Newborn babies are soft and fragile, and it does take a bit of skill to handle them properly.

It is not uncommon to see first-time parents at a loss as to how to carry, bathe and feed their newborn baby properly. New parents, check this bottle feeding guide to see which teat to choose for your baby!

As newborns have poor neck control, their heads will likely flop backward or forward if left unsupported. It is dangerous to carry a newborn baby without supporting its neck. When carrying a baby, be sure that their necks and bottoms are supported all the time.

Apart from keeping baby comfortable, there is one other thing to take note of. When bottle feeding, ensure that your baby’s head is higher than his or her feet, as babies who are bottle fed while lying down have a higher risk of middle ear infections.

  1. Prop up with pillows

Specially designed feeding pillows for babies have an indent where your baby can nestle in comfortably during feeding times. If so, there’s no need to cradle your baby and all you have to do is to hold up her bottle.

An alternative is to use existing pillows you have at home to support your baby’s back. This position is more suitable for slightly older babies, preferably those with strong neck support and can sit upright by themselves.

After your baby turns six months old, if you wish to start mixed feeding, you can consider Einmilk Stage 2 Follow-up Formula Milk which can be purchased at online stores and supermarkets in Singapore.

Einmilk follow-on formula milk is a complete source of nutrition for babies six months and above.

  1. Cradle them
    Rest your baby’s head in the crook of your arm and use the same hand to support your baby’s bum. Lift that arm so your baby is in a semi-upright position and feed your baby with your other arm. This position is most suitable for newborns.
  2. Place them in your lap

Cradling your infant for extended periods of time may cause your arms to turn sore. This position helps you rest your arm. To do this position, start by sitting down crossed legged and lay your infant horizontally across your lap with their bum in between your legs. By doing so, your infant naturally assumes a position where their head is above their feet.

Special position for colicky babies and babies with acid reflux

  1. Sit them up

Babies suffering from colic or gas will benefit from a mostly upright position. Start by placing your baby seated on your lap and resting his head on your chest or nook of your arm. Tilt the bottle so that the entire teat is filled.

Bottle-feeding tips – keep your newborn propped at an incline where his head is higher than his feet

Using a bottle means that the bottle parts and teats should be kept clean and hygienic. Babies who are born premature have weaker immune systems and sterilising bottles is necessary to prevent bacterial infections. Here’s how to wash and care for your baby’s bottles.

Tell us which is your favourite position for bottle feeding your baby! Is there a special position that’s not listed here?