Best Baby Formulas: 15 Fantastic Choices

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

If you are a formula using parent, you’ll quickly notice the huge variety of choices on the market. Chances are you are confused about the best choice. If your doctor doesn’t have a recommendation or a preference for you to try, you could spend hours in the formula aisle, reading labels.

The labels say things like “whole milk” “soy” “hypo-allergenic” “iron-fortified” and other things that you might not understand or know if are necessary. If your baby is lactose intolerance, you will need a different formula than your mom friend. Some babies need higher calories and nutrients for proper growth. Your baby is individual, so your formula choice won’t be the same as your friends.

Different Preparation of Formula

Before we dive into the best baby formula brands, a brief outline of the types of formula will be helpful to make your choice. Baby formulas come in three different types: ready-to-use, powder, and liquid concentrate.

  • Ready-to-Use Formula: If you are after convenience, ready-to-use formula is ideal. You never have to worry about mixing, shaking or measuring out the powder. All you have to do is open up the bottle and go. Chances are your hospital will offer ready-to-use formula bottles because they are hygienic and very easy to use. If water safety is a concern for you, you might want to give this type a try. One negative is that it has a short shelf life. Once opened, you have to use it within 48 hours.
  • Powdered Formula: The most common choice is a powdered formula. It is economical and takes up the smallest amount of your space. However, the major downfall is the time it takes to prepare. You have to be careful to prepare according to directions to ensure your child gets the proper nutrition.
  • Liquid Concentrate: Liquid concentrate requires that you mix equal parts formula and water. Price wise, it is in between ready-to-use and powdered formula. You have to prepare properly, but it does make ensuring your child gets the right amount a bit easier.

Types of Baby Formula

You’ll quickly notice, aside from different concentrates and preparation, that there are multiple types of baby formula.

  • Cow’s Milk-Based: Most formula contains cow’s milk as the main ingredient. Don’t worry; companies change the protein so that your child can digest it easier.
  • Soy-Based: Some brands change the plant protein to make it easier for your child to digest. If you are vegan or your child has trouble digesting cow’s milk protein, soy could be the best choice.
  • Lactose-Free: Lactose intolerance is not a common condition, but it does happen at times. Your pediatrician will help you pick a formula that doesn’t contain lactose.
  • Extensively Hydrolyzed: Not a common choice for most parents in which the protein is broken down into smaller parts, making it easier to digest. This type of formula is used for babies who have trouble absorbing nutrients or with multiple allergies.
  • Metabolic Formula: The last type of formula is for babies who are sick and require very specific nutrition requirements. Your pediatrician will need to recommend this type of formula.

The Best Baby Formulas

Similac Pro-Advance Non-GMO Infant Formula

Sale
Similac Advance Infant Formula with Iron, Baby Formula Powder, 30.8-oz Value Can
  • EASY TO DIGEST: Similac Advance is nutritionally complete and inspired by breast milk
  • SUPPORTS BRAIN & EYES: Has DHA and lutein, important ingredients found in breast milk
  • NO PALM OLEIN OIL: Designed to support excellent calcium absorption
  • NO ARTIFICIAL GROWTH HORMONES : Similac was the first leading infant formula brand with no artificial growth hormones. Similac Advance is also kosher and halal
  • SIMILAC IS THE #1 INFANT FORMULA BRAND FED IN HOSPITALS

Similac is the top choice for most hospitals throughout the United States. Pro-Advance contains all of the vital nutrients needed by your child for his first year of life. The best thing about the Pro-Advance is that it contains non-GMO ingredients.

  • Contains a lactose carbohydrate.
  • Powdered formula that mixes well with water.

