How Does Ready-to-Mix Powdered Baby Formula Work?

What Makes It a Good Choice

Ready-to-mix baby formula is the best way to go short of breastfeeding. It is cheaper, lighter, easier to store, and lasts longer. This is all due to the fact that it is in powder form. It doesn't go bad nearly as quickly and being powder, it travels well. Ready-to-mix powder has all the nutrients a baby needs with just the water removed. It comes in all size containers from large to single-serve packets.

Making the Formula

To mix ready-mix baby formula all you need is the powder and some water. Follow the directions on the label for proportions and if possible boil the water first. Add the powder and water to the bottle, close the lid, then shake to mix. If boiling is not an option, use a microwave to heat the water. Because the mix is not in liquid form until it is made, it won't spoil like the liquid formula does. Once mixed, you must use what you mix up within 24 hours. And never keep a partially used bottle after a baby has drunk from it. Bacteria can grow in the bottle, which could harm the child.

Do You Boil?

The only issue with powdered ready-mix baby formula is the water itself. Most will tell you to boil water to ensure it is free of bacteria. However, you should never mix with boiling water because it will compromise the nutrients in the mix. Always let the water cool first. When traveling you might not always have access to boiling water. You can use tap water or bottled water, or you could boil the water ahead of time and take it with you.