Tips & Tricks For Formula Feeding On The Go

September 06, 2023

One of the great things about formula feeding is how easy it is to feed your baby wherever you may be! With a little bit of prep work ahead of time, you can confidently take your baby on the go and be able to feed them as needed. Today we are going to answer some common questions many new parents have as they navigate formula feeding while out and about, and we are going to share tried and true tips so that you can coast right into this new adventure with ease.

Formula Feeding on the go preparation

Preparation

The first thing you will want to do before heading out with your little one is to prepare all the things you will need to feed them! To do this, measure out the amount of formula powder you will need according to the package instructions and place it into a small, sealed container. Next, boil the amount of filtered water you will need for the bottle and pour it into a sealed container. It is best if you can utilize a container that will keep the water at the desired temperature until feeding time. After that, be sure to grab an empty, sterilized bottle so that you can mix the powder and water together when feeding time comes. It may be helpful to have a small diaper bag or bottle bag to store these items in so that they are all in one place and easily accessible. This also makes it convenient to simply carry the small bag or stick it under your baby’s stroller to keep it with you while you are out.

If you need to pre-mix the formula before heading out, you can do so and then store it in a travel bag with an ice pack. Just be sure it is used within four hours if this is the route you take or place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If you need to warm the bottle before feeding the baby, you can do this by running the bottle under warm water or by heating a mug of water in the microwave and then setting the bottle in the mug of water for a few minutes. Just be sure to never microwave the bottle or formula itself!

How to feed baby outside

Feeding Time

Once you are ready to feed your baby, access the items and mix the formula and water together. Place the mixture into the bottle and run under cool water to ensure that the formula will not be too hot. Test the formula on your wrist before feeding just to be sure. To ensure your baby’s comfort while eating on the go, try to find a quiet spot where you can sit and hold them while they eat. While this can be tricky depending on where you are, bringing along a familiar blanket and having a burp cloth on hand can help to closely mimic the setting your baby is used to eating in if you typically do most of their feedings at home.

Common Questions

Can babies drink cold formula?

The answer to this question may depend upon your baby’s preferences. As long as the water used to prepare the formula was heated upon making the bottle and then refrigerated or stored with an ice pack immediately, it is ok for your baby to drink the formula cold. While newborns and young infants may not prefer cold formula, it will not cause any harm. Some babies will refuse if they do not like it cold, and that is where the baby’s specific preferences come into play. If you are unable to heat the formula while out and need to feed them, try setting it out for a bit so that it can reach room temperature or use that trick of running the bottle under warm water. If either of those choices are not an option, feeding the formula cold is ok!

Can you freeze formula?

It is not recommended to freeze mixed or premade formula as the freezing process can cause formula to lose some of its important nutrients.

What are the best ways to avoid contaminants or bacteria getting into your baby’s formula?

To do this, it is best to be sure the surface you are preparing bottles on is clean before you begin and be sure your hands are washed. Always sterilize all of the bottle pieces, including the nipple, cap and any other items included on the bottle. Even if a bottle is brand new, always sterilize the items before using them. Keep formula powder stored according to the package instructions and always use filtered water when preparing formula.

Can you freeze baby formula?

How long can a formula fed baby go without eating?

Most formula fed babies will want to eat between every 2-5 hours. Typically, newborns and young infants will want to eat a bit more frequently and closer to that 2-hour interval between feedings. Six-month-olds up to twelve-month-olds may wait a little closer to that four- or five-hour mark between feedings. As long as you are watching for common signs that cue hunger (rooting, acting restless or fussing, sucking on hands, etc) you can be sure that your little one’s tummy is full and ok without a feeding. As soon as they start to show those hunger cues however, it is best to offer them a bottle.

Can I reheat the untouched formula?

If you have prepared the formula and store it right away in the fridge without feeding any to your baby, then yes! You can absolutely reheat and feed your baby this formula. If, however, you have offered any to your baby, you should not refrigerate the formula from that specific bottle and then heat it later to serve as the baby's saliva can mix with the formula when eating and cause bacteria to grow as a result.