Earth’s Best Organic Premium Dairy

Earth’s Best Organic Baby Formula for Babies 0-12 Months, Powdered Milk-Based Gentle Formula with Iron and Easy to Digest Proteins, 21 oz Formula Container
  • INFANT NUTRITION: This gentle formula is designed to ease babies who experience fussiness, gas, and crying while encouraging immunity and brain and eye development
  • EASY TO PREPARE: Simple-to-follow directions on the back of the formula container help you prepare your little one’s baby bottle with the right water-to-formula powder ratio for their feeding needs
  • FIRST 12 MONTHS: Support development and nourish your baby from their first day to their first birthday
  • EARTH’S BEST: Explore our full line of baby nutrition to find more sensitive baby formulas, gentle formulas, and toddler formulas
  • 21 OZ FORMULA CONTAINER: Includes one 21 oz container of Earth’s Best Organic Gentle Infant Formula

If organic is a priority for you, Earth’s Best is a top choice amongst parents. It is a kosher-certified formula that contains cow’s milk protein. The cows are fed a wholesome grain and hay without any artificial flavors, growth hormones and preservatives. It is a formula with high-quality protein, mineral, and vitamins. Earth’s Best meets all of the FDA requirements so that you can trust it.

  • Contains lutein for eye development.
  • Powdered formula
  • Fatty acids increase mental growth.
  • Contains DHA and ARA, a nutrient that is naturally found in breastmilk.

Baby’s Only Organic Dairy with DHA & ARA Formula

Baby’s Only Organic Dairy with DHA & ARA Toddler Formula, 12.7 Oz (Pack of 6) | Non-GMO | USDA Organic | Clean Label Project Verified | Brain & Eye Health (Packaging May vary)
  • Baby’s Only Organic DHA & ARA Toddler Formula Powder, Dairy Iron Fortified, Calcium Strong Bones, Kosher, 12.7 Ounces (Pack Of 6)

Here is another fantastic organic formula for parents! It is perfect for babies with allergies. The formula contains no gluten, corn syrup or any GMO ingredients. Baby’s Only also has DHA and ARA lipids, which created a natural fatty acid profile. There are no artificially growth hormone, antibiotics, and steroids that could damage your child’s system.

  • Organic, dairy-based blend made with brown rice syrup and sunflower oil

Similac Advance Non-GMO Infant Formula

Sale
Similac Advance Infant Formula with Iron, Baby Formula Powder, 30.8-oz Value Can
  • EASY TO DIGEST: Similac Advance is nutritionally complete and inspired by breast milk
  • SUPPORTS BRAIN & EYES: Has DHA and lutein, important ingredients found in breast milk
  • NO PALM OLEIN OIL: Designed to support excellent calcium absorption
  • NO ARTIFICIAL GROWTH HORMONES : Similac was the first leading infant formula brand with no artificial growth hormones. Similac Advance is also kosher and halal
  • SIMILAC IS THE #1 INFANT FORMULA BRAND FED IN HOSPITALS

Similac is always a solid choice for parents, and it is one of the top baby formula brands in the United States. Similac Advance is close to the Pro-Advance, and it contains no GMO ingredients. Advance contains no corn or soy derivatives. Their OptiGRO supports your child’s brain and eye development. OptiGRO is a blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, all typically found in breastmilk.

  • Features prebiotics to ease your child’s digestive system.
  • Comes in a variety of preparations, from powder to liquid concentrate.

Gerber Good Start Soothe

Gerber Good Start Baby Formula Powder, SoothePro, Stage 1, 19.4 Ounce
  • Soothing Nutrition: Modeled after the complete nutrition and gentleness of breastmilk, this formula offers nutrition for babies up to 12 months experiencing colic, excessive crying, fussiness and gas
  • Probiotic Formula: Good Start Soothe formula features prebiotics, Comfort Proteins and probiotics that improve the good bacteria in tummies and promote soft stools; It’s our closest formula to breastmilk
  • Give Your Baby a Good Start: Your baby’s nutritional needs evolve over time. That’s why we created the Gerber Good Start line. Made to comfort your baby’s tummy and available in a range of products
  • Wholesome Options: Introduce your infant to complimentary staged products like single grain Cereals and 1st Foods fruit and veggie purees with Gerber infant formulas, probiotic supplements and more
  • Nutrition For Growing: Like your baby, we’re always growing and learning. More than ever we’re committed to being your partner in parenthood with quality ingredients, nutritious food and expert guidance

Is your baby frequently fussy? Does your baby frequently spit up other brands of formula? Gerber Good Start Soothe could be the best choice. It is ideal for these babies! Start Soothe is a hypoallergenic blend that contains probiotics. The formula helps to reduce colic and gas, making your child happier! The blend contains small, easy-to-digest proteins that reduce your child’s crying bouts in half.

