How many mL of water is safe for a six-month-old per feeding?
Recommended Water Intake Progression for Infants (6-12 Months)
| Infant age in months | Recommended water volume per feeding in milliliters | Number of times per day to offer water |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 30-60 | 2-3 |
| 9 | 60-90 | 3-4 |
| 12 | 90-120 | 4-5 |
Quick Answer
At six months, infants can begin to have small sips of water in addition to breastmilk or formula.
Start with around 30–60 mL (2–4 tablespoons) per feeding, offered 2–3 times a day, ensuring it does not replace milk feeds.
Always use boiled, cooled water and serve in a spoon or infant-safe sipper.
Monitor your baby’s cues to avoid overhydration and ensure adequate milk intake.
Recommended Practices
Offer Small Sips Using a Spoon or Sipper
Provide 30–60 mL (2–4 tablespoons) of boiled, cooled water per feeding using a pinkie-sized spoon or an infant trainer sipper; start with smaller volumes and gradually increase as your baby adapts.
Schedule Water After Milk Feeds
Offer water 2–3 times a day immediately after breastmilk or formula feeds so that milk remains the primary nutrition source and water does not displace feeds.
Gradually Increase as Baby Grows
From 6 to 9 months, maintain 30–60 mL per feeding; from 9 to 12 months, you can progress to 60–90 mL per feeding, based on your baby’s thirst cues.
Use Safe Water Sources
Boil tap water, let it cool to lukewarm, and use it within 2 hours; avoid giving unboiled or cold well water to prevent infections or discomfort.
Monitor Hydration Signs
Check for adequate wet diapers (4–6 per day), moist mouth, and alert behavior to ensure your baby is well-hydrated without overconsumption.
Adapt for Weather Conditions
In hot summer months, you may need to offer water more frequently or slightly increase volumes (up to 60–80 mL per feed) to compensate for higher fluid loss.
What to Avoid
Giving Water Before Milk Feeds
Offering water before breastmilk or formula can reduce appetite for primary nutrition and risk inadequate caloric intake.
Using Water in Milk Bottles
Mixing water with milk in bottles may dilute essential nutrients and disrupt feeding schedules.
Offering Large Volumes at Once
Providing more than 60 mL per feeding can overfill tiny stomachs and lead to reduced milk intake or electrolyte imbalance.
Using Cold or Unboiled Water
Cold water can cause stomach cramps, and unboiled water may harbor pathogens risking infections.
Flavored or Sweetened Water
Adding sugar or flavorings can promote tooth decay and unnecessary calorie intake; plain water is safest.
Replacing Milk Feeds with Water
Water should only supplement, not replace, breastmilk or formula until after one year of age.
Common Scenarios and Solutions
Baby refuses to drink water
Offer water at a lukewarm temperature using a spoon, and gently blow on the water surface to intrigue them; try a soft trainer cup with handles for better grip.
Constipation after starting solids
Increase water to 45–60 mL per feeding and include water-rich purees like stewed apple or carrot mash to improve stool softness.
Overheating in summer
Offer small sips (up to 80 mL) every hour in addition to feeds and keep the baby in shaded areas; use misting or damp cloths to cool skin.
Mild diarrhea
Continue milk feeds and offer ORS solution per IAP guidelines; you can supplement with water in spoonfuls between ORS doses to maintain hydration.
Similar Questions Parents Ask
Can I add water to formula bottles?
No, formula ratios must be precise; adding extra water dilutes nutrients and is not recommended.
How often should I offer water to my baby?
Offer water 2–3 times a day after feeds; adjust frequency based on climate and baby’s thirst cues.
When is the right time to introduce water?
Introduce water at six months of age when starting complementary feeding alongside breastmilk or formula.
Is boiled water necessary for infants?
Yes, boiling and cooling water ensures it’s free from harmful bacteria and safe for babies.
Signs to Consult Immediately
Sunken fontanelle (soft spot)
No wet diapers for 12 hours
Persistent dry mouth or crying without tears
Lethargy or unusual drowsiness
High fever with poor fluid intake
Detailed Explanation
Infant kidneys are still developing at six months, limiting their ability to concentrate urine. Small amounts of water help maintain hydration without overloading renal function.
At six months, solid foods are introduced, and water helps prevent constipation by aiding digestion and stool softening, but milk remains the main source of calories and nutrients.
Warning signs of dehydration include fewer wet diapers (<4 per day), dry mouth, sunken eyes, and irritability; observe these and adjust water intake or seek medical advice.
Between 0–3 months, avoid water altogether; from 3–6 months, focus solely on breastmilk/formula; at 6–12 months, introduce measured water sips post-feed as complementary practice.
Premature infants or those with medical conditions (e.g., kidney issues) may require individualized fluid plans; always consult your pediatrician before adding water.
In summer (April–June), increase water offerings to 60–80 mL per feeding if temperatures exceed 35 °C; during monsoon or winter, maintain standard volumes to avoid overhydration.