Better Bottle Prep

from Parents magazine March 2010

Moms aren’t getting enough guidance on formula-feeding  from their health-care providers, according to a new study in Archives of Disease in Childhood.  Follow these fixes for common formula flubs.

FLUB: Opening a new can straight from the shelf
FIX: First wash the lid and can opener with soap and water to get rid of dust and bacteria, then rinse and dry.

FLUB: Heating bottles in the microwave: The formula may contain dangerous hot spots.
FIX: Heat bottles in a pan of warm water, under the tap, or in an electric bottle warmer.

FLUB: Adding extra water to your infant’s bottle: It can dilute her sodium levels and cause seizures.
FIX: Fill bottles with the correct amount of water, then add formula.

FLUB: Making formula with hot tap water: It’s more likely to contain lead than cold water, as is water that has be that has been sitting in pipes.
FIX: Choose cold water and run the tap for two minutes first if it’s been off for six hours.

FLUB: Not finding out your water’s fluoride content if you’re exclusively formula-feeding with powdered or liquid-concentrate formula.
FIX: A new study from the American Dental Association says that some babies will get fluorosis if all their formula is made with highly fluoridated tap water, and that can cause discolored teeth.  Ask your water company for your water’s fluoride level.  If it’s .7 parts per million or higher, talk to your doctor about making some bottles with distilled water.