What type of water can I use to mix formula, to flush the tube, and for nutritional water needs?

Whether you are mixing formula, flushing the tube, or delivering water for nutritional needs, the water should be safe for drinking. If you have access to safe tap water, you should not need to use store bought water. When delivering water as part of your enteral nutrition program, it should be warm (NOT HOT) and comfortable to the touch.
Types of water include:
- Tap water (from your sink’s faucet) that meets the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) rules for safe drinking water. You can call your city’s water department to find out if your water meets these rules.
- Boiled tap water – bring to a rolling boil for 1-3 minutes and then cool before using.
- Distilled water.
- Bottled water.
- Sterile water. If your healthcare provider recommends using sterile water, you may have to special order it through your pharmacy.
If you are not sure which type of water to use, ask your healthcare provider for more information.
In general, it is important to flush the feeding tube with water to help prevent clogging (both before and after each feeding) and to help meet daily water needs.