Bottle Feeding

If you choose not to or cannot breastfeed, bottle feeding is an alternative and you can count on our full support. There is a wide variety of bottled baby milk to choose from. Your maternity nurse can advise you about the different possibilities. Our maternity nurses work according to our Bottle Feeding Guidelines.

Infant formula choices for bottle feeding

If there are no complications, the doctor or midwife will usually advise you to use standard infant formula to make bottled baby milk. It is best to choose one brand of infant formula as changing the type of milk may cause cramps for your baby. If your baby has any allergies, or allergies run in the family, most likely you will be advised to choose for a hypoallergenic infant formula.

Cost of bottle feeding

Standard infant formula for bottle feeding, including bottles and teats, will costs about 450 Euros for the first half year.

Basic Principles

The first feeding takes place immediately after the birth.
The first 24 hours your baby will get 10ml of milk at each feeding *.
If your baby is drinking well, the amount will increase to 20 ml per feeding on the second day, 30ml on the third day, etc *.

* Assuming a full-term pregnancy and no complications with the baby.

Feeding on demand is recommended above following a feeding schedule. For the preparation, preserving and giving of bottled milk, we refer you to our protocol, where hygiene guidelines are also provided and to the guidelines on the packaging of the infant formula.

Bottle feeding essentials

At least 2 bottles of at least 200 cc
At least 2 associated nipples
Bottle warmer
Infant formula
Bottle brush

Cleaning the bottle

Rinse the bottle and the teat immediately after drinking using a bottle brush with cold water or with mild soapy water. Dry them and store them in the refrigerator or turn them upside down resting them on a clean cloth. Once a day you must clean the bottle and the teat in boiling water.

Preparing for bottle feeding

It is important that preparing the bottle is done precise and hygienic. Provide a clean countertop, clean hands and make sure you have everything at hand. It is also important that you select the correct dose and make sure to only use the scoop that comes with the package. In the Netherlands you can use plain tap water for preparing the bottle. Heat the bottle to between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius. This can be done in a bottle warmer, in the microwave or in a water bath (Bain-marie) in a pan. You can check the temperature on the inside of your wrist. The temperature of the milk should almost feel cold, rather too cold than too warm.

Any questions?

Do you have any questions about ‘Bottle feed’? Please don’t hesitate to contact us.