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Cluster Feeding Your Newborn: Helpful Tips

If you’re breastfeeding, you might find that your little one sometimes keeps you busier than usual from time to time. Occasional sudden increases in the frequency of feeds, usually caused by growth spurts, are sometimes known as cluster feeding.

Cluster feeding affects breastfeeding moms in particular; however, formula-fed babies can also feed more frequently at certain stages of development.

Why do babies cluster feed? When does cluster feeding start? When might it end? What’s the best way to cope with a cluster-feeding baby? Keep reading for the answers to these questions and more.

What Is Cluster Feeding?

Cluster feeding is a term used to describe when a breastfed baby wants to be fed more often than usual at certain times of the day.

Every baby is different, so it’s difficult to define precisely when normal feeding crosses the line to become cluster feeding. As a breastfeeding mom, what you’ll notice is a marked increase in the number of feeds compared to what’s been normal so far.

But what does normal even mean, given that the frequency of your little one’s feeds tends to change anyway as your little one grows?

Well, right after birth, your newborn baby’s stomach is still very small, so in the first few days it’s normal for your little one to eat very often — perhaps every one to three hours — to get all the nutrients she needs.

Then, during your baby’s first few weeks and later when your baby is about 1 month old and 2 months old, her stomach gets bigger and she gradually starts taking more milk at each feed. The gaps between feeds also usually get longer.

If your baby starts cluster feeding, this trend is suddenly reversed. When this happens, it might seem as if you’re back to square one, and that your little one has reverted to the constant feeding you experienced in those first few days or weeks.

But don’t worry: Cluster feeding is a common and normal stage in your baby’s development. While it may be a little more tiring for you, it’s actually helping her grow and develop.

Why Does a Newborn Baby Start Cluster Feeding?

Bouts of cluster feeding can occur if your little one is having a growth spurt and needs more food to fuel this rapid development.

Despite their name, growth spurts aren’t always related to an increase in your baby’s size and weight; you could also see a spike in your little one’s appetite when she’s working on developing new mental or motor skills.

In the first year, babies tend to experience the most rapid growth in the first two months after birth, so there may be a higher chance of cluster feeding during this period.

A growth spurt often occurs at around the beginning of the second week, and another one is common between three and six weeks, but every baby is different. There’s no knowing precisely when your little one’s hunger pangs will strike, or how long the cluster feeding phase will last.

Do Formula-Fed Babies Cluster Feed?

The short answer is yes, they can. Although formula-fed babies usually feed less often than breastfed ones because breast milk is digested faster than formula, formula-fed babies, of course, also experience growth spurts — and the associated munchies — as well.

If you’re formula feeding your little one, there’s a chance that she may eat more frequently — and even cluster feed — during these periods, too; but it’s also possible that the interval between feeds will stay more or less the same and she’ll just want to take a little more at each feed. Paced bottle feeding is a good method to use if you prefer your baby having more control over the pace of feeding.

How Long Does Cluster Feeding Last?

Feeding patterns can vary continuously for as long as your baby is breastfed or formula-fed, but bouts of cluster feeding generally occur during the first few weeks and months after your little one is born.

How to Deal With Cluster Feeding

Bouts of cluster feeding can make those first few months — already a tiring time — seem more challenging, but it’s important to go with the flow and ride out those periods of more intensive feeding. Remember, the growth spurts won’t last forever.

In the meantime, try and get as much rest as you can in the “calmer” periods, and take steps to avoid getting sore nipples, such as making sure your baby’s mouth is deeply latched, and using different breastfeeding positions from time to time.

Rather than setting a rigid timetable for feeding your baby, keep an eye out for feeding cues — the signs that he’s hungry — and let him feed “on demand” as much as possible.

Signs that your baby is hungry include turning towards your breast (rooting) if he’s breastfeeding, as well as smacking his lips or putting a fist in his mouth and sucking on it.

Reach out to your healthcare provider or enlist the help of a lactation consultant if you need help with cluster feeding or any other aspect of breastfeeding.

Our downloadable go-to breastfeeding guide is also a great source of tips and advice.

How to Tell if Your Baby Is Still Eating the Right Amount

All the changes in feeding patterns that can occur during those first few months of your little one’s life can be confusing. If you’re at all unsure, check in with your baby’s healthcare provider.

