Questions about formula...need help

I am starting to supplement breastmilk with formula. I have lots of questions. Right now I use the Enfamil Lipil ready-to-use nursettes. What are the main differences between ready-to-use and powder? Where is the cheapest place to buy formula? How do you all afford it? If my DD drinks 24 ounces a day she could go through $50 worth of formula in the blink of an eye. What am I missing here? It can't be THAT expensive, right?

Help me with the "tricks" associated with formula. How can I get the most out of my money?

Re: Questions about formula...need help

The only tip i have is to regster online at your formulas's webiste and they eventually send you manufacturer coupons that help alittl.e Otherwise, it is expensive.

Re: Questions about formula...need help

Powder is cheaper than RTF (although I think once before it was posted that if you use bottled water it isn't that much cheaper) Especially if you are using a "regular formula". If she doing well on the regular Enfamil, then you can go generic if you want. The Target or Wal-Mart brand of formula is about $11 (sometimes a dollar more, sometimes a dollar less)

And register with Enfamil, eventually they will send you coupons (took like 6 weeks before I got anything) but I had to get formula at Stop and Shop yesterday (didn't want to b/c it is expensive there) and I used 3 checks and a $27.99 can cost $12.00.

ETA: I think those nursettes may be pretty pricey in general. I mean, even if I paid full price for that can of formula (Gentlease) it lasts us 5 days.

As for differences, some people find their kids to be gassy on one vs. the other and the RTF is thicker than the powder, but that is about it.

Message edited 8/9/2007 8:06:21 AM.

Re: Questions about formula...need help

Formula can also be found slightly cheaper at Costco. Powdered formula is cheaper, and you can use it with tap water, or Brita flitered water to keep the cost down.
It is more expensive (obviously) than breastfeeding - but it really does save time, and that's worth something!

Re: Questions about formula...need help

Re: Questions about formula...need help

I think everyone above touched on these things but this is what I find to be helpful:

- Sign up on Enfamil's website to get coupons..they come as checks and can be used wherever the formula is sold. Also try to register your mom and mil as well so they get checks. This way you get a ton.

- Powder is cheaper than ready-to-use. (I bought a small brita that we fill and leave on the counter. It is only for DS's bottles)

- Costco and BJs have good deals with larger containers for good prices. Plus you can use your checks.

- Keep an eye out for sales at Target and BRU. Whenever I see a sale I grab my checks and stock up. Just be mindful of the expiration date. You can use checks with store sales to save even more.

Re: Questions about formula...need help

If you register with other websites (Similac, Nestle, etc...) you could also exchange with other moms the coupons that you get from other companies for Enfamil.

When DS had his growth phase, I had to supplement with a 2 oz bottle for 2 weeks. I traded some samples of Enfamil for Similac.

You can trade too with coupons.