Bottle Feeding Questions Parents Always Ask!

Bottle feeding, like breastfeeding, can feel overwhelming for new parents, filled with questions and concerns about what’s best for your baby. Every baby is unique, and finding the right routine and tools that work for you can take time. To help, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common bottle-feeding questions parents often ask.

1. How Do I Choose the Right Bottle and Nipple?

Choosing the right bottle and nipple is essential for a smooth feeding experience. Bottles come in different shapes, materials, and sizes, so consider what will be easiest for you and your baby. For newborns, smaller bottles) with slow-flow nipples are often a good start. As your baby grows, you can switch to larger bottles.

Nipples also come in different flow rates (slow, medium, fast). Newborns generally need a slow flow to prevent choking and swallowing too much air. As your baby gets older and more efficient at feeding, you can gradually move to a faster flow. Also, consider anti-colic bottles if your baby seems gassy or uncomfortable after feeds. Remember, finding the right bottle and nipple can require some trial and error, so be prepared to try a few options.

2. How Often Should I Feed My Baby?

Newborns typically feed every 2-3 hours, which equals about 8-12 feedings in a 24-hour period. As your baby grows, the time between feedings will usually lengthen. By the time they’re 3-4 months old, many babies start feeding every 3-4 hours. However, every baby is different, and it’s important to watch for hunger cues rather than strictly follow a clock.

Hunger cues include rooting (turning their head toward your chest), sucking on their hands or fingers, smacking their lips, or becoming fussy. Feeding on demand rather than on a strict schedule ensures that your baby gets the nourishment they need while also helping them feel secure and comforted.

3. How Do I Know If My Baby is Getting Enough Milk?

It’s natural to worry about whether your baby is getting enough to eat. Here are some signs that your baby is well-fed:

• Wet and Dirty Nappies: A well-fed baby will typically have at least 6-8 wet nappies a day and several dirty ones. The stool should be soft and yellow (for breastfed babies) or pale brown or yellow (for formula-fed babies).
• Steady Weight Gain: Regular weight check-ups with your maternal health nurse will help confirm that your baby is gaining weight appropriately. Most babies lose a little weight in the first few days after birth, but they should regain it by about two weeks and continue to gain steadily.
• Content After Feeding: If your baby seems relaxed, satisfied, and sleepy after feeding, it's a good sign they’ve had enough. Babies who are still hungry will remain fussy or show continued hunger cues.

4. Can I Reuse Leftover Milk?

Leftover milk from a feeding should be used with caution. Formula or breast milk that has been in contact with your baby’s saliva can harbor bacteria and should ideally be discarded within an hour after the feeding ends. If you are feeding expressed breast milk and have any leftover, it can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. However, formula-fed milk should be discarded after 1 hour due to the risk of bacterial growth.

To minimise waste, try to prepare smaller amounts of milk and add more if needed.

5. What’s the Best Way to Clean and Sterilise Bottles?

Proper cleaning and sterilising of bottles and feeding equipment are crucial for keeping your baby safe from harmful germs. Here’s how to do it:

• Clean Immediately: Rinse bottles, nipples, and any other feeding equipment right after use. Use the Milton Baby Bottle Cleaner to remove all milk residue and a bottle brush to clean thoroughly.
• Sterilise Regularly: For newborns up to 12 months old, and especially if your baby was premature or has health issues, sterilise all feeding equipment daily. You can do this by using Milton Antibacterial Solution or the Milton Anti-bacterial Tablets as they effectively kill 99.9% of germs without needing to rinse.

Sterilising is less critical for older babies, but it’s still a good idea to sterilise bottles occasionally to maintain good hygiene.

6. How Can I Make Bottle Feeding More Comfortable for My Baby?

Bottle feeding can sometimes cause discomfort, like gas or colic. Here are some tips to make the experience smoother:

• Feed in a Semi-Upright Position: Hold your baby in a semi-upright position to prevent milk from flowing too quickly. This can help reduce the risk of gas and reflux.
• Burp Regularly: Burp your baby mid feed and after the feed to release any swallowed air. Hold your baby upright and gently pat their back until you hear a burp.
• Use Anti-Colic Bottles: Consider bottles with anti-colic vents or valves designed to reduce the amount of air your baby swallows.

7. How Do I Transition from Breastfeeding to Bottle Feeding?

Transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle feeding can take time and patience. Start by introducing a bottle at a time when your baby is calm and not overly hungry. Use breast milk if possible, so the taste is familiar. Try offering the bottle during the day when your baby is more relaxed and enlist someone else to give the bottle if your baby associates you with breastfeeding.

Be consistent but flexible and understand that it might take several tries before your baby gets used to the bottle. Praise your baby and keep the experience positive.

8. How Can I Warm Up Bottles Safely?

To warm up a bottle, place it in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer. Never microwave bottles, as this can create hot spots that could burn your baby’s mouth. Test the milk’s temperature by shaking the bottle and squeezing a few drops on your wrist—it should feel lukewarm.

9. What Should I Do If My Baby Refuses the Bottle?

If your baby refuses the bottle, don’t panic! It’s common and can be due to many reasons, like teething, sickness, or a preference for breastfeeding. Here are some strategies to try:

• Change the temperature of the milk (some babies prefer it warmer or cooler).
• Experiment with different bottles and nipples.
• Offer the bottle when your baby is not extremely hungry.
• Be patient and try again later—sometimes, a little break is all they need!

Bottle feeding is a unique experience for every parent and baby. It can take time to find the right routine, but remember that you are not alone—many parents have similar questions and concerns. If you’re ever in doubt, always consult with your maternal health nurse or a lactation consultant for personalised guidance. Remember, feeding your baby is about love, bonding, and meeting their nutritional needs, whether through breast, bottle, or both!