Formula Feeding at Night: A Survival Guide
Night-time feedings may be when you envy breastfeeding moms…but feeding in the middle of the night is an inconvenience no matter how you slice it! For formula-feeding parents, night-time feedings do present some unique challenges. Here is a brief survival guide for formula feeding at night.
1. Room Sharing
This is not just convenient for breastfeeding – having your baby close to you during the night is helpful for bottle-feeding, too. When your baby is sleeping close to you, you will be more likely to wake up when your baby first stirs, buying you precious time to get the formula ready. If your baby is in another room, he or she may be crying and very hungry, making formula preparation much more frantic for everyone!
You can place your baby’s crib in your bedroom, or attach a co-sleeper (this is kind of like a crib but with an open side; it attaches to the side of your bed).
2. Bedtime Feedings
Try to feed your baby before you settle in for the night, even if you have to wake him (or her). Most parents go to bed after their baby is asleep, but that sets the stage for your baby to wake you up shortly after you get to sleep! If possible, try to give him a feeding before you turn in.
3. Get Things Set Up
Having all the feeding supplies ready to go is a lifesaver in the middle of the night. This includes diapers and wipes, too – babies usually fill their diapers right after a feeding. You’ll also need:
* Clean and sterile bottles and nipples
* Burp cloths
* Change of clothing for baby
* Diaper ointment
4. Fill Bottles with Water
Before going to bed, fill sterilized bottles with the right amount of boiled, cooled water. Pre-measure the formula and place it in separate containers (or purchase a formula dispenser). When it’s time to feed the baby, you need only pour in the pre-measured powder, shake, and you’re ready to go. You can run the bottle under warm tap water to heat it if your baby prefers it warm.
5. Keep It Simple
Sources generally agree that you should make night-time feedings about just that – feedings. Eye contact and closeness during feeding are wonderful bonding activities, but try to avoid playing, bouncing, or energetic talk that gets your baby “fired up.” It might work better to focus on cuddling and snuggling than active interaction.
6. Parent Supplies
You might be getting a bit hungry and thirsty during the night feedings yourself! Keep some snacks and drinks for yourself handy as well.