You can start giving your baby small amounts of water when they are around 6 months old. This is typically the time when babies begin eating solid foods and can handle a few sips of water from a cup or sippy cup. Before 6 months, babies get all the hydration they need from breast milk or infant formula, and giving water earlier can interfere with their nutrient intake and hydration balance. From 6 months to 12 months, you can offer about 4 to 8 ounces of water per day alongside their regular milk feeds. After 12 months, water can be offered more freely throughout the day, alongside whole cow’s milk or fortified milk alternatives. If you are using tap water for your baby under 12 months, it is recommended to boil and then cool the water before offering it, to ensure it is safe. In summary:
- No water before 6 months (breast milk or formula provides adequate hydration).
- Small amounts of water from 6 months, especially with solid foods.
- Continue breast milk or formula as main nutrition until at least 12 months.
- Boil and cool tap water for babies under 12 months for safety.
These guidelines help ensure proper hydration and nutrition for your baby while gradually introducing them to water.