  • Doesn’t stay foamy for long.
  • Reduces acid reflux and colic

Similac Sensitive

Similac Sensitive Advance Infant Formula with Iron, Powder, 12.5 Ounce (Pack of 6)
  • DESIGNED FOR BABY’S FUSSINESS & GAS: Our sensitive formula for babies is specially designed for fussiness and gas due to lactose sensitivity
  • SUPPORTS BRAIN & EYES: Has DHA and lutein, important ingredients found in breast milk
  • NO PALM OLEIN OIL: Designed to support excellent calcium absorption
  • NO ARTIFICIAL GROWTH HORMONES : Similac was the first leading infant formula brand with no artificial growth hormones. Similac Sensitive is also kosher and halal
  • SIMILAC IS THE #1 INFANT FORMULA BRAND FED IN HOSPITALS

Some babies have delicate stomachs, and they require a different formula to ensure they are comfortable. Similac Sensitive is created to relieve fussiness and gas. You don’t have to worry that your baby will spit-up his entire bottle with Similac Sensitive.

  • Supports brain and eye development
  • Great for bone growth
  • Available in powdered and liquid concentrate.

Enfamil Premium Non-GMO Infant Formula

Enfamil Gentlease Baby Formula, Reduces Fussiness, Gas, Crying and Spit-up in 24 hours, DHA & Choline to support Brain development, Value Powder Can, 19.9 Oz
  • FAST COMFORT FOR YOUR LITTLE ONE: Enfamil Gentlease has been clinically shown to ease fussiness, crying, gas, and spit-up​.
  • NURTURING BRAIN DEVELOPMENT: Our formula has expert-recommended DHA & choline, known to support your baby’s growing brain, supporting their milestones with confidence.
  • IMMUNE SUPPORTING NUTRIENTS: Enfamil Gentlease is iron-fortified to help support your little one’s immune system.​
  • NUTRITION DESIGNED FOR YOUR INFANT: Designed with care for babies up to 12 months, Enfamil Gentlease formula includes easy-to-digest proteins, vitamins & minerals.​
  • TRUSTED BY PARENTS & PEDIATRICIANS*: Enfamil is the #1 Trusted Infant Formula Brand by Pediatricians* & Parents and the #1 Trusted Brand for Brain-Building & Immune Support​.

Enfamil is a leading formula brand in the United States, and it is trusted by all pediatricians. Many pediatricians recommend Enfamil to their patients. Enfamil created their formula directly to mimic breast milk. The ingredients help your child develop his cognitive, motor, social and communication skills. The prebiotics supports a healthy digestive system as your child grows older. Prebiotics also supports your child’s natural defenses against viruses.

  • Contains DHA and choline which promote healthy brain development.
  • Designed for the first 12 months of life.

Gerber Good Start Gentle

Gerber Good Start Baby Formula Powder, GentlePro, Stage 1, Non GMO, 32 Ounce (Package May Vary) For 0 -12 Months
  • Gentle Nutrition: Modeled after the complete nutrition and gentleness of breastmilk, this formula offers complete nutrition for babies up to 12 months
  • Probiotic Formula: Our Gentle formula is specially designed with easy to digest Comfort Proteins, prebiotics (important components in breastmilk), and DHA to help support brain and eye development
  • Give Your Baby a Good Start: Your baby’s nutritional needs evolve over time. That’s why we created the Gerber Good Start line. Made to comfort your baby’s tummy and available in a range of products
  • Wholesome Options: Introduce your infant to complimentary staged products like single grain Cereals and 1st Foods fruit and veggie purees with Gerber infant formulas, probiotic supplements and more
  • Nutrition For Growing: Like your baby, we’re always growing and learning. More than ever we’re committed to being your partner in parenthood with quality ingredients, nutritious food and expert guidance

