Parents are rightly careful about what goes into a baby's mouth, and water is no exception. This article shares general, common-sense guidance. It does not replace advice from your paediatrician, who knows your child.
Packaged water is not sterile water
Clean drinking water from a sealed bottle is made for adults and children to drink. It is not the same as sterile water. For very young babies, especially those under six months, doctors usually advise boiling water and letting it cool before mixing formula or giving it, even if the water comes from a sealed bottle.
When can babies start drinking water?
Babies who are exclusively breastfed or formula-fed usually do not need extra water in the first six months. After they begin solid foods, small sips of water are normally introduced. Your paediatrician can tell you when and how much is right for your baby.
Making up formula
- Wash your hands and clean the bottle and teat thoroughly.
- Follow the formula tin's instructions on water temperature and measurements.
- Never add extra powder or extra water to "stretch" a feed.
- Use boiled, cooled water if your doctor has advised it.
Toddlers and older children
Once children are eating normally, clean drinking water is the best drink between meals. Keep a bottle or small glass within reach, and avoid replacing water with sweet drinks. In summer, offer water more often, because small children are quick to get dehydrated in the heat.
Keeping storage clean at home
- Wipe the neck of a jar or camper before you open it.
- Use a clean, dry glass or bottle, and never dip a cup into a jar.
- Wash a child's bottle daily with soap and hot water.
- Keep jars out of direct sun and away from the bathroom.
When to call the doctor
Ask for medical advice promptly if your child has a fever, repeated vomiting, loose motions, very few wet nappies, or seems unusually sleepy. Dehydration in small children needs proper care.
Our water comes in sealed bottles and jars, and our team is always happy to answer questions about packaging and storage. Get in touch any time.