Formula feeding question

bliss611

I was breastfeeding exclusively until this month and have some questions about formula storage, etc

DS drinks 5 oz at a time. But formula only comes in 2oz or 8 oz bottles and I hate wasting the excess. At home I refrigerate it but when we're out, can I put it in a cooler on ice and use it in a few hours? How long can it safely stay in a cooler?

kimberleigh30

You can buy a formula dispener for when you are out (like this) https://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3502347&fromRegistryNumber=41888190&product_skn=141762

and all you need is water and you won't have to worry about the bottle sitting out in room temperature for a long time.

Also you can make bottles with any amount of ounces. 

2 ounces = 1 scoop

3 ounces = 1 and 1/2 scoops

4 ounces = 2 scoops

5 ounces - 2 and 1/2 scoops

6 ounces = 3 scoops

you get the point.

justrachet

We mix as we go. The rules tend to differ depending on the formula. The can should say how long you can refrigerate it and how long it can sit out. If it's on ice in a cooler, I'd consider that as refrigerated.

Ours is good for 1 hour sitting out, 24 hours in the fridge. But once he starts drinking it, it has to be used within the hour because germs from his mouth can get into the formula and grow, which could make him sick. I don't always follow that rule to the letter, though...

eilathen

We also use powdered formula in a dispenser and mix with bottled water.  It's just an easier option for us to mix as needed. 

bliss611

Forgot to mention - DS hates the powdered version and will only drink the ready to feed ones.