Gerber is a trustworthy brand for parents. Gerber Good Start Gentle contains comfort proteins that are easy on your child’s digestive system. Colic is common amongst babies. Start Gentle helps to prevent constipation and makes the transition from breastmilk to formula a lot easier. The smaller proteins promote soft stools, decreasing the discomfort associated with formula.  Gerber also created the formula to taste as close to breastmilk as possible.

  • Includes iron supplements
  • Perfect for colicky babies
  • Stays fresh for one month
  • Fatty acids encourage eye development.

Enfamil Nutramigen Enflora LGG Infant Formula

Enfamil Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Baby Formula with Iron, Lactose Free, Colic Relief from Cow’s Milk Allergy Starts in 24 Hours, Brain Building DHA, Probiotic LGG for Immune Support, 27.8 Oz, 4 Count
  • HELPS EASE YOUR LITTLE ONE’S COLIC: Delivers clinically proven relief when managing colic due to cow’s milk allergy for a happier, better-rested baby and mom​
  • GENTLE, FAST RELIEF: As early as the first feeding, Nutramigen starts to reduce excessive crying in less than 24 hours * – a soothing solution for your little one​
  • SUPERSTAR LGG PROBIOTIC: The most extensively studied probiotic for allergy management that helps support your little one’s digestive health​.
  • HYPOALLERGENIC: made with extensively hydrolyzed proteins that are less likely to trigger an allergic response
  • LACTOSE-FREE: suitable for babies with lactose intolerance

Babies who suffer from gas, colic and sleeping trouble require a different type of formula. You might be surprised how much of a difference Nutramigen could make for your child. Nutramigen with Enflora LGG helps colic due to cow’s milk within 48 hours! It is available to help build a tolerance to cow milk over time.

  • It contains hypoallergenic protein, perfect for sensitive babies.
  • Contains all nutrients required for your baby during his first year of life.
  • Nutramigen comes in a ready-to-go preparation, as well as powdered formula.

Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula

Happy Baby Organics Infant Formula Milk Based Powder with Iron, Stage 1, 21 Ounces, 4 Count (Packaging May Vary)
  • MODELED AFTER BREAST MILK & made with carefully sourced premium ingredients, this formula is made with organic lactose the principal carbohydrate found in breast milk. Our formula provides key vitamins and minerals that are found naturally in breast milk.
  • WITH 4X MORE PREBIOTICS than most other organic infant formula, our formula delivers 2 prebiotics, GOS & FOS, fibers that mimic the function of prebiotics found naturally in breast milk, which promote healthy gut bacteria in infants. No corn syrup solids.
  • HAPPY BABY: At Happy Baby Organics, we provide organic and delicious options for your baby’s nutritional journey. We develop premium organic recipes perfectly matched with your child’s age and stage. This is enlightened nutrition for every family.
  • MINDFULLY MADE: We develop premium organic recipes perfectly matched with your child’s age and stage 01-12 months. Explore our snacks & meals for growing babies, toddlers & kids, from baby food pouches to freeze-dried yogurt treats, organic cereals & toddler snacks.
  • HAPPY TUMMIES: Try Happy Baby’s full line of baby food pouches, organic cereals, teething wafers & baby snacks if you’ve enjoyed baby food from Sprout, Plum Organics, Annies, Gerber, Beechnut, or Peter Rabbit Organics.

You probably know Happy Baby; they make a lot of baby products! Happy Baby Organic is great for naturally minded parents who can’t afford to spend a bundle on formula. The taste is delicious and designed to mimic breast milk. Happy Baby included essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for proper growth and development.

