As a new parent, you want to make sure your little one has everything they need to grow and thrive. From proper nutrition and hydration to a safe and comfortable sleep environment, there are many factors to consider when caring for your baby.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at one of these crucial factors, choosing the suitable water for your baby, and help you decide if purified water is the best choice.
Importance of Choosing the Right Water for Babies
Ensuring your baby has access to clean, safe drinking water is essential for their overall health and development. Choosing the right water supply can be a confusing and overwhelming task, as many different options are available on the market, and not all water is created equal. Water quality varies depending on the type of water.
Tap water, for example, can contain contaminants, impurities, and chemicals that can harm your baby’s health. On the other hand, regular bottled water may be more expensive and can be contaminated with microplastics. In contrast, spring water may contain heavy metals and unwanted minerals.
So as a parent, what water do you choose for your baby? One option is purified bottled water. It is treated through various methods, such as reverse osmosis systems or carbon filtration, to remove contaminants and impurities. Pure water can be available at home through home purification systems or through commercially available bottled water options.
While it is crucial to consider the water quality, it’s also equally important to check the packaging of the water you choose for your baby. Glass bottles are safe and environmentally friendly. They can be recycled and don’t contain any chemicals that can leach into the water. Plastic bottles, on the other hand, can contain chemicals such as BPA and phthalates. These chemicals have been linked to health issues and can also contribute to environmental pollution.
Benefits of Purified Water
Provides Nourishment
Although drinking water may seem plain, it contains essential minerals the body needs. Even more, it also helps with regulating body temperature while hosting one’s metabolism at the same time. Parents need to encourage their children to drink purified water during breaks. Once they’re over six months, you can start introducing purified drinking water now and then.
Averts Constipation
Constipation is a common problem, especially for babies. One of the primary reasons it happens is the lack of drinking water. It usually occurs when waste travels through the digestive tract too slowly, causing the stool to lose its liquid and turn dry and hard. Providing your baby access to drinking purified water can help reduce the chances of developing constipation at a young age.
Boosts Brain Function
Your baby undergoes a lot of changes as they grow. Besides breast milk and infant formula, purified water can help boost your child’s attention span and retention capacity. These factors are essential to support their growth spurt further as they age.
Supplies Proper Hydration
Your baby needs to have a constant supply of purified water as they grow. With all their activities, keeping them hydrated gives them the energy they need to replenish the lost fluid. Water hydrates tired muscles, repairing them overnight as the human body rests. Keeping bottled water handy is crucial so that your babies won’t run out of purified water to drink, especially when you’re outside.
Shields Them From Water-Borne Diseases
Lastly, drinking purified water helps protect your baby from biological pathogens and other harmful contaminants. Remember that kids are more prone to microbes that may cause adverse health effects than adults. Providing them access to purified water can help reduce their chances of exposure to diseases such as lead poisoning and cholera.
Is It Safe To Use Bottled Water For Making Baby Formulas?
When it comes to feeding your little one, it’s vital to ensure they get the proper hydration for their bodies to develop and function properly. Many parents question whether it is safe to use pure water for making baby formula.
The short answer is that it is generally safe to use pure water to make the baby formula as long as it meets product quality standards. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates the bottled water industry and ensures they are safe for human consumption. The bottlers must ensure that their water is properly purified and free from dissolved minerals and chemical compounds.
To guarantee the safety of the bottled water you are using, as a user, you need to check the label. You can find all the water source and purification process information on the bottled water label. Look for words like “purified,” “distilled,” or “demineralized,” which indicate that the water has undergone some form of treatment to remove impurities.
Lastly, make sure that the bottled water you purchased is sealed. You can also check the expiration date on the bottle, as old or expired water may contain bacteria or other contaminants.
Different Water Purification Processes
Boiling
One of the easiest ways to purify tap water is by boiling it. Although there’s barely any need to boil purified water, heating it until it reaches its boiling point guarantees it’ll effectively remove contaminants, such as bacteria and viruses. However, the remnants of the dead micro-organisms would only settle at the bottom. So, you can’t entirely guarantee that nothing will be left with all the impurities. That’s why it’s a must to strain them using a microporous sieve to eliminate any remaining impurities.
Water Purification
Installing an electric water purifier in your home is one of the most commonly used ways to purify tap water. It uses a multiple-stage process involving UF, UV filtration, and carbon block. It also uses modern water filtration systems that allow you to eliminate almost every impurities and chemical in the tap water, ensuring that what your baby drinks are purified water.
Water Chlorination
Water chlorination is one of the earliest forms of water purification, especially during an emergency. It uses mild bleach with at least 5% chlorine mixed into the water. This combination is an antioxidant that eliminates harmful substances to produce clean and purified water.
Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis uses a high-pressure pump to boost the pressure of the filtration system and uses water weight to force the pressure through a semipermeable membrane. It’s an effective way to produce drinking water while retaining its health benefits.
