Using Distilled Water for Infant Formula Preparation
Distilled water can be safely used to mix infant formula, but it is not necessary for most infants and may lack beneficial minerals found in other water sources.
Water Options for Formula Preparation
Recommended Water Sources
- Tap water: Safe when from a regulated municipal source; should be cold from the tap and brought to a rolling boil for 1-2 minutes, then cooled before mixing 1
- Bottled water: Commercially available water labeled for infants
- Distilled water: Safe to use but lacks minerals that may be beneficial for infant development
Considerations When Using Distilled Water
Mineral content: Distilled water has virtually no minerals, which may affect:
Formula composition: Modern infant formulas are designed to provide complete nutrition regardless of water source 3, 4
Safety Precautions for Formula Preparation
Proper Mixing
- Always follow manufacturer's instructions for powder-to-water ratio
- Never dilute formula beyond recommended amounts, as this can lead to:
- Inadequate nutrition
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Potential metabolic alkalosis 5
Handling and Storage
- Wash hands thoroughly before preparation
- Clean all equipment used for formula preparation
- Store prepared formula according to manufacturer's guidelines:
- Refrigerate prepared formula not used immediately
- Discard formula left at room temperature after 2 hours
- Discard refrigerated prepared formula after 24 hours 6
Special Considerations
When Distilled Water May Be Preferred
- In areas with compromised water quality
- For infants with specific medical conditions requiring controlled mineral intake
- When traveling to areas with uncertain water safety
When Other Water Sources May Be Better
- For healthy term infants, filtered tap water or bottled water may provide trace minerals that could be beneficial
- Some studies suggest that water with appropriate mineral content may improve the digestibility of formula 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Incorrect dilution: Never add extra water to "stretch" formula, as this can cause serious electrolyte imbalances 5
- Using enhanced waters: Never use electrolyte-enhanced or flavored waters, as these can cause metabolic disturbances 5
- Warm tap water: Never use warm tap water directly from the tap as it may contain higher levels of lead or other contaminants 1
- Inadequate sterilization: For infants under 3 months, water should be boiled and cooled before mixing with formula 1
While distilled water is a safe option for mixing infant formula, there is no compelling evidence that it offers advantages over properly treated tap water for most healthy infants. The most important factor is following the manufacturer's instructions for proper formula preparation to ensure optimal nutrition and safety for the infant.