Babies need approximately 2.5 oz of formula per pound of body weight daily, up to 32 oz maximum.

Newborns: 2-3 oz every 3-4 hours (16-24 oz/day), 1-3 months: 4-6 oz every 4 hours (24-32 oz/day), 4-6 months: 6-8 oz every 4-5 hours (28-32 oz/day), 6-12 months: 6-8 oz 3-4 times daily (24-32 oz/day) plus solid foods.

Powder formula costs $0.12-0.15/oz ($870-1,090/year), liquid concentrate costs $0.18-0.22/oz ($1,310-1,600/year), and ready-to-feed costs $0.28-0.35/oz ($2,040-2,550/year).

Powder is most economical, saving $1,200+ annually versus ready-to-feed.

Generic brands can save additional 40% without sacrificing FDA-regulated nutrition standards.

Prepared formula follows the 2-1-1 rule: 2 hours at room temperature, 1 hour once feeding begins, 1 day (24 hours) in the refrigerator.

Never reheat partially consumed bottles.

Unopened powder lasts 1 month after opening, concentrate and ready-to-feed last 48 hours refrigerated after opening.

Babies can transition to whole milk at 12 months.

Start introducing solid foods at 6 months while continuing formula.

From 9-12 months, gradually replace one formula feeding with whole milk.

Never give cow milk before 12 months as it lacks essential nutrients and can cause iron deficiency anemia.

For healthy full-term babies over 3 months using municipal water, boiling is not necessary.

Always boil water for: premature babies, infants under 3 months, immunocompromised babies, well water users, or areas with water quality concerns.

Boil for 1 minute, cool to 70°C (158°F) to kill Cronobacter bacteria.

WIC provides free formula for eligible families (income <185% poverty level), covering 80-100% of needs.

Store brands save 40% with identical FDA nutrition.

Buy in bulk at warehouse clubs for 25-30% savings.

Subscribe-and-save programs offer 15-20% discounts.

Check manufacturer websites for coupons and samples.