep in the middle of a feed, changing their nappy, taking off a layer of their clothing or stroking them may wake them enough to finish the feed 
    • it is normal and very common for two-day-old babies to be very hungry and wakeful and feed constantly in short bursts 
    • when the weather is hot you may find your baby wants to feed more often, your milk is all they need to keep them hydrated and quench their thirst 

    Feeding Positions

    For more feeding positions click here

    Your position 

    How you position yourself, how you hold your baby, and how you offer your breast all affect how baby latches on. This will determine how comfortable you and your baby will be during breastfeeding. Choose a comfortable well supported sitting or lying position to avoid getting a stiff back, shoulder or neck muscles, or cracked nipples from the baby poorly latching on to the breast. 

    Baby’s position 

    Babies as well as mothers should be comfortable during breastfeeding. Baby’s breastfeeding reflexes work best when baby is well supported with their body comfortably aligned. 

    Position your baby across your front, hold them with their chest and tummy facing you (baby’s chest to your chest, baby’s chin to your breast) and their nose opposite the nipple and their arms either side of your breast. Bring your baby to the breast, not the breast to your baby. 

    Some common breastfeeding problems and solutions

    Sore and cracked nipples 

    The main cause of sore nipples is incorrect positioning of the baby at the breast. If you cannot improve their position yourself, or your nipples are not healing you can get help from your LMC, a lactation consultant or the La Leche League. 

    To help heal sore and cracked nipples:

    • express a few drops of breastmilk, gently spread it on the nipples, and allow to dry. This helps prevent against infection and is soothing. Ointments may be soothing and it works as a moist healing method 
    • leave nipples uncovered or loosely covered between feeds to help them heal 
    • some people find silver nursing cups may help to relieve the discomfort of cracked and sore nipples 
    • if your nipples stick to your bra, a helpful tip is to moisten with expressed breastmilk or warm water so that you do not cause more damage or pain 
    • avoid using soap on the nipple 
    • pain may be helped by taking paracetamol every four hours, up to four times a day. Prolonged (for more than a couple of days) or excessive use may be harmful. See your health professional if pain continues 
    • breast pain may also be caused by blocked ducts and/or nipple and breast infections 
    • seek professional help 

    Engorgement/ breast fullness 

    Breast fullness can occur usually 3-5 days after birth. This means that the breasts have become distended and are hot and painful to touch.

    To relieve breast fullness and engorgement you can try 

    • frequent feeding. Make sure baby is attached well to avoid sore, cracked nipples 
    • if the areola is too swollen, gently express enough milk to enable your baby to get onto the breast correctly 
    • using different feeding positions or feed lying down 
    • light touch lymphatic drainage massage techniques can help. With gentle sweeping motions up into the armpit, applying cool face cloths or cooling packs on the breast between feeds 
    • wearing a comfortable, non-restrictive, supportive bra 
    • using non-steroidal anti-inflammatories every four - six hours, up to four times a day for pain (see your health professional if pain continues) 

    Blocked ducts and breast infections (Mastitis) 

    Breast lumps while breastfeeding may mean that you have a blocked duct 

    To help clear blocked ducts try:

    • continue to feed from both breasts as usual 
    • changing breastfeeding positions 
    • lymphatic drainage massage can help to remove excess fluid away from the breast. Use gentle sweeping motions towards the armpit 
    • cool compress after feeds 
    • a painless, persistent lump should be checked by your LMC, lactation consultant or GP 

    You may have a breast infection if you have aches and pains, fever, feel shivery like you have the flu, or have a painful pink or red area on the breast. If you have any of these symptoms contact your LMC or doctor as soon as possible. 

    To help recover from a breast infection:

    • keep breastfeeding baby as advised. The breast heals more quickly if kept from getting too full. The milk is fine. It is the breast tissue that is infected, not the milk 
    • take two paracetamol (500mg per/tablet) and two ibuprofen (200mg per/tablet) every four hours, up to four times a day as required for pain and to reduce inflammation. See your health professional if pain continues 
    • drink extra fluids 
    • get plenty of rest. Try to sleep when baby sleeps 
    • to help prevent breast infections and blocked ducts, avoid wearing tight clothing or poorly fitting bras 

    If you are having problems or concerns with breastfeeding, talk to your LMC, lactation consultant or La Leche League. 

