How Much Milk Should a 6-Month-Old Baby Drink?

Six-month-olds drink 32 to 48 ounces of breast milk or formula.

Consuming Only Milk

Six-month-olds should not drink cow's milk.

Most 6-month-old babies of average birth weight require 32 to 48 ounces of milk per 24 hours, according to lactation consultant and "Baby Whisperer" Tracy Hogg. Due to possible allergic reactions, a 6-month-old should not drink cow's milk--only breast milk or formula.

Consuming Milk and Solids

Replace equal ounces of solids for milk.

Many babies begin consuming some solids around age 6 months. For every ounce of solid food eaten, subtract an ounce of milk for the day. The number of ounces consumed, solid or liquid, should still add up to 32 to 48. If the baby takes solids well, the ounces of milk needed will be between 16 and 32 ounces.

Bottom Line

If he is not consistently eating solids, a 6-month-old should drink 32 to 48 ounces of milk within 24 hours. Watch for signs of hunger or satisfaction. If the baby is going through a growth spurt, is sick, or is above or below average in weight, the number of ounces will likely increase or decrease.

References

• "The Baby Whisperer Solves All Your Problems (By Teaching You How to Ask the Right Questions)"; Tracy Hogg and Melinda Blau; 2001

Resources

• "What to Expect the First Year"; Heidi Murkoff, et al.; 2003