Feeding with a Bottle & Powdered Formula

Here are some resources on using formula to feed your baby safely and correctly.

How to Prepare & Store Powdered Infant Formula

Make sure the formula is not expired, and the container is in good condition (no dents, puffy ends, or rust spots)
Clean the countertops and wash your hands with soap and warm water before preparing bottles. Use a clean bottle and nipple.
Use water from a safe source to mix with formula. Tap water is usually safe but contact your local health department if you aren't sure.
Use the exact amount of water and formula listed on the instructions of the infant formula container. Always measure the water first and then add the infant formula powder. Never dilute formula by adding extra water as this can make your baby sick.
Shake the formula in the bottle to mix. Do not stir.
You do not need to warm infant formula before feeding. If you decide to warm the formula, place the bottle under running warm water or into a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. Avoid getting water into the bottle or nipple as this could contaminate the formula. Never warm infant formula in the microwave! Microwaving creates hot spots, which can burn your baby's mouth.
Test the temperature of the formula before feeding it to your baby by putting a few drops on the inside of your wrist. It should feel warm, not hot.
After feeding, be sure to thoroughly clean the bottle and nipple before the next use.

Use prepared infant formula within 1 hour from start of feeding to within 2 hours of preparation.
If you are not going to use the prepared infant formula within 2 hours, immediately store the bottle in the refrigerator and use it within 24 hours.
Throw out any infant formula that's left in the bottle after feeding your baby. Do not refrigerate it to save for later. The combination of infant formula and your baby's saliva can cause bacteria to grow.

Whether you are feeding your baby breast milk or formula in a bottle, here are some tips for bottle feeding.

Watch for signs that your baby is full. Then, stop feeding, even if the bottle is not empty.
Position the bottle at an angle rather than straight up and down so the liquid only comes out when your baby sucks.
Let your baby take breaks from drinking when they seem to want them.
Do not use a bottle to feed your baby anything besides formula or breast milk.
Hold your baby close when feeding them a bottle.
Always hold the bottle for your baby while feeding. Propping the bottle in your baby's mouth can increase their risk of choking, ear infections, and tooth decay.
Do not put your baby to bed with a bottle. The formula or breast milk can pool around your baby's teeth causing tooth decay.