The simplest way to prepare formula is to start by cleaning 6-8 bottles and nipples in a dishwasher or hot water. To store clean bottles and nipples, invert the nipples in the bottles and cover. At the time of feeding, pour the formula into the bottle and feed.

There are three types of formula on the market today: ready-to-feed, concentrate and powder. Carefully read the instructions on the formula can or bottle to learn how to prepare the formula.

In the hospital, most newborns take only one ounce of formula or less at each feeding. However, infants quickly work up to two ounces, usually by the end of 10 days, and are taking four ounces by the end of the first month. Put a little more formula in the bottle than you expect the baby to take so you stay ahead of the baby's needs.

You can be sure that formula is coming through the nipple if you see air bubbles rising in the bottle. After every few ounces, hold your baby over your shoulder and burp him.

Fluoride is not prescribed until 6 months of life. Vitamins are included in the formula, but breast-fed babies are started on a dropper of infant vitamins or vitamin D at one of the early baby visits.