Bottle-Feeding a Baby (0–11 Months)

• Wash hands with water and mild soap before each preparation.
• Choose a bottle nipple that is appropriate for the baby’s age.

Preparing commercial infant formula

• During the first 4 months of life, boil water for at least 1 minute, then allow it to cool.
• Store boiled water for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 24 hours at room temperature.
• Use the measuring scoop provided with the container.
• Follow the quantities indicated on the container.
• Mix the formula with the boiled water directly in the bottle.
• Do not add anything else to the bottle unless recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Close the bottle and shake it gently.
• Offer the bottle within 2 hours. Discard the formula after that time.

Storing pumped breast milk

• Place the milk in a clean container and close it tightly.
• Write the date on the container.
• Keep the container away from sunlight and heat for no more than 4 hours, then refrigerate it.

Warming bottles

• Warm the bottle in lukewarm water.
• For breast milk:
  • Place the bag or bottle under warm running water or in a container of warm water.
  • Gently swirl the milk. Do not shake it.
• Before feeding, place a few drops of milk on the inside of your wrist to check the temperature.
• Discard any milk left in the bottle after 2 hours.
• From 10 to 12 months of age, milk may be offered cold directly from the refrigerator.

Cleaning bottles and bottle nipples

• Rinse both parts in cold water as soon as the baby has finished feeding.
• Wash them in very hot, soapy water.
• Make sure water flows through the hole in the nipple.
• Rinse thoroughly and allow any excess water to drain.
• For babies under 4 months: Sterilize the bottle and nipple in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes or wash them in the dishwasher.
• Allow the bottle, collar, and nipple to air-dry.