How long can I leave a bottle of formula sitting out?
Last updated on April 1, 2026
When it comes to how long you can leave a bottle of formula sitting out, the CDC guidelines recommend not leaving any unused formula at room temperature for more than two hours. This is because saliva from your baby can mix with the formula and promote bacterial growth, which could potentially make your child sick. However, recent studies on partially used formula have shown that bacterial growth may not be significant over a few hours of storage in the fridge. While these studies have limitations, they suggest that storing partially used formula in the fridge for a short time may be safe. It's important to weigh the risks and make an informed decision based on your own comfort level.
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