Best Baby Formula in 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Parents

Introduction

Many parents consider baby formula an essential part of everyday life. It provides a reliable source of nutrition for their child’s growth and development. Whether it’s a primary feeding option or used to supplement breastfeeding, the formula ensures babies get the nutrients they need to thrive.

In 2025, advancements in baby formula have led to a wider range of options tailored to meet infants' unique nutritional demands. The choices have never been more diverse, from formulas enriched with DHA for brain development to those designed for lactose-intolerant babies or sensitive stomachs.

This guide explores the top five baby formula brands of 2025, offering parents reliable and trusted options to support their baby’s growth and well-being. But before we dive into our top 5 best baby formulas for newborns, let’s discuss how to pick the one that best suits your needs.

How to Choose the Best Baby Formula

Nutritional Composition

The nutritional content of baby formula is a top priority. Look for formulas enriched with essential nutrients like DHA, which supports brain and vision development, and iron, which is critical for preventing anemia in growing babies. Probiotics and prebiotics are excellent additions, promoting healthy digestion and boosting your baby’s immune system. Ensuring the formula meets FDA nutritional standards gives parents confidence that their child receives balanced and safe nutrition.

Formula Types

Baby formulas come in three main types: powdered, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-feed. Powdered formulas are cost-effective and convenient for daily use, while liquid concentrates offer a faster preparation. Ready-to-feed formulas are the most convenient, requiring no preparation, making them ideal for on-the-go situations or nighttime feeds. Understanding your lifestyle and budget helps determine the most practical choice for your family.

Special Needs

Babies with specific dietary needs may require specialized formulas. For sensitive tummies, look for gentle formulas designed to reduce gas and fussiness, such as Enfamil Gentlease. Lactose-intolerant babies may benefit from lactose-free options, while hypoallergenic formulas like amino acid-based or extensively hydrolyzed formulas cater to allergies. Always consult a pediatrician before switching to a specialty formula to ensure it meets your baby’s unique needs.

Our Top 5 Baby Formula Picks

Here are our top 5 baby formula picks of 2025, carefully selected for their superior nutrition, quality ingredients, and suitability for various needs. Whether for newborns or toddlers, these formulas cater to every stage of your baby's development. 

1. Mead Johnson Infant Formula Enfamil

Enfamil Infant Formula by Mead Johnson is tailored to meet the nutritional needs of infants up to 12 months old. It is enriched with essential nutrients like DHA for brain development, immune-supporting components, and choline, which plays a vital role in brain function and memory development. Thus, it supports your baby’s cognitive growth and overall health. Enfamil also comes with a blend of two prebiotics to help support your baby’s natural defenses.

2. Natures One Inc Toddler Formula Baby's Only

Natures One Inc’s Toddler Formula Baby's Only is a premium organic formula that supports your toddler's growth and digestion. It uses 100% organic lactose as its carbohydrate source, closely mimicking the natural composition of breast milk. Enriched with organic whey protein powder, it aids digestion and may help produce softer stools, ensuring your little one stays comfortable. With its balanced carbohydrate and protein content, this formula provides essential nutrition while promoting healthy digestion—making it an excellent choice for toddlers transitioning from breast milk.

3. Abbott Nutrition Infant Formula Similac

Abbott Nutrition Infant Formula Similac NeoSure is specially designed to support the growth needs of premature babies. This nutrient-enriched, milk-based formula offers increased protein, energy, vitamins, and minerals compared to standard infant formulas. Its easy-to-digest composition promotes improved weight, length, and head circumference during a baby's first year.

Fortified with DHA and ARA for brain and eye development, as well as calcium and phosphorus for strong bones, Similac NeoSure ensures optimal growth and health for premature infants transitioning to term growth patterns.

4. Mead Johnson Infant Formula Enfamil Gentlease

Mead Johnson Infant Formula Enfamil Gentlease is clinically proven to ease fussiness, gas, and crying in just 24 hours. Designed to provide gentle, complete nutrition, it supports your baby through their first 12 months. Enriched with DHA and choline, key nutrients found in breast milk, it helps promote healthy cognitive brain development, ensuring your baby gets the best start in life.

5. Nestle Healthcare Nutrition Infant Formula Gerber Good Start

Nestle Healthcare Nutrition Infant Formula Gerber Good Start provides complete nutrition inspired by breast milk, supporting your baby’s growth from the start. Packaged in convenient, easy-open single-serve cartons, it’s perfect for busy parents. This non-GMO formula may also reduce the risk of acute eczema in babies with a family history of allergies, offering gentle care and peace of mind.

Steps to Prepare Your Baby Formula Safely

Now that we’ve shared our top 5 baby formula picks and guided you on choosing the perfect option for your toddler, let’s discuss the safe steps for preparing baby formula. Proper preparation ensures your baby gets the best nutrition while staying safe and healthy. Here are the steps -

1. Start with Cleanliness and Check Expiration

Before preparing the formula, ensure cleanliness and quality. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and clean the preparation area. Always check the formula container for the expiration or "use by" date to guarantee its safety and nutritional integrity.

2. Sanitize Bottles and Tools

Before using new bottles to prepare your baby formula, sanitize all parts, including nipples and caps, using methods like boiling, a dishwasher, or steam sanitizers. Allow items to air-dry. For daily use, wash bottles and tools with soap and hot water or a dishwasher, sanitizing only if your baby is under 2 months or immunocompromised. 

3. Add Water to Concentrated or Powdered Formula

Baby formula comes in three forms: ready-to-feed, concentrated liquid, and powdered. Do not add water to ready-to-feed formulas. For concentrated or powdered formulas, follow the instructions on the product label to mix with the appropriate amount of water. Use clean tap or bottled water, and if using well water, have it tested for harmful substances. If concerned about tap water, boil it for one minute (add time for higher altitudes) and use it within 30 minutes.

4. Measure the Formula

Carefully measure the water and formula according to the product label. Too much water can dilute nutrients, while too little may cause digestive issues. For ready-to-feed formula, use only the formula—no additional water. For concentrated liquid or powdered formulas, follow specific instructions for mixing. If your baby is younger than 2 months, born prematurely, or has a weakened immune system, extra steps like boiling water and cooling the formula may help reduce risks from certain bacteria.

5. Warm the formula, if needed

While your baby can drink formula at room temperature or cold, some may prefer warm formula. To warm, place the filled bottle in warm water or run it under warm water. Test the temperature by applying a few drops to the back of your hand—it should feel lukewarm. Avoid using the microwave, as uneven heating may create hot spots, risking burns. 

We hope this guide has helped you select the best baby formula to meet your child’s nutritional needs. If you have any further questions or require assistance, feel free to reach out to us at support@axiommedicals.com or call us at +1(917)564-6763. We're here to help!

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