Juice should generally be avoided for babies under 1 year. If/when you introduce any juice, it should be 100% fruit juice, given in very small amounts, and not diluted to replace milk or formula. After age 1, limit juice to about 4 ounces (120–120 ml) per day and offer it with meals rather than as a snack. Before 12 months, avoid juice entirely and prioritize breast milk or formula for hydration and nutrition. What to consider and guidance

• For babies under 12 months: no juice. Water is not necessary for hydration for most of this period if feeding is on track with breast milk or formula. If you have questions about introducing water later, discuss with your pediatrician.

• At around 6–12 months: juice is still not recommended as a regular drink. If you choose to offer it, keep portions very small and consider diluting only after confirming your pediatrician’s advice; however many guidelines discourage juice altogether in this age range.

• After 12 months: you may introduce small amounts of 100% fruit juice. Dilution with water is sometimes suggested to reduce sugar exposure, but many health sources still emphasize limiting total juice intake. A common practical cap is up to 4 ounces per day, ideally with meals.

• Prioritize healthier alternatives: water in a cup for hydration and whole fruits for fiber and nutrients. Avoid fruit drinks with added sugars or dilute juice excessively; fiber-rich whole fruits are preferable.

If you’d like, I can tailor these guidelines to your baby’s age and any specific health considerations, and summarize official pediatric recommendations from reliable sources.