When Do Babies Stop Drinking Formula?

Transitioning your baby from infant formula to other foods and drinks is an exciting step in their development. But, knowing when and how to make this change can be a bit daunting. That’s why we're here to help! 

Read on to explore key tips on the best time for weaning your little one off formula, how to recognize when they’re ready, and best practices for a smooth transition. By the end, you'll feel confident and prepared to support your baby's growing nutritional needs — and keep them comfortable in the process.

Guidelines for Transition: Moving Beyond Formula in Infant Nutrition

For the best health outcomes, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for approximately six months. After that, they recommend breastfeeding with complementary foods for at least two years — or as long as you and your baby want to keep going. At the same time, breastfeeding isn’t always an option; in which case, prepared infant formula is an appropriate alternative. Plus, it’s formulated based on breast milk and is packed with essential nutrients your baby needs for proper development.

So, When Is It Time To Make the Switch From Baby Formula?

Whether you're breastfeeding, formula-feeding or both, it’s important to know when to start introducing solid foods and, eventually, cow’s milk. The AAP suggests introducing solid foods once your baby is approximately six months old, which can include baby cereal and baby food. This is generally when your little one will start to show readiness for new textures and tastes. As for cow’s milk — and any other milk alternative — NHS and AAP guidelines recommend waiting until your baby is 12 months old. This means breast milk or infant formula should remain a source of nutrition while you slowly introduce solid foods in the second half of their first year.

Remember, your baby’s health and well-being are best supported by professional, individualized recommendations. Because every child is unique, it’s essential to consult with your child’s healthcare provider throughout their development. They can offer guidance tailored to your baby’s specific needs, helping your little one enjoy a smooth and healthy transition to solid foods, cow’s milk and beyond. 

Is Your Baby Ready? Key Signs for Transitioning From Formula to Solid Foods 

Once your baby reaches the six-month mark, it might be time to start solid foods. But how can you be sure? Here are the key developmental and behavioral signs that your little one is ready to try solid foods:

Achieving Developmental Milestones

When your baby starts sitting up on their own alone or with support, showing more control over their head and neck, or even starting to crawl or stand, it's a sign they're gearing up for more advanced infant feeding experiences. These developmental milestones are important changes that come with starting solids.

Enhanced Chewing and Swallowing Abilities

As your baby ramps up for solid foods, you'll notice an improvement in their ability to chew and swallow. This might include moving their tongue better which shows they're ready to handle foods with more textures and variety. Infants are born with a tongue-thrust reflex, also called an extrusion reflex, which you’ll see when they push solid foods out of their mouth with their tongue. Usually, this reflex slowly fades at around 4 to 6 months of age, making an infant more likely to swallow food rather than push it back out and onto their chin. 

Bringing Objects to Mouth

If your baby brings objects like toys or foods to their mouth, it’s a sign they may be ready to begin eating solid foods. At the beginning of self-feeding, babies usually use their whole hand to grasp foods and bring them to the mouth. After about 9 to 10 months of age, you’ll notice that an infant’s finger-feeding skills progress. You may see them show you the pincer grasp, which is their ability to use their thumb and index finger to pick up small objects.  

Heightened Curiosity About Solid Foods

When your little one starts reaching out for or showing an interest in the foods others are enjoying, it's a good sign of curiosity about solid foods. This fascination often comes alongside better hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, which are important for exploring different senses — like flavors and textures.

Decreased Interest in Bottles

It’s common for babies who are ready for solid foods to lose interest in their bottles. This natural shift away from relying solely on infant formula or breast milk lets you know that they’re ready to explore new tastes and textures through solid foods. Remember, however, that breast milk or formula must remain the primary source of nutrition through the 1st birthday and that bottles or breast should be offered before solids to maintain consistent intake.

Established Mealtime Routine

You've probably noticed some familiar hunger cues and feeding times in your home, which can guide you in establishing a consistent mealtime routine that suits your baby's needs. This structure will help your little one develop an even more predictable schedule as you introduce solid foods. By continuing to listen to your infant's hunger and feeding cues, you can lay a solid foundation for healthy eating habits as they continue to grow.

How To Transition Your Baby From Formula to Solid Foods and Milk 

Once you've picked up on the behavioral signals above, it's a good time to map out how you want to introduce your baby to complementary foods. Here are steps and practices you can consider for a smooth transition away from baby formula:

1. Introduce Purees and Progress to Mixed Textures

Around six months, if your little one is showing the right signs, you can gradually introduce purees or safely-cut and prepared handheld foods. Many parents choose to start with iron-rich foods like pureed meats or iron-fortified cereals mixed with breast milk or formula. Begin with a small amount to gauge acceptance and gradually increase volume. After a few weeks or once your baby is comfortable, start introducing other foods, like thicker purees and mashed table foods. This might include different fruits, vegetables, and grains to expose your little one to new tastes and textures.

