Introduction

When it comes to the safe storage and use of infant formula, the best approach is to keep it simple – keep powdered formula in its original pack, make feeds fresh, use them straight away and always follow the on-pack instructions.

At a glance: Top tips for infant formula storage and use

  • Powdered formula should be made fresh for each feed and used straight away
  • Good hygiene – washing hands and sterilising baby bottles – ensures safe feeding every time
  • Use freshly boiled water for formula milk that has cooled for no more than 30 minutes
  • Leftover milk from a started feed should be discarded
  • Ready to feed formula can be a practical choice when convenience matters
  • Always check the pack for product-specific storage instructions

Formula milk storage

Good formula milk storage starts with the pack itself. For powdered products, always keep the formula in the original container, store it in a cool, dry place, not in the fridge, and use it within the time stated on pack.

Useful reminders for powdered formula storage:

  • Keep the scoop clean and dry
  • Store the scoop in suspension inside the can and put the lid on
  • Do not transfer powder into another container
  • Always check the use-by date and pack instructions before each feed

How do you prepare formula milk?

If you’re looking for tips on how to prepare formula milk, the best answer is to keep the process simple and measured. The NHS recommends a careful step-by-step routine for preparing formula milk and safe feed preparation.

Safe preparation steps:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly and clean the surface first
  2. Sterilise baby bottles, teats and other feeding equipment, according to manufacturers’ instructions
  3. Boil 1 litre of fresh tap water
  4. Let it cool for no more than 30 minutes – the recommended water temperature is 70°C
  5. Pour the required amount of water into the sterilised bottle
  6. Add the exact amount of powder using the scoop provided – level off each scoop with the back of a clean, dry knife. Different formulas come with different scoops. Only use the scoop that comes with the formula.
  7. Place the sterilised teat and cap on the bottle
  8. Shake well until the powder is fully dissolved
  9. Cool the bottle under cold running water until lukewarm
  10. Test the temperature on your wrist before offering it to your baby

A few small details make a big difference. Do not add extra powder or extra water, and do not use re-boiled water or artificially softened water for powdered feeds.

How long does formula milk last once made up?

The simplest, safest answer is that it should be used immediately. Powdered formula should not be made up in advance or stored for later. Once made up, formula milk does not last and should be used straight away. Make it fresh every time.

If a feed has already been started, do not keep the remaining milk for later. Once your baby has begun drinking, discard what is left.

Caregiver feeding a baby with a bottle at home, showing formula milk preparation and storage

Water for formula milk: understanding what to use

The best water for formula milk is freshly boiled tap water that has cooled for no more than 30 minutes. NHS guidance recommends that the water should still be hot enough to help reduce bacterial risk when the powder is added. That is one of the most important details in safe formula milk preparation routines.

A simple way to remember it:

  • Boil fresh water
  • Let it cool for no more than 30 minutes
  • Mix the formula straight away
  • Feed when it has cooled to a safe temperature

Ready-made options for busy days

Sometimes convenience matters. Ready to feed formula is a great option if you’re on-the-go, travelling with your baby or don’t have time to make up feeds from scratch.

SMA’s ready to feed formula milk comes in resealable cartons and can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours after opening. No preparation is required, just shake the carton and pour into a sterilised beaker. Always remember to use a sterilised teat with ready to feed formula, and don’t give your baby the milk straight from the carton.

Check out some more helpful tips and tricks on travelling with baby.

Quick answers to commonly searched questions

Questions about safe feeding practices are among the most frequently asked online.

Here are some of the top questions about safe formula storage, answered by Ellie Grove.

How long can you keep formula milk out?

You shouldn’t keep made-up bottles of infant formula out for later use. Make feeds fresh and use them straight away.

Can you reheat formula milk?

No, do not reheat a feed that has already been started or is not used.

Can you freeze formula milk?

No, formula milk should not be frozen. Always make feeds fresh.

Author

Ellie Grove

Registered Dietitian, SMA® Nutrition UK&I

Ellie is a registered Dietitian and has a First Class BSc (Hons) degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Surrey University.

She’s one of our lead health writers in the medical affairs team and specialises in baby feeding issues and specialist products.

She has a keen eye for rigorous research and enjoys dissecting health-related science and making it accessible and applicable to everyone.

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