In this economic crisis, people are doing everything they can to save -- sometimes with dire consequences. A baby wound up on a ventilator and almost died after his mother diluted his infant formula. So is there any way to safely save on formula?

Melanie Hassell mostly uses infant formula to feed her two-week-old. She's found it costs a lot more than it did for her other children.

"I think it's really ridiculous" she says. "The price of formula right now, especially such a necessity --some mothers can't nurse."

Sandra Gordon, author of Consumer Reports Baby Book, says don't try to save money by adding extra water to the formula.

"If your baby gets too much water, it can lead to what's called water intoxication which can be potentially deadly," she warns.

So be sure to follow the directions exactly. And use the scoop that comes with the formula, because scoops vary in size.

Although formula is expensive -- as much as $1500 in the first year -- Consumer Reports says there are ways to cut costs.

Instead of buying formula at drugstores and supermarkets where prices are highest, shop at mass merchandisers, and get store brands: all meet health standards.

A couple of other ways to save -- powdered formula costs a lot less than the pre-mixed. And milk-based formula usually costs less than soy.

"A milk-based formula is really the best for your child. So unless your doctor recommends a soy formula or a specialty formula, go with milk-based," recommends Gordon.

And you always want to check the expiration date to make sure the formula isn't too old.

Here are some other safety tips for powdered or liquid concentrate formula:

  • boil the water for at least a minute to sterilize it
  • only make the formula you are going to use right away
  • never heat formula or breast milk in the microwave
  • always shake the bottle to even out the temperature
  • test the temperature on the sensitive inside of your forearm or back of your hand

No baby has ever been harmed by formula that is too cold and if your baby tolerates a particular brand of formula -- stick with it.

Health experts say if you're able to breastfeed your baby, that's the best option.

And, of course, it's also a big money-saver.

With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen