Anytime you’re going to buy infant formula you need to check the expiration date. You do not want to use it, If the expiration date has passed. Don’t even consider buying it. Also, pay attention to the condition of the formula container. If the container is damaged, such as, dents, bulges, leaks or rust spots don’t buy it. You should inform the store owner or manager of the problem.
There are two kinds of formula, one is the powder form and the other is liquid form. The ready-to-use formula, once it’s opened needs to be refrigerated and used up within 48 hours. You also should shake it well before opening it. When using either the liquid form or powder form make sure you read the directions.
Before beginning, always wash your hands.
On the formula container follow the directions carefull. The instructions variesfrom formula to formula. For the health of your baby, follow them exactly.
Before opening the can, wipe the lid to remove dust and dirt from it.
You should turn the cold tap water on and let it run for 30 seconds to about one minute, before making the infant formula. Thepurpose for this is to allow any contaminants to run through. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, you should never cook or mix infant formula using hot water from the tap. The plumbing may have lead or lead solder and hot water can concentrate the lead. Only using cold water can help reduce your baby’s exposure to the lead from tap water. Boiling the water doesn’t get rid of the lead either, but you can use water filters which do remove lead from the drinking water.
When boiling water, make sure to bring the water to a rolling boil for 5 minutes. Only boil the water once. If you do it again, then you’ll change the concentration of the minerals in the water.
Using boiled water, allow it to cool before pouring into the baby bottle. Using cold water fill the baby bottle. Always, add the powder after you’ve added the water, otherwise the formula will be stuck in the bottom of the bottle.
Again follow the directions of how much powder you need to add. The directions will be different from brand to brand. Make sure you put the lid make on the container.
Most babies like their milk warmed. Heat the bottle by placing it in a pan of hot water, not boiling water, for a few minutes. You can also buy a bottle warmer which works very well. NEVER USE A MICROWAVE. The formula will have hot spots and will burn the baby’s mouth. Shake the bottle after heating it, then turn the bottle upside down and allow a few drops fall on your wrist. The infant formula should feel warm on your arm.
Always throw out the leftover formula from the bottle. The bacteria from you baby’s mouth are mixed in with the formula. It’s not safe to reuse.
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