2. Encourage Self-Feeding

Around eight to nine months, many parents introduce finger foods like soft cooked vegetables, small pieces of fruit and well-cooked pasta. Allowing your baby to explore and feed themselves helps to develop motor skills! When starting solid foods and self-feeding, make sure your baby maintains a balanced diet packed with different fruits, vegetables, protein sources, and whole grains. By 9-10 months you’ll also want to aim for three meals a day as their appetite grows.

3. Transition to Regular Milk or a Toddler Drink at 12 Months

At the 12-month mark, you can offer your baby whole cow's milk or a toddler drink from a trusted provider like Baby’s Only. It’s best to make this transition gradually, while still offering breast milk or infant formula. This will help ease your baby’s digestive system into the new drink of choice. 

4. Monitor Allergic Reactions

Throughout these transitions, it’s important to watch for signs of a food or milk allergy. Keep an eye out for symptoms like rashes, diarrhea, coughing or trouble breathing, or excessive spitting up, as these may indicate that your little one isn’t taking to the food or milk well. If any reaction occurs, be sure to consult your pediatrician for personalized guidance on the next steps to take. 

5. Establish Regular Meal Times and Transition Away From Bottles

Establishing a consistent eating schedule can help your baby develop healthy eating habits and recognize hunger cues. By 12 months, offering three meals and one to two snacks — each day at regular times — is a good guideline as you create a routine that fits your family. Remember, when your baby is one year old, it's beneficial to use straw cups or open cups to support oral development and reduce their reliance on bottles.

6. Consult With Your Pediatrician

Throughout the transition process, regularly consult with your pediatrician. These professionals are there to provide guidance, monitor your baby’s growth and address any of your concerns or questions. That way, you can rest assured you’re taking all of the necessary steps to support your baby’s health and wellness. 

7. Stay Patient and Responsive 

Remember that every baby transitions at their own pace. It’s important to be patient with their preferences and their responses to new foods and drink. You might offer a variety of healthy options to let your baby explore and adjust based on their cues along the way.

Transitioning your baby from infant formula to a toddler drink and solid foods is an exciting milestone that demands patience, observation, and a balanced approach to nutrition. This supports healthy baby development in the months and years ahead. 

Overcoming Challenges in the Formula Transition Process

We know that transitioning from infant formula to solids and toddler drinks can come with a few bumps in the road. After all, it’s a process where you and your little one are learning together. Here are some common challenges you might face and tips on how to overcome them:

Encouraging Food and Milk Consumption

Your baby might initially refuse the taste of cow's milk. If this happens, explore alternative sources of calcium and vitamin D, like dairy products such as yogurt and cheese, or fortified non-dairy beverages. You could also consider using a toddler drink like Baby’s Only to help ease the transition. To encourage consumption, try gradually mixing the new milk with formula to help your baby adjust. Throughout the process, it's essential to watch for potential digestive problems or allergic reactions. 

Addressing Digestive Issues

Signs of digestive discomfort, like excessive fussiness, rashes, or frequent spit up, can be all too concerning for new parents. But these symptoms might also mean your little one is allergic or sensitive to the milk or food they are given. If you notice these signs, consider switching to a plant-based milk alternative to provide important nutrients without the discomfort. But, first and foremost, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to identify any allergies and create a plan for your child's nutrition and well-being.

Consulting With the Experts

We’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating: Always consult your pediatrician for personalized advice on what’s best for your baby. You can also turn to resources like websites, books, and support groups for extra help and recommendations. Remember, staying patient, positive and attentive is key to overcoming the challenges of transitioning from infant formula.

Making the Switch From Baby Formula With Confidence 

Transitioning your baby from infant formula to solids and toddler drink is a big step in their growth journey. If you recognize it’s the right time to make the switch, Baby’s Only champions children’s health with our organic toddler drinks. This means your baby receives top-notch nutrition without GMOs or harmful additives — giving your little one the best start possible.

Searching for an organic alternative that supports your baby’s development? Shop toddler drinks from Baby’s Only today!

The content on this site is for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Discuss any health or feeding concerns with your infant’s pediatrician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay it based on the content on this page.