    Breastmilk Supplementation

    Some babies may require supplementation (extra milk) in their first few days, or possibly longer. This may be a result of insufficient maternal supply, illness or another reason. Supplementation may be mother’s own milk, expressed (MOM) or donated breastmilk from a donor. There are many ways to provide supplementation to your baby, these include but are not limited to finger tube feeding, using a teaspoon, open cup, or taping a narrow tube to your breast. Becoming informed about your options prior to birth is advisable and for those who are considering using donor breastmilk there are number of factors to consider. 

    Breastmilk has many health benefits but it is important to be aware that it may contain viruses and/or traces of medications or foods that the donor mother has been exposed to. Most donors will have been screened for viruses in their first antenatal bloods and social screening is recommended to ensure you are happy with the donor(s) who will be providing milk for your baby. If you are interested in donating breastmilk or for more information to ensure your decision is well informed speak to your LMC or an LC. 

    Supplementary feeding methods

    SFT - This uses a small tube connected to a bottle of milk. The fine tube is placed at the nipple and goes into the baby’s mouth when they latch, allowing the baby to get milk from the breast and via the tube at the same time. This is best for low supply to provide the additional milk they need if they are able to latch. 

    Cup Feeding - Using a small medicine cup or silver nipple cup, place it at the bottom lip of the baby, and they will gently lap it up, much like a cat drinking. It is important not to tip the cup back too far, as this can pour milk into their mouth. 

    Finger Feeding Use a clean finger inserted into your baby’s mouth with a fine tube connected to a bottle of milk. Your baby will cup your finger like a taco (just like in breastfeeding), and sucking will draw the milk through the tube and into their mouth. This is a great way to top up or offer breast milk in the first week of life if they are unable to directly breastfeed. 

    Bottle - The most commonly used choice is a bottle. It is important to select the slowest flow bottle possible and consider the shape of the teat to ensure it supports moving between breast and bottle.

    Pumping/Expressing Breastmilk

    Explore our full pumping section here

    Expressing milk 

    If you are going to be away from your baby when a feed is due, you can express breastmilk and leave it for them. It is best to express after a breastfeed so that more milk will be made by the time your baby wants their next feed. Usually the easiest time to express is in the morning. The amount you express may vary and differs between mothers. Milk can be expressed by hand, or with a specially designed breast pump. 

    To hand express: 

    • gently massage round your breast, alternating between light strokes and circular motions. Also massage over the nipple to stimulate oxytocin 
    • form a c-shape with your thumb and index finger about 2-3 cm away from your nipple 

     

    • press your fingers back toward your chest wall keeping the c- shape 

    • roll your thumb and finger forward toward but not over the nipple and hold for one second. Continue this process trying to get into a rhythm, you can alter your hand position around the nipple. 

    You might find a hand pump or an electric pump easier and more effective than expressing by hand. Remember nothing is as effective for your baby than getting milk from your breast. 

    Pumping

    Breast pumps can be a helpful tool for many breastfeeding mothers, whether you're planning to express milk regularly or occasionally. There are various types of breast pumps available, each suited to different needs and preferences. Here’s an overview of the main types:

    Manual Breast Pumps
    Manual breast pumps are hand-operated and don’t require electricity or batteries. They are ideal for occasional pumping or when you need a portable option.
    Advantages: Lightweight, portable, quiet, and affordable.
    Disadvantages: Requires more effort and can be tiring if used frequently. Slower than electric pumps.
    Best For: Mothers who need to pump occasionally or want a discreet and portable option.

    Single Electric Breast Pumps
    Single electric pumps use a motor to express milk from one breast at a time. They are faster than manual pumps and offer a more efficient way to express milk.
    Advantages: Easier and faster than manual pumps. Adjustable suction and speed settings.
    Disadvantages: More expensive than manual pumps. Can be less efficient than double electric pumps.
    Best For: Mothers who pump once or twice a day or occasionally.

