What is the best way to test the temperature of a bottle of formula?

Testing the temperature of a bottle of formula by dripping a small amount on the back of your hand is considered the safest and most effective method. The skin on the back of your hand is sensitive enough to gauge whether the temperature of the formula is appropriate for a baby. This method allows you to accurately feel if it's too hot or too cold, as the back of the hand is not exposed to temperature as much as other body parts, making it a reliable indicator.

In contrast, testing by sprinkling a drop on the floor does not provide any relevant feedback regarding the formula’s temperature in relation to safety. Tasting a small amount yourself, while it might seem like a quick way to check, is not recommended due to hygiene concerns and the risk of contamination. Shaking the bottle and feeling the outer surface can only give you a rough estimate, since the outer surface may not reflect the temperature of the contents accurately. Therefore, dripping a small amount on your skin ensures that the formula is at a safe temperature for the baby.