How To Switch Baby Formula: 11 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Switch Baby Formula PDF download Download Article Explore this Article parts 1 Selecting a New Infant Formula 2 Changing over to the New Formula 3 Monitoring Your Baby’s Reaction to the Formula Other Sections Expert Q&A Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA

Last Updated: July 29, 2024 References

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This article was co-authored by Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA. Sarah Siebold is an International board certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and Certified Lactation Educator Counselor (CLEC) based in Los Angeles, California. She runs her own lactation consulting practice called IMMA, where she specializes in emotional support, clinical care, and evidence-based breastfeeding practices. Her editorial work about new motherhood and breastfeeding has been featured in VoyageLA, The Tot, and Hello My Tribe. She completed her clinical lactation training in both private practice and outpatient settings through the University of California, San Diego. She also earned her M.A. in English and American Literature from New York University. This article has been viewed 465,812 times.

You may need to switch your baby's formula for cost reasons, or because you're hoping to make your baby's tummy feel better. It's important to talk to your doctor before you make the change. Infant formulas are highly regulated and they all must provide adequate and complete nutrition for infants. As a result, switching baby formulas can be done quite easily. Simply select a new formula, gradually transition between formulas, and then monitor your baby to ensure they don’t have a reaction to the new formula.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Selecting a New Infant Formula

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  1. Step 1 Consult a doctor or pediatrician before switching formulas. 1 Consult a doctor or pediatrician before switching formulas. You should always talk with your doctor before switching formulas. This includes if you are switching for dietary or financial reasons. Your doctor will be able to recommend a formula suitable for your baby and can help you with the transition to a new formula.[1]
    • If your baby gets hives, a rash, redness, or vomits forcefully after drinking formula, they may have a true allergy to the milk or soy protein found within the formula.
    • Your doctor or pediatrician may also recommend switching formulas for dietary reasons or due to poor weight gain. For example, your baby may need more iron in their diet and, therefore, an iron-fortified formula may be best. Certain formulas may also be recommended for babies with severe acid reflux.
    • If the doctor does not suspect a true medical problem; however, they may be able to recommend a brand or formula that can improve other health symptoms, such as fussiness, gas, and difficulty pooping.
  2. Step 2 Consider a new formula with the same protein type. 2 Consider a new formula with the same protein type. It will be easiest on your baby’s digestive system to stick with the same protein type when switching formulas. If you have decided to try a new brand for cost rather than medical reasons, this should be relatively easy. For example, if your baby's current formula uses cows' milk as the protein type, then you should choose a new less expensive formula that also uses a similar ratio of cows' milk. If the protein in the initial formula was hydrolyzed or partially hydrolyzed, keep this consistent in the new formula. [2] Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Choose a formula with a different protein for digestive intolerances. 3 Choose a formula with a different protein for digestive intolerances. If you are switching formulas because your baby has a digestive intolerance, you will need to choose a formula with a different protein type. See which new formula your doctor thinks will help your baby's digestion.[3]
    • Your doctor may recommend that you try a soy-based formula instead of a cows' milk formula to treat a casein intolerance.
  4. Step 4 Read the formula labels. 4 Read the formula labels. If your baby was previously drinking a formula with iron, DHA, or other additives, consider selecting another formula with those characteristics. Reading the label will also help you understand the ingredients and you can avoid any ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction in your baby.
    5. Advertisement
Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Changing over to the New Formula

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  1. Step 1 Switch formula immediately if you are using the same protein. 1 Switch formula immediately if you are using the same protein. In some instances, your baby will be able to switch formulas relatively easily and will not fuss about a new type of formula. Try giving your baby a little bit of the new formula to see how they react. If there is no issue, then you can switch to the new formula immediately.[4]
    • If the baby fusses after trying the new formula, wait a few minutes and try again. Don't offer the baby any alternatives, and don't give them the old formula again.
    • Similarly, if your baby is allergic to their old formula, you may need to switch completely to the new formula with no period of transition.
  2. Step 2 Transition gradually to a new formula if you are changing the main protein. 2 Transition gradually to a new formula if you are changing the main protein. In some cases, your baby may be a little fussy about the taste of the new formula. In these instances, switch formulas gradually. This will mask the flavour of the new formula and make the transition easier.[5]
    • Begin the transition by giving your baby ¾ of the old formula and ¼ of the new formula.
    • Feed your baby this mixture for one day. Then, try half of the old formula with half of the new formula and feed your baby this mixture for one day.
    EXPERT TIP Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA

    Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA

    International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Sarah Siebold is an International board certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and Certified Lactation Educator Counselor (CLEC) based in Los Angeles, California. She runs her own lactation consulting practice called IMMA, where she specializes in emotional support, clinical care, and evidence-based breastfeeding practices. Her editorial work about new motherhood and breastfeeding has been featured in VoyageLA, The Tot, and Hello My Tribe. She completed her clinical lactation training in both private practice and outpatient settings through the University of California, San Diego. She also earned her M.A. in English and American Literature from New York University. Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA International Board Certified Lactation Consultant

    Did You Know? The nutritional makeup of breastmilk changes over time to fit your baby's needs. Because formula doesn't, the amount of formula your baby needs may be different than their breastmilk needs. After about 2 weeks of age, babies who are taking a bottle of breast milk only need about 3 oz at a time, even as they grow. With formula, on the other hand, you have to increase the volume over time in order for babies to gain weight appropriately.

  3. Step 3 Increase the ration of new formula to old formula. 3 Increase the ration of new formula to old formula. Continue to increase the ratio of new formula to old formula each day. For example, on the third day feed your baby a mixture of ¼ of the old formula with ¾ of the new formula and on the fourth day give your baby 100% of the new formula.[6]
    • By this point your baby should expect the flavour of the new formula.
    4. Advertisement
Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Monitoring Your Baby’s Reaction to the Formula

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  1. 1 Weigh the baby periodically. Make sure that they're reaching a healthy weight on the new formula. Either use a scale at home or take the baby to the doctor. It is normal for most babies to double their birth weight by 5 months, but you should talk to your doctor about what is a healthy development for your baby.[7]
  2. Step 2 Watch for digestive problems. 2 Watch for digestive problems. While transitioning from one formula to another, monitor your baby. Watch for persistent vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, or constipation. These are all signs that your baby may be experiencing an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions differ from normal digestive irritation because they are chronic and may impact your baby's ability to gain weight.[8]
    • For instance, acute diarrhea and gas is common among babies, but chronic diarrhea or constipation often means the child has an intolerance.[9]
    • If you believe your baby has an allergy to the new formula, seek medical attention immediately.
  3. Step 3 Notice hives or a rash. 3 Notice hives or a rash. Allergies can also present themselves on the surface of the skin in the form of hives or rashes. If you baby begins to develop a rash, you should take them to a doctor immediately. This could be a sign that they are allergic to the new formula.[10]
  4. 4 Look for blood in your baby’s stool or vomit. If you notice blood in your baby’s stool or vomit, you should take your baby to the emergency room immediately. This is a sign of a severe allergic reaction and needs medical treatment.[11]
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

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  • Question Can you feed a baby formula and breastfeed at the same time? Rebecca Nguyen, MA Rebecca Nguyen, MA International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Rebecca Nguyen is a Certified Lactation Consultant and Childbirth Educator. She runs Family Picnic in Chicago, Illinois with her mother Sue Gottschall, where they teach new parents about childbirth, breastfeeding and child development and education. Rebecca taught preschool through 3rd grade for 10 years, and she received her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Illinois in 2003. Rebecca Nguyen, MA Rebecca Nguyen, MA International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Expert Answer Yes, you definitely can. Usually when people are doing that, it's because they're not making quite enough milk for their baby's needs. There's lots of ways to feed your baby, and it doesn't have to be either breastfeeding or formula. You can also do a combination of the two. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
  • Question How do I know if the formula I am using is the right formula for my baby? Catherine Palomino, MS Catherine Palomino, MS Master's Degree, Elementary Education, CUNY Brooklyn College Catherine Palomino is a former Childcare Center Director in New York. She received her MS in Elementary Education from CUNY Brooklyn College in 2010. Catherine Palomino, MS Catherine Palomino, MS Master's Degree, Elementary Education, CUNY Brooklyn College Expert Answer The best resource to help choose a correct formula is the pediatrician. Take the container of baby formula to the pediatrician and ask them if it is the optimal product for your baby. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 7 Helpful 5
  • Question Does this work for very young babies? Catherine Palomino, MS Catherine Palomino, MS Master's Degree, Elementary Education, CUNY Brooklyn College Catherine Palomino is a former Childcare Center Director in New York. She received her MS in Elementary Education from CUNY Brooklyn College in 2010. Catherine Palomino, MS Catherine Palomino, MS Master's Degree, Elementary Education, CUNY Brooklyn College Expert Answer If after speaking to our pediatrician you determine a formula switch is in our baby’s best interests, you can proceed with the switch. Ask the doctor which of the two methods outlined here is the best approach for our baby’s individual situation. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 1
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

