Newborns and Formula: A Complete Guide for Parents

When it comes to newborns and formula, it can feel like there's a steep learning curve. After all, every baby is different—no matter if this is your first or third—which means that finding the best formula for your infant can likely include trial and error. It's easy to get overwhelmed by the fact that there's so much to learn (or brush up on!) about feeding a newborn, like how to make a bottle of formula, what's the right temperature to use, how much formula to offer, when to switch formulas, and so much more. Your pediatrician will be your best source of information for questions pertinent to your baby's unique needs, but consider this your nuts-and-bolts formula guide for newborns. Frequently asked questions? All answered right here. We want to make formula feeding as easy as possible for you and your newborn.

Table of contents

Getting Started with Formula Feeding for Newborns

Formula Feeding Essentials for Newborns

How Much Formula for Newborns

Newborn Formula Schedules

How to Make Formula Bottles

Best Bottles for Newborns

Switching Formulas and Sensitive Stomachs

Quick Tips for Successful Formula Feeding

Getting started with formula feeding for newborns

Formula feeding for newborns (using an iron-fortified cow's milk-based infant formula, goat milk-based infant formula or soy milk-based infant formula) is recommended as a first-line alternative by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for babies under 12 months of age when breastmilk is not an option, or when supplementation is needed or chosen.

Is formula okay for newborns?

Yes. While AAP recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and up to age 2 alongside solid foods, breastfeeding is not always an option for every family. Using an FDA-regulated infant formula is a safe alternative or add-on if a parent is looking to combo-feed.

Formulas are designed to mimic the nutrient profile and benefits of breastmilk, and while there is no exact substitute for human breast milk, the milk of both cows and goats have been used as a base to create infant formula for over 200 years, says Ari Brown, MD, FAAP. "Both cow and goat milk-based commercial infant formulas meet all the nutritional requirements for human babies," she says. In some cases, families may rely on formula to supplement breastmilk supply, in what's known as combination feeding.

Formula feeding essentials for newborns

Just getting started with your infant formula journey? Here's what to know, from how much formula to feed to how frequently to offer formula to your baby.

How much formula for a newborn?

Formula intake for newborns will vary based on your little one's age, weight and individual needs.

Age	Number of feedings/bottles per 24 hours	Volume per feed/bottle (fl oz)	Approx. Feeding Frequency
0-2 weeks	8-12	2-3 fl oz	Every 2-3 hours
2 weeks - 2 months	7-12	2-4 fl oz	Every 2-3 hours
2-4 months	6-8	4-8 fl oz	Every 3-4 hours
4-6 months	5-6	5-8 fl oz	Every 4-5 hours
6-9 months*	4-5	5-8 fl oz	Every 4-6 hours
9-12 months	4-5	4-8 fl oz	Every 4-6 hours

This chart is based on information from the 10th edition of the Baby 411 book written by Dr. Ari Brown and Denise Fields, and American Academy of Pediatric references. Content was reviewed by the Kabrita Medical Advisory Board. This information is intended for general guidance only to help families estimate how much milk an infant may need throughout the day and assist parents in deciding which Kabrita subscription may be right for them. Always consult with your baby's medical team to ensure that their unique nutritional needs are met.

*Milk intake may decline after introduction of complementary solid foods around 6 months of age.

Generally, newborns consume between 2 to 3 ounces every 2 to 3 hours during their first two weeks of life, gradually increasing to 2 to 4 ounces per feeding by the end of the first month. Starting in the second month, feedings may stretch out to every 3 to 4 hours and increase to 4 to 8 ounces per session.

Your newborn likely won't follow a regular feeding schedule just yet, so it's good to follow their hunger cues and follow the concept of on-demand feeding during these early months.

Remember, babies are actually very good communicators, so they'll let you know when they're hungry or when they've had enough. It's also worth noting that breastfed babies may take more frequent, smaller feedings than formula-fed babies, just because breastmilk tends to be more quickly digested than formula.1

How much formula should a newborn drink?

The amount of formula a newborn should drink depends on your baby's age, weight and other specific needs, but on average, experts typically recommend that a 2-month-old infant, for example, may consume anywhere between 24 to 64 ounces of formula every 24 hours. Curious if your baby is getting the right amount of formula they need to thrive?

Signs that your baby is getting enough formula include:

Regular wet and dirty diapers
Steady weight gain
Seeming satisfied after feedings
Good energy levels

Of course, if you have concerns about your baby's formula intake, check in with your pediatrician, who can help determine if they're getting the right amount for their needs.

