Hydration 101 for babies: When, how, and why to offer water

If you’re wondering when babies can drink water, you’re not alone. It’s one of those deceptively simple questions that can make even seasoned parents second-guess themselves, especially at 2 a.m. when you’re Googling, “Is it okay to give my baby a sip of water?”

Let’s break down everything you need to know about hydration for babies: when to start offering water, how much they really need, and how it fits into your baby’s feeding schedule. 

We’re keeping things practical, science-backed, and most importantly,  parent-friendly. And to make sure you get the best, we’ve gone the extra mile to back up this blog with expert insights from Brittany Brown, RD IBCLC at Feeding Babies Nourishing Souls that will truly help guide you through every stage of your baby’s hydration journey.

Why hydration matters (but maybe not how you think)

Water is essential for all of us—babies included—but here’s the twist: for the first 6 months of life, hydration comes solely from breast milk or formula. Yep, even on a hot summer day, that liquid gold (or carefully measured bottle) is all your baby needs to stay perfectly hydrated.

That’s because breast milk and formula are more than just food—they’re a complete hydration package. They contain the perfect balance of water, nutrients, and electrolytes to support your baby’s rapid growth and development.

When can babies drink water?

According to Brittany Brown, RD IBCLC at Feeding Babies Nourishing Souls, “Babies can start drinking water in small amounts when they start solids around 6 months of age.”

She further says that –

“Prior to 6 months of age, breastmilk and/or formula will meet the baby’s hydration needs so water isn’t necessary.”

At this stage, water is more about helping your baby learn how to sip and support digestion, rather than meeting hydration needs. Start with just a few sips at meals—think of it as a gentle introduction, not a full-on hydration strategy.

How much water do babies really need?

“Between 6-12 months, babies can be offered small sips of water to help with open cup and straw drinking skills – around 2-4 oz per day“

Brittany Brown, RD IBCLC at Feeding Babies Nourishing Souls

Here’s a simple guideline:

• 6–12 months: A few sips with solid meals (up to 4–8 ounces per day).
  
• 12+ months: Water can gradually become their main source of hydration, with about 1–4 cups per day depending on their size, activity level, and diet.
  

Water and the baby feeding schedule

If you’re already keeping track of naps, feedings, and diaper changes, you might be wondering when to add water into the mix.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need a super strict water schedule. You can simply start offering it alongside solids as part of your baby’s evolving eating routine. In the first 6 months, breast milk or formula is all your baby needs, offered on demand or every 2 to 4 hours.

Once your little one hits 6 months, it’s time to introduce solids and a few sips of water during mealtime. By the time they’re 12 months, whole milk, solids, and water can be part of their daily routine, especially at meal times. This way, water naturally fits into your baby’s feeding schedule without any extra stress!

Signs your baby might need more hydration

As your baby becomes more mobile, they’ll need more fluids, especially in warmer weather or when they’re sick. Here are a few signs to watch for:

• Fewer wet diapers than usual
  
• Dark yellow urine
  
• Dry lips or mouth
  
• Extra fussiness or fatigue
  

Always check with your pediatrician if you’re concerned, your intuition and their guidance make a great team.

“You’ll know if your baby is hydrated because their skin and bowel movements will be soft. They will have regular wet diapers and be alert and active throughout the day. Your baby might be dehydrated if you notice fewer wet diapers with dark yellow urine, or if they are lethargic and have a dry mouth.“

Brittany Brown, RD IBCLC at Feeding Babies Nourishing Souls

What kind of water is safe for babies?

You might be wondering: Is tap water okay? What about filtered or bottled?

“Tap water that meets safety standards is safe for babies to drink. If you are using well water or have concerns about your water supply you can always have this tested. Babies shouldn’t be offered flavoured, carbonated, or sweetened waters.“

Brittany Brown, RD IBCLC at Feeding Babies Nourishing Souls

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Tap water: Usually safe in many areas, but check your local water quality reports for things like lead or fluoride levels.
  
• Filtered water: A good option to reduce chlorine or potential contaminants.
  
• Boiled water: Recommended for mixing formula in babies under 3 months, especially if you’re unsure about your tap water.
  
• Bottled water: Not necessary, but can be used in a pinch—just make sure it’s labeled for low sodium and low fluoride.

Helping your baby grow into a confident drinker

Hydration for babies is less about strict rules and more about gentle, responsive parenting. Your baby’s cues, your pediatrician’s advice, and a dash of patience will help guide the way.

As you transition from milk-only feeds to mealtime sipping, you’re not just building a healthy habit, you’re supporting independence, development, and lifelong hydration patterns.

You’ve got this. And we’re always here for those 2 a.m. water-related questions, too.

Conclusion 

Learning when babies can drink water is a key step in your baby’s development—and your parenting journey. As your baby grows, hydration becomes an important part of their baby feeding schedule, supporting everything from digestion to playtime energy.

Keep things simple. Go at your baby’s pace. And remember: water may be new to them, but with your support, they’ll be sipping like a pro in no time.