As your baby starts weaning and tries solid foods, keeping them hydrated is key. Breast milk or formula will still be your baby’s main source of nutrition, but water is vital as they try new delicious foods!

Water helps with digestion, it prevents constipation, and it helps to keep your baby’s body temperature right. But when and how should you give water to your baby, how much do they need, and what water is safe for your little one?

We’re here to help ensure your baby stays hydrated during the weaning journey. From choosing the right cup or bottle to the tell-tale signs of dehydration, here’s everything you need to know…

• Proper hydration is crucial for your baby during the weaning process to support growth and development.
• Introducing water and other liquids becomes important as your little one explores new tastes and textures.
• It’s best to balance water intake with breast milk or formula to maintain adequate nutrition.
• It’s important to recognise signs of dehydration in your baby.
•  A gradual increase in water intake while continuing breast milk or formula helps ensure a smooth transition.

Most babies are ready for water around 6 months old, when they start eating solid foods. Signs that your baby is ready include sitting upright with minimal support, showing interest in the food on your plate 

Make sure to use sterilised containers like baby bottles or sippy cups to keep things clean. There are a few things to consider when picking the best cup or bottle for your little one:

It’s best to start with small amounts, give your baby sips of water during meals. Slowly increase the amount of water as your baby gets used to it and always make sure you use safe drinking water for your baby.

Make sure the water that you give to your little one is safe and right for their stomach. We recommend following the tips below to ensure your baby doesn’t get poorly or sick from water.

In the UK, tap water is usually safe for babies because it’s treated and meets high standards. Always boil the tap water and let it cool before giving it to your baby. This step removes any bad bacteria and germs in the water that might be there, even if it’s safe to drink. You can also use bottled water made for your baby. 

How to sterilise water for your baby:

• Boil fresh tap water in a kettle or pot for at least one minute.
• Let the water cool down to room temperature before using it for your baby’s bottle or drink.
• If you need to keep the sterilised water, store it in a clean, covered container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Don’t forget to sterilise bottles, teats, and any other items you use for your baby’s water.

Most water in the UK is safe for babies, but some types should be avoided. These include untreated well water or water from private sources that might not be safe. 

It is also important to avoid giving your little one carbonated or sparkling water, as this can make them uncomfortable and gassy. As well as flavoured water or water with added sugars or artificial sweeteners, which can lead to tooth decay and extra calories.

As your little one starts to try solid foods, finding the right mix of breast milk, formula, and water is important, but do remember that breast milk or formula should still be your baby’s main food and source of nutrition for their first year. Breast milk and formula are made specifically for your baby’s needs as they contain the right mix of nutrients for healthy growth. 

As your baby starts to try solid foods, watch their water intake closely to make sure they stay happily hydrated. A hydrated baby usually has 6 to 8 wet nappies a day. When you start giving your baby water and solid foods, try to keep this number up. Other signs that your baby is hydrated includes clear or pale yellow urine, and moist lips and mouth.

If the number of wet nappies goes down or your baby’s urine looks dark, they might need more fluids. Other signs of dehydration in little ones include a dry mouth and lips, a sunken fontanelle (the soft spot on your baby’s head), few or no tears when crying and dry, wrinkled skin. A dehydrated baby might be more lethargic or drowsy than usual too. 

Remember, every baby is different and your baby might need more or less water. Always talk to your doctor if you are worried about their hydration.

Introducing water and other liquids to your baby’s diet is key for their health and hydration. Start with small amounts of water alongside breast milk or formula to help your baby get used to it and keep a lookout for signs of dehydration. 

Learning to drink water could be messy at first but your little one will soon get used to it. Every baby is different, so there’s no single way to wean and hydrate them. Trust your gut, get advice when you need it, and enjoy this precious time with your baby, helping them grow and develop. We’re with you every step of the way!