    Double Electric Breast Pumps
    Double electric pumps express milk from both breasts simultaneously, which makes them more efficient and time-saving. They are often used by mothers who need to pump regularly.
    Advantages: Efficient and quick, saving time by pumping both breasts at once. Adjustable settings for comfort.
    Disadvantages: Bulkier and more expensive than single electric and manual pumps. Can be noisier.
    Best For: Mothers who pump regularly, need to return to work, or want to build a milk supply.

    Wearable/Hands-Free Breast Pumps
    Wearable or hands-free breast pumps are designed to fit inside your bra, allowing you to move around freely while pumping. These pumps are typically cordless, making them convenient for multi-tasking.
    Advantages: Discreet, portable, and hands-free. Allows you to pump on the go or while doing other activities.
    Disadvantages: Can be more expensive. Suction power may vary compared to traditional pumps.
    Best For: Busy parents who want to pump discreetly or while on the move.

    Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps
    Hospital-grade pumps are the most powerful and efficient type of breast pump. They are designed for frequent, long-term use and can help build or maintain milk supply. They are often rented rather than purchased due to their higher cost.
    Advantages: Strong suction, efficient, and reliable. Designed for frequent use and can support mothers with low milk supply or difficulties with breastfeeding.
    Disadvantages: Expensive and less portable. Usually needs to be plugged in.
    Best For: Mothers who need to express milk frequently, have low milk supply, or have premature babies who are not yet able to breastfeed.

    Choosing the Right Breast Pump
    When selecting a breast pump, consider your lifestyle, how often you plan to pump, and your budget. It's also a good idea to consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider, who can guide you on the best option for your needs.

    Explore our full pumping section here

    Storing expressed breastmilk

    How long can I store expressed breastmilk?

    • freshly expressed milk can be stored in the fridge in a sterile container for 4 days 
    • defrosted milk can be stored in the fridge for 24 hours 
    • if frozen it can be stored for 6 months in a freezer, or 6-12 months in a deep freezer 

    These time frames are given as a guide but please discuss them with your LMC or LC before you discard any breastmilk. 

    Keeping breastmilk in the fridge 

    Put the expressed breastmilk in a clean bottle or plastic container with a tight fitting lid. It will keep at room temperature for 4 hours and in the fridge for 4 days. Milk should be stored in the back of the fridge where it is the coldest. Do not add freshly expressed breastmilk to cold expressed milk, store in a separate container. Once the milk is at the same temperature you can combine them however always go off the oldest date. 

    Keeping breastmilk in the freezer 

    Expressed milk will keep in a freezer box inside the fridge for 2 weeks, freezer for 6 months (stored as far back as possible), or deep freeze for 12 months. The milk will probably separate into layers but when thawed can be mixed again. Do not add freshly expressed milk to already frozen milk as it warms the frozen milk.

    Thawing and heating breastmilk 

    Place expressed milk in a tightly covered container. Defrost in the refrigerator or by placing the container of milk in warm water until the milk has thawed. An alternate way is to thaw under running luke warm water until thawed and at room temperature. Use the milk immediately and throw away any left over after the feed. It is not safe to reheat or refreeze milk. 

    Formula Feeding

    Picking a formula

    When it comes to infant formula, there are various options available, each designed to meet specific needs. Understanding the different types can help you choose the best one for your baby. 


    Cow's Milk Infant Formula
    Cow’s milk infant formula is a popular choice because it is widely accessible and affordable in New Zealand. It is regulated by FSANZ (Food Standards Australia New Zealand), ensuring it meets all necessary nutritional standards for your baby. 

    However, not all babies can easily digest cow’s milk formula. Some may experience symptoms such as gas, bloating, or constipation. Additionally, if your family has a history of milk allergies or sensitivities, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before choosing cow’s milk formula.

    Goat's Milk Infant Formula
    Goat’s milk formula is sometimes chosen by parents who believe it to be easier to digest and less allergenic than cow’s milk formula. It is often marketed as being closer in composition to human milk. 

    However, scientific evidence does not fully support these claims, and it’s important to remember that goat’s milk formula still contains lactose, making it unsuitable for babies with lactose intolerance or galactosemia. 

