Microwave bad.
That’s what we’re told when it comes to heating up baby bottles.
Why? Because they are notorious for uneven heating. And we don’t want to burn baby’s mouth by mistake.
So, what are some other ways we can heat baby bottles?
I’m going to share 7 ways to do just that.
But first, a little housekeeping...
#1: Did you know that formula doesn’t need to be warmed? It can be served at room temperature.
#2: With any bottle warming method, you always want to test the formula on your wrist by dripping a few drops from the bottle, before each feed. You want it to feel close to body temperature. If it feels cool, warm it a little more. If it feels too warm, allow it to cool a bit. You can use an ice bath to cool it quickly, if you’re in a pinch.
#3: If you’re using any water other than bottled water (i.e. tap water, well water, etc.), check to see if there are any additional warming advices for your water source.
#4: To correctly make a bottle, add the water first, then add the formula. This will give you the proper mixture. Read the label on your formula container for further instructions.
RELATED: Make Newborn Nighttime Feedings Easier With A Bottle Station
(for formula-fed babies)
There are 2 general ways to do this: warming the entire bottle including its contents, or warming the water first then adding it to the bottle, and mixing in the formula.
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How To Warm An Entire Bottle
You can either mix the formula and water, then warm the bottle afterwards. Or warm the water that’s already in the bottle, and add the formula last.
1. In a Pot of Water
Gently heat a pot of water on the stove, remove from heat, then sit the bottle in it for a minute or two, until it’s warmed.
I like this option because there are no additional purchases needed. You already have what you need – water, and a pot.
2. In A Cup of Hot Water
Using a cup the same height as your bottle, heat the water in the microwave, or use warm-to-hot water from the tap. Now, put your bottle in the water, for a minute or two.
I like this method because the bottle heats slowly, making it more difficult to overwarm.
On the flip side, a fussy baby might not been keen to wait the extra time it takes to warm using this method.
3. Under Running Water
Turn your tap on warm-to-hot, and hold the bottle underneath it. You want to rotate it around, so the water reaches all sides, for two minutes.
4. In a Bottle Warmer
At the time of baby’s feeding, mix the water and formula, shake, then add it to the bottle warmer. Set the temperature, and let her rip.
Ways To Heat Water For Formula
Using these methods, you’ll warm the water first, then mix the baby’s formula into it.
5. Kettle
Pour the water in to a kettle, set the temperature, then her rip. Some kettles include a keep warm function (similar) that keeps the water heated at all times, so it stays ready to go whenever you need it.
6. Stay Warm Bottle Warmer
Simply fill a bottle with amount of liquid needed, and place it in the warmer. The warmer heats the water, and keeps it warm until baby needs it.
At that time, simply mix in the formula, shake, and feed.
This would a great option for your nightstand.
7. Warm Water Dispenser – A warm water dispenser is a dream because there is little-to-no work to do with it. It only requires that you keep water in the machine, and keep it plugged in.
It keeps the water warm at all times, so when baby is ready for a bottle, you’ll simply press the lever to dispense, mix your formula, and your bottle is ready to go.
Bonus: Insulated Drink Holder
While not a warming method, you can store warm water on your nightstand in an insulated drink holder. After the water has been warmed, pour it in the holder, cap it, and place it on your nightstand.
Prepare your bottle as usual at baby’s next feed.
And there you have it: 7 ways to warm a baby’s bottle without the microwave.
All the Best,
Ash
P.S. Did you know that you can warm bottles on the go, too!