In the meantime, here are some ways to check your baby is getting enough milk:

  • Pay attention to your baby’s feeding cues. If you’re breastfeeding, it’s hard to be sure exactly how much milk your little one’s had. Keep in mind that your baby’s feeding sessions can vary in length, and he’ll usually stop eating when he’s feeling full. If you’re bottle-feeding, you might be unsure whether your little one has gotten all the breast milk or formula he needs from the bottle. Signs that he’s still hungry might include putting his hand in his mouth or smacking his lips after draining the feeding bottle dry. Fidgeting or looking distracted mid-feed could mean he’s no longer hungry. As your little one’s feeding patterns become established, you’ll soon get to know his unique signals and cues.

  • Keep an eye on your baby’s growth. As long as your little one’s size and weight gain are on track, he’s probably eating the right amount. Your baby’s healthcare provider will be keeping track of all this for you.

  • Count those dirty diapers. What goes in must come out, so counting wet and poopy diapers is another way of keeping tabs on your baby’s intake of fluid and nutrients. After the first 5 days, around 6 or more heavy wet diapers and about 3 or 4 poopy ones every 24 hours is a good sign that your little one is getting enough milk. Incidentally, all those diapers — whether they end up filled with meconium, regular poop, or pee — could be earning you great gifts, discounts, and coupons. Download the Pampers Rewards app to get started.

Will Cluster Feeding Make My Breast Milk Run Out?

Your little one’s feeding actually stimulates milk production, so in most cases your body will ramp up the supply to meet demand during periods of cluster feeding.

Stress or illness may decrease your milk supply temporarily. Ways of overcoming these temporary glitches include staying hydrated, eating healthily, and getting a little more rest (if you can).

Some medications can also affect your milk supply. If you think a medicine that you’re taking could be reducing the amount of breast milk you make, talk to your healthcare provider. Your provider might be able to suggest an alternative medication for you while you’re breastfeeding.

If you think you might not be producing enough milk, you can always ask your provider or a lactation consultant for personalized advice on how to increase your breast milk supply.

Caring for a newborn baby is a full-time job and, just like any other rewarding occupation, it can have its more relaxed and its busier periods. For most moms, times of cluster feeding fall into the latter category!

But there’s a big upside to all of this: As you watch your little one growing and changing from day to day, simply knowing that each bout of cluster feeding is fueling the next stage of your baby’s development will make the extra effort seem worth it in the end.

What is Cluster Feeding and Why Do Babies Do It?

Lurie Children's Blog Cluster Feeding FAQs

May 12, 2022

Contributing Expert: Tara Kotagal, MD

This post is part of our newborn health and wellness series. For more information from our pediatric experts, visit our Newborn Resources page. 

You may have heard the term cluster feeding before. Wondering if your baby is doing it and what it means? Lurie Children’s pediatricians answer the most common questions about cluster feeding.

What Is Cluster Feeding?

Typically, newborns need to eat every 2–3 hours in the first few weeks of life. But sometimes, they may suddenly want to feed more often than before. This is called cluster feeding. It simply means eating more frequently than every two hours.

Why Do Newborns Cluster Feed?

Babies cluster feed for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is for comfort. But often it is because they are growing and they need more milk.

At What Ages Do Newborns Tend to Cluster Feed?

Newborns usually cluster feed when they are going through a big period of growth. The most common ages are:

  • Right after birth
  • At two weeks of age
  • At one month of age

How Should I Handle It if My Baby Wants to Cluster Feed During the Night?

A baby’s sleep can get disrupted when they are going through developmental milestones. This can be frustrating! It is especially hard if your baby has been sleeping for well and then suddenly regresses.

Do your best to feed on a schedule during the day so that your baby has a full tummy leading up to bedtime. Try to differentiate between hunger cues and soothing cues. As your baby gets older, they should start to sleep in longer stretches overnight. If they are still waking up frequently to feed at four months, talk with your pediatrician about sleep training.

How Can I Tell the Difference Between a Baby Who Wants to Cluster Feed and a Fussy Baby?

You may not always know the difference. Look for hunger cues, like lip smacking, moving their head from side to side, rooting (as if searching for food) or moving their hand to their mouth.

