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When bottle-feeding your baby, it’s natural to wonder if they’re getting the right amount of formula. Too little, and you worry about their growth. Too much, and you wonder about overfeeding. The good news? You’re not alone — finding the right balance gets easier with some guidance. How much formula does my baby need?
In this guide, we’ll break down how much formula your newborn needs at every stage, how often to feed, and helpful tips to make feeding smoother. Every baby is unique, so these are general guidelines, not rigid rules.
Need quick help determining your infant’s needs? Use our Genie Formula Calculator to easily calculate the right amount of formula based on your baby’s weight and number of feeds.
In the early days, your newborn’s tummy is tiny — about the size of a marble. They need small, frequent feeds to stay satisfied.
First week: Infant formula
Newborns usually eat every 2 to 3 hours, day and night.
Tip: Let your baby’s cues guide you. Crying, rooting, and sucking motions are signs of hunger.
When your baby is about one month old, its stomach has grown, and it can take in more milk at each feeding.
Formula intake per day: About 700-1000 ml (24-34 ounces).
Offer a little more if your baby finishes bottles quickly and still seems hungry. But don’t force them to finish bottles if they turn away or show signs of fullness.
At this stage, your baby becomes a more efficient feeder.
Some babies may start showing interest in solids closer to 6 months. However, formula remains their primary source of nutrition until their first birthday.
As babies start solids, their formula intake slightly adjusts — but it’s still crucial.
Daily formula needs: Around 700-950 ml (24 – 32 ounces).
Babies need iron-rich foods to complement formula after starting solids (around 6 months), but milk still provides the bulk of their calories.
Important:
| Age | Formula per Feeding | Number of Feedings per Day |
| 0-1 week | 30-60 ml (1-2 oz) | 8-12 times |
| 1-2 months | 120 ml (4 ounces) | 6-8 times |
| 2-4 months | 120-150 ml (4-5 oz) | 6-7 times |
| 4-6 months | 150-180 ml (5-6 oz) | 5-6 times |
| 6-9 months | 180-210 ml (6-7 oz) | 4-5 times |
| 9-12 months | 210-240 ml (7-8 oz) | 3-4 times |
If you’re concerned, speak to your pediatrician or child health nurse.
Remember: Every baby is different — some are naturally bigger eaters; others are more petite.
A general rule of thumb:
150 ml per kg of body weight per day
Example: How much to give your baby?
Divide that total amount by the number of feedings your baby has per day.
Tip: Trust your instincts, too — if your baby is growing well, has plenty of wet diapers, and seems content, you’re doing great!
Can I overfeed my formula-fed baby?
Yes, it’s possible, but it’s rare if you’re watching hunger and fullness cues. If you’re concerned, offer smaller, frequent feeds.
When can my baby start drinking cow’s milk?
Cow’s milk shouldn’t replace formula or breastmilk until after 12 months. Before then, it doesn’t provide the right nutritional balance.
How much water should a formula-fed baby drink?
Babies under 6 months don’t need extra water. Once solids are introduced, small sips of cooled, boiled water are fine.
Should I wake my baby for formula feeds?
Yes, in the first few weeks, especially if your baby is underweight. After birthweight is regained, most healthy babies can wake on their own when hungry.
Feeding your baby is a loving, learning experience. Some days, your baby eats a little more, and other days, a little less. Trust your baby’s cues and trust yourself.
If you’re ever in doubt, Parenting Genie’s 24/7 Parenting Live Expert and Genie Chat are here to guide you.
The Raising Children website has more tips and insights on formula feeding.
