To help make the process run a little smoother, we have compiled the ten stages to making a bottle:
What you’ll need:
A supply of bottles and teats
Sterilising equipment
Suitable water and a way to boil it
Formula powder
Step 1: Prepare your work surface
Make sure the surface you are working on is clean and free of any clutter - give it a wipe with disinfectant or hot, soapy water.
Step 2: Sterilise your equipment
Make sure all your equipment is sterilised thoroughly so follow the instructions on your steriliser.
Step 3: Wash hands thoroughly
Wash your hands in warm, soapy water before you start to make the feeds.
Step 4: Boil fresh water
Boil at least one litre of tap water and allow it to cool for no more than 30 minutes before using it.
Step 5: Pour the water into the bottle
Make sure you measure the required amount of water into the bottle as per the instructions.
Step 6: Scoop the powder into the water
It is important you follow the product’s instructions exactly to avoid your baby becoming ill. Level each scoop either using the back of a clean knife or the built-in leveller in the can if there is one - adding too much or too little powder can make your infant sick.
Step 7: Put the lid on the bottle
Put a sterilised teat and cap onto the bottle, ensuring they are tightly screwed on.
Step 8: Shake well
Shake the bottle well to combine the powder to the water. Make sure the lid is on tight before you do this.
Step 9: Cool bottle
Cool the bottle under cold running tap water until it is lukewarm – test the temperature by pouring a few drops onto your wrist.
Step 10: Storage
SafeFood recommends that if you aren’t going to be using them immediately, put your cooled bottles in the fridge, set at a temperature of 5°C or less, straight away. Throw away any feeds not used within 24 hours.
Always remember that choosing to bottle feed or breastfeed your baby is an entirely personal decision.