    Soy Infant Formula
    Soy infant formulas are made from the soybean plant. Other nutrients such as fat, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals have been added to make it similar to cow’s milk-based infant formula.

    If babies cannot be breastfed and can’t take standard formula then soy formula can be used. For example:

    • Babies of families who are strictly vegan (and the baby is not breast fed).
    • Babies who cannot tolerate standard infant formula but can tolerate soy*.
    • Babies who have the medical disorder ‘galactosaemia’.

    It’s crucial to distinguish between soy infant formula and regular soy milk. Regular soy milk does not provide the appropriate nutrition for infants and should not be used as a substitute.Generally soy milk formulas are not recommended for babies under the age of 6 months.  Always consult with a healthcare professional before choosing soy formula to ensure it meets your baby's nutritional needs. 

    Anti-Reflux Infant Formula
    Anti-reflux (AR) infant formulas are designed to help reduce regurgitation. These formulas often have "AR" or "reflux" in their name,

    They contain thickeners that help the formula stay in your baby’s stomach, reducing the likelihood of it coming back up. Different brands may use various types of thickeners, so it’s important to check the ingredients if your baby has specific needs or sensitivities.

    Before starting your baby on an anti-reflux formula, consult with a midwife, doctor, or pharmacist. They can help determine if this is the best option for your baby and provide guidance on how to introduce it safely. You may need to upgrade the flow of your teat if you are using a thickened formula.

    Hypoallergenic or Specialized Formula
    Hypoallergenic formulas are designed for babies with cow’s milk allergies or lactose intolerance. These formulas contain extensively hydrolyzed proteins, meaning the proteins are broken down into smaller pieces, reducing the likelihood of an allergic reaction. 

    Hypoallergenic formulas may also be recommended for babies with other food allergies or gastrointestinal issues. These formulas can be prescribed for your baby if they are needed so it is best to speak with your health care professional to ensure this is the right choice for your baby. 


    Consultation with Healthcare Professionals

    When choosing a formula, consider the age-appropriateness and specific needs of your baby. Different formulas are designed for various stages of development, and your baby's nutritional needs will change as they grow. Whether it’s cow’s milk, goat’s milk, soy, anti-reflux, or hypoallergenic formula, always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your baby’s diet. They can help guide you to the best choice for your baby’s individual needs and ensure their nutritional requirements are met.

    Preparing formula

    Preparing infant formula correctly is important to ensure your baby gets the right nutrition and is safe from any potential health risks. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on recommended practices in New Zealand:

    1. Wash Your Hands

    Before preparing the formula, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Clean and disinfect the preparation area.

    2. Sterilise Bottles and Equipment

    Sterilise bottles, teats, and any other feeding equipment by boiling them in water for at least 5 minutes or using a steriliser. Let them air dry on a clean surface.

    3. Boil Fresh Water

    From birth to at least 6 months, always use freshly boiled and cooled water for preparing infant formula:

    Boil Water:

    • Use a full jug or kettle and let it boil until it switches off or whistles.
    • For a pot, boil the water for 1 minute.

    Cool Water:

    • Pour boiled water into sterilised bottles.
    • Cover and let it cool to room temperature (no longer warm to touch).

    Store Safely:

    • Keep cooled water out of direct sunlight and use it within 24 hours. Discard any unused water after that.

    4. Measure the Formula and Water

    Follow the instructions on the formula tin to measure the right amount of water and powder. Use the scoop provided in the tin, leveling it off but avoid compacting the formula. Adding too much or too little formula impacts the nutritional content and may harm your baby.

    5. Mix the Formula

    Pour the boiled, cooled water into the sterilised bottle. Add the correct amount of formula powder. Place the teat and lid on the bottle and shake well to mix the formula until it is completely dissolved.

    6. Test temperature

    Test the temperature by dripping a few drops of formula on the inside of your wrist. It should feel lukewarm, not hot. If you need to cool it down, cool the bottle under running cold water or place it in a container of cold water. Shake the bottle occasionally to help it cool faster.

    7. Feed Your Baby

    Once the formula is at the right temperature, feed your baby immediately. 