Formula feeding schedule for newborns

In the first few months, your newborn will typically follow a flexible feeding schedule that revolves around their demands and hunger signs, like rooting, sucking motions or fussiness. Starting in the first week, expect to feed your baby every 2 to 3 hours, around the clock—yes, that means throughout the night.

“Pediatricians recommend on demand or ad lib feedings for the first 8 weeks of life”, says Dr Brown. “Aim for 8 feedings a day (possibly 7 for an exclusively formula fed baby) but look at the baby, not at the clock. Babies feed better when it is their idea and not your idea.”

Can newborns drink powdered formula?

“Powdered formula is perfectly fine to use for full term babies,” says Dr Brown. “Because it is not entirely sterile, it is not appropriate for premature babies or those with certain known health issues.

How to make a bottle of formula for newborn

Preparing formula safely is crucial for your baby's health, and especially in the newborn stage, as babies' brand new immune systems are still developing. Follow the exact directions on the packaging of your infant formula to ensure you are making the bottle safely, as every formula brand will have different preparation instructions, varying scoop sizes and different water requirements. Adding the improper amount of formula powder or water can lead to over- or under-feeding, which can impact your baby's growth and development, so be sure to review the preparation instructions before mixing up a bottle.

Safe powdered-formula preparation guidelines for newborns:

Clean work surfaces such as countertops and sinks with soap and water or use a disinfectant wipe or paper towel sprayed with a safe cleaning product.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling formula.
Ensure the bottle, nipple, rings and membranes and any bottle-making equipment are clean and sanitized before starting.
FDA consumer guidance says that it is safe to mix formula utilizing ordinary cold tap water that has been boiled for a minimum of 1 minute and cooled. If you are not sure if your tap water is safe to use for preparing infant formula, contact your local health department or use bottled water.
The recommended way to prepare the formula is to use warm, clean water that has been boiled and cooled down to 104º F (40º C).
Measure according to formula package instructions and pour into a clean bottle or mixing cup. Too little water or too much water can be unsafe.
Add the exact amount of powdered formula per container instructions. Too little powder or too much powder can also be unsafe.
Cover the bottle with a cap and swirl to mix. Do not stir.
Cool the formula to body temp before feeding. Test 1-2 drops on your wrist. To cool the bottle faster, place it under cool running water, with the cap still on, ensuring no water touches the bottle nipple or formula inside.
Prepare fresh formula for each feeding when possible.
Never store mixed formula at room temperature for more than 1 hour.

Once your baby is a little older and out of the newborn stage, talk to your pediatrician if you can skip the boiling water step and instead opt for water from a safe source before mixing with formula and then gently warm the bottle by placing the bottle in a bottle warmer or in a hot water bath on the stove, ensuring it doesn't get too hot.

Do you need to warm a baby bottle?

Breastmilk or infant formula does not need to be warmed before feeding. Temperature is a preference (warm, cool or room temperature). You may be curious about the ideal formula milk temperature for a newborn, or wondering: can newborns drink cold formula? Yes, some babies prefer cold or room temperature formula while some prefer it slightly warm. That said, never microwave a baby bottle, as they can heat unevenly and the resulting hot spots could inadvertently burn your baby's mouth.

Important reminders when making formula bottles for a newborn

Always check expiration dates on formula
Store prepared formula properly (use within 24 hours if refrigerated)
Clean and sterilize all feeding equipment regularly

Best bottles for formula-fed newborns

When selecting bottles for formula-fed newborns, consider these bottle features to help reduce gas and colic:

Bottles with built-in venting systems (sometimes called an 'anti-colic' design)
Angled necks to reduce air intake
Soft, slow-flow nipples that mimic natural breastfeeding and won't overwhelm a newborn
Start with smaller bottle sizes (4 ounces) to limit the amount of air

You may also want to seek out baby bottles made of glass or silicone rather than plastic in order to avoid the potential for microplastics to leach from the bottle into the milk or formula.2 These bottle brands feature glass or silicone construction and are highly recommended by both parents and experts: Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Anti-Colic Options+ Narrow Glass Baby Bottle, Philips Avent Glass Natural Response Baby Bottle, BIBS Glass Bottle, Nanobébé Flexy Silicone Bottle, and the Comotomo Baby Bottle.

Of course, every baby is different, so you might need to try a few different bottles before you find the perfect fit.

