How much formula should a baby drink? (what’s enough UK)

It’s one of the most common questions with formula feeding: how much is actually enough? You might find yourself watching how much your baby drinks, comparing it to charts, or worrying about overfeeding or underfeeding. There are typical ranges that can guide you, but your baby’s cues and overall pattern matter just as much. This can feel confusing, especially when your baby doesn’t match the charts exactly. This guide shows you what’s typical, what to look for, and how to feel more confident in what you’re seeing.

Quick summary

If you’re wondering how much formula your baby should drink in the UK, here is a simple starting point:

Here is the simple answer first:

Most babies need around 150–200 ml per kg per day, split across feeds. Some drink more or less and are still fine, patterns over a few days matter more than exact amounts.

This is usually spread across several feeds depending on age
Some babies naturally drink more or less than averages and are still fine
Hunger and fullness cues matter just as much as volume
Look at patterns over a few days, not a single feed

This gives you a starting point, but your baby’s behaviour and growth are just as important as the numbers.

A common worry is that your baby isn’t drinking exactly the “right” amount, but most babies don’t follow exact numbers day to day.

If your baby is feeding regularly, has wet nappies, and seems generally content, they are usually getting enough.

This article is for / not for

This article is for:

Parents using formula or combination feeding
Families unsure how much their baby should be drinking
Anyone worried about underfeeding or overfeeding

This article is not for:

Babies with specific feeding or medical conditions
Situations needing personalised feeding plans

Medical disclaimer

This article offers general guidance only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have concerns about feeding amounts, weight gain, or your baby’s health, speak to a health visitor, midwife, or GP. NHS guidance can also provide further reassurance.