    8. Store Any Leftovers

    Discard any formula left in the bottle after feeding or within an hour of being made (whichever comes first). Bacteria can grow in leftover formula, making it unsafe for later use.

    Important Tips

    • Always check the expiration date on the formula tin before use.
    • Use formula powder within 1 month of opening.
    • Follow the instructions on the formula packaging carefully, as different brands may have different mixing instructions.
    • Never add extra water or powder to the formula mix. 

    By following these steps, you can ensure your baby's formula is safe, nutritious, and prepared correctly. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with a healthcare professional.

    For quick reference download our formula preparation chart here

    Storing formula

    Storing Prepared Formula
    If you need to prepare formula in advance, it’s best to store it in the fridge for no more than 24 hours. Make sure the refrigerator is at a temperature of 5°C or below. When feeding, reheat the formula by placing the bottle in warm water for a few minutes, and never use a microwave as it can cause uneven heating.

    Bottle Feeding

    Choosing a bottle

    Introducing a bottle to a breastfed baby can take patience, as breastfeeding is instinctive, but bottle-feeding is a learned skill. Before 6 weeks, babies have an automatic sucking reflex, making it easier to introduce a bottle. However, families who wait until later may find it requires more effort as the baby learns this new skill.

    Choosing the right bottle is crucial for a smooth transition between breast and bottle. Look for a bottle with a gradual transition from a wide base to a narrow teat, which helps mimic a deep latch similar to breastfeeding. Bottles with abrupt teats can make babies latch like a straw, limiting a proper feeding technique.

    The flow of the bottle is also key. Unlike the variable flow from the breast, bottle flow is constant. Start with the lowest flow teat, and only upgrade if the baby shows signs of frustration. If there is coughing, choking, or milk spilling, the flow might be too fast.

    Cleaning & Sterilising bottles

    Proper cleaning and sterilisation of bottle-feeding equipment are crucial to ensure your baby's safety. Here’s a guide on how to clean and sterilise bottles, teats, and other feeding accessories. 

    Cleaning Bottle-Feeding Equipment
    It’s important to clean your bottle-feeding equipment thoroughly after each feed, ideally right after use. Cleaning is essential before sterilising, and here’s how you can do it:

    1. Wash Hands: Start by washing your hands with soap and water, then dry them with a clean cloth or paper towel.
    2. Prepare Soapy Water: Fill a clean sink or basin with hot, soapy water.
    3. Scrub Bottles and Teats: Use a bottle brush to scrub the bottles inside and out.
    4. Clean Teats Thoroughly: Squeeze water through the teat holes to ensure they’re clear. Use a teat brush to clean inside and around the teats, checking for cracks as you go. Dispose of any damaged teats, as bacteria can hide in the cracks.
    5. Wash Caps and Rings: Clean the caps, rings, and any other parts that come into contact with milk.
    6. Rinse: Rinse everything well with hot water, and leave the items to air dry on a clean surface.

    Sterilising Bottle-Feeding Equipment
    After cleaning, sterilisation is the next step to eliminate any remaining bacteria. There are several methods to sterilise feeding equipment:

    1. Boiling

    Boiling is a straightforward and effective method.

    • Fill a large pot with water, and place all washed items in it, ensuring they are fully submerged, with no air trapped inside.
    • Cover the pot, bring the water to a rolling boil, and let it boil for 5 minutes.
    • Let everything cool in the pot. Use clean hands or sterilised tongs to remove the items.
    • Store any unused sterilised equipment in a clean, sealed container in the fridge, and use within 24 hours.


    2. Steam Sterilisers

    Electric or microwave steam sterilisers offer a convenient way to sterilise your equipment:

    • Place the clean bottles, teats, and other parts inside the steriliser.
    • Add water as directed by the manufacturer.

    Electric Sterilisers: Switch the unit on; it will turn off automatically once the process is complete.

    Microwave Sterilisers: 

    • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, including checking the required microwave power level. 
    • Ensure no metal parts are placed inside the microwave.
    • Never use a microwave to sterilise feeding equipment directly without a designated steriliser, as this can damage or melt the items.

