How Much Formula Does a Newborn Need Per Feeding?
Feeding a newborn can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. One of the most common concerns is how much formula a newborn should drink per feeding. Since babies have tiny stomachs and grow rapidly, their feeding needs change frequently in the first few weeks and months.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ How much formula a newborn needs per feeding
✔ Daily formula intake recommendations by age
✔ Signs your baby is getting enough (or too little) formula
✔ Feeding tips for newborns
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to ensure your baby is well-fed, satisfied, and growing properly.
How Much Formula Should a Newborn Drink Per Feeding?
Newborns have small stomachs, so they need small, frequent feedings. The amount of formula your baby needs depends on their age, weight, and individual appetite.
General Formula Feeding Guidelines for Newborns
✔ Day 1-3: 0.5 to 1 ounce per feeding
✔ Week 1: 1 to 3 ounces per feeding
✔ Week 2-4: 2 to 4 ounces per feeding
✔ Month 1-2: 3 to 5 ounces per feeding
Newborns typically eat every 2 to 3 hours during the first few weeks, including at night.
Total Formula Intake Per Day by Age
✔ Newborn (0-1 month): 16-24 oz per day
✔ 1-2 months: 24-32 oz per day
✔ 3-4 months: 28-36 oz per day
A common guideline is to feed your baby 2.5 ounces of formula per pound of body weight per day.
For example, a 10-pound baby would need about 25 ounces of formula per day, spread out over multiple feedings.
How Often Should You Feed a Newborn?
Newborns should be fed on demand, meaning you should feed them whenever they show signs of hunger.
✔ Newborns (0-1 month) – Every 2-3 hours (8-12 feedings per day)
✔ 1-3 months – Every 3-4 hours (7-8 feedings per day)
✔ 3-6 months – Every 4-5 hours (5-6 feedings per day)
Since newborns have small stomachs, they need to eat frequently to get the nutrition they need for proper growth.
Signs Your Baby Is Getting Enough Formula
A well-fed baby should:
✔ Have 6+ wet diapers per day
✔ Have 3-4 bowel movements daily (varies by baby)
✔ Be gaining weight steadily (about 5-7 ounces per week in the first month)
✔ Appear satisfied after feedings and not cry from hunger shortly after
✔ Sleep well between feedings (but still wake up for feedings)
If your baby is meeting these milestones, they are likely getting enough formula.
Signs Your Baby May Need More Formula
Your baby might not be getting enough formula if they:
✖ Are fussy or restless after feedings
✖ Still show hunger cues shortly after eating
✖ Have fewer than 6 wet diapers per day
✖ Are not gaining enough weight
If you notice these signs, consult your pediatrician to ensure your baby is getting the right amount of nutrition.
Signs Your Baby May Be Drinking Too Much Formula
While it’s important to feed your baby enough, overfeeding can cause discomfort. Signs of overfeeding include:
✖ Frequent spit-up or vomiting after feeding
✖ Gassiness, bloating, or colic-like symptoms
✖ Rapid weight gain beyond normal ranges
✖ Refusing to eat but still being encouraged to drink
If your baby shows these signs, try offering smaller amounts more frequently and allow them to stop when they show signs of fullness.
Tips for Feeding Your Newborn Formula
✔ Follow your baby’s hunger cues – Let them eat when they’re hungry and stop when they’re full.
✔ Hold your baby upright during feedings to reduce gas and spit-up.
✔ Use a slow-flow bottle nipple to prevent overfeeding and help with digestion.
✔ Burp your baby every 1-2 ounces to prevent gas buildup.
✔ Don’t force a baby to finish a bottle if they are showing signs of fullness.
✔ Track feedings in a journal or app to monitor intake and feeding patterns.
Final Thoughts: How Much Formula Does a Newborn Need?
Newborns typically drink 1-3 ounces per feeding in the first week, increasing to 3-5 ounces by the end of the first month. Daily intake should be around 2.5 ounces per pound of body weight.
Every baby is different, so it’s important to follow their hunger cues and adjust feeding amounts as needed. If you have concerns about your baby’s feeding habits, always consult your pediatrician for guidance.
With proper feeding, your baby will grow, thrive, and stay happy and healthy!
