6 month old feeding schedule
How much and how often to feed a 6-month-old: 4–5 milk feeds, with formula-fed babies taking 6–8 oz per feed.
- How often
- 4–5 milk feeds
- Daily total
- about 24–32 oz
- By weight (median baby)
- ~32 oz / day
Breastfed babies
Breastfeed as before; milk remains the main food.
Solids
Start solids: 1–2 small meals a day. Iron-rich foods first (iron-fortified cereal, meat, beans). Offer common allergens such as peanut and egg early, as the AAP recommends.
Small sips of water from an open cup with meals are fine from 6 months.
Is my baby getting enough?
The best signs are steady weight gain along a similar percentile, 6 or more wet nappies a day after the first week, and a baby who seems content after most feeds. Amounts on this page are averages: some healthy babies take noticeably more or less. Check your baby's weight on the baby weight percentile calculator, or work out amounts from their exact weight with the baby feeding calculator.
Sleep and feeds shape each other: see the 6-month-old sleep schedule.
Frequently asked questions
How much should a 6-month-old eat?
Formula-fed: typically 6–8 oz (180–240 ml) per feed, 4–5 milk feeds, about 24–32 oz a day. Breastfeed as before; milk remains the main food.
How often should a 6-month-old eat?
4–5 milk feeds. Feed on hunger cues (rooting, sucking hands, lip smacking) rather than strictly by the clock, and stop when your baby turns away or slows down.
How much formula for a 6-month-old by weight?
The AAP rule of thumb is about 2.5 oz per pound of body weight per day, up to 32 oz. A 6-month-old at the WHO median weight (about 16.8 lb) would need roughly 32 oz a day. Use the feeding calculator for your baby's own weight.
Can a 6-month-old have solids?
Start solids: 1–2 small meals a day. Iron-rich foods first (iron-fortified cereal, meat, beans). Offer common allergens such as peanut and egg early, as the AAP recommends.
What are the signs of overfeeding?
Frequent large spit-ups, a tight or bloated tummy, gassiness and fussing after feeds, and very rapid weight gain can all point to too much milk, particularly with bottles. Paced bottle feeding and responding to fullness cues help. Mention persistent symptoms to your paediatrician.
Sources: CDC "How Much and How Often to Feed Infant Formula"; AAP HealthyChildren.org "Amount and Schedule of Baby Formula Feedings" and "Starting Solid Foods"; Kent JC et al., Pediatrics 2006 (breast milk intake); WHO infant feeding recommendations. Median weights from the WHO Child Growth Standards.