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Whether you're formula feeding or pumping breast milk, get tips on preparing and giving your baby's first bottle.
Start clean
Wash or sterilize bottles and nipples as directed on the packaging before your first feeding.
Heat things up
Use a bottle warmer or bowl of warm water (not a microwave) to heat breast milk or formula. Test on inner wrist before feeding.
Or try it cold
You can also try serving the bottle at room temperature, or even cold – some babies like it this way.
Get cozy
Choose a comfortable place to sit with your baby, and have a burp cloth on hand.
Support your baby
Use your arm or a pillow to keep your baby propped up slightly while you hold the bottle with the opposite hand.
Take burping breaks
If your baby gets fussy during the feeding, pause and see if gentle burping helps.
Try, try again
If your baby is used to nursing, the bottle may not be a hit at first. Don't force the issue, but keep trying every day.
Download as a PDF
Guide to Firsts: Giving your baby a bottle
See our whole Guide to Firsts series