If your baby cries out shortly after a feed, try soothing techniques, such as using a pacifier, shushing, swaying or swaddling.

Can Formula-Fed Babies Cluster Feed?

Yes, they can. However, formula tends to be more slowly digested than breast milk. It may leave babies feeling fuller at bedtime, leading to less frequent awakenings overnight.

Do All Newborns Cluster Feed?

Remember that every baby is different and it is hard to compare one infant to the next. While cluster feeding is a common phenomenon, each baby may do it a bit differently.

What if My Baby Wants to Cluster Feed, but I Need a Break?

While you need to take care of your baby, you also need to take care of yourself! Feeding a baby takes a lot of work. Breastfeeding parents should try to limit feeding sessions to 30 minutes or less. And take at least a 30-minute break in between feeds. If bottle feeding, try alternating feeding responsibilities with another caregiver. Make sure you are prioritizing your own rest.

Remember, always reach out to your pediatrician with your feeding questions. Your pediatrician is your partner in helping to care for your baby and making sure they meet all their development milestones.

In addition to expert specialty care, Lurie Children’s offers several primary care locations around the Chicago area for your child's healthcare needs — from infancy through childhood and adolescence. Learn more about our primary care services. 

 

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Breastfeeding in the first month: what to expect

Not sure how to establish lactation and increase milk production? If you need help, support, or just want to know what to expect, read our first month breastfeeding advice

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The first weeks of breastfeeding are a very stressful period. If at times you feel like you can't handle it, know that you are not alone. Feeding your baby all day long is completely natural and helps produce breast milk, but can be quite tiring at times. Be patient, think about yourself and remember: after the first month, when milk production stabilizes, it will become easier.

How often should a baby be breastfed?

Babies are born with a small stomach that grows rapidly with increasing milk production: in the first week it is no larger than an apricot, and after two weeks it is already the size of a large chicken egg. 1.2 Let the child eat as much as he wants and when he wants. This will help him quickly regain the weight lost after birth and grow and develop further.

“Be prepared to feed every two to three hours throughout the day. At night, the intervals between feedings can be longer: three to four or even five hours, says Cathy Garbin, a recognized international expert on breastfeeding. Some eat quickly and are satiated in 15 minutes, while others take an entire hour to feed. Do not compare your breastfeeding regimen with that of other mothers - it is very likely that there will be nothing in common between them.

At each feed, give your baby a full meal from one breast and then offer a second one, but don't worry if the baby doesn't take it. When the baby is full, he lets go of his chest and at the same time looks relaxed and satisfied - so much so that he can immediately fall asleep. The next time you feed, start on the other breast. You can monitor the order of the mammary glands during feeding using a special application.

Why does the child always ask for a breast?

The first month is usually the hardest time to breastfeed. But do not think that because the baby is constantly hungry and asks for a breast almost every 45 minutes, then you do not have enough milk.

In the first month, the baby needs to eat frequently to start and stimulate the mother's milk production. It lays the foundation for a stable milk supply in the future. 3

In addition, we must not forget that the child needs almost constant contact with the mother. The bright light and noise of the surrounding world at first frighten the baby, and only by clinging to his mother, he can calm down.

Sarah, mother of three from the UK, confirms: “Crying is not always a sign of hunger. Sometimes my kids just wanted me to be around and begged for breasts to calm them down. Use a sling. Place the cradle next to the bed. Don't look at the clock. Take advantage of every opportunity to relax. Forget about cleaning. Let those around you take care of you. And not three days, but six weeks at least! Hug your baby, enjoy the comfort - and trust your body."

Do I need to feed my baby on a schedule?

Your baby is still too young for a strict daily routine, so
forget about breastfeeding schedules and focus on his needs.

“Volumes have been written about how to feed a baby on a schedule, but babies don't read or understand books,” Cathy says. - All children are different. Some people can eat on a schedule, but most can't. Most often, over time, the child develops his own schedule.

Some mothers report that their babies are fine with scheduled feedings, but they are probably just the few babies who would eat every four hours anyway. Adults rarely eat and drink the same foods at the same time of day - so why do we expect this from toddlers?