  • BPA-free container
  • Affordable and organic
  • Could cause constipation

Enfamil Reguline Milk-Based Powder

Enfamil Reguline Baby Formula, Milk-Based Infant Nutrition, Dual Prebiotics for Soft, Comfortable Stools within 1 Week of Use, Omega-3 DHA for Immune Support, Reusable Powder Tub, 78 Oz​
  • 💩 COMFORT IN 1 WEEK: Dual-prebiotics, proven to help promote softer stools and ease occasional constipation within the first week of use.​
  • 🧠 NURTURING BRAIN DEVELOPMENT: Our formula has expert-recommended DHA, known to support your baby’s growing brain, supporting their milestones with confidence.
  • 💧 IMMUNE-SUPPORTING NUTRIENTS: Enfamil Reguline has a blend of vitamins and that help support your little one’s immune system, easy-to-digest proteins, and 30 total nutrients for their development.
  • 🍼 PEACE OF MIND NUTRITION: Designed with care for babies up to 12 months, so you can feel confident in providing your baby with a formula that supports their digestive comfort and overall well-being.
  • 👨🏽‍⚕️ TRUSTED BY PARENTS & PEDIATRICIANS*: Enfamil is the #1 Trusted Infant Formula Brand By Pediatricians* & Parents and the #1 Pediatrician Recommended Brand for Brain-Building & Immune Support.​

Here is another choice for the best baby formula that is designed with your baby’s digestive system in mind. If your child suffers from hard, uncomfortable stools, Reguline is the way to go. Studies show that Enfamil Reguline help to soften stools within a week of introducing the new formula. Enfamil designed their formula with easy to digest protein, relaxing your baby’s tummy.

  • Blend of two probiotics, such as carbs that feed the good bacteria in your digestive system.
  • Provides all of the nutrition needed for your child’s first year of life.

Plum Organics Grow Well Organic Infant Formula

Plum is a new name on the market, so you might be hesitant to give it a try. However, Plum gains popularity amongst those who pick organic parents. It does have a unique formula because it uses organic lactose as the only carbohydrate. There is no corn or glucose syrup solids. Plum Organics spent years developing their unique formula. Lactose is found largely in mother’s breast milk, so the Grow Well Formula closely mirrors breast milk.

  • Includes whey protein.
  • Contains DHA & ARA
  • USDA-certified organic ingredients such as plant-based oils and non-fat milk.
  • GMO-free

Enfamil Enspire

Enfamil Enspire Optimum Baby Formula, with Immune-Supporting Lactoferrin, Our Closest Formula to Breast Milk, Brain Building DHA, Dual Prebiotics, Infant Formula Powder, Baby Milk, 30 Oz, Pack of 4
  • OUR CLOSEST FORMULA TO BREAST MILK: Enspire Optimum is Enfamil’s closest formula to breast milk with lactoferrin, found in colostrum + breast milk, and Dual HMOs.
  • PROTEIN YOUR BABY NEEDS: Enspire Optimum has lactoferrin; an important protein in breast milk + colostrum that aids in iron absorption and supports baby’s immune system.
  • EXCLUSIVE HuMO6 IMMUNE BLEND: Formula designed from breast milk with key components, such as 2’-FL HMO, LNnT HMO, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, and Selenium.
  • PEACE OF MIND: Enspire Optimum has NO artificial growth hormones, NO artificial colors or flavors, and NON-GMO, designed for complete nutrition for babies through 12 months.
  • TRUSTED BY PARENTS & PEDIATRICIANS*: Enfamil is the #1 Trusted Infant Formula Brand By Pediatricians* & Parents and the #1 Trusted Brand for Brain-Building & Immune Support.

If for whatever reason, you have to switch to formula from breastmilk, you need a formula that your baby’s stomach can handle. Enfamil Enspire is meant to mimic closely to breastmilk. It is made with milk fat globule membrane and lactoferrin, two nutrients that are naturally found in breastmilk. The addition of MFGM makes it one of the closest formulas to breastmilk on the market, so it is ideal for supplementation. Your child will be able to switch with comfort.

