When Can a Baby Have Water?
Babies can be given small amounts of plain water starting at 6 months of age when solid foods are introduced, but breast milk or formula must remain the primary fluid source throughout the first year of life. 1, 2
Before 6 Months: No Water Needed
- Infants under 6 months of age require absolutely no additional fluids beyond breast milk or infant formula, even in hot weather. 1, 3
- Breast milk and formula provide complete hydration for infants up to 6 months, meeting all fluid requirements. 1
- Research from hot climates (temperatures up to 40.7°C) confirms that exclusively breastfed infants show no signs of dehydration without water supplementation. 4
Critical Safety Concern
- Giving water to young infants can cause hyponatremia (dangerously low blood sodium), which may lead to seizures and other serious complications. 1, 2
- Water supplementation displaces nutrient-dense breast milk or formula, potentially causing malnutrition. 1
- Early water introduction reduces breastfeeding duration and interferes with establishing adequate milk supply. 3, 5
After 6 Months: Introducing Water Safely
When and How Much
- Offer small amounts of plain water (a few ounces) alongside meals once solid foods begin around 6 months of age. 1, 2
- Water should be modest in quantity to avoid displacing breast milk or formula, which remain the primary fluid sources. 1, 2
Proper Delivery Method
- Always offer water in a cup rather than a bottle to promote proper feeding development and reduce dental risks. 1, 2
- Never allow infants to carry around bottles or cups of water throughout the day, as this displaces nutritional intake. 1, 2
- Avoid giving water or any liquid other than breast milk/formula at bedtime to prevent dental caries. 1, 2
Type of Water
What to Avoid Completely
- Never give fruit juice to infants under 12 months of age unless specifically indicated for a medical condition like constipation. 6, 1, 2
- Fruit juice offers no nutritional benefits for infants younger than 1 year. 6
- Avoid glucose water supplementation unless medically indicated for documented hypoglycemia. 7
Common Pitfalls
- Cultural beliefs and family pressure often lead to early water introduction (studies show 2.5-86.2% of infants receive water before 6 months). 5
- Maternal postpartum depression, cesarean delivery, and early formula use increase the risk of inappropriate water supplementation. 8
- Parents may mistakenly believe infants need water in hot weather, but this is physiologically unnecessary and potentially harmful. 3, 4