How to Heat Bottles

Heat bottles correctly to prevent injury.

Providing bottles is one of the most important parts of caring for a baby. Whether they are filled with infant formula or breast milk, heating bottles requires care to prevent damage to the baby's tender mouth and throat. It's vital that both parents and caregivers are aware of the importance of heating bottles safely. It's also necessary to note that breast milk requires special care when heating, as do certain types of bottles.

Things You'll Need

• Pan
• Stove
• Microwave

Instructions

1. Fill a pan with water and place it on the stove top.

2. Turn the stove to medium and allow the water to warm until hot, but not boiling.

3. Remove the pan from the stove and place glass or plastic bottles in the water to warm. Leave them there for approximately four to five minutes. Both infant formula and breast milk can be safely heated this way.

4. Turn the faucet to hot and allow it to run until the water is at its peak temperature.

5. Hold the bottle under the stream of water for two minutes. This method can be used with breast milk or infant formula and for all types of bottles.

6. Fill a plastic bottle with at least 4 oz. of infant formula and place it inside the microwave.

7. Heat 4 oz. bottles for no more than 30 seconds and 8 oz. bottles for no more than 45 seconds.

8. Shake baby bottles after warming, no matter which method was used, to distribute heat evenly.

9. Sprinkle two to three drops of the breast milk or formula onto your wrist to make sure it isn't too hot.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not heat breast milk in the microwave, as this may affect its nutrients.

• Do not heat glass bottles in the microwave because they may break.

• Never heat bottles with disposable liners inside the microwave.

References

• North Dakota State University Extension Service; Safe Food for Babies and Children: Warming Bottles Safely; Julie Garden-Robinson, Ph.D., L.R.D., et al.