Reader Question: Can I Save Money on Baby Formula?
Monday February 5, 2007
Question: I'm having a baby soon and I am on a very tight budget. I am going to try breastfeeding first, but many of my friends had trouble breastfeeding, so I want to have a backup plan. Can you recommend a good recipe for homemade formula that is healthy for my baby? The formula in stores is so expensive!
Answer: Having a backup plan is a great idea, but you should scratch the idea of making your own baby formula. Homemade formulas are not considered healthy for babies because you have no way of knowing whether all of the baby's nutritional needs are being met. Breastfeeding is definitely the most frugal choice. If you struggle at the beginning, that's normal. A few sessions with a hospital lactation consultant are often free of charge, and might save you a lot of money on formula later on. Spend some time researching breastfeeding so you're prepared for common problems. If you'll be returning to work, decide whether you'd like to rent or buy a breast pump, and budget for the best breast pump you can afford. If you truly are unable to breastfeed, check out store brand baby formulas to save pennies. Some store brands are nearly half the cost of name-brand formulas. Most importantly, check with your baby's pediatrician about choosing or changing your baby's diet to be sure your little one won't suffer any ill effects.
Answer: Having a backup plan is a great idea, but you should scratch the idea of making your own baby formula. Homemade formulas are not considered healthy for babies because you have no way of knowing whether all of the baby's nutritional needs are being met. Breastfeeding is definitely the most frugal choice. If you struggle at the beginning, that's normal. A few sessions with a hospital lactation consultant are often free of charge, and might save you a lot of money on formula later on. Spend some time researching breastfeeding so you're prepared for common problems. If you'll be returning to work, decide whether you'd like to rent or buy a breast pump, and budget for the best breast pump you can afford. If you truly are unable to breastfeed, check out store brand baby formulas to save pennies. Some store brands are nearly half the cost of name-brand formulas. Most importantly, check with your baby's pediatrician about choosing or changing your baby's diet to be sure your little one won't suffer any ill effects.
Comments
Baby formula can run about $120 a month, depending on baby’s needs. But please suggest WIC to this Mom, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. WIC will provide formula, or a pump and foods that are imporant for both Mom and Baby.