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Can my baby have water?
A quick, age-by-age answer with how to serve it safely. Checked against AAP, CDC.
Not yet. Breast milk or formula only.
Before about 6 months, extra water can be unsafe for a small baby and can interfere with nutrition. Breast milk or formula provides all the hydration a young baby needs.
How to serve: Talk to your pediatrician before offering any water under 6 months.
Small sips with meals are fine.
From about 6 months, a few sips of water with solid meals are fine. Breast milk or formula should still be the main drink until 12 months.
How to serve: Offer water in an open or straw cup with meals. Avoid well water or high-nitrate water.
Yes, water is a primary everyday drink now.
From 12 months, water along with milk is a main everyday drink.
Sources: AAP, CDC. This is general guidance, not medical advice. Ask your pediatrician about your child.
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