Iodine Addition
Liquid iodine is also an effective way to disinfect water. It works best when mixed with water over 68 degrees Fahrenheit in cloudy water. However, you need to be aware that there are people who are allergic to iodine. So, any form of exposure to it may cause adverse reactions [1].
Distillation
Another process to help you turn tap water into purified drinking water is distillation. It’s a process that involves the collection of water from evaporation. Thus, ensuring that you’re only consuming purified water after the treatment.
UV Radiation
When water gets exposed to UV light, it eliminates harmful bacteria from the water, preventing them from breeding further. However, UV radiation is best paired with a reverse osmosis filter to ensure that it removes all the impurities and other harmful toxins from the water.
Solar Water Purification
Solar water purification is a practical alternative to UV purification. However, instead of using a system to do its job, it primarily involves filling an empty plastic bottle with water, shaking it until it produces oxygen, and then leaving it horizontally in the sun. Doing so somehow effectively kills bacteria in the water.
Desalination
Desalination is a type of water filtration technique that treats saltwater by removing the minerals from it. It’s an effective process of making saline water into potable water for irrigation and consumption. This type of water filtration system is often used in beachfront hotels, residences, and other establishments near the sea.
Clay Vessel Filtration
Clay Vessel Filtration is another way to produce potable drinking water. It’s an age-old technique used by many people to purify tap water. Clay vessels block out the mud and other impurities to allow pure water to pass through.
What Makes Purified Water The Best For Babies?
Purified water is often considered the best option for babies, as it has undergone water purification. To purify the water, it may undergo distillation, reverse osmosis, or deionization. These processes help ensure that the end product is highly purified water and safe for your baby’s health.
But note that not all bottled water has undergone purification, so it is vital to check the label. Some regular bottled water only undergo filtration systems that, although safe as drinking water, are unsuitable for babies.
Pros of Purified Water
There are several pros to using purified bottled water for babies. Here are a few of the main benefits:
Safety- Purified bottled water has undergone purification methods, making it free of trace contaminants and safer for babies to drink than water from a tap or other sources.
Neutral Taste- Purified water is free from any chemical compounds and water chemical disinfectants such as chlorine that can alter the taste of the water, making it more pleasant for babies to drink.
More Hydrating- Some studies have shown that purified water can be more hydrating than tap water, as it is free from impurities that can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb water.
Free From Minerals- Purified water is free from mineral ions such as calcium, magnesium, fluoride, and others. In their first year of life, babies don’t need too many minerals in their water as they can’t digest it well, and mineral build-up can harm them.
Convenience- Purified water is often available in bottles or jugs, making it easy to take with you on the go and use for making baby formula.
Cons of Purified Water
There are a few potential cons to using purified water for babies. Here are a few things to consider:
Cost- Purified water may be more expensive than tap water, especially if purchased in bottles or jugs.
Environmental Impact- The production and transportation of bottled water can harm the environment, including using resources such as water and energy and the generation of plastic waste.
Potential for Contamination- While purified water has undergone water purification, there is still a small risk that the water could become contaminated after it has been opened. It is essential to check the bottle’s expiration date and store the water properly to minimize the risk of contamination.
How To Choose A Good Bottled Water?
Many parents have one question: how to choose good bottled water for making baby formula or giving their baby to drink?
Here are a few tips for choosing a good bottled water for your baby:
Check the Label- Look for information about the water source and treatment process. This is especially important for babies, as they are more vulnerable to the effects of contaminants.
Consider the Water Source- Water from a natural spring or artesian well may contain minerals and other impurities. If you are looking for pure water for your baby, it is best to choose highly purified water.
Check the Expiration Date- It is essential to check the expiration date on the bottle, as old or expired water may be contaminated and can harm your baby’s health.
Consider the Environmental Impact- The production and transportation of bottled water can harm the environment. If you are concerned about the environmental effects of bottled water, choose a brand that uses recycled materials for its bottles or has a program to recycle them.
What Are the Other Types of Water I Can Use for My Baby?
Distilled Water
Distilled water is water that has been vaporized and then condensed back into a liquid form. It is generally considered safe for making baby formula, free from impurities and minerals.
Boiled Water
You can boil two types of water safely for baby consumption: tap water and spring water. Here’s the difference between the two.
Tap Water: Tap water is provided by your local water utility and is often treated with chlorine to remove impurities. However, it may still contain solid contaminants.
Spring Water: Spring water is collected from a natural spring and may contain minerals and other impurities that have not been removed through a filtration system.
To sterilize tap water or water from other natural sources to a rolling boil for one minute. Let it cool until it is at room temperature. You can then use the cooled, sterilized water to mix with baby formula according to the instructions on the formula packaging.
It is also essential to be careful when handling boiling water and to use caution when mixing the formula to avoid burns. Mix the formula in a separate container and then transfer it to a bottle for feeding to reduce the risk of burns.
Potential Risks of Using Contaminated Water for Baby Formula Preparation
Ensuring your baby’s health requires careful attention to every detail, including the water source you use for preparing infant formula. It’s crucial to recognize the potential risks of using contaminated water and take the necessary steps to safeguard your baby’s health.
