How much should my baby drink?
Estimate how much formula or pumped breast milk to put in each bottle, based on your baby's age, weight, and how often they eat.
These are averages, not targets. Babies eat more on some days than others, and following your baby's hunger and fullness cues matters more than any number. Steady weight gain and plenty of wet diapers are the best signs your baby is getting enough. Check with your pediatrician, especially for premature babies or any feeding concerns.
Sources
- Amount and schedule of formula feedings (American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org)
- How much formula does my baby need? (American Academy of Pediatrics)
- How much expressed milk will my baby need? (KellyMom, summarizing research on breast milk intake)
Formula and breast milk work differently
Formula amounts grow with your baby's weight: on average about 2½ ounces a day for every pound, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, and usually no more than 32 ounces a day. Breast milk is different. Research on exclusively breastfed babies shows they take about 25 ounces a day on average from 1 to 6 months, and that amount stays fairly steady as they grow, because breast milk changes to meet their needs.
Common questions
How much formula should my baby drink?
The American Academy of Pediatrics says babies take about 2½ ounces of formula a day for every pound of body weight on average, and usually no more than 32 ounces in 24 hours. Your baby's hunger and fullness cues matter more than any number.
How much breast milk should go in a bottle?
Exclusively breastfed babies from 1 to 6 months take about 25 ounces a day on average, usually between 19 and 30 ounces. Divide that by how many times your baby eats in a day to estimate each bottle.
How do I know my baby is eating enough?
Steady weight gain, around 6 or more wet diapers a day after the first week, and a baby who seems content after most feeds are good signs. Your pediatrician checks growth at each visit.
Is this calculator right for premature babies?
No. Premature babies and babies with medical needs often need a specific feeding plan. Follow your pediatrician's advice.
Every bottle, logged in a tap.
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