Offer your baby the breast at the first sign of hunger. Crying is already the last stage, so be attentive to early signs: the baby licks his lips, opens his mouth, sucks his fist, turns his head with his mouth open - looking for the breast. 4

What is a "milk flush"?

At the beginning of each feed, a hungry baby actively sucks on the nipple,
thereby stimulating the milk flow reflex - the movement of milk through the milk ducts. 5

“Nipple stimulation triggers the release of the hormone oxytocin,” explains Cathy. “Oxytocin is distributed throughout the body and causes the muscles around the milk-producing glands to contract and the milk ducts to dilate. This stimulates the flow of milk.

If the flushing reflex fails, milk will not come out. This is a hormonal response, and under stress it may not work at all or work poorly. Therefore, it is so important that you feel comfortable and calm when feeding.

“Studies show that each mother has a different rhythm of hot flashes during one feed,” Kathy continues, “Oxytocin is a short-acting hormone, it breaks down in just 30-40 seconds after formation. Milk begins to flow, the baby eats, the effect of oxytocin ends, but then a new rush of milk occurs, the baby continues to suckle the breast, and this process is repeated cyclically. That is why, during feeding, the child periodically stops and rests - this is how nature intended.

The flow of milk may be accompanied by a strong sensation of movement or tingling in the chest, although 21% of mothers, according to surveys, do not feel anything at all. 5 Cathy explains: “Many women only feel the first rush of milk. If you do not feel hot flashes, do not worry: since the child eats normally, most likely, you simply do not understand that they are.

How do you know if a baby is getting enough milk?

Since it is impossible to track how much milk a baby eats while breastfeeding, mothers sometimes worry that the baby is malnourished. Trust your child and your body.

After a rush of milk, the baby usually begins to suckle more slowly. Some mothers clearly hear how the baby swallows, others do not notice it. But one way or another, the child himself will show when he is full - just watch carefully. Many babies make two or three approaches to the breast at one feeding. 6

“When a child has had enough, it is noticeable almost immediately: a kind of “milk intoxication” sets in. The baby is relaxed and makes it clear with his whole body that he is completely full, says Katie, “Diapers are another great way to assess whether the baby is getting enough milk. During this period, a breastfed baby should have at least five wet diapers a day and at least two portions of soft yellow stool, and often more. ”

From one month until weaning at six months of age, a baby's stool (if exclusively breastfed) should look the same every day: yellow, grainy, loose, and watery.

When is the child's birth weight restored?

Most newborns lose weight in the first few days of life. This is normal and should not be cause for concern. As a rule, weight is reduced by 5-7%, although some may lose up to 10%. One way or another, by 10–14 days, almost all newborns regain their birth weight. In the first three to four months, the minimum expected weight gain is an average of 150 grams per week. But one week the child may gain weight faster, and the next slower, so it is necessary that the attending physician monitor the health and growth of the baby constantly. 7.8

At the slightest doubt or signs of dehydration, such as
dark urine, no stool for more than 24 hours, retraction of the fontanel (soft spot on the head), yellowing of the skin, drowsiness, lethargy, lack of appetite (ability to four to six hours without feeding), you should immediately consult a doctor. 7

What is "cluster feeding"?

When a baby asks to breastfeed very often for several hours, this is called cluster feeding. 6 The peak often occurs in the evening between 18:00 and 22:00, just when many babies are especially restless and need close contact with their mother. Most often, mothers complain about this in the period from two to nine weeks after childbirth. This is perfectly normal and common behavior as long as the baby is otherwise healthy, eating well, gaining weight normally, and appears content throughout the day. 9

Cluster feeding can be caused by a sharp jump in the development of the body - during this period the baby especially needs love, comfort and a sense of security. The growing brain of a child is so excited that it can be difficult for him to turn off, or it just scares the baby. 9 If a child is overworked, it is often difficult for him or her to calm down on his own, and adult help is needed. And breastfeeding is the best way to calm the baby, because breast milk is not only food, but also pain reliever and a source of happiness hormones. 10

“Nobody told me about cluster feeding, so for the first 10 days I just went crazy with worry - I was sure that my milk was not enough for the baby,” recalls Camille, a mother from Australia, “It was a very difficult period . I was advised to pump and supplement until I finally contacted the Australian Breastfeeding Association. There they explained to me what was happening: it turned out that it was not about milk at all.

