Formula FAQs for New Parents

Reviewed by Orna Villazan, ND (Naturopathic Doctor)

Feeding a newborn comes with a lot of questions, and that is completely normal. Whether you are formula feeding from day one, supplementing with breast milk, or just trying to understand what is on the label, knowing the basics makes every feeding a little more confident. Here are answers to the questions new parents in Canada ask most.

How Much Formula Should I Feed My Baby?

Every baby is different, but these guidelines are a helpful starting point:

Age	Water (mL)	Number of scoops	Feedings per day
Newborn (0-1 month)	90	3	6
1-2 months	120	4	5-6
2-3 months	150	5	5
3-4 months	180	6	4-5
4-6 months	210	7	4
6+ months	210	7	2-3

Always follow your baby's hunger cues. Signs of fullness include turning away from the bottle or losing interest. Signs of hunger include fussing or sucking on their hands. Your baby's healthcare provider is your best resource if you are ever unsure.

How Long Is Formula Good For?

Proper storage protects your baby from harmful bacteria. Here is what to keep in mind:

At room temperature: Use prepared formula within 1 hour. Discard any unfinished bottle after that.

In the fridge: Store prepared formula in a sealed bottle and use within 24 hours.

After warming: Once a bottle has been warmed, use it within 1 hour. Never reheat a bottle or return it to the fridge after warming.

Opened powder tin: Seal tightly and use within 4 weeks of opening. Store in a cool, dry place.

When in doubt, throw it out. The one-hour rule at room temperature is especially important for young babies.

What Water Should I Use for Baby Formula?

Health Canada recommends using safe drinking water that has been brought to a full rolling boil, then cooled before use. Here is a breakdown of your options:

Boiled tap water: The safest and most accessible choice. Tap water in most Canadian municipalities meets drinking water standards. Boil and cool before each use.

Bottled water: Can be used but should still be boiled for babies under 4 months, as it is not sterile.

Well water: Avoid using untested well water, as it may contain higher levels of nitrates or bacteria that are unsafe for babies.

Can I Use Distilled Water for Baby Formula?

Distilled water can be used in a pinch, but it is not the recommended choice. Because distillation removes naturally occurring minerals, it does not provide the same baseline as treated tap water. If distilled water is your only option, boil it first and speak with your healthcare provider about ongoing use.

When Do Babies Stop Drinking Formula?

This is a common question from parents, and the good news is there's no need to rush. Most babies transition away from infant formula around 12 months of age, once their digestive systems are mature enough to handle other sources of nutrition and they are eating a well-rounded diet of solid foods.

That said, every baby develops at their own pace, and the 12-month mark is a guideline rather than a hard deadline. Many babies continue with formula as a supplement well into their second year, and that's completely normal.

If your baby has been on Capricare Stage 2 through the 6-12 month period, you can comfortably continue past the 12-month milestone. It works beautifully as a nutritional supplement alongside your little one's growing diet, helping to fill any gaps as they explore new foods.

As always, your healthcare provider is your best resource if you have any questions about timing or next steps. Every little one is different, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

A Note from Our Family to Yours

Every family's feeding journey looks a little different, and there is no single right path. Capricare's goat milk formula is crafted to be gentle on little tummies, offering Canadian families a trusted alternative to standard cow milk formulas. If you have concerns about your baby's feeding or nutrition, always speak with your healthcare provider.

Formula feeding for the first time? Learn more about switching from breastfeeding to formula here.
Capricare Stage 1 Infant Goat Milk Formula is designed for babies from birth to 6 months.