Switching formulas and sensitive stomachs

Rest assured that all formulas legally sold in the US market must meet strict FDA standards for safety and nutrition, and are designed to provide complete nutrition for an infant's first year of life. But sometimes, your baby may tolerate one formula better than another. Here's how to tell if it's time to switch newborn formulas.

Newborn switching formula: What to know

It can be tricky to tell if your newborn should switch formulas, especially as one of the signs that something may not be right is occasional fussiness—which is quite common in babies under 6 months, says Dr. Brown. However, consistent and ongoing symptoms that don't seem to abate can mean it's definitely worth bringing up the idea of switching formulas with your pediatrician.

Signs your newborn may need a formula switch:

Excessive fussiness during or after feedings that persists for several days
Significant increase in spit-up beyond normal amounts
Changes in stool pattern, particularly very hard or watery stools
Blood or mucus in stool (contact your pediatrician immediately)
Severe gas pain or bloating that doesn't improve with feeding techniques
Poor weight gain or difficulty finishing bottles
Persistent rash or other signs of allergic reaction
Difficulty sleeping due to apparent stomach discomfort

How do you introduce formula to a newborn?

As for the best way to introduce a formula or ensure a smooth formula transition, there really isn't a lot of science here, says Dr. Brown. "It makes sense to incorporate one or two formula feedings a day and gradually add more depending on if you plan to combo feed or wean your baby from breastmilk."

Best sensitive formula for newborns

A sensitive infant formula is designed to have lower levels of the milk sugar lactose. However, AAP explains that it's extremely rare for an infant to be lactose intolerant, given that lactose is the same across cow's milk, goat milk and breast milk. Check with your child's pediatrician to see if a sensitive formula is necessary.

Gentle formulas

These formulas contain smaller proteins, such as partially broken-down cow milk proteins that are easier to digest and gentler on a baby's developing digestive system than traditional formulas. They're often the first step when babies show signs of formula sensitivity. Similarly, goat milk-based infant formulas feature proteins that are naturally smaller and softer, making them easier to digest.3 Infants consuming goat milk-based formula may have fewer allergies, improved stool consistency, and reduced crying episodes as compared with cow milk formula.4

Extensively hydrolyzed formulas

For babies with more significant sensitivities, these formulas contain proteins that are fully broken down into small chains of amino acids called peptides, making them unlikely to cause an allergic response. They're often recommended for babies with documented cow's milk protein allergies (CMPA).

Goat milk formulas

Goat milk formulas provide an alternative protein source that some babies tolerate better than cow's milk. Goat milk proteins form smaller, softer curds in the stomach3 and can be easier to digest,1 making goat milk formula for newborns an ideal option.

“Most breastfed babies do great and tolerate goat milk-based infant formula when it is introduced,” says Dr. Brown, “so there is no need to worry or to gradually introduce small volumes of it. It is helpful to have a consistent amount of breastmilk and infant formula in your baby's diet on a daily basis when you are combo feeding--so your baby isn't getting say, 80% breastmilk one day and 20% the next.”

Quick tips for successful formula feeding

Any type of feeding journey is going to be a learned process for you and your baby. Think of it as a dance, where you're both still figuring out the steps. Soon, you'll get off on the right foot—together. These tips can help.

Set up a calm environment: Establish a quiet, calming space for feedings to help your baby focus and reduce distractions. Consider dimming lights and minimizing noise, especially for night feeds. A white noise machine on a low volume can help mimic the sounds baby heard in the womb while also reducing background noise.

Review formula temperature and preparation guidelines: Make sure that every caregiver who may prepare a bottle for your baby is aware of the safety precautions and best practices when making formula, including how to follow the specific formula preparation instructions on the formula can (remember, every formula brand may have different preparation instructions). It's critical that the correct amounts of formula and water are used to ensure your baby is getting all the nutrition they need to thrive. Also show them how to safely warm a baby bottle and carefully monitor formula temperature—lukewarm is ideal, around body temperature (98.6°F). Test by dropping formula on your inner wrist. It should feel neutral, neither hot nor cold.

Learn their signs: Every baby is different, and you'll soon become an expert on your child's feeding patterns, which will help you gain confidence when feeding. Watch for their unique hunger and fullness cues, and don't force them to finish every bottle.

Track feeding amounts: Keeping a log of your baby's bottles and feeding times, especially in the early weeks, can help you make sure you're feeding them at regular intervals, which is crucial for their growth during this stage. Try Nara Baby or Huckleberry apps, or use a notebook.

Keep up with pediatrician well-visits: Your baby's well-checks in the first few months are a great time to get all your questions answered by your pediatrician on everything from feeding to sleep to poop and skin concerns.

