As formula milk Is not considered sterile, extra care needs to be taken to ensure that bacteria is kept to a minimum as baby’s immune system is not strong enough to fight off any infection.
Here’s what you can do to ensure hygiene and keep your baby safe and healthy!
Sterilise all bottle-feeding equipment
It is important to sterilise everything they use for drinking until they’re 12 months old. Use a bottle brush to ensure there are no more milk residue left on any part of the bottle and teats. Once the items are sterilised and airdried, store them in a sealed container until you need them.
Wash your hands
This goes without saying - always make sure your hands are clean before preparing the bottle of milk!
Use sterile water
Always use cooled or lukewarm boiled water to make the bottle of formula.
Use the milk scoop that comes with the tin
Always use the scoop provided in the tin to measure the powder (different brands may use different measurements). You don’t have to wash the scoop every time you use it, as long as your hands are clean. If splatters of water get onto the scoop, dry it completely before putting it back in the tin.
Follow the tin instructions
Follow the instructions that comes with the tin – also bearing in mind that it is different from brand to brand. Using incorrect amounts may affect baby’s health.
Use within an hour
Prepared formula milk needs to be consumed within an hour. If refrigerated, it must be used within 24 hours. However, once baby has drunk the milk, it is not advisable to stick it in the fridge for later use as it has already come into contact with baby’s saliva.
Preparation in advance
Ideally, formula milk should be prepared just before you need to use it. But if you really have to prepare in advance, you can store it in the fridge for 24 hours and transport it in a cold bag. If prepared formula milk is left out of the fridge for too long, it can form bacteria. Alternatively, you can carry a flask of hot water with you and mix the milk when you need it.
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