One of the most common questions new parents have is when can babies start drinking water. Since breastmilk and formula provide all the hydration infants need in the first 6 months, water is generally not necessary until starting solids. However, small sips can sometimes be introduced after 4-6 months if baby seems interested.
This article covers when water is recommended, types of water for babies, potential risks, signs of dehydration, and tips for introducing water safely.
Water is Not Needed in the First 6 Months
For the first 6 months, breastfed and formula-fed babies get all the hydration they need from milk. There is no need to supplement with extra water or liquids. Even on hot days, milk provides enough fluids. The main exceptions are if supplementation is medically advised for treating dehydration or constipation issues.
Giving water to young babies can interfere with their ability to absorb nutrients fully. It can make them feel full, causing them to nurse less often and get fewer calories. Frequent water intake can also negatively impact the establishment of breastfeeding in the early weeks.
Unless a doctor recommends otherwise, healthy infants do not require additional water in the first half year. Even babies who live in hot climates are designed to thrive on milk alone during this time.
Starting Sips of Water After 4-6 Months
Though water is not necessary before 6 months, some pediatricians allow introducing small sips if these conditions are met:
- Baby is exclusively breastfed and milk supply is well-established
- Baby seems interested in water and is reaching for cups
- Only a few sips are offered at a time
- Water is given from an open cup, not a bottle
- Breastfeeding continues on cue and water does not replace milk feeds
Starting tiny tastes of water can help babies learn to sip from a cup. But limiting intake avoids displacing breastmilk, which is packed with vital nutrition.
Parents should follow baby’s cues and not force water if disinterested. And if water causes decreased appetite for milk or any signs of dehydration, it should be avoided until closer to 6 months.
Increased Water Needs Around 6 Months
When solid foods are introduced around 4-6 months, an infant’s water needs start to increase. Extra fluids help prevent constipation and aid in processing solids.
At this point, offering sips of water with meals or when baby seems thirsty is appropriate. But milk feeds should still be the main source of hydration.
From 6-12 months, babies don’t need large amounts of water. About 4-8 ounces per day is sufficient in addition to breastmilk or formula. As long as they are staying hydrated, the exact amount isn’t critical.
After 12 months, when toddlers are on solid foods and cow’s milk, plain water can be provided more freely with meals and for thirst. The general recommendation is 32+ ounces of total fluids daily.
Risks of Giving Babies Water Too Early
There are some potential risks associated with giving babies water too early:
- Nutrient dilution – Can interfere with absorption of breastmilk or formula.
- Water intoxication – If way too much water is given, it can dilute sodium levels dangerously. This is very rare but can cause seizures.
- Tooth decay – Frequent exposure to sugary water or juice can harm emerging teeth.
- Poor feeding – Water can fill up tiny tummies, making babies disinterested in nursing or drinking formula. This can negatively impact growth and development.
- Contamination – Tap water may contain contaminants if not filtered properly.
- Allergies – Some doctors believe early introduction to water may increase chances of developing food allergies.
- Gut health – Excess water can disrupt the still-developing digestive system and gut microbiome balance.
While small tastes after 4-6 months are usually not detrimental, parents should follow a baby’s cues and avoid pushing additional water before 6 months unless medically advised.
Signs of Dehydration in Infants
If an infant is not getting enough fluids, dehydration can occur. Signs to watch for include:
- Decreased wet diapers
- Dark, concentrated urine
- Dry mouth or eyes
- Increased sleepiness or lethargy
- Sunken eyes or fontanelle
- No tears when crying
- Irritability or lack of interest in feeding
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
If any dehydration signs are noticed, contact baby’s pediatrician right away. At-home remedies like supplemental nursing, electrolyte solutions, or specific water amounts may be recommended. Preventing dehydration is one reason exclusive breastfeeding and rooming-in are encouraged in the early months.
What Type of Water is Best for Babies?
When introducing water, the healthiest options include:
- Plain filtered tap water – Tap water in most areas with public treatment facilities is safe. Make sure to filter lead or contaminants if a concern.
- Purified bottled water – Bottled water is regulated and can be used but is not necessary in most cases.
- Boiled tap water – Boiling is an extra precaution if tap water quality is a concern. Let cool before providing.
- Distilled water – This is purified water that may be recommended if mineral content is an issue. But it lacks fluoride which strengthens teeth.
Avoid these types of water for babies:
- Well water – Can contain contaminants like arsenic without proper testing and filtration.
- Flavored water – Added sugars are harmful to emerging teeth and digestive health.
- Sparkling water – The bubbles can be difficult for babies to handle.
When in doubt, filtered tap water is usually the healthiest and most affordable option for infants. Make sure to boil and cool first if purity is questionable.
Introducing Water Safely
When starting to offer babies water, here are some tips for safe use:
- Focus on sips first from an open cup, not bottles or sippy cups. Use regular cups around 6-9 months.
- Avoid giving water 30-60 minutes before or after milk feeds so it doesn’t impact nutrition absorption.
- Let baby guide intake based on thirst cues, don’t force a certain amount.
- For formula, only use the water amount listed on label directions. Overdiluting can be dangerous.
- Give water with solid food meals at first before offering as standalone drink later.
- Monitor for any decreases in wet diapers or appetite changes indicating potential dehydration issues.
- Don’t offer water at nighttime until older to help preserve appetite for breastmilk or formula overnight.
- Avoid juices, flavored drinks, or electrolyte solutions unless medically needed.
With some precautions, introducing water slowly after 4-6 months can be beneficial. But breastmilk or formula remain the primary hydration source in an infant’s first year. Consulting your pediatrician ensures proper timing and amounts based on your baby’s unique needs.