In this article we’ll talk about when to stop formula, how to decide between goat milk vs cow milk when following on from goat’s milk formula, and what practical methods can help with weaning off formula.
When do babies stop drinking formula?
Most paediatric advice in Australia points to 12 months as the recommended age for weaning off formula. It’s recommended that babies eat three meals a day and snacks by this age, and ideally their nutrient needs will be fully met through food.
From 12 months of age, experts suggest replacing formula milk with whole cow’s milk, and transitioning from bottle to cup. Ideally, you will have introduced a sippy cup when your child started eating solids, so you can now stop offering bottles altogether and put drinks in a cup.
Are you (and your baby) actually ready for weaning off formula?
Hold up. Before you toss out all your formula after your baby’s first birthday, ask yourself if you’re really, actually ready to wean them. And if they’re ready for it too.
The question of when to stop formula may not be as simple as reaching a certain age. Formula provides babies with much-needed nutrients they’d usually get from breast milk, yes. But it’s also a source of comfort, a part of the daily routine, and a primary beverage used to stay hydrated.
There are a range of reasons your baby may need to keep drinking formula beyond 12 months, such as:
- If they were born prematurely
- If they have a health condition, like kidney or liver problems
- If they’re not getting sufficient nutrients through their diet due to picky eating or food intolerances.
But even if you choose to transition to toddler milk and keep going beyond 12 months, don’t beat yourself up about it. It’s okay to take your time with weaning off formula. Every child is different and you need to do what works for you.
Is your 2-year-old still drinking formula? That’s okay, as long as they’re getting most of their nutrients from food, their toddler formula doesn’t have added sugar in it, and they’re not drinking toddler formula instead of eating food.
What sort of milk should they have after drinking goat’s milk formula?
Now that we’ve looked at the WHEN to stop formula, let’s touch on WHAT to replace formula with.
If you’ve been giving your baby goat’s milk formula, this might be especially puzzling. Most advice out there is to transition from formula to _cow’s_ milk. But if your little one has a taste for goat’s milk, would it be better to offer straight goat’s milk when you’re weaning off formula?
There’s no right or wrong answer.
Nutritionally, the benefits of goat’s milk over cow’s milk are clear. It contains:
- 10% more calcium than cow’s milk
- Up to 6x more prebiotic oligosaccharides than cow’s milk
- 33% more magnesium than cow’s milk
- 46% more vitamin A than cow’s milk
- 37% more vitamin C than cow’s milk
- More potassium than cow’s milk
- Slightly less lactose than cow’s milk.
But there are other factors in the goat milk vs. cow milk debate to consider too. Goat’s milk isn’t as widely available as cow’s milk, and because of this it’s more expensive.
While cow’s milk is considered one of the best beverages for a toddler, pasteurized whole goat’s milk is a very suitable alternative if you can source it affordably near you. It may even be a better option for kids with sensitive tummies, an intolerance towards cow’s milk, or for those who prefer the taste of goat’s milk.
Now, let’s look at how to transition from formula to cow’s milk or goat’s milk — whichever you decide to go with!
————————————————
How to wean off formula: Tips and tricks
Gradual transition method
One way to wean your baby off formula is to go slow, replacing one bottle of formula with a cup of the new milk per day.
Here’s a formula to milk transition chart to illustrate how you can do it over 9 days:
Please note, this is an example only. Some babies may need to make the transition more slowly to allow time for their tummies to adjust to a new type of milk. If you need support in weaning off formula, ask your paediatrician for a personalised transition plan.
Cold turkey method
Like it sounds, this method of weaning baby off formula involves simply stopping! Pack the bottles away, throw the formula out, and offer snacks and drinks from a cup instead.
For some kids, this will work swimmingly! For others, particularly those with sensitive tummies, you may want to take a slower approach.
Toddler tip: add novelty
Experts advise making the transition from bottle to cup a fun one by letting your child choose their own sippy cup and decorate it with stickers. You could also have a matching cup for you or siblings so you’re ‘in it together’.
Don’t forget to give lots of praise when your toddler uses their new cup for milk!
Toddler tip: distraction
When a baby or toddler is used to having a bottle, they might get upset and ask for it often.
A great way to stay on task when weaning gets tough is to distract your child when they ask for a bottle. Introducing new foods, bowls, or utensils, or playing a fun game can all help.
How to wean baby off night feeds (formula edition)
Weaning your baby off formula during the day is one thing, but habitual night feeds can be extremely difficult to shake.
Babies over 12 months old shouldn’t need formula during the night if they’re eating enough during the day. But a bottle can be a great source of comfort, and lots of parents utilise it for settling.
Babies can get thirsty at night, though, so it’s a good idea to have a water bottle close to hand.
If you’re unsure how to wean your baby off night feeds, you can start by reducing the amount you give them during the night. Reduce the bottle by 20ml each night until it’s less than 60ml, and then offer a water bottle only if they’re still demanding a drink.
Weaning from night feeds can be especially tough because you yourself are so exhausted. While sticking to your guns can be difficult, after a few nights of skipping formula feeds your child should catch on that they aren’t getting bottles in the night anymore.
—
Weaning your baby off formula might take a lot of work, or it could be easier than you imagine! However your journey goes, rest assured that Oli6 has you covered. We offer a Toddler Milk for kids aged 1–3, and a Junior Drink for kids aged 3–7. Plus, our Natural Goat Milk Powder is a nutritious and tasty option for kids and adults alike! Find Oli6 in Coles, Woolworths, or Chemist Warehouse, or shop online.
—
Frequently Asked Questions
**When should babies stop drinking formula?**
Most pediatric guidance in Australia recommends transitioning from formula to whole cow’s milk (or a suitable alternative) at around 12 months. However, this isn’t a strict rule — some babies benefit from continuing formula or toddler milk beyond 12 months, particularly if they were premature, have a health condition, or are picky eaters. Always discuss with your pediatrician.
**How long does it take to wean a baby off formula?**
A gradual transition typically takes 1–2 weeks, replacing one feed at a time. Some babies adapt quickly; others need more time. Follow your baby’s cues and don’t rush the process if they’re struggling.
**What milk should I give my baby after stopping formula?**
Most paediatric advice recommends whole cow’s milk from 12 months. However, if your baby has been on goat’s milk formula, pasteurised whole goat’s milk is a nutritionally suitable alternative. It has slightly more calcium, oligosaccharides, and vitamin A than cow’s milk, though it’s less widely available and more expensive.
**How do I wean my baby off night feeds?**
Start by gradually reducing the amount in the bottle by 20ml each night until you’re offering less than 60ml. Then, if they’re still demanding a drink, offer a water bottle instead. After a few nights, most babies adjust. Always have water available nearby.
**What if my baby won’t accept the new milk or cup?**
If your baby resists the new milk or cup, try offering it when they’re hungriest and make it fun with a special cup they’ve chosen themselves. Distraction and praise for using the cup can help. If issues continue, speak to your child health nurse or paediatrician.