  • Look for coupons on the manufacturer’s website, in the newspaper, or in parenting magazines to get a discount on your baby’s formula brand. This way you will not need to switch formulas solely for price concerns. Some formula companies will even send free formula samples of the type your baby uses to keep you from switching, so take advantage of the giveaways! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Don’t switch formulas multiple times, unless directed by your doctor or pediatrician. Switching formula often can be hard on your baby’s digestive system. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 1
  • If your baby has been diagnosed with a metabolic disorder, milk protein allergy, or failure to thrive, always consult a pediatrician before changing infant formulas. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.newkidscenter.com/Switching-Baby-Formula.html
  2. ↑ https://www.babycenter.com/404_can-i-switch-formula-brands-and-if-so-how-do-i-ease-the-tran_1334521.bc
  3. ↑ https://www.babycenter.com/404_can-i-switch-formula-brands-and-if-so-how-do-i-ease-the-tran_1334521.bc
  4. ↑ https://www.newkidscenter.com/Switching-Baby-Formula.html
  5. ↑ https://www.newkidscenter.com/Switching-Baby-Formula.html
  6. ↑ https://www.newkidscenter.com/Switching-Baby-Formula.html
  7. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/expert-answers/infant-growth/faq-20058037
  8. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/formulafeed-concerns.html#
  9. ↑ https://www.babycareadvice.com/article/detail/What_Causes_Baby_Diarrhea
More References (2)
  1. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/formulafeed-concerns.html#
  2. ↑ https://www.newkidscenter.com/Switching-Baby-Formula.html

About This Article

Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA Co-authored by: Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA International Board Certified Lactation Consultant This article was co-authored by Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA. Sarah Siebold is an International board certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and Certified Lactation Educator Counselor (CLEC) based in Los Angeles, California. She runs her own lactation consulting practice called IMMA, where she specializes in emotional support, clinical care, and evidence-based breastfeeding practices. Her editorial work about new motherhood and breastfeeding has been featured in VoyageLA, The Tot, and Hello My Tribe. She completed her clinical lactation training in both private practice and outpatient settings through the University of California, San Diego. She also earned her M.A. in English and American Literature from New York University. This article has been viewed 465,812 times. 16 votes - 88% Co-authors: 14 Updated: July 29, 2024 Views: 465,812 Categories: Baby Bottles and Formula Article SummaryX

Before switching baby formulas, talk to your baby’s doctor to get their recommendations. Your doctor may recommend a transition plan such as mixing 1/4 of the new formula with 3/4 of the old formula on the first day. The next day, prepare the bottle with 1/2 of the new formula and 1/2 the old formula. Then, gradually increase the ratio of the new formula to the old formula each day. If your baby has digestive problems or develops a rash during the transition, see your doctor right away since your child might have an allergy to the formula. For tips from our Childcare reviewer on how to pick a new formula for your baby, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Jacqueline Jeku Gqadu

    Jacqueline Jeku Gqadu

    Jul 3, 2017

    "I didn't know that you can actually mix two different formulas in one bottle. Great help."
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Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA Co-authored by: Sarah Siebold, IBCLC, MA International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Co-authors: 14 Updated: July 29, 2024 Views: 465,812 88% of readers found this article helpful. 16 votes - 88% Click a star to add your vote Jacqueline Jeku Gqadu

Jacqueline Jeku Gqadu

Jul 3, 2017

"I didn't know that you can actually mix two different formulas in one bottle. Great help." Share yours!

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