Remember, this is temporary. Try to prepare dinner for yourself in the afternoon, when the baby is fast asleep, so that in the evening, when he begins to often breastfeed, you have the opportunity to quickly warm up the food and have a snack. If you are not alone, arrange to carry and rock the baby in turns so that you have the opportunity to rest. If you have no one to turn to for help and you feel that your strength is leaving you, put the baby in the crib and rest for a few minutes, and then pick it up again.

Ask your partner, family and friends to help you with household chores, cooking and caring for older children if you have any. If possible, hire an au pair. Get as much rest as possible, eat well and drink plenty of water.

“My daughter slept a lot during the day, but from 23:00 to 5:00 the cluster feeding period began, which was very tiring,” recalls Jenal, a mother from the USA, “My husband tried his best to make life easier for me - washed, cleaned, cooked, changed diapers, let me sleep at every opportunity and never tired of assuring me that we were doing well.

If you are concerned about the frequency of breastfeeding, it is worth contacting a specialist. “Check with a lactation consultant or doctor to see if this is indicative of any problems,” recommends Cathy. “Resist the temptation to supplement your baby with formula (unless recommended by your doctor) until you find the cause. It may not be a matter of limited milk production at all - it may be that the child is inefficiently sucking it.

When will breastfeeding become easier?

This early stage is very special and does not last long. Although sometimes it seems that there will be no end to it, rest assured: it will get easier soon! By the end of the first month, breast milk production will stabilize, and the baby will become stronger and learn to suckle better. 2.3 Any problems with latch on by this time will most likely be resolved and the body will be able to produce milk more efficiently so inflammation and leakage of milk will begin to subside.

“The first four to six weeks are the hardest, but then things start to get better,” Cathy assures. It just needs to be experienced!”

The longer breastfeeding continues, the more benefits it brings, from saving on formula and improving sleep quality 11–13 to boosting your baby's immune system 14 and reducing your risk of certain cancers. 15

“When you feel like you're pushing yourself, try to go from feed to feed and day to day,” says Hannah, a UK mom. “I was sure I wouldn’t make it to eight weeks. And now I have been breastfeeding for almost 17 weeks, and I dare say it is very easy.”

Read the resource Breastfeeding Beyond the First Month: What to Expect

Literature

1 Naveed M et al. An autopsy study of relationship between perinatal stomach capacity and birth weight. Indian J Gastroenterol .1992;11(4):156-158. - Navid M. et al., Association between prenatal gastric volume and birth weight. Autopsy. Indian J Gastroenterol. 1992;11(4):156-158.

2 Neville MC et al. Studies in human lactation: milk volumes in lactating women during the onset of lactation and full lactation .Am J Clinl Nutr . 1988;48(6):1375-1386. at the beginning and at the peak of lactation." Am F Clean Nutr. 1988;48(6):1375-1386.

3 Kent JC et al. Principles for maintaining or increasing breast milk production. J Obstet , Gynecol , & Neonatal Nurs . 2012;41(1):114-121. - Kent J.S. et al., "Principles for Maintaining and Increasing Milk Production". J Obstet Ginecol Neoneutal Nurs. 2012;41(1):114-121.

4 Australian Breastfeeding Feeding cues ; 2017 Sep [ cited 2018 Feb ]. - Australian Breastfeeding Association [Internet], Feed Ready Signals; September 2017 [cited February 2018]

5 Kent JC et al. Response of breasts to different stimulation patterns of an electric breast pump. J Human Lact . 2003;19(2):179-186. - Kent J.S. et al., Breast Response to Different Types of Electric Breast Pump Stimulation. J Human Lact (Journal of the International Association of Lactation Consultants). 2003;19(2):179-186.

6) Kent JC et al . Volume and frequency of breastfeedings and fat content of breast milk throughout the day. Pediatrics. 2006;117(3): e 387-395. - Kent J.S. et al., "Amount and frequency of breastfeeding and fat content of breast milk during the day." Pediatrix (Pediatrics). 2006;117(3):e387-95.

