When should I start giving my baby water?

Small amounts of water can be offered with meals starting at 6 months of age. Babies do not need water before this age, as breast milk or formula provides all their fluid requirements.

You can increase the amount of water depending on the number of feedings, and offer more water in hot weather. Juices and sweetened drinks are not recommended, and milk or formula should remain the primary source of nutrition until the baby is one year old.