Preparing the bottle

Most infant formulas are sold as powder to be added to water. This process is done with the measuring spoon inside the box and following the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, 1 level measure is diluted in 30 ml of water, so 2 level measures in 60 ml of water, 3 level measures in 90 ml and so on.

Wash your hands thoroughly beforehand.

  1. Measure out the desired quantity of water in the bottle.
  2. Add the measuring spoons of milk powder according to the manufacturer’s instructions and shake gently.
  3. Gently warm the bottle to the desired temperature.
  4. Give the bottle slightly warmed or at room temperature.
  5. Clean everything.

Dispose of any milk that has not been used.

Water

Use mineral water that is “suitable for the preparation of baby food”. This is indicated on the label of the bottle. Any opened bottle of water should be kept in the fridge and used within 24 hours.

Fresh tap water is suitable for bottle feeding from the time of feeding. However, do not use water that has been left standing in the pipes. Let the water run until cold water comes out of the tap. Never use water that has gone through a #ltration system such as an anti-limescale system for example.

Preparation in practice

  • Always follow the dilution on the milk powder label and the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Always prepare bottles on a clean surface.
  • Use clean materials.
  • Preferably prepare the bottles just before use.
  • If you prepare a bottle in advance, it should be kept in the fridge at 4°C to 8°C until you use it.
  • If you have to bottle-feed away from home, take warm water and milk powder separately and prepare the bottle just before feeding.
  • We strongly discourage storing prepared bottles because of the growth of bacteria and the risk of infection for the infant.
  • Leftover milk should be disposed of.
  • It is advisable to clean the bottles immediately after use and to let them air dry.

Scoops levelled off milk powder

and water quantity

water

scoops levelled

off milk powder

30 ml 1 scoop
60 ml 2 scoops
90 ml 3 scoops
120 ml 4 scoops
150 ml 5 scoops
180 ml 6 scoops
  1. Measure the desired volume of water into the bottle or a sterilised container.
  2. Add the recommended number of level scoops of milk powder for the chosen volume of water.
  3. Put the cap on.
  4. Shake the milk well so that the powder dissolves.
  5. Heat in the bottle warmer or bain-marie (a pan with hot water).
  6. Shake the milk well so that the temperature is evenly distributed.
  7. For reasons of hygiene, do not leave bottles in the bottle warmer for longer than necessary.

The ideal bottle temperature is 35-36 degrees (close to body temperature). Thermometers specifically designed for this purpose are available for purchase. It is however also possible to feed baby milk at room temperature. For reasons of hygiene, do not suck the teat of the bottle yourself.

CLEANING THE BOTTLE

It is advisable to clean bottles and teats as soon as possible after use. They should be cleaned well with soapy water using a clean brush provided for this purpose. They should then be rinsed under running water.

Washing the bottles in the dishwasher ≥65°C is also possible.

Instructions for use:

  • Wash your hands well before starting.
  • Clean and rinse bottles and teats thoroughly with soapy water, preferably using a brush.
  • Leave to air dry in a clean place with the opening at the bottom, do not dry with a cloth.
  • Or wash them in a dishwasher ≥65°C.

If your doctor has advised you to sterilise bottles, here are some possibilities:

  • using a special steriliser;
  • in boiling water for 15 minutes;
  • in a (steam) pressure cooker for 10 minutes;
  • using a sterilising solution which you can buy at a chemist.

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