How to Choose: Liquid vs Powder Formula

When it comes to choosing between liquid, ready-to-use formulas and the powder formulas that you mix, it really comes down to logistics, convenience, and preference. Generally speaking, our powder formulas are popular for your everyday at-home feedings, and if you’re on-the-go, liquid formulas can be a great option.

Types of Baby Formula

• Liquid Formula: Ready to pour straight into the bottle, convenient for those on-the-go but may be pricier.
• Powder Formula: Requires mixing with water, cost-effective and easy to store, but demands a bit more preparation.
• Concentrate Formula: A middle ground—liquid but needs dilution with water. Balances convenience and cost.

The Differences Between Powder, Concentrate and Liquid Formula

*Note: Preparation and storage instructions vary depending on the formula, so be sure to read the label thoroughly before you begin. 

Is Liquid or Powder Formula Better?

Nutritionally speaking, they’re the same! Concentrates and ready-to-use formulas are sterile until opened, whereas powder formulas are not sterile and should be prepared using water and bottles. There's no one-size-fits-all answer–the right formula(s) to choose ultimately comes down to your lifestyle and preferences. Liquid formulas offer convenience, while powder formulas are usually more cost-effective.

How to Store Baby Formula

• Powder - Store unprepared powder formula in a cool, dry, place. Be sure to keep the lid closed, and do not use after the expiration date. Use opened product within 30 days.
• Concentrate - Store unprepared concentrate formula in a cool, dry, place. Once the can is opened, it must be used immediately, or refrigerated and used within 24-48 hours. Be sure to keep the lid closed, and do not use it after the expiration date.
• Ready-to-use - Unopened ready-to-use formula can be stored in a cool, dry place. Do not use after the expiration date. Once opened, the unused formula can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours.

How to Safely Prepare Baby Formula

• Powder - Follow the instructions on the packaging. You’ll need to measure the right amounts of powder formula and water using clean utensils.
• Concentrate - Follow the instructions on the packaging. You’ll need to measure the right amounts of concentrate and water using clean utensils.
• Ready-to-use - Follow the instructions on the packaging. Simply shake and serve!

Traveling with Baby Formula

• Powder - Traveling with powder formula can be difficult, as the containers can be quite bulky compared to ready-to-use formula.
• Concentrate - Traveling with concentrate can also be difficult, as the cans can be bulkier and heavier than ready-to-use formula, but it might be easier to fit into checked luggage.
• Ready-to-use - Ready-to-use formula is generally the easiest option for traveling, as each bottle is more compact than powder or concentrate packaging. You can easily stick a few ready-to-use bottles into a lunch bag or cooler for picnics, overnight travel, and even on planes!

Convenience Factors for Baby Formula

• Powder - Powder formula is convenient for planners and savers who will be doing a lot of feedings at home–the powder lasts longer on the shelf, and you can make formula in batches when you like. It’s also generally the lowest cost-per-feeding option, but takes more time to prepare.
• Concentrate - Some parents like to use formula concentrate instead of powder, the preparation is very similar, but concentrate must be used within 24-48 hours once the can is open.
• Ready-to-use - Ready-to-use formula is the most convenient option in general. With no mixing and measuring, and easy-to-carry bottles, ready-to-use formula is very popular for traveling, late-night feedings, and busy parents.

How to Safely Prepare And Store Liquid Vs. Powder Formula

Always follow the manufacturer instructions for preparing and storing infant formula. There’s generally no preparation necessary for ready-to-use formulas. Once the manufacturer seal has been opened, unused ready-to-use formula can generally be stored in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours.

Concentrate and powder formulas can each be prepared in 3 easy steps, and you can control the size of your batches. The prepared batches must be refrigerated; prepared powder formula may be refrigerated for up to 24 hours and prepared concentrate may be refrigerated for up to 48 hours. Your unprepared supply can usually be stored in a room-temperature location such as a pantry or cupboard until the expiration date.

Can You Switch Between Liquid And Powder Baby Formula?

Generally speaking, you can use the liquid and powder formula versions of the same product interchangeably. However, if you’re considering switching formula products and/or brands, it’s always best to speak to your doctor first. Some companies only have powder versions of certain products, so be sure you’re comparing the same products and ingredients carefully.

Choose What Works Best for You!

There is no wrong option when it comes to choosing a formula. At the end of the day, it all comes down to you and your little one’s specific needs. To learn more about powder vs. liquid formulas and different formula options, visit our Enfamil^® formula product page.