7 Lawrence RA, Lawrence RM. Breastfeeding: A guide for the medical profession. 7th ed. Maryland Heights MO, USA: Elsevier Mosby; 2010. 1128 p . - Lawrence R.A., Lawrence R.M., "Breastfeeding: A guide for healthcare professionals." Seventh edition. Publisher Maryland Heights , Missouri, USA: Elsevier Mosby; 2010. P. 1128.

8 World Health Organization. [Internet]. Child growth standards; 2018 [cited 2018 Feb] - World Health Organization. [Internet]. Child Growth Standards 2018 [cited February 2018].

9 Australian Breastfeeding Association . [ Internet ]. Cluster feeding and fussing babies ; Dec 2017 [ cited 2018 Feb ] - Australian Breastfeeding Association [Internet], Cluster Feeding and Screaming Babies; December 2017 [cited February 2018].

10 Moberg KU, Prime DK. Oxytocin effects in mothers and infants during breastfeeding. Infant . 2013;9(6):201-206.- Moberg K, Prime DK, "Oxytocin effects on mother and child during breastfeeding". Infant. 2013;9(6):201-206.

11 U.S. Department of Health & Human Services [Internet]. Surgeon General Breastfeeding factsheet; 2011 Jan 20 [cited 2017 Feb] - Department of Health and Human Services [Internet], "Breastfeeding Facts from the Chief Medical Officer", Jan 20, 2011 [cited Feb 2017]

12 Kendall-Tackett K et al. The effect of feeding method on sleep duration, maternal well-being, and postpartum depression. clinical lactation. 2011;1;2(2):22-26. - Kendall-Tuckett, K. et al., "Influence of feeding pattern on sleep duration, maternal well-being and the development of postpartum depression." Clinical Lactation. 2011;2(2):22-26.

13 Brown A, Harries V. Infant sleep and night feeding patterns during later infancy: Association with breastfeeding frequency, daytime complementary food intake, and infant weight. Breast Med . 2015;10(5):246-252. - Brown A., Harris W., "Night feedings and infant sleep in the first year of life and their association with feeding frequency, daytime supplementation, and infant weight." Brest Med (Breastfeeding Medicine). 2015;10(5):246-252.

14 Hassiotou F et al. Maternal and infant infections stimulate a rapid leukocyte response in breastmilk. Clin Transl immunology. 2013;2(4). - Hassiot F. et al., "Infectious diseases of the mother and child stimulate a rapid leukocyte reaction in breast milk." Clean Transl Immunology. 2013;2(4):e3.

15 Li DP et al. Breastfeeding and ovarian cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 40 epidemiological studies. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev . 2014;15(12):4829-4837. - Lee D.P. et al., "Breastfeeding and the risk of ovarian cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 40 epidemiological studies." Asia Pas J Cancer Prev. 2014;15(12):4829-4837.

How to bottle feed: tips and tricks

Kiseleva Elena Sergeevna

Candidate of Medical Sciences, Scientific Advisor MAMAKO ®

Breast milk is the best food for your baby*. But breastfeeding is not possible for all women. For moms who can't breastfeed or keep breastfeeding for as long as they would like, quality infant formula is a healthy alternative.

The best thing is when the baby is in her arms, ideally in skin-to-skin contact: such a position when bottle-feeding, as well as during breastfeeding, creates close contact between mother and baby, helps them get closer, strengthen emotional connection.

Feeding time is a time to be together and communicate with the baby (and for dad too).

The first days of life are a period of adaptation of crumbs to the outside world. And the first thing he is looking for is protection and comfort . In the moments of application to the skin of the baby, it warms the warmth of the mother's body, soothes and comforts her smell and heartbeat, so familiar to him even before birth. Gentle touches and calm breathing, a smile and a soft voice of a mother, a mixture warm as breast milk give the baby everything he needs - safety, warmth and nutrition.

Love and contact is the most important "ingredient" in any feeding process and infant formula is rich vitamins and nutrients that are good for your baby's health and development will help you feel confident in your ability to care for your baby.

In theory, feeding your baby formula is just a few simple steps. But if you've never made a bottle of baby food or the time is three in the morning, things seem complicated. Be patient to get into the rhythm.

For most mothers, bottle feeding becomes a part of baby food. And this does not depend on whether the bottle contains expressed breast milk or formula. The important thing is that sticking to breastfeeding exclusively can be difficult or impossible over time. Then the mother begins to supplement the baby with a mixture or transfer it to completely artificial feeding.

