Overnight feedings can have you up for long periods throughout the night. Preparing the bottle, changing the diaper, feeding, burping and soothing baby back to sleep can sometimes take up to an hour. Here are some tips to make those night time feeds a little easier and to help you get the most rest.
Pre Measure
Fill a few bottles with water and set them out on the counter. Pre-measure the formula for each bottle. When it’s time to feed just mix in the pre measured formula.
If your baby prefers warm bottles Baby Brezza makes this awesome warm water dispenser. You just fill the bottle with the desired amount of water and add your formula.
If you prefer to use ready-to-feed formula, it might be worth it to purchase a tiny table top fridge and bottle warmer to keep by your bedside. You can make the bottles ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When baby wakes to eat, throw the bottle into the warmer and by the time you finish changing baby’s diaper, the bottle will be warmed.
Use a bottle caddy
Use a bottle caddy, like this one, to easily carry your pre filled bottles and measured formula to the bedroom
Save the washing
Save the washing for the morning. Use an empty water basin/dish basket to put the dirty bottles in.
Burp baby
If you lay baby down immediately after feeding without a good burp they are likely going to experience some reflux, spit up or even have some gas pains later on in the night. Sometimes burping may take a few minutes especially if baby is sleeping. But try to be patient and try a few different burping techniques. If baby doesn’t burp, just hold them upright for a few extra minutes before lying flat.
Keep essential items close by
Buy a basket for items you will likely need throughout the night and keep it close by. You might keep diapers, wipes, extra Pj’s, burp clothes and gas drops in there.
Avoid unnecessary stimulation
When baby wakes to eat, change their diaper first and then feed to avoid waking them again when they finish eating.
Try to avoid talking and playing.
Keep the lights as low as possible and keep things quiet.