Common questions about formula feeding newborns

It's normal to have lots of questions about formula feeding newborns. Remember, you're not alone on this feeding journey—and your child's pediatrician can be a great source of support for you.

Formula-fed newborn poop: What’s normal?

Formula-fed newborn stool typically differs from breastfed baby poop in several ways. During the first few days after birth, all newborns pass meconium—a dark, sticky stool. After this phase, formula-fed babies develop their characteristic stool pattern. Look for the following:

Color range: Tan to dark brown is typical for formula-fed babies, though slight variations are normal. Yellow-brown and greenish-brown are also common. Any red, white, or black stools after the meconium phase warrant immediate medical attention, so don't hesitate to call your pediatrician if you're seeing something that doesn't look quite right.

Consistency: Formula-fed newborn poop is usually firmer than breastfed baby stool, with a consistency similar to peanut butter. It should be neither watery nor pellet-like. Some babies may produce slightly pasty or formed stools, which is normal as long as they're not hard.

Frequency: Most formula-fed newborns have 3 to 4 bowel movements per day during their first few weeks. By 6 to 8 weeks, some may go 1 to 2 days between movements: This is normal as long as the stool remains soft—and your baby seems comfortable.

When to supplement with formula for newborns

Known as supplementation or combination feeding, the practice of feeding both breastmilk and formula can provide flexibility while maintaining the benefits of breastmilk. As for when to start supplementing with formula for newborns, it depends on your unique circumstances. Some parents may start to include formula for night feeds so that the breastfeeding partner can get more uninterrupted sleep. Others may start to supplement with formula when returning to work. Still others may opt to supplement with formula if their milk supply is waning. If you're concerned your baby isn't getting enough breastmilk, it's worth having a conversation with your pediatrician or a certified lactation consultant.

What to keep in mind when combination feeding:

Feed breastmilk first when possible
Introduce formula gradually to monitor tolerance
If continuing to breastfeed, aim to stay somewhat consistent with regular breastfeeding sessions to support milk production—a lactation consultant can offer more guidance
If desired, consider pumping to help maintain breastmilk supply

Is it OK to feed newborn breastmilk and formula?

Yes, supplementing with newborn formula is a safe choice practiced by many families. There are medical indications or personal circumstances that may make exclusive breastfeeding not an option, and adding in formula can be helpful and necessary. Some families prefer supplementing with goat milk-based infant formula, given the structural composition and nutrient profile of goat milk-based infant formula is naturally closer to breastmilk than cow milk-based formula is.1

Reach out to your pediatrician or a certified lactation consultant, who can help you assess if supplementing with formula is necessary and can help you work in formula feeds when needed.

Do hospitals provide formula for newborns?

Hospitals may only have limited options in terms of formulas for patients to use, which is why it's helpful to bring a can of formula in your hospital bag if you know there's a specific formula you'd like to feed your baby. Here's what else you may be able to expect during your hospital stay.

During your hospital stay:

Ready-to-feed formula is typically available upon request
Small bottles and sterile nipples are provided

Staff may encourage breastfeeding as the first option
Will provide formula if medically indicated or by parent choice
Offer education about safe formula preparation
Support informed feeding decisions

Remember that while hospitals may provide initial formula supplies, you'll need to arrange for your own formula supply after discharge.

Finding your village on your feeding journey with your newborn

Building a strong support system on your feeding journey is vital for both you and your baby's health. It can feel like there's a lot to learn when it comes to newborns and formula, but that's why it's good to remember that your pediatrician is your best resource for personalized guidance, along with other parents in your network for emotional support and even breastfeeding support groups, who often welcome formula-feeding parents and can provide valuable insights about infant feeding and development.

Feeding decisions are deeply personal, and whatever works best for your family is the right choice. Trust that you are the expert in your baby—and you deserve support and encouragement every step of the way.

References

Maathuis A, et al. Protein digestion and quality of goat and cow milk infant formula and human milk under simulated infant conditions. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2017;65(6):661-666.
Li, D., Shi, Y., Yang, L. et al. Microplastic release from the degradation of polypropylene feeding bottles during infant formula preparation. Nat Food 1, 746–754 (2020).
Park YW, Haenlein GFW. Handbook of milk of non-bovine mammals. 2nd ed. 2017, Ames, Iowa: Blackwell Pub.
Greer, F. R. (Ed.). (2025). Pediatric nutrition (9th ed.). American Academy of Pediatrics