Quick answer: No — formula feeding is significantly more expensive than breastfeeding. UK estimates place the cost of formula feeding at £500–£800 in the first year. Breastfeeding has upfront costs (pump, nursing bras, feeding accessories) of approximately £100–£300 but no ongoing per-feed cost.
Formula costs broken down
Standard first infant formula (Aptamil, Hipp, SMA) costs approximately £10–17 per 800g tin in the UK in 2025. A newborn formula-fed baby consumes approximately 700–800ml per day in the early weeks, increasing to 900ml–1 litre by 3–4 months before solids begin to reduce milk intake. This works out to approximately 1–1.5 tins per week in the early months. Total formula cost for 12 months: approximately £500–£700 for standard formula. Premium formulas (Kendamil Organic, Aptamil Profutura) cost up to £20–24 per tin and increase annual costs toward £800–£1,000. This does not include the cost of bottles (£50–£100 for a set), steriliser (£20–£60), and bottle-warming equipment.
Breastfeeding costs
Breastfeeding is not cost-free but the costs are predominantly one-time. Nursing bras: £30–£50 each (3–4 recommended) = £90–£200. Breast pads (disposable, first months): £15–£30. Nipple cream: £8–£10. Electric breast pump (if expressing): £100–£180 for a mid-range option (one-time cost). Breastfeeding pillow: £30–£60. Total upfront breastfeeding costs: approximately £100–£300. Ongoing per-feed cost: zero. The caloric cost to the mother (breastfeeding requires approximately 500 additional calories per day) is often cited as a cost, though increased food intake at this level is modest.
The NHS and cost support
The NHS does not pay for formula; it is purchased by the family. In England, the Healthy Start scheme provides eligible families (those on qualifying benefits) with vouchers that can be used toward formula. In some circumstances, prescription formula (extensively hydrolysed or amino acid formulas for diagnosed cow’s milk protein allergy) is available on NHS prescription, significantly reducing the cost burden for families with medically indicated specialist formula needs.
The wider picture
The cost comparison matters but should not be the dominant factor in a feeding decision. If breastfeeding isn’t working or isn’t sustainable, formula is the right choice — the emotional and relational costs of struggling to breastfeed are real and significant. If cost is a barrier to formula feeding (for families who have chosen formula or for whom breastfeeding isn’t possible), information about Healthy Start and any local support is worth knowing about.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the cheapest formula option?
Supermarket own-brand formulas (ALDI Mamia, Lidl Lupilu, Tesco, Sainsbury’s) meet the same nutritional regulatory standards as branded formulas and cost 30–50% less. They are nutritionally adequate for healthy term babies. The difference in cost over a year is significant: own-brand at ~£6–7 per tin vs branded at £10–17.
Does breastfeeding insurance or employment affect the costs?
In the UK, breastfeeding parents returning to work who need to pump at work have a legal right to a private room for expressing. The cost of maintaining supply during return to work (pump, storage bags, nursing bras) remains with the family. Some employers offer enhanced support, but this varies widely.
Is combination feeding (some breast, some formula) more or less expensive?
It depends on the ratio. One formula feed per day at the end of the evening costs approximately £0.70–£1.20 per feed — far less than full formula feeding. Combination feeding that uses primarily breast milk with formula top-ups in specific circumstances is significantly cheaper than full formula feeding while providing more flexibility than exclusive breastfeeding.
Related Reading
- Formula feeding guide: types, amounts and prep safety
- When breastfeeding doesn’t work out: letting go of the guilt
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