Bottlefed

Bottle feeding is the practice of feeding an infant with milk from a bottle rather than directly from the breast. The milk may be infant formula or expressed breast milk that has been pumped and stored in a bottle. Bottle-fed infants may receive formula alone, expressed milk, or a combination of both.

Two primary forms exist: formula feeding, in which commercially prepared infant formula is mixed with clean water, and expressed breast milk feeding, where milk pumped from the mother is stored and given in a bottle. Safe preparation and handling are important: use clean bottles and nipples, wash hands, and follow guidelines from formula manufacturers and health authorities for mixing, storage, and reheating. Do not heat formula in a microwave, and discard any unfinished formula according to local recommendations. Ensure the nipple flow rate matches the infant’s age and feeding ability to minimize air swallowing and frustration.

Feeding approach may be on demand or scheduled, depending on family routines and pediatric advice. Young infants typically feed more often and gradually take larger amounts as they grow. Caregivers should watch for hunger and fullness cues and avoid forcing a bottle.

Nipple types vary in flow rate, and some babies prefer certain textures or tempos. Bottle feeding offers flexibility for caregivers who cannot or choose not to breastfeed and for expressing milk so others can participate in feeding.