Below are answers to parents' questions about how to properly and safely bottle feed your baby.


1. How to make a formula bottle

We offer together step by step the process of preparing the first bottle for your baby.

  1. Hand hygiene : Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling bottles and feeding the baby. We also check the cleanliness of the table and measuring spoon.
  2. Sterilization : bottles and teats should preferably be sterilized beforehand.
  3. Water preparation : Boil bottled baby water and cool to 40 ˚C, determine the right amount of water, then pour it into the bottle up to the desired mark - according to the number of scoops of dry formula according to the weight and age of your child.
  4. Let's determine the volume of the mixture : on the jar, in the "Feeding table" block, it is indicated how many spoons are required for one feeding. The measuring spoon should be full and without a slide - we remove the excess on a special corner of the jar. Both day and night, it is best to look at the feeding chart (unless otherwise determined by your doctor) so as not to accidentally add too much or too little formula. An overly dilute formula or an excess of it can interfere with a child's proper nutrition.
  5. Mixing according to instructions : pour the desired amount of product without a slide into a bottle of prepared water. Next, close the bottle with a lid and roll between the palms. If the bottle is shaken, a lot of foam may form.
  6. Checking the temperature of prepared meals : put a drop of the mixture on the inside of the wrist, where the skin is as sensitive as in a baby's mouth. Immediately after preparing the mixture, tightly close the jar of baby food and feed the baby.
  7. Let daddy give a bottle of and be alone with the baby - they also need communication and time to make friends. The reality is that many dads feel left out while breastfeeding, but this can be avoided with formula feeding. Show how to hold your baby and bottle support your partner during the first feedings . This help will be useful for you too. An extra pair of hands when bottle feeding gives mom a little more precious time.

2. What water to use for infant formula

Only boiled bottled baby water should be used in the bottle. This is a great way to make sure the water you use is safe for your baby.

All children's water is registered by Rospotrebnadzor in accordance with SanPiN 2.1.4.1116-02. Such water corresponds to the indicators of the highest category, is balanced in terms of mineral composition and is characterized by low total mineralization in the range of 200-500 mg / l (a baby’s body is simply not able to absorb higher concentrations of minerals and salts).

Packaged water may look the same. But some manufacturers divide baby water into two categories - for drinking and for preparing mixtures. The composition of drinking water contains a higher concentration of minerals that are beneficial for the child's body, but they can upset the balance of the nutrient mixture. Therefore, on the labels you can read about the different purposes of water: suitable for preparing baby food or for feeding babies and young children.

It makes no sense to make large stocks of baby water - water in open bottles becomes unusable after 24-48 hours, depending on the manufacturer. Tap or spring water is also not suitable for feeding babies. Such water may contain various impurities, bacteria and microbes that are dangerous for babies. Boiling will “free” water from harmful microorganisms, but not from impurities of heavy metals and chemicals.


3. How to use the measuring spoon correctly

The measuring spoon helps you accurately measure the amount of the mixture and get the right dosage. Fill a full spoon, but shoot a slide. You don't need a kitchen knife for this - each jar of mixture has a convenient wide corner for removing excess. And in economical jars with a volume of 800 g, for example, in MAMAKO ® Premium with goat milk, the spoon is conveniently attached to the lid - so you don’t have to look for it in a large package before each feeding. Fingers and knives are not absolutely clean, they always have a lot of bacteria that can spoil the mixture and harm the health of the baby. The antibacterial fastening of the spoon and the corner of the jar protect the mixture and the child from harmful bacteria from the external environment.


4. What temperature should the water and ready mix be?

Boiled water should be cooled to 40 °C. This temperature will retain all the benefits of baby food based on goat's milk. The easiest way to get water at the right temperature is to boil it in a kettle and let it cool for 20-30 minutes. A kettle for boiling water requires special care - it is covered with a mineral coating, which is easily removed by boiling citric acid. This is a troublesome procedure, since after cleaning it takes about 3-4 boils to remove traces of detergent. Create a rhythm for preparing dishes - at night or with a crying baby in your arms, there will be no time for this. The finished formula should be warm: 37 ˚C, as this is the temperature of breast milk and it is optimal for the baby's food. Before feeding, do not forget to check if the mixture is too hot by applying a couple of drops on the wrist. If it burns, you can hold the bottle under cold water for a while, after closing the nipple with a lid. If the mixture has cooled slightly, it is enough to heat it under a warm stream of water.


