When it comes to infant formula, knowing how much prepared formula 1 oz of powder makes is important for measuring the correct amount to feed your baby. With different types of formula and scoop sizes, it can be confusing to figure out the right powder to water ratio.
The General Rule
As a general rule of thumb, 1 oz of powder formula will make about 1 fluid ounce of prepared formula when mixed properly. However, this can vary slightly between brands and types of formula.
Standard Scoop Sizes
Most cans of powder infant formula come with a scoop inside that is specifically designed to measure out the correct amount of powder. There are two standard scoop sizes:
- 8 oz scoop – Measures out 8 oz of powder to make 32 oz of liquid formula
- 9.6 oz scoop – Measures out 9.6 oz of powder to make 32 oz of liquid formula
To make things simple, most scoops are designed to use 2 level scoops of powder per 2 ounces of water. So generally, 1 scoop of powder to 1 ounce of water will make about 1 fluid ounce of formula.
Exceptions
While the 1:1 powder to water ratio is standard, there are some exceptions with certain specialty formulas:
- Concentrated formulas – Require slightly less water, so 1 scoop may make around 0.8-0.9 oz fluid formula.
- Hypoallergenic formulas – Require more water, so 1 scoop may make closer to 1.1-1.2 oz fluid formula.
- Liquid concentrate – Must be diluted before use, with specific dilution instructions.
Measuring out 1 oz of Powder
If you don’t have the specified scoop for a can of formula, you can still measure out 1 oz of powder using common measuring spoons.
Measuring Tips
- Use a standard set of measuring spoons
- 1 oz = 2 tbsp
- Level off the powder, don’t compact it down
- Use the same spoon to scoop and level for accuracy
Be very precise when measuring powder formula. Too much or too little powder can negatively impact the nutritional content of the prepared formula for your baby.
How Much Water to Add
Once you have accurately measured 1 oz of infant formula powder, you can prepare the full serving of formula by adding the correct amount of water.
General Formula to Water Ratio
The standard formula to water ratio to make 1 fluid ounce is:
- 1 oz powder
- 1 oz water
However, always follow the exact measurements provided on your specific brand of infant formula powder packaging.
Tips for Mixing Formula
- Use cool, filtered tap water or bottled nursery water
- Never use boiled or softened water, as this alters the formula’s nutritional content
- Shake or stir vigorously until powder is fully dissolved
- If foam develops, let sit 3-5 minutes before serving
- Test temperature before feeding
How Many Fluid Ounces in Prepared Formula?
Using the standard 1:1 powder to water mixing ratio, 1 oz of powder will make right around 1 fluid oz of prepared liquid infant formula.
However, this yield can vary slightly based on:
- Scoop size included with formula
- Type of formula (concentrated, specialty, etc.)
- Precision in measuring both powder and water
- Foam and settling during preparation
To determine the exact fluid ounce yield using the scoop provided:
- Count the number of scoops in 1 can of powder
- Check the total number of fluid ounces the can makes
- Divide the number of fluid ounces by the number of scoops.
For example, if a can contains 28 scoops and makes 112 fluid ounces, then each scoop makes 4 fluid ounces of formula.
Example Formula Yield Calculations
| Formula Type | Powder Scoop Size | Powder per Scoop | Water per Scoop | Prepared Formula Yield per Scoop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Milk-Based Powder | 8 oz | 1 oz | 1 oz | About 1 fluid oz |
| Concentrated Formula | 8.6 g | 8.6 g | 7.8 mL | About 0.9 fluid oz |
| Specialized Hypoallergenic | 9.2 g | 9.2 g | 14 mL | About 1.2 fluid oz |
How Many Scoops per Ounce of Water?
While the standard mixing ratio is 1 scoop powder to 1 ounce of water, giving the exact number of scoops needed per ounce of water prepared can provide clearer mixing directions.
Standard Formulas
For most standard infant formulas:
- Use 1 level scoop per 1 fluid ounce of water.
So if you are preparing 4 ounces of formula, you would use 4 level scoops of powder.
Specialty Formulas
For specialty or hypoallergenic formulas that use a different powder to water ratio:
- Check the instructions on your specific formula can.
The mixing directions should state clearly how many scoops to use per ounce of water, such as:
- 1.5 scoops per 1 ounce water
- 1 scoop per 2 ounces water
This takes the guesswork out of preparing the proper concentration and ensures your baby gets the right nutrition.
Powder to Water Ratio by Weight
In addition to scoop measurements, some parents prefer to mix their baby’s formula using weights for more precision. Here is how the powder to water ratios break down by weight:
Standard Formula Mix
- 1 oz powder = Approx. 28 grams
- 1 oz water = Approx. 30 mL
So for 1 fluid ounce prepared:
- Use 28 grams powder
- Add 30 mL water
Specialized Formula Mix
Specialized formulas often provide slightly different mixing ratios by weight, such as:
- 24 grams powder per 30 mL water
- 33 grams powder per 30 mL water
Check your formula label for the exact weight ratio to follow.
