How to Change Baby's Formula
It's generally preferable to keep a baby on the same formula if there are no health concerns. However, most babies can make the transition to a new kind without any problems. Parents may decide to try changing formula for a variety of reasons, including a suspected allergy to cow's milk or no longer being able to afford a more expensive brand.
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Instructions
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Discuss the decision to switch to a new formula with your pediatrician, especially if it's being done for a medical reason. A pediatrician should be able to recommend new brands based on what you've been using and the problems it's causing. He may even have samples of the new formula for you to try.
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Read the directions on the new formula carefully to be sure that you mix it the right way. Some types require different procedures or amounts of water to be added. Don't assume that it will be the same as the last brand.
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Begin gradually mixing the new formula in with the kind that the baby is used to. The percentages you should start mixing at depend on how sensitive your baby's digestive tract is. Some can go straight to a new formula with no issues, while others need some time to adjust. If you're unsure, it's better to mix slowly unless there is a major problem with the first formula. Try giving the baby a bottle that includes 3/4 old formula and 1/4 of the new kind. If there are no negative effects, continue increasing the new formula by 1/4 per day until it's all you're using on the fourth day.
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Watch for any negative changes in your baby when you begin using a different formula, such as gas, diarrhea, vomiting, excessive crying, pain, blood in stools or a rash. Call your pediatrician if you notice any new symptoms.
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Don't switch to another new formula in the near future unless it's warranted by health concerns. It's not a good idea to keep changing the diet of a newborn with a sensitive stomach in order to use up a variety of free samples, for example.
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Tips & Warnings
Give away unopened samples of formula that you won't use to another family in need.
Newborns are more likely to be affected by formula changes than older babies.
It's easier on the baby to switch to a new formula that has similar ingredients but is a different brand. Sticking with the same brand, but using a different formula, is more likely to cause upset. For example, if you are starting with a soy-based formula, change to another soy-based one if possible.
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