If the baby isn't breastfeeding, most dads will have a much more active role in feeding. If this describes you, you should learn how to prepare your baby's formula, how to hold your baby during feedings, and how to burp her afterward, among other things.

Formula Brands and Types

Considering the many different types and brands of formula, choosing which one to feed your baby may seem confusing. In reality, most parents probably just continue using whatever formula their babies started on in the hospital. You should understand the different types, though, in case your baby is having problems, or you simply want to switch.

Although there are different brands, including Enfamil from Mead Johnson, Similac from Ross Pharmaceuticals, Gerber Good Start, and the many store-brand formulas, each brand offers most of the basic varieties of formula, including basic cow's milk, lactose-free, and soy-based. There also are hypoallergenic or elemental formulas, which are broken down into their most basic particles, preemie formulas, and other specialty formulas for infants with special dietary needs.

Unless there is a family history of food or formula allergies, most babies who aren't breastfeeding should be started on a basic cow's-milk-based, iron-fortified formula. Many infants are changed to other formulas because of mild problems, such as loose stools, gas, or spitting up. This change is often unnecessary, so talk to your pediatrician before you change your baby's formula.

There are no formal recommendations on which brand to choose, although you should always choose a formula that is iron-fortified. All infant formulas meet the requirements of the Food and Drug Administration and so are safe and will meet your baby's nutritional needs. Many parents don't feel comfortable choosing the cheapest formula they can find, but you should feel confident that your baby will do just fine if you don't choose a “name brand” formula. And you should usually choose a powdered formula, because they are the least expensive.

Preparing Your Baby's Formula

The formula you buy will include instructions on how to prepare it, whether it is ready-to-feed, concentrated, or powder, and you should review and follow those instructions closely. If the formula is too diluted, your baby may not get enough calories, or if the formula is too concentrated, she may not be able to tolerate it.

Once you know how to make the formula, you should decide how much to make. Because you can't reuse any leftover formula, you should try to make just the amount that your baby will take in one sitting, which will be about two to three ounces the first month.

Although it is often recommended that you boil water before using it to make formula, you may not have to do this if you are sure that your water supply is safe.

Feeding Your Baby

Just as with breastfeeding, there are different positions that you can use to feed your baby a bottle of formula. Most parents choose to place their baby in a reclining position in one arm and hold the bottle in the other. You could also choose to sit her up in a more upright position. Try both positions to see which is more comfortable for you and your baby. The one position to avoid is feeding your baby while she is lying down flat.