How to Switch Your Baby From Breast Milk to Formula

For reasons of health or convenience, some mothers want to wean their babies from breast milk to baby formula, but they don't know how to make the transition. There are several types of formula available for you to choose from. Some are soy-based and some are milk-based. Others are enriched with iron or are organic. You can follow a few easy steps to switch your baby from breast milk to formula.

Instructions

1

Purchase your supplies. You'll need a breast pump, bottles and formula for your baby. Playtex nursers are considered a good choice for moms who both breast- and bottle-feed because the nipples are designed to simulate sucking patterns associated with breastfeeding.

2

Pump and store breast milk. La Leche League provides guidelines for breast milk storage.

3

If you haven't already, introduce your baby to the bottle. Start by feeding your baby the pumped breast milk during the morning feed, when he'll be hungry and may be more likely to drink from the bottle. Having someone other than you offer the bottle may be more successful.

4

Start mixing formula with your breast milk in the bottle for feedings. Start with a ratio of 3/4 breast milk to 1/4 prepared formula and increase the ratio of formula to breast milk over the course of two weeks, until your baby is drinking 100 percent formula.