Newborns have delicate digestive systems, and even small changes in formula temperature can make a big difference. If the bottle is too hot, it can cause painful burns in your baby’s mouth. If it is too cold, your baby may reject the feed or experience discomfort. The goal is to mimic body temperature, around 37°C, which is considered the safest and most comfortable feeding temperature for infants.
Understanding how to get this right is essential for every formula feeding parent.
Many parents use the wrist test, placing a few drops of formula on the inside of their wrist. While quick, it is not accurate and can easily lead to mistakes, especially during night feeds.
Microwaving is never recommended. It creates uneven heating and dangerous hot spots that can burn your baby’s mouth.
Placing the bottle in a jug of warm water is safer, but it takes time and often leads to guesswork. You still need a way to check if the temperature is safe before feeding.
Electric bottle warmers are convenient, but they can heat unevenly. Parents often still need to test the temperature before feeding.
The recommended temperature for formula is approximately 37°C, which is close to the natural warmth of breast milk. At this temperature, the feed feels warm but not hot when tested correctly.
The safest way to achieve this is by combining warming with an accurate thermometer.
The Safer Baby Thermometer takes the guesswork out of formula feeding. Proudly Australian owned and patented, it was designed by parents for parents who want safe, stress free feeding.
Simply place your baby’s bottle on the device and instantly see if the milk is too hot, too cold, or just right:
Red = Too hot
Blue = Too cold
Yellow = Warming / wait
Green = Perfect feeding temperature
With medical grade accuracy and a simple colour coded system, the Safer Baby Thermometer is becoming a must have for families across Australia. Learn more on our How It Works page.
Always follow the instructions on your baby formula packaging for preparation and mixing.
Never reheat formula that has already been partially consumed.
Use sterilised bottles and teats for every feed.
Discard any unused formula after two hours to prevent bacteria growth.
Always double check the temperature with a reliable baby bottle thermometer before feeding.
For more advice, see our Why Parents Choose Us page.
Getting the formula feeding temperature right is essential for your baby’s health, comfort, and safety. While traditional methods like the wrist test or warm water can work, they often involve guesswork.
The Safer Baby Thermometer makes formula feeding simple and reliable, giving parents peace of mind that every bottle is the perfect temperature.
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