Formula Feeding
How much, how often, which stage, how to prepare safely - Everything you need to formula feed your baby with confidence.
Formula Stages Explained
Stage 1 (Starter)
0–6 months
Closest to breast milk composition. Contains whey-dominant protein. Use from birth if not breastfeeding.
Use if not breastfeeding from birth, or if supplementing in early weeks
Stage 2 (Follow-on)
6–12 months
Higher iron content to supplement a solids-eating baby. Not necessary if Stage 1 is continued.
Switch when starting solids at 6 months - But Stage 1 is still fine to continue
Stage 3 (Toddler)
12–24 months
Optional - Formulated for toddlers. Whole cow's milk is adequate and significantly cheaper.
Generally not necessary. Whole cow's milk at 12m is the simpler, cheaper option
How Much Formula by Age
| Age | Amount per feed | Feeds per day | Total daily |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newborn | 60–90 ml | 8–12 | 480–720 ml |
| 2–4 weeks | 90–120 ml | 7–8 | 630–960 ml |
| 1–2 months | 120–150 ml | 6–7 | 720–1050 ml |
| 2–4 months | 150–180 ml | 5–6 | 750–1080 ml |
| 4–6 months | 180–210 ml | 4–5 | 720–1050 ml |
| 6–12 months | 210–240 ml | 3–4 | 630–960 ml |
These are guidelines. Watch your baby's hunger cues - Never force a baby to finish a bottle. A baby who turns away from the bottle is full.
Preparing Formula Safely
Wash hands thoroughly
Before handling formula, bottle, or teat. Use soap and water - Hand sanitiser alone is not sufficient.
Sterilise all equipment
Until 12 months: boil for 5 minutes, or use electric steam steriliser, or microwave steriliser bags. Cold water sterilisation (Milton) is an alternative.
Boil water and cool to 70°C
Use a kettle and allow to cool for ~30 minutes after boiling. 70°C kills Cronobacter bacteria which can contaminate powdered formula. Do not use cold water.
Measure the water first
Add the correct amount of water to the bottle before adding powder. Never add powder first - You cannot adjust accurately.
Add the exact number of scoops
Use the scoop that came with the tin - Do not pack it or level with a different utensil. One level scoop per specified amount of water. Never add extra 'for strength'.
Mix and cool
Cap and shake to dissolve. Cool to feeding temperature by running under cold water or placing in cold water bowl. Test on wrist - Should feel neutral.
Feed within 2 hours or discard
Once prepared and warmed, formula must be used within 2 hours. Do not store prepared formula in a thermos or keep-warm device.
Common Formula Questions
Can I use ready-to-feed (RTF) formula?
Yes - RTF formula is pre-mixed, sterile, and requires no preparation. Ideal for newborns in the first weeks, travel, or when boiling water is not possible. Significantly more expensive than powder. Once opened, use within 2 hours.
What if my baby rejects a new formula brand?
Babies can be sensitive to changes in formula taste and composition. If switching is necessary (e.g. for medical or supply reasons), transition gradually over 3–5 days: 75% old/25% new → 50/50 → 25/75 → new formula only.
My baby seems gassy after formula - What should I do?
Some gas is normal. Check the teat flow (too fast = too much air swallowed), ensure bottle is tilted so teat is full, wind baby mid-feed and after. If gas is severe and persistent, discuss with your paediatrician - A different formula protein composition (partially hydrolysed) may help.
Can I give pre-made formula from the fridge?
Pre-made formula can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Warm by standing in a bowl of hot water - Never microwave (hot spots). Discard any formula that has been at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
When can I switch to cow's milk?
At 12 months, whole cow's milk (full-fat, pasteurised) can replace formula as the main milk drink. Introduce it as a drink alongside meals - Not as a large main feed. Cap at 500ml/day to leave room for solid food. Skimmed milk should not be offered before age 2.
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