Baby Bottle Sterilization or How to clean, sterilize and store feeding bottles and accessories is an important step to know for parents who bottle-feed their babies. Proper cleaning, sterilizing, and storage are essential for maintaining your baby’s health by preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. Here are some smart tips and tricks from some reputed and reliable sources.
Table of Contents
1. How to Clean Feeding Bottles and Accessories?
A. Preparing for Cleaning
- Disassemble: Take apart all bottle components, including nipples, caps, and any valves or rings. This ensures each part is thoroughly cleaned.
- Rinse: Rinse each piece under running water to remove any milk residue before washing.
B. Washing Methods
By Hand:
- Soak: Fill a clean basin or sink with hot, soapy water. Use a dishwashing liquid that’s safe for baby products.
- Scrub: Use a bottle brush to clean the inside of the bottle and a nipple brush for the inside of nipples. Pay special attention to threads and grooves.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap.
In a Dishwasher:
- Load: Place bottles, nipples, and other accessories in the top rack or in a dishwasher basket to prevent them from falling through. Ensure the dishwasher is set to a hot water cycle and includes a heated drying cycle.
- Run Cycle: Operate the dishwasher on a regular or sanitize cycle if available.
Note: Some bottle components may be damaged by the high heat of dishwashers. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
C. Drying
- Air Dry: Place the cleaned items on a clean, dry dish towel or a drying rack. Avoid using dish towels to wipe them as this can transfer germs.
References: CDC, NHS, HealthyChildren.org
2. How to Sterilize Feeding Bottles and Accessories?
A. When to Sterilize
- Before first use.
- Regularly, especially for babies under three months, preemies, or if your baby is sick.
B. Methods of Sterilization
Boiling feeding bottles:
- Submerge: Place disassembled bottles and accessories in a large pot filled with water, ensuring all items are fully submerged.
- Boil: Bring the water to a boil and let it boil for at least 5 minutes.
- Cool: Remove items with clean tongs and place them on a clean, dry surface to air dry.
Steam Sterilization of feeding bottles:
- Microwave Sterilizers: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water and setting the microwave timer.
- Electric Steam Sterilizers: Place the bottles and accessories in the sterilizer, add water as directed, and turn it on.
Chemical Sterilization of feeding bottles (Cold water sterilization of feeding bottles):
- Sterilizing Solution: Prepare a sterilizing solution as per the product’s instructions.
- Soak: Submerge the items in the solution for the recommended time, usually around 30 minutes.
- Rinse: If required, