How to Prepare Aptamil Formula Milk Correctly: Bangladesh Parent's Guide
Incorrect formula preparation is one of the most common causes of baby illness in Bangladesh. Whether you are using Aptamil Stage 1, Stage 2, or another formula, following the correct preparation steps is critical for your baby's safety and health.
What You Need Before Starting
- Aptamil formula tin and measuring scoop
- Sterilised feeding bottle and teat
- Freshly boiled water (not bottled or filtered — boil tap water)
- Clean, dry hands
- A thermometer (optional but helpful)
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Aptamil Formula
- Boil water: Use freshly drawn tap water. Boil fully (rolling boil). Do not re-boil old water.
- Cool the water: Allow boiled water to cool to approximately 70°C. This takes about 30 minutes in a covered container. 70°C kills harmful bacteria that can contaminate formula powder.
- Measure water first: Pour the correct amount of water into the sterilised bottle (e.g., 150ml for a 5oz feed).
- Add formula: Using the dry measuring scoop from the tin, level off one scoop and add it to the bottle. Add the correct number of scoops (1 level scoop per 30ml water).
- Mix gently: Replace the cap and ring, then roll the bottle between your palms to mix. Do not shake vigorously (creates air bubbles).
- Cool to feeding temperature: Hold the bottle under cold running water or place in a bowl of cold water until it reaches body temperature (~37°C). Test on inner wrist — should feel warm, not hot.
- Feed immediately: Do not prepare formula in advance. Use within 1 hour. Discard any leftover formula — never reheat or store.
Critical Safety Rules
- NEVER dilute formula — adding extra water reduces nutrition and can cause dangerous hyponatraemia (low sodium)
- NEVER add extra scoops — concentrated formula overloads kidneys
- NEVER microwave — creates hot spots that can burn baby's mouth
- NEVER store prepared formula in a fridge for more than 24 hours
- NEVER use formula past its expiry date
Clean Water in Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, always use tap water that has been fully boiled. Do not use bottled water — it is not sterile and may have a higher mineral content unsuitable for newborns. Boiling is the safest method available in Bangladesh for sterilising water for formula preparation.
Bottle Sterilisation in Bangladesh
Sterilise bottles by boiling in water for 10 minutes. Steam sterilisers are available in Bangladesh but boiling is equally effective. Sterilise until babies are 12 months old.
Buy Original Aptamil in Bangladesh
Buy 100% genuine Aptamil Stage 1 at ShampoBD with cash-on-delivery to all 64 districts. Always buy from authorised importers to ensure the formula you prepare is genuine and safe.