    3. Chemical Sterilisers

    Chemical sterilisation involves soaking equipment in a sterilising solution:

    • Follow the instructions on the packaging to prepare the solution.
    • Fully submerge the equipment and let it soak for the specified time.
    • After sterilising, rinse the equipment with cooled boiled water if needed (check the product’s instructions).

    Additional Tips
    • Always check the manufacturer's guidelines for your bottles and steriliser.
    • Use sterilised tongs or clean hands to handle sterilised equipment to avoid contamination.
    • Replace any items showing signs of wear, such as cracked teats or damaged bottles.

    Sterilising is not required for breastfeeding equipment if you have a well term baby. If your baby is immunocompromised or you are using formula you will need to sterilise. Don’t rinse/towel dry the bottles etc when you remove them from the solution.

    Heating formula or expressed breastmilk

    Warming Expressed Breastmilk
    The safest method to warm breastmilk is by placing the container in a bowl of warm water. Always use fresh breastmilk first if you have it on hand. For frozen breastmilk, thaw it by placing the container in cool or warm water until it’s ready.

    After warming, gently swirl the bottle to mix the milk, and check the temperature to ensure it’s lukewarm or around body temperature before feeding your baby. 


    Warming Infant Formula
    Most babies prefer their formula warmed to at least room temperature, although some are happy with it cold. To warm formula safely, stand the bottle in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer with a thermostat control. Make sure not to leave the bottle in the warmer for more than 10 minutes, as harmful bacteria can grow in prepared formula.

    After warming, swirl the bottle gently to mix the formula and test the temperature by placing a few drops on your wrist. It should feel just warm. If the milk is too hot, cool it down by running it under cold water or placing it in a bowl of cold water.

    Avoid using microwaves for warming or thawing baby's milk, as microwaving can damage some of the beneficial components, cause uneven heating, and risk burning your baby's mouth.

    Storage of bottles

    Storing your baby bottles correctly after cleaning and sterilising is essential to keep them hygienic and ready for use. Here are some tips on how to store clean baby bottles properly:

    Ensure Bottles are Thoroughly Cleaned and Sterilised

    Before storing, make sure all bottles, teats, caps, and other feeding accessories have been cleaned and sterilised properly.

    Air Dry Bottles and Accessories

    Allow the bottles, teats, and other parts to air dry completely on a clean surface after sterilising. This helps to prevent moisture, which can encourage bacterial growth. Do not use a dish towel to dry them, as this can introduce new bacteria.

    What do I do if my baby won't take a bottle?

    Bottle refusal is a common challenge faced by parents when transitioning a breastfed baby to a bottle. This can happen when babies prefer breastfeeding due to the comfort and closeness it provides or when they're unsure about the unfamiliarity of a bottle. To overcome this, try offering the bottle during a calm moment when your baby is not overly hungry or upset, as this can create a more relaxed environment.

    Wait to be invited in! Start a bottle feed the way you would a breastfeed. Rest the edge of the bottle on their chin and wait for your baby to open their mouth. Allow them to latch onto the bottle. They may initially play around with the teat as it is a different sensation. The aim is to get them to cup their tongue onto the teat.

    If your baby is getting upset, remove the bottle—don’t keep pushing it and making it a negative experience. Try again in a few moments. If they continue to be distressed, stop and try again later.

    Take the teat off the bottle and try that instead. Get them happily taking just the teat in their mouth—you can try this during mat or playtime. This takes the pressure off; try this throughout the day to practice latching onto it. Once they are happily taking the teat, add a small amount of milk and offer it as a top-up feed before progressing to full feeds. The best time to try a bottle is when your baby is in a calm and alert state, slightly before a feed is due.

    Distraction can go a long way when offering a bottle. You can try offering one while reading a book, walking around the room, singing, or chatting. This can help to relieve the pressure on your baby. Keep all exposure to the bottle a positive experience. 

    If you are still encountering bottle refusal then we highly recommend the Triple B Course by Little Bird Lactation. This self paced course goes through bottle refusal in detail and provides solutions to help you bust bottle battles. 

    For more information on feeding your baby please refer to our Your Baby publication contained in your new parent sample pack!

    If you haven't yet received a pack you can request one below.

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