Tips for Reducing Formula Waste (and Saving Money)

Baby formula is a significant expense for many families — and no one wants to see it go to waste. If you're looking for practical ways to reduce formula waste while keeping your baby safe and fed, you're in the right place.

Below are safe, simple strategies to reduce leftover formula, especially when using made-up bottles.

Why Leftover Formula Must Be Discarded

It’s important to remember that any formula left in a bottle your baby has drunk from must be thrown away. This is because bacteria from your baby’s mouth can enter the bottle during feeding, making it unsafe to store or reuse later.

While this can feel wasteful, it’s essential to prioritise safety — leftover formula can harbour harmful bacteria if kept and reused.

How to Reduce Formula Waste: Smart Tips for Parents

You can still avoid waste without compromising your baby’s safety. Try these evidence-informed tips:

1. Track Your Baby’s Feeding Patterns

Start by noting how much formula your baby typically drinks at different times of the day. Babies' appetite can vary between feeds and days, so identifying a pattern can help you prepare more accurately.

2. Know Their Minimum and Maximum Intake

Figure out the minimum and maximum amounts your baby normally drinks in a feed. This gives you a range to work within when preparing bottles.

3. Offer the Minimum First

Start by offering the minimum usual amount in a bottle. If your baby is still hungry, you can then top up with more from a separate bottle.

4. Split Bottles to Reduce Waste

Prepare the full feed amount but store a portion in a second sterilised bottle or container in the fridge. This way, if your baby wants more, you can safely offer it — without the risk of needing to discard unused formula from the original bottle.

Note: Store made-up formula in the fridge and use within 24 hours. Always follow label instructions and safe storage guidelines.

Extra Tips to Minimise Waste & Save

•  Use a formula powder dispenser when out and about to mix fresh bottles on demand.

•  Check expiry dates regularly, especially on tins you've already opened. 

•  Store formula correctly by:

✔️  Keeping the scoop dry and returning it to the can immediately after use.

✔️  Sealing the lid tightly after each use to protect from air and moisture.

✔️  Storing the can in a cool, dry place (not the fridge) to maintain quality and freshness.

If you're mixed feeding so only using formula occasionally, then consider choosing a product that has a smaller can size or single-serve sachets.This can help minimise waste if you're unlikely to finish a full tin within the recommended 3-4 weeks after opening.