FamilyBuys
Guide · no affiliate links

First infant formula: what the NHS says

How we research: This guide is researched from NHS advice; we don’t rank or sell infant formula.

By Frank Jones · Last updated · No affiliate links, no rankings, no recommendations.

Breastfeeding is best for babies. If you’re thinking about formula, or about combining breast and formula feeding, talk to your midwife or health visitor. This page is information only. It doesn’t recommend any product, and it contains no affiliate links.

All first infant formulas meet the same standard

The NHS says that all infant formula sold in the UK has to meet the same standards to help babies grow and develop. That means more expensive brands aren’t nutritionally better. Under the NHS advice, first infant formula (based on cows’ milk) is the only formula your baby needs for their first year, unless a health professional advises otherwise.

The NHS also says there’s no evidence that switching to a different formula does any good or harm, and no evidence that formulas marketed for “hungrier babies” help babies settle better or sleep longer. (NHS: Types of formula, NHS: Formula milk, common questions)

Making up a bottle safely

Powdered formula isn’t sterile, so how you prepare it matters. These are the key points from the NHS. Read the full step-by-step guide on the NHS website.

  1. Fill the kettle with at least 1 litre of fresh tap water (not water that’s already been boiled) and boil it.
  2. Leave the water to cool for no more than 30 minutes, so that it stays at a temperature of at least 70C. Water at 70C or above kills harmful bacteria.
  3. Clean and disinfect the surface, wash your hands, and use a sterilised bottle.
  4. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the pack exactly for how much water and powder to use. Too much or too little powder can make your baby ill.
  5. Cool the bottle quickly under a cold tap and check the temperature on the inside of your wrist before feeding. It should feel body temperature or a little cooler.
  6. Throw away any formula left over after a feed, and make up a fresh feed each time.

If you use a formula preparation machine, the NHS says the water that comes out must be at least 70C when it’s mixed with the powder. If it isn’t, stop using the machine and follow the step-by-step guide instead. (NHS: How to make up baby formula)

Sterilising bottles

The NHS advises sterilising all baby feeding equipment, including bottles and teats, until your baby is at least 12 months old. Clean everything in hot soapy water first, then sterilise it by cold-water sterilising, steaming or boiling. (NHS: Sterilising baby bottles)

Where to get help

Sources checked 28 October 2026. This page summarises NHS guidance and isn’t medical advice.