Bottle feeding your baby can be a great option, whether you’re using formula or expressed breast milk. It has got its fair share of perks such as allowing others to pitch in with feedings and giving you more flexibility in your schedule. However, there are a few pitfalls that parents sometimes encounter. Let’s go through nine common bottle feeding mistakes and how to steer clear of them to ensure your baby gets the best possible nutrition.
Best Bottle Feeding Practices To Prevent The Mistakes
Here are some simple bottle feeding tips to avoid common mistakes and make feeding time a lot easier for both you and your baby.
1. Using the Wrong Nipple Flow
Picking a nipple with the wrong flow rate can cause issues. If it’s too fast, your baby might choke. If it’s too slow, they might get frustrated and not eat enough.
Our expert baby feeding advice is to choose a nipple flow that’s appropriate for your baby’s age. Start with a slow flow for newborns and switch to a faster flow as they grow. Watch how your baby is feeding and adjust if needed. If your baby is coughing, gagging, or milk is spilling out of their mouth, the flow might be too fast.
If they seem to be sucking hard and taking a long time to finish a bottle, the flow might be too slow. There are many different nipple flow options available, so don’t hesitate to try a few to find the best fit for your baby.
2. Incorrect Formula Preparation
Mixing formula incorrectly by adding too much or too little water can mess with your baby’s nutrition and digestion.
Follow the instructions on the formula package to the letter. Use the provided scoop, level it off, and add the right amount of water. Make sure the water is safe and at the recommended temperature. Using too much water can dilute the nutrients your baby needs. Not using enough water can make the formula too strong, which could stress your baby’s kidneys and lead to dehydration. The best bottle feeding practice is to always measure carefully, and if you’re unsure, ask your pediatrician for guidance.
3. Overfeeding or Underfeeding
Giving your baby too much or too little can affect their growth. Overfeeding can cause weight issues, while underfeeding can lead to not getting enough nutrients.
Pay attention to your baby’s hunger and fullness cues. Newborns usually need about 2-3 ounces of formula every 3-4 hours. Baby feeding advice from pediatricians is to adjust as they grow. If you’re unsure, check with your pediatrician.
Babies typically double their birth weight by about 5 months, so regular weight checks can help ensure they’re on track. Signs your baby is still hungry include smacking lips, rooting, and sucking on their hands. Signs they are full include turning away from the bottle, closing their mouth, or falling asleep.
4. Not Burping Your Baby
Skipping the burping step can cause your baby to have gas and discomfort.
Make burping a part of your feeding routine. Hold your baby upright against your chest or over your shoulder and gently pat their back until they burp. Some babies need to be burped more often during feedings. If your baby seems fussy during feeding or pulls away from the bottle, try burping them mid-feed. Different positions, like sitting them on your lap and supporting their head while you pat their back, can also help.
5. Feeding in a Lying Down Position
Feeding your baby while they’re lying flat is another common bottle feeding mistake that can increase the risk of ear infections and choking.
Always feed your baby in a semi-upright position. Hold them at a slight incline, so their head is higher than their stomach. This helps the milk flow better and reduces the risk of ear infections. Propping up the bottle with pillows or leaving your baby unattended can also be dangerous. Always supervise bottle feeding and ensure your baby is in a safe position. Using a feeding pillow can help you maintain a comfortable position for both you and your baby.
6. Not Cleaning Bottles Properly
Not cleaning bottles thoroughly can leave harmful bacteria, leading to infections.
Wash bottles, nipples, and all feeding equipment thoroughly after each use. Use hot, soapy water and a bottle brush, or put them in the dishwasher if they’re dishwasher-safe. Sterilize bottles regularly, especially for newborns, by boiling them or using a steam sterilizer.
Make sure to disassemble all parts of the bottle, including the nipple and rings, to clean thoroughly. Rinse them well to remove any soap residue. Proper cleaning prevents bacteria buildup and keeps your baby safe from infections.
7. Heating Bottles in the Microwave
Microwaving bottles is a common bottle feeding mistake that can create hot spots that can burn your baby’s mouth.
Warm bottles by placing them in a bowl of warm water or using a bottle warmer. Shake the bottle well to ensure even temperature distribution and test the milk’s temperature on your wrist before feeding. The milk should feel warm, not hot. Microwaving can cause uneven heating, leading to hot spots that can scald your baby’s mouth.
Plus, it can break down some of the nutrients in the milk. If you need to warm a bottle quickly, a bottle warmer is a safe and convenient option.
8. Holding the Bottle Incorrectly
Letting your baby drink from a propped-up bottle or leaving them unattended can lead to choking and tooth decay.
A key bottle feeding tip is to always hold the bottle for your baby and make sure they’re sucking properly. Tilt the bottle so the nipple is always filled with milk to reduce the amount of air your baby swallows. This helps prevent gas and colic. Never prop the bottle with pillows or leave your baby unattended while feeding. This can lead to choking and ear infections. Holding your baby while feeding also provides bonding time and ensures they’re in a safe, comfortable position.
9. Ignoring Signs of Formula Intolerance or Allergy
Overlooking symptoms of formula intolerance or allergy, like excessive fussiness, vomiting, diarrhea, or rashes, can affect your baby’s health.
Pay close attention to how your baby reacts after feeding. If you see any signs of intolerance or allergy, talk to your pediatrician. They might suggest switching to a different formula, such as a hypoallergenic or lactose-free option.
Some common symptoms to watch for include excessive crying, gassiness, blood in the stool, or skin rashes. Keeping a feeding diary can help you track what your baby eats and any reactions they have, which can be useful information for your pediatrician.
Conclusion
By being aware of these common bottle feeding mistakes and following bottle feeding tips to avoid them, you can help ensure your baby is fed safely and effectively. Always pay attention to your baby’s needs and consult with healthcare professionals if you have any concerns about their feeding or overall health. With a little care and the right practices, bottle feeding can be a smooth and positive experience for both you and your baby.
