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What temperature is baby milk?

The Ideal Temperature for Baby Milk
When it comes to feeding infants, the temperature of the milk can significantly impact their comfort and acceptance. Understanding the ideal temperature for baby milk—whether breast milk or formula—is essential for parents looking to provide the best for their little ones.
Optimal Temperature Range
The general consensus among experts is that baby milk should be served at a temperature that is lukewarm, ideally between room temperature and body temperature. For breast milk, the perfect range is typically around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius), which is close to the average human body temperature. This temperature mimics the natural warmth of milk as it comes directly from the breast, making it more appealing to babies.
Why Warm Milk?
Many babies show a preference for warm milk over cold. This preference can be attributed to the comfort and familiarity of warmth, which resembles the natural feeding experience. Warm milk can also aid in digestion, making it easier for infants to process their food. However, it’s important to ensure that the milk is not too hot, as overheating can destroy some of the milk’s nutritional properties and pose a risk of burns.
Checking the Temperature
To ensure the milk is at a safe and comfortable temperature, parents are advised to test it before feeding. A common method is to shake the bottle and then place a few drops on the wrist or the back of the hand. The milk should feel warm but not hot.
Cold Milk Considerations
While some parents may wonder if it’s acceptable to serve cold milk, the answer is generally yes—especially if the baby is accustomed to it. Studies have shown that babies can tolerate milk at cooler temperatures, such as around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), and even at room temperature. However, introducing cold milk should be done gradually to ensure the baby remains comfortable.
In conclusion, the ideal temperature for baby milk is lukewarm, closely resembling body temperature. This not only enhances the feeding experience but also supports the baby’s digestive health. Parents should always check the temperature before feeding to ensure safety and comfort.

What temperature should a bottle of breastmilk be?

It can be served room temperature or cold. If you decide to warm the breast milk, here are some tips: Keep the container sealed. Place the sealed container into a bowl of warm water or hold it under warm, but not hot, running water for a few minutes.

What temperature should fridge be for baby milk?

Safely store bottles
Make up bottles following steps to safely prepare baby formula. Place cooled bottles in the back of the fridge. Make sure the temperature of the fridge is 5 degrees Celsius or less.

Is breast milk 98.6 degrees?

Proper Preparation for Serving – Serve Human Milk at the Right Temperature. Breast Milk is best served at body temperature, approximately 98.6°F/ 37°C.

Is 98.6 F normal for a baby?

Your child has a fever if his or her body temperature his higher than normal. A normal temperature is 98.6°F when checking by mouth. Some doctors ask you to check your baby or young child’s temperature rectally (in their bottom). Normal for that method is 99.6°F.

Can babies drink milk straight from the fridge?

You can feed expressed milk straight from the fridge if your baby is happy to drink it cold. Or you can warm the milk to body temperature by putting the bottle in a jug of warm water or holding it under running warm water. Do not use a microwave to heat up or defrost breast milk.

How warm should pumped milk be?

99 degrees Fahrenheit
To warm your milk, place the breast milk bottle or bag into a cup, jug or bowl of lukewarm water for a few minutes to bring it to body temperature (37 degrees Celsius or 99 degrees Fahrenheit). Alternatively, use a bottle warmer. Do not allow the temperature to go above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

What temperature is mother’s milk?

around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit
When you’re lactating, the temperature of your breast milk is about the same as your body, around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (F) or 37 degrees Celsius (C). It’s safe for your baby to drink freshly expressed breast milk at this temperature, directly from your breast.

What temp should milk be when delivered?

45°F
Milk and dairy products should be received at 45°F or lower and cooled to 41°F degrees or lower within 4 hours. So when dairy items are delivered, check them for the correct temperature and then immediately place them in your refrigerator.

Why can’t babies drink cold milk?

Enzymes are sensitive to temperature and won’t work as well outside their functional range (too cold or too hot). Adjusting the temp of the milk will do more to aid in digestion in a preemie baby, but is less likely to have an impact on a term baby or a baby that can regulate its own body temperature.

How warm should milk be for a baby?

around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit
The ideal temperature for formula or breast milk is at or just below body temperature. More specifically, the temperature should be around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Instead of using a thermometer, consider the wrist method to test the temperature of your baby’s milk.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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