Bottle Feeding Basics

Boiling or sterilizing bottles and nipples is not necessary. Wash them the same way you would wash your regular dishes. Using tap water to mix formula is completely acceptable and safe. If you prefer bottled water, use “nursery water” formulations as they contain some fluoride supplementation.

Plain water is not recommended in the first few months of life. Your baby will get the “water” he/she needs to stay hydrated in the formula. There are different nipple sizes available and you will need to change the nipple size as your baby grows.

It is recommended to mix boiled water with powdered infant formula while it is still very hot, then cool the formula to a safe feeding temperature. Powdered infant formula is a non-sterile product with can become contaminated during production with harmful pathogens. This guideline is endorsed by the CDC and the Texas Pediatric Society.

The larger the nipple size, the more flow it allows for your baby.