Tap Water
- While typically safe in many areas, tap water may occasionally contain contaminants such as lead, bacteria, and parasites that could be harmful to your baby.
- Tap water may also contain fluoride. While fluoride is beneficial for your baby’s developing teeth, too much can lead to fluorosis, a condition that affects the appearance of the teeth.
Well Water
- Well water can contain high levels of nitrates, bacteria, and other harmful contaminants, posing a significant risk to your baby’s health.
- Always have well water tested by your local health department before using it for baby formula preparation.
It’s vital to test your water source, whether it’s tap, bottled, or well water. Contact your local water company or health department for information on water testing services. In cases of uncertainty, consider using purified bottled water specifically designed for infants.
Moreover, remember to follow the recommended guidelines for preparing infant formula, which include sterilizing bottles and nipples and washing your hands thoroughly before handling baby formula.
How to Use Purified Water When Preparing Baby Formula
To use purified water when preparing baby formula, follow these simple steps:
- Obtain purified water that is suitable for use in preparing baby formula.
- Allow the water to cool to room temperature if necessary.
- Measure the correct ratio of water to formula according to the instructions on the formula packaging.
- Mix the water and formula in a clean container.
- Transfer the prepared formula to a clean bottle and store it in the refrigerator if necessary.
- Test the temperature of the formula before feeding it to your baby.
It is essential to use clean utensils and containers when preparing the formula. You should also follow the instructions on the formula packaging carefully to ensure that the correct amount of pure water and formula is used. You should consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
How Much Water Does My Baby Need Daily?
For babies under six months of age, the World Health Organization advises breast milk or formula as the main source of fluids they need. For babies over six months of age, it is recommended to give them at least 16-24 ounces (480-720 milliliters) of fluids per day, which can include breast milk, formula, water, juice, and soup. Offer fluids regularly throughout the day. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your baby’s hydration.
Storing and Handling Bottled Water for Babies: Tips to Ensure Safety and Freshness
When it comes to providing the best care for your baby, even the smallest details matter, and this includes properly storing and handling bottled water for your little one’s consumption. In this section, we will share essential tips on storing and handling bottled water, enabling you to maintain the safety and freshness of the water that your baby consumes.
1. Store bottled water in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
Heat and sunlight can degrade the quality of bottled water, potentially causing changes in taste and the growth of unwanted microorganisms. To preserve the quality of the water, store it in a cool and dark area, such as a pantry or a cupboard. Avoid storing bottled water in places like garages or near appliances that generate heat, such as stoves or ovens.
2. Keep bottled water away from strong-smelling items
Bottled water can absorb odors from items such as cleaning supplies, perfumes, and insecticides. To prevent this from happening, store the water in an enclosed space and away from any strong-smelling substances or items.
3. Always check the expiration date before using bottled water
While water itself does not expire, the packaging and the water’s quality can deteriorate over time. Make sure to check the expiration date on the bottle before using it for your baby and discard any bottles that are past their expiry date.
4. Use a clean cup or container to pour the water when preparing baby formula or beverages
To avoid contamination, use a clean and dry cup or container to pour the water when preparing baby formula or other beverages. Refrain from touching the bottle’s mouth or drinking directly from the bottle, as this can introduce bacteria and contaminants.
5. Refrigerate any leftover or opened bottled water
Once a bottle of water has been opened, bacteria or other contaminants may find their way into the water. To slow down bacterial growth and maintain the water’s freshness, refrigerate any opened or leftover water, and use it within a day or two.
6. Dispose of bottles properly to reduce environmental impact
It is essential to recycle or dispose of empty bottles and other packaging materials properly. Check with your local recycling program for guidelines on recycling plastic or glass bottles. If recycling isn’t an option in your area, make sure to dispose of them in a designated garbage or waste bin. Disposing of bottles correctly helps prevent pollution and contributes to a cleaner environment.
7. Be mindful of the bottle material
When choosing bottled water for your baby, make sure to consider the bottle’s material. As mentioned earlier, glass bottles are often safer and more environmentally friendly, while plastic bottles can contain chemicals such as BPA and phthalates. If you opt for plastic bottles, look for those labeled as BPA-free and phthalate-free to ensure your baby’s safety.
By following these guidelines for storing and handling bottled water, you can ensure that the water you provide for your baby is safe and of the highest quality. Giving purified water comes with multiple benefits, but proper handling is necessary to reap its long-term advantages. Invest time and effort in learning proper storage and handling techniques – doing so will contribute to your baby’s health and well-being, giving you peace of mind as a parent.
Takeaway
So, is purified water for babies the best choice for your baby? Purified water certainly has its advantages. It is pure water that has undergone purification methods such as osmosis systems and other methods. It’s also important to keep in mind that there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing bottled water for your baby. Remember, it’s always a good idea to have a backup source. You can choose other options, such as distilled or boiled tap water.
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