Feeding your baby is one of the most important tasks as a new parent, and every family’s feeding journey is unique. For many, combining breast milk and formula becomes the best option for meeting their baby’s needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to combine breast milk and formula safely and effectively.
If you’re wondering whether combining formula with breast milk is possible, the answer is a resounding yes! Many families successfully use both, but it’s essential to do it the right way to ensure your baby’s health and your milk supply remains in good shape.
Before you begin, consulting with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant is highly recommended. This will ensure you take the proper steps for your child’s well-being while protecting your milk supply. Our virtual lactation consultants can help—click here to learn more.
3 Methods for Combining Breast Milk and Formula
Here are three common ways to combine breast milk and formula:
- Mixing breast milk and prepared formula in the same bottle
- Feeding breast milk and formula separately
- Adding formula powder directly into breast milk (also known as fortifying)
Let’s dive into each method so you can choose what works best for you and your baby.
1. Combining Breast Milk and Prepared Formula in the Same Bottle
This is a popular option for parents who want to combine breast milk and formula in one feeding session. Here’s how you can do it:
Steps:
- Prepare the formula according to the instructions on the can. Do not use breast milk as the liquid—always use water to mix the formula.
- Warm your breast milk to the desired temperature.
- Combine breast milk and formula in the same bottle. Mix them in any proportion that works for you (e.g., half and half, or 1/4 breast milk and 3/4 formula).
Important Notes:
- Once mixed, any combination of breast milk and formula must be discarded within one hour of preparing the bottle. It cannot be stored for later use.
- Add it directly to the breast milk if you’re using ready-made formula. For powdered formula, ensure it is fully prepared with water before adding it to the breast milk.
Some babies may resist the mixed bottle, so experiment with different ratios or temperatures to find what works best for your baby. If your baby refuses the bottle, check out these bottle refusal strategies.
2. Feeding Breast Milk and Formula Separately
Another option is to offer breast milk and formula in separate bottles, either in the same feeding session or alternating between them throughout the day.
Steps:
- Follow proper handling guidelines for breast milk and formula, giving them in separate bottles.
- If you’re bottle feeding—whether with breast milk or formula—it’s important to pump around the same time to ensure your milk supply stays strong.
This method allows you to track how much breast milk and formula your baby is consuming and can be more convenient for parents who want a clearer feeding structure.
3. Adding Formula Powder Directly into Breast Milk (Fortifying)
Fortifying is a technique that adds extra calories to breast milk by mixing in formula powder. This method is typically used for premature or low birth weight babies under the guidance of a pediatrician.
Important Note:
- You should never add formula powder directly into breast milk unless a healthcare provider advises. This method is often used for medically fragile babies needing increased calorie intake.
- It’s not recommended to heat breast milk containing formula powder, as it may not reach a high enough temperature to kill bacteria.
While fortifying can be adequate for specific situations, always work with your healthcare provider to determine if this is right for your baby.
Final Tips for Combining Breast Milk and Formula
- Paced bottle feeding: Regardless of which method you choose, always use paced bottle feeding techniques to mimic the natural rhythm of breastfeeding and reduce the risk of overfeeding.
- Monitor your milk supply: To maintain a healthy supply, continue breastfeeding or pumping regularly when introducing formula.
By combining breast milk and formula in a way that works for you, you can provide your baby with the nutrition they need while reducing some of the pressure on yourself.
Additional Resources for New Moms
- 12 Tips for Overcoming Bottle Refusal in Breastfed Babies
- How to Increase Breast Milk Supply Fast: 11 Expert Tips
- Expressed Breast Milk Calculator for Bottles
Combining breast milk and formula is a flexible and practical approach that many families find helpful. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so choose what works best for you and your baby—and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support when needed.