  • Gentle on your child’s stomach
  • Does make a lot of foam
  • Subtle Scent

Enfagrow Premium Toddler Next Step Formula

Enfagrow Premium Toddler Nutritional Drink, Natural Vanilla Flavor, Omega-3 DHA for Brain Support, Prebiotics & Vitamins for Immune Health, Non-GMO, Powder Can, 32 Oz (Pack of 1
  • FOR CHILDREN AGES 1Plus: Contains 26 milligrams of brain nourishing omega-3 DHA to assure brain support and rapid development
  • PROPRIETARY TRIPLE HEALTH GUARD BLEND: Contains omega-3 DHA to provide brain support, baby probiotics and vitamins for immune support, and 22 total nutrients for growth
  • RECIPES: Mix the Enfagrow powder or liquid into foods and snacks your toddler already loves – a very easy way to help get nutrients into their diet
  • EXPERT RECOMMENDED DHA: Enfagrow Premium has expert recommended omega-3 DHA which supports brain development
  • TRUSTED BRAND: Enfamil is the 1 Trusted Brand for Brain-building and Immune Support

Sometimes, your toddler will continue to need formula after the first year of life. That isn’t a bad thing! Formula provides all of the necessary nutrients for a toddler’s busy life. It fills in the gaps created by a toddler’s notorious pickiness. Enfagrow is designed for ages 1 to 3 years old. It contains 22 vital nutrients that are crucial for proper growth. The prebiotics included support a child’s digestive health. Your toddler will benefit from this formula.

  • Vitamin D and calcium promote strong teeth and bones.
  • Comes in two flavors – natural and vanilla milk

EleCare Baby Formula

EleCare Hypoallergenic Amino Acid-Based Infant Formula, Complete Nutrition for Food Allergies and GI Conditions, Amino Acid-Based Baby Formula Powder, 14.1-oz Can
  • IMPROVED SYMPTOMS: EleCare is clinically shown to significantly improve symptoms in infants and children with malabsorption issues and short bowel syndrome
  • SUPPORTS GROWTH: EleCare is clinically shown to support growth when used as the primary source of nutrition in patients
  • AMINO ACID-BASED INFANT FORMULA: Made with 100% free amino acids as the protein source for infants who cannot tolerate intact or hydrolyzed protein
  • DOCTOR RECOMMENDED: EleCare formula is from the amino acid-based brand recommended by pediatric gastroenterologists and pediatricians
  • SUPPORTS BRAIN AND EYE DEVELOPMENT: Has DHA and ARA to help support brain and eye development

EleCare is a specialized formula for babies that are unable to tolerate hydrolyzed protein. It is a hypoallergenic, amino-acid formula. EleCare helps infants with different disorders such as mal-digestion, short bowel syndrome, severe food allergies, and other conditions that could cause an infant to need an amino acid diet. EleCare is a solid choice for a baby formula, but you wait for your doctor to suggest it.

  • Eliminates any possibility of an allergic reaction.
  • Your doctor should recommend EleCare before you use it.

Conclusion

There are dozens of baby formula choices on the market. The first thing that you should remember is that speaking to your pediatrician is a good first step. Most doctors have a suggestion for a good formula. You might want to stick with the formula you start within the hospital if your baby tolerates it well. If not, your first step is to talk to your doctor. Babies with colic, reflux, lactose intolerance, or other issues could require different baby formulas.

Most baby formulas come in different preparations. Almost every brand creates their formula in ready-to-go, powdered and liquid concentrates. There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to preparation. You just have to decide what makes sense for your family! If convenience is more of a factor than price, the ready-to-go formula is the easiest. However, the powdered formula makes the most economical sense. Pick the one that works for your family.

As we conclude this discussion on the best baby formulas, remember that there’s a wide array of options available to suit every family’s unique needs. Parenthood is a journey filled with discovery, and by embracing the diversity of options, you can find the perfect fit for you and your little one, and in this case you can consider exploring the comprehensive list below for additional recommendations. Happy parenting!

Leave a Comment