The Simple Guide to Bottle Feeding Newborns

As a new parent, ensuring your baby gets the right amount of milk can feel overwhelming. You may wonder, “Am I feeding my baby enough?” Whether you use formula or expressed breast milk, bottle feeding is an excellent option for parents who can’t or choose not to breastfeed exclusively.

This guide will cover the basics of bottle feeding, offer some practical tips, and introduce you to a helpful tool—the Genie Formula Calculator from Parenting Genie—that makes feeding your baby easier.

Why Bottle Feeding May Be Right for You

Bottle feeding offers flexibility. If you’re going back to work, need help from your partner or family members or want to track how much milk your baby is drinking, bottle feeding gives you more control. It’s also a great choice for parents who adopt or can’t breastfeed for medical or personal reasons.

Whether you’re using formula or breast milk, the key is to ensure your baby is getting the right amount for growth.

Bottle Feeding Basics

Here are some simple rules to follow to ensure bottle feeding goes smoothly. (Parenting advice for new parents)

Choosing the Right Milk

If you’re using formula, choose one suited for your baby’s age and needs. For newborns, look for a formula similar to breast milk. If your baby has allergies or sensitivities, special formulas, like lactose-free or hypoallergenic options, are available.

For expressed breast milk, store and warm it properly before feeding it to keep it safe and nutritious.

Feed on Demand

Like breastfeeding, bottle feeding should be done when your baby shows signs of hunger. These can include sucking on their hands, smacking their lips, or becoming more alert. Crying is usually a late sign of hunger, so it’s best to feed them before they get upset.

How Much Milk Should You Give?

The amount of milk your baby needs changes as they grow. Newborns usually eat small amounts more often. A newborn may drink 45 to 90 milliliters (1.5 to 3 ounces) every 2 to 3 hours. They’ll drink more at each feeding as they grow and can go longer between feedings.

Introducing the Genie Formula Calculator

Parenting Genie has created a helpful tool—the Genie Formula Calculator to make things easier. This online tool gives you personalised feeding recommendations based on your baby’s age, weight, and feeding needs. It takes the guesswork out of feeding and helps ensure your baby gets the right nourishment.

How Does the Genie Formula Calculator Work?

It’s simple to use:

1. Enter your baby’s age.
2. Input your baby’s weight.
3. Choose whether you’re using formula or breast milk.

The calculator then gives you the recommended amount of milk for each feeding based on expert pediatric advice. You can use the Genie Formula Calculator anytime by visiting the Parenting Genie website.

Practical Bottle-Feeding Tips

Here are some easy tips to make bottle feeding smooth and enjoyable:

1. Hold Your Baby Close
2. Feeding is a special bonding time. Hold your baby close to your chest and make eye contact while feeding to create a nurturing atmosphere, just like breastfeeding.
3. Test the Milk Temperature
4. Before feeding, test the milk’s temperature to ensure it’s just right—neither too hot nor too cold. You can check this by dropping a few drops on the inside of your wrist.
5. Burp Your Baby Often
6. Babies tend to swallow more air while bottle feeding, so burp them halfway through and at the end of each feeding to help them release gas and prevent discomfort.
7. Clean and Sanitize Bottles
8. Wash bottles and nipples/teats with hot, soapy water after each use, and sterilise them daily, especially during the first few months.
9. Don’t Overfeed
10. Babies know when they’ve had enough, so watch for signs that your baby is full, such as turning away from the bottle or spitting out milk.

Conclusion

Bottle feeding is a great way to ensure your baby gets the nutrition they need while giving you more flexibility. With Parenting Genie’s Genie Formula Calculator, you can feel confident that your baby is getting the right amount of milk for their age and needs.

Visit Parenting Genie today to use the Genie Formula Calculator and take the stress out of bottle feeding! Also, check out our Parenting Live Expert services.