5. Mixed feeding: breast or bottle first

The best feeding schedule is when the mother supplements her baby with formula after breast milk. If the baby is given a bottle first, then he may begin to refuse the breast. This is due to the fact that it is easier to suck through the nipple, and with natural feeding, the baby has to “work” a lot to get mom's milk.


6. How many baby bottles do you need per day

It's all about how old you are on formula, how much formula you give and how often your baby eats. It's best to keep six to ten bottles on hand so you always have clean dishes. In addition, the more bottles, the less often they will have to be sterilized. Buy 125 ml bottles for an infant, then upgrade to 150 ml and 240 ml as your baby's appetite and needs increase. Don't rush to part with smaller bottles, they are great for supplementing and watering.


7. Why can't the bottle be held horizontally during feeding

Mom tilts the bottle so the nipple is always filled with formula The angle of inclination increases as the bottle empties, so it is important to be close to the baby, not leaving him alone during feeding even for a minute. If you do not tilt the bottle, the child will begin to swallow air. Air bubbles can cause regurgitation during or immediately after feeding. In addition, when air enters the baby’s stomach, he feels full faster, which means he eats less and will be hungry after a short period of time.


8. Which nipple to choose for your baby bottle

Many wide and narrow neck bottles already come with a set of baby nipples. Almost all of them are made of silicone. Which shape of the nipple - anatomical or round - and what size of hole your child will like, can be understood by his reaction during feeding. If the mixture drips from the corners of the mouth, the flow may be too fast due to the large opening. If the baby is sucking hard, the mixture may drip too slowly. We recommend that you do not enlarge the opening of the nipple: it may tear, and the microparticles of the product may enter the child's body. Perhaps the hole is just clogged, this sometimes happens. If necessary, nipples can be replaced and bought separately from the bottles.


9. Should baby bottles be sterilized

Yes, to limit the spread of bacteria. Hard-to-reach places of the bottle must be washed from the mixture (a brush and warm water are enough) before sterilization. A sterilizer is ideal for this purpose - ultrasonic, electric or steam for a microwave oven. It can sterilize all baby accessories - bottles, nipples, caps, brushes. Of course, you can replace the sterilizer with a simple boil, but be careful that the water does not boil away, otherwise the bottles and nipples will be damaged and become dangerous.


10. Can I use the microwave to heat formula

Resist the temptation to microwave the formula and save time. Microwave ovens heat liquids unevenly. Even if the bottle is not hot, the mixture can warm up quite strongly: there is a risk of burning the baby. In addition, heating in the microwave can break down the nutrients in the formula.


11. Can leftover formula be stored

If your child has not finished formula, discard any leftover formula. No need to heat up and reuse it. It's not safe for the baby. After a while, bacteria begin to multiply in the finished mixture. Dilute a fresh batch of formula every time the baby is hungry.


12. How to prepare a bottle while traveling

If you are away from home or on the road for several hours, you can take two bottles of warm boiled water in a thermal bag that keeps you warm. Before each feeding, it remains to pour the right amount of mixture into the bottle (it is convenient to measure portions in advance according to the number of feedings in the infant formula dispenser). If the water in the bottle is cold, it is enough to warm it under warm water (this will take a little time). Bottles and teats should last until the next opportunity to wash and sterilize them. Remember that a thermal bag is good for maintaining the temperature of boiled water, but it cannot be used to store the finished mixture - this is harmful to the baby's health.


MAMAKO ® fully supports breastfeeding, but since this is not always possible, we have shown you how to bottle feed with love. In addition, the preparation of baby food will become a conscious and important matter. Very little time will pass, and you will fondly remember these precious moments of tender age, and feeding time will be the beginning of a warm, close connection with the baby.

* Breast milk is the best food for babies. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a child's life and continued breastfeeding after complementary foods are introduced until the age of 2 years. Before introducing new products into the baby's diet, you should consult with a specialist.

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