# When Do Babies Stop Drinking Formula? Estimated time to read 6 minutes Whether you've chosen to feed your little one with breast milk or formula, you’re the most amazing mother ever and doing a great job. There comes a time when your mind starts to wonder… When is the right time to transition from my baby's current drink of choice to cow’s milk or other nutritious drinks? In this article, we’ll take a look at how long babies drink formula, how to introduce solid foods, how to know if your little one is ready to make the transition from formula to milk or other nutritious beverages, and how to make the switch from formula to milk as smoothly as possible. We’ll also identify popular dairy-free alternatives for babies who experience milk allergies or are unable to tolerate cow’s milk. ## But first, what are the milk alternatives? Whole cow’s milk is the most popular choice among parents and healthcare professionals for the initial transition away from [baby formula](/content/blogs/news/can-you-freeze-formula-is-it-safe/index.html) and breast milk. However, there are several alternatives, and each provides different nutrients to help our babies and toddlers develop and grow during these crucial stages in their development. ### Best Sellers They’re not just parent favorites—they're little ones' favorites too. - **Little World Traveler Pack** (18 Ct.) - $84.95, subscribe for $72.21 - **Organic Grain Free Puffs** (6 Ct.) - $35.95, subscribe for $30.56 - **Power Protein Variety Pack** (24 Ct.) - $109.95, subscribe for $93.46 ## When can a baby stop drinking formula? At around 6 months, your child should be ready to start eating [solid foods](https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/foods-and-drinks/when-to-introduce-solid-foods.html) alongside formula or breast milk. You know they're ready when they can sit up independently, show interest in food, develop their pincer grasp, and lose their tongue-thrust reflex. By 7-8 months old, they should be eating a variety of healthy foods that may include meats, eggs, vegetables, pureed baby foods, yogurt, and cheese for those that tolerate dairy. Our [baby food pouches](/content/collections/baby-food-pouches/index.html) are a great way to get added nutrients into your baby’s diet before and after a transition to cow’s milk or other nutritious beverages. ### When do most babies stop drinking formula? Babies can continue formula feeding until they are at least 12 months old since it contains important nutrients for their developing bodies. Formula could be offered alongside a variety of healthy solid foods to help expose them to more flavors and textures while providing key vitamins and nutrients. ### Knowing if your baby is not ready to start drinking cow’s milk Signs your baby may need to continue with formula or breastfeeding include: - Not 12 months old. - Not gaining weight sufficiently along their growth curve. - Born prematurely. - Not establishing a balanced diet of solid foods for at least 6 months. - Health professional recommends continuing breast milk or formula due to allergies or difficulties. ### How to Start Weaning Baby Off Formula When you’re ready to wean your baby off formula, the process doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It's important to go at a pace that feels right for both you and your little one. Here are some tips: 1. **Mix Formula with Cow’s Milk Gradually** - Start by mixing mostly baby formula with a small amount of cow’s milk, then slowly increase the milk portion over several days. 2. **Warm the Milk** - Babies may prefer familiar feeding experiences, so warming cow’s milk to the same temperature as formula can help ease the transition. 3. **Shift from Bottles to Cups** - While weaning, introduce a sippy or open cup to support healthy oral development. Transitional processes may vary for each child but typically can take 1-2 weeks. Depending on how well your little one adapts, adjustments can be made. ### A2 Whole Milk Toddler Formula Incorporating Serenity Kids Grass-Fed A2 Whole Milk Toddler Formula can provide additional nutritional benefits alongside whole cow’s milk. ### How much cow’s milk should my baby drink? The AAP recommends that children aged 12-24 months consume 16-24 ounces of whole cow’s milk daily. At this stage, their nutrition should mainly come from solid foods. ## Don’t stress the transition Transitioning away from formula or breastmilk can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to take your time and do what feels right for you and your little one. Discuss your options with a healthcare professional to make the best decision for you and your child. ### References 1. UNC Health Talk. (2023). [How a baby’s digestive system works for parents](https://healthtalk.unchealthcare.org/how-a-babys-digestive-system-works-for-parents). 2. Cleveland Clinic. (2024). [Preterm birth: Premature](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21479-premature-birth). 3. Cleveland Clinic. (2024). [Phenylketonuria (PKU)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17816-phenylketonuria).