Baby Formula Storage: The Two Hour Rule

Tyria LockhartTyria Lockhartยท

Prepared formula is a perishable food, and the two hour rule is the one that matters most. Once mixed or once a feed begins, formula left at room temperature should be discarded within two hours.

Keep the storage times straight.

  • Unused mixed formula lasts 24 hours in the fridge
  • After a feed starts, finish or discard within two hours
  • Never save leftovers from a bottle the baby drank from
  • Prepared bottles for travel need an ice pack

When in doubt, throw it out. Formula is cheap compared to the stomach upset and risk that spoiled milk can bring.

The two hour rule is the one formula safety guideline that is easy to forget in the middle of a busy day. Setting a timer or noting the feed time removes the guesswork entirely.