Synopsis
Support formula and mixed feeding without judgement, select an age-appropriate product, prepare powdered formula with water at least 70°C, prevent dilution and contamination errors, use responsive bottle technique, and recognise feeding or illness red flags.
- First infant formula is nutritionally suitable as the main milk from birth to 12 months; follow-on formula is not required and should not be given before 6 months.
- Powdered formula is not sterile. Wash hands, disinfect the surface and wash and sterilise bottles, teats and preparation equipment before each feed until at least 12 months.
- First-line safe method: make one feed at a time with fresh cold tap water that has been boiled once and cooled for no more than 30 minutes, so it remains at least 70°C.
Key red flags
A baby who is difficult to wake, persistently refuses feeds, has fever or hypothermia, respiratory distress or poor perfusion needs urgent assessment.
Investigation priorities
Identify temperature, ratio, hygiene and storage errors that history alone may miss.
Management branches
Powdered first infant formula is being prepared at home.
- Wash hands, disinfect the surface and assemble washed sterilised equipment.
- Boil at least 1 litre of fresh cold tap water, cool no more than 30 minutes, measure water first and add exact level scoops.