Baby water brands: Which one to choose

Welcome back friends of Newborn Tips, today we will talk about a topic that is very close to the hearts of mothers, that is, what are the main characteristics to consider regarding water brands for newborns and which are the best available on the market. You will also find some very useful advice on when to start giving water to newborns.

First of all, the health and well-being of the newborn depends on many attentions, including the choice of water. Therefore, the brands of water for swaddled babies are specifically designed to meet the delicate needs of the little ones.

Table of contents

Why Choose a Specific Water for Newborns?

The digestive and renal systems of newborns are still developing, for this reason it is important to use water that is low in mineral salts and nitrates, and free of contaminants.

In particular, mineral waters for newborns are generally oligomineral and have a fixed residue of less than 50 mg/L, ensuring lightness and ease of digestion.

What Should Water for Newborns Be Like?

To be suitable for feeding newborns, water must have some specific characteristics that we list below:

Low fixed residue:

The fixed residue in water refers to the quantity of mineral salts dissolved in the water. For newborns, water with a fixed residue of less than 50 mg/L is recommended, therefore a minimally mineralized water.

Low in sodium (Na) and calcium (Ca) to avoid overloading the kidneys:

Since the kidneys of newborns are not yet fully developed, infants are not able to handle excess sodium or calcium.

So water with too much calcium or sodium could overload the kidneys, causing difficulty in filtering excess minerals and increasing the risk of kidney stones or long-term kidney damage.

Therefore, water for newborns should contain less than 20 mg/L of sodium and less than 100 mg/L of calcium, preferably around 50 mg/L or less.

No nitrates (less than 10 mg/L):

In reality, nitrates should be present in very small quantities, less than 10 mg/L, because too high a level can cause breathing problems in children (methemoglobinemia).

Microbiologically pure:

The water must be microbiologically pure, free of bacteria, viruses or other impurities that could put the baby’s health at risk.

These parameters are indicated on the label and are essential to ensure safe and suitable water for newborns, both for the preparation of artificial milk and for direct administration.

What is the most suitable water for newborns?

Choosing the right water for your newborn is essential to guarantee his health and safety.

Moreover, the brands of water for newborns offer specific products that respect the required parameters, avoiding renal overload and guaranteeing safe and natural hydration.

Therefore, relying on recognized brands and carefully reading the labels of the bottles of water for newborns are essential steps to ensure the well-being of your child.

Below we will talk about the 5 best water for newborns brands that you can find on the shelves of supermarkets.

5 Best Brands of Water for Babies in Italy

Here are some of the brands of mineral water that meet the parameters suitable for babies:

1) Sant’Anna

One of the most recommended waters for babies thanks to its low fixed residue (22.4 mg/L) and the total absence of nitrates. It is often used in the preparation of artificial milk.

2) Plasmon

A historic brand dedicated to infant nutrition, it offers a specific water for babies, which must pass rigorous controls to guarantee its safety.

3) Rocchetta

With a fixed residue of 35 mg/L and very few nitrates, Rocchetta water is an excellent choice for babies.

4) Norda

Norda Baby water is specifically designed for children, with parameters suitable for preparing bottles and milk.

5) Lauretana

Known for being one of the lightest waters in the world, it has a fixed residue of only 14 mg/L, perfect for babies.

When to Start Giving Water to Babies?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends not giving water to babies until they are 6 months old. This is because in the first six months, breast milk or formula provide all the necessary fluids and nutrients, including hydration.

Why Not Give Water Before 6 Months?

It can reduce milk intake and therefore essential nutrients.
It can increase the risk of intestinal infections if the water is not perfectly safe.
A baby’s kidneys are not yet mature enough to process significant amounts of water.

When to Give Water to a Newborn?

After 6 months, when weaning begins, you can start giving small amounts of water, especially during meals.

It is important to offer natural, unsweetened water at room temperature.

How Much Water to Give a Newborn?

After 6 months, a newborn may drink about 100-200 ml of water per day, but the amount depends on the baby’s needs and the climate.

When in doubt, always consult your pediatrician for personalized advice.

Tips for Using Baby Water Safely

Always read the label to make sure the parameters are adequate.
Do not boil water for a long time, as this may increase the concentration of salts.
Use fresh bottled water and store it in a cool, dry place.

What Should Baby Water Be Like During Weaning?

During weaning, around 6 months of age, babies begin to introduce solid foods into their diet. This time also marks the beginning of the administration of water, necessary to ensure adequate hydration.

However, water intended for newborns must have specific characteristics to be safe and suitable for their still delicate organism, which we discussed previously.

In the meantime, a common question among parents is whether it is preferable to use tap water or bottled water for newborns. Both options can be valid, but there are some precautions to follow.

Tap Water:

Tap water can only be used if it is drinkable and safe.

If the water comes from controlled aqueducts and has low levels of nitrates and sodium, it can be given to the newborn, but it is recommended to boil it in the first months of weaning.

Bottled Water:

It is often the most practical and safe choice. The quantity of minerals present is indicated on the labels of mineral water bottles.

Opt for water that is labeled “suitable for preparing infant food” or “suitable for newborns”.

Finally, investing in high-quality baby water brands is an essential step to support their growth and healthy development. It is always advisable to get informed and consult your pediatrician to make the best choice!

Newborn Tips, The Editorial Team