Tips for Properly Mixing Formula
Once you know the correct powder to water measurements for making 1 oz prepared formula, be sure to mix it properly for safety and nutrition:
Use the Right Tools
- Liquid measuring cup for water
- Measuring spoons for powder
- Mixing pitcher or bottle
- Bottle brush for cleaning
Steps for Mixing
- Clean all equipment thoroughly before mixing
- Measure exact amounts of powder and water
- Add small amount of water first to dissolve powder
- Then add remaining water
- Mix until fully blended and dissolved
- Let sit 3-5 minutes if foam develops
- Cool to room or body temperature before feeding
Safety Tips
- Use safe water source and store open powder in sealed container
- Discard any unused mixed formula within 1-2 hours
- Do not save or freeze prepared formula
- Proper mixing kills bacteria in powder and prevents overconcentration
How Many Baby Bottles?
Knowing how much prepared formula 1 oz of powder makes can help you determine how many baby bottles you can get from one container of formula powder.
Calculate Bottles from Powder
To determine the number of bottles:
- Check the total ounces of powder in the container.
- Multiply by the prepared fluid ounces yield per ounce of powder.
- Divide the total fluid ounces by the bottle size.
For example, for a 12.4 oz container of powder that makes 1 fluid ounce per scoop, with 4 oz bottles:
- 12.4 oz powder x 1 oz prepared per oz powder = 12.4 oz prepared
- 12.4 oz prepared divided by 4 oz per bottle = 3.1 bottles
This 12.4 oz container would make just over 3 4-ounce bottles of prepared formula.
Plan Ahead for Babies
- Newborns eat around 2 oz per feeding
- Increase bottle size as baby grows
- Only make what you need for 24-48 hours
- Have extra powder containers on hand before running out
Planning ahead and buying formula powder in bulk can help reduce frequent store trips and ensure you don’t run out.
Saving Prepared Formula Safely
While fresh is best, you may have some prepared formula leftover. Here are some tips for storing it safely:
Storage Guidelines
- Store in back of refrigerator, not door
- Keep prepared formula up to 24 hours if refrigerated
- Seal container tightly
- Label container with date and time mixed
- Discard after 48 hours if not used
- Do not save more than 24 hours if baby has fed from bottle
Never Refreeze or Reheat
Prepared liquid formula should never be frozen or microwaved. This can cause hot spots that burn baby’s mouth and alter the formula’s nutritional properties.
Traveling with Formula
- Bring prepared bottles for duration of travel only
- Pack prepared bottles in insulated cooler bag
- Add a frozen ice pack to keep cool for 4+ hours
- Discard any unused portion after 24 hours
Signs Formula is Spoiled
Prepared infant formula that is past the safe storage guidelines can spoil and pose health risks. Look for these signs of spoiled formula:
- Sour, rancid, or abnormal smell
- Change in color or consistency
- Lumpy texture or separation
- Mold present
- Upset stomach, gas, or change in bowel movements if fed spoiled formula
If formula shows any of these signs, it may be contaminated with bacteria and should be discarded immediately.
When in Doubt, Throw it Out
If you have any concerns about the safety of prepared formula, do not feed it to your baby. It is not worth the risk of illness. Fresh is best when it comes to infant formula.
FAQ
How long can you keep formula after mixing?
Prepared formula should be used within 1-2 hours if kept at room temperature or 24 hours if refrigerated. All leftover or unused mixed formula should be discarded after 48 hours if kept refrigerated.
Does 1 oz of formula powder make 1 oz liquid?
Typically 1 oz of powder makes about 1 oz of liquid formula when mixed as directed. However, specialized formulas may vary, making slightly more or less liquid formula per ounce of powder.
How many ounces of formula should a newborn eat?
Most newborns start with 2-3 oz per feeding about 8-12 times per day. Feed on demand letting your baby set intake rather than on a strict schedule. Gradually increase bottle size as they grow.
How long does a small can of formula last?
A 12.4 oz small can of powder formula typically makes about 50 fluid oz, or about 12 four-oz bottles. How long it lasts depends on your baby’s intake but usually 3-5 days. Have extra cans before running out.
Can I mix formula in advance for the whole day?
It is not recommended. Prepare only what baby will consume within 24 hours. Store prepared bottles in refrigerator no more than 24 hours, discarding any unused portion after 48 hours. Fresh mixed formula is ideal.
The Bottom Line
Mixing up the proper amount of infant formula takes a bit of simple math. With standard powder, the rule of thumb is 1 level scoop or 1 oz powder to 1 oz water makes about 1 fluid oz prepared formula. But specialized formulas vary, so always follow label instructions. Proper mixing and storage prevents spoilage and health issues. With a few mixing best practices and safety measures, you can ensure your baby gets the right nutrition from every bottle.
