Formula Feeding a Premature Infant
Parents choose to bottle-feed babies for many reasons. This sheet can help answer some of your questions about feeding your preemie with formula.
What kind of formula should I use?
Be sure to use the type of formula and the concentration that were prescribed when your baby was discharged. Preemie formulas and "follow-up" formulas are designed for premature babies. These may be better for your baby than regular formulas.
If using powder:
-
Follow package directions for mixing.
-
If you have any concerns about the safety of your water supply, use bottled water. You can check with your local health department to help determine whether your water supply is safe.
-
Use all of the powder within one month after opening the package.
-
Keep mixed formula in the refrigerator when not in use. Don’t keep mixed formula for longer than 24 hours.
-
Don't use the leftover formula from a partially eaten bottle. Once a bottle of formula has been at room temperature for an hour, it needs to be discarded.
If using concentrate:
-
Follow package directions for mixing.
-
Seal the package and keep it in the refrigerator after opening.
-
Use within 48 hours of opening the package.
How do I know when my baby needs to be fed?
Preemies may not cry when they’re hungry. Instead, they may move around and become restless. Get to know your baby’s cues. If your baby is feeding less than the recommended amount, or not gaining weight on schedule, tell your baby’s health care provider.
Ask your health care provider:
-
How often should I feed my baby? ________________
-
How much should I feed my baby?
-
How much weight should my baby gain per week? _____________
Taking care of bottles and other equipment
If your baby drinks from a bottle but does not finish all of the formula within 1 hour, discard the remaining liquid and give your baby a new bottle at the next feed.
Glass and metal items can be washed in a dishwasher. The following items should be hand washed in hot soapy water and rinsed in hot, clean water:
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.