I've got the Formula

Gone are the days when breast feeding is seen as the only way to go. For those that simply cannot or do not breast feed the stigma associated with bottle feeding is thankfully dying down (although formula brands are still not allowed to advertise as guidelines state that breast feeding must be seen as the better option). Of course there are many benefits to breast feeding and I do not deny that for most women it is a wonderful experience that they wouldn't change for the world (excluding the chapped sore nipples, constantly being at your baby's beck and call and having to whip your milk jugs out in public perhaps). Yet, for those that do not breast feed there are also advantages. I think it is great when a baby is given at least one bottle a day- it enables grandparents and fathers etc to bond with baby further and also frees mummy up to be able to go out once in a while knowing that baby will be just fine.

To be totally honest I don't think it was until twins that I had ever really thought about not breast feeding... and now I cannot help but claim the other side of the unspoken coin as my own. Bottle feeding is OK too.

This is my formula for bottle feeding...

1. Choose a good formula. I personally choose Milupa's Aptamil (and most people I know do the same) but the most important thing is just to pick a brand and stick to it. Aptamil has both powder and ready made carton forms. It is cheaper to use the powder but the cartons are VERY handy to keep in your nappy bag (or use all the time if you have twins!)

2. Make your powder preparing easier by checking out Clevamama- they have great gadgets that make the whole thing less of a palaver. Our favourite is the clevascoop which accurately measures out your formula in one scoop- no more counting or losing count in the middle of the night or whilst listening to a screaming baby- or two!)

3. Make up a few sterilized bottles with three quarters of the water needed for your baby's bottle in them (boil it before putting it in and it will cool down quickly to cold), then fill a thermos with the rest of the boiled water. When it comes to baby's feed pour in the rest of the water needed to make the correct amount for your baby (eg. If baby drinks 6oz then have 4oz already prepared in the bottle and add 2oz of hot water from the thermos) add the powder in (which will be very quick thanks to clevascoop) and mix it up. No need to warm it- the thermos water will have done that for you. A bottle prepared in seconds. Fast Food Indeed!

4. Make sure you sterilize- I know how much of a bore in can be (especially with twins feeding every three hours- 16 bottles to clean every day!!) but it is highly recommended.

5. Do not let people tell you that you are doing the wrong thing, if you have made your choice and you are personally happy with it- then hold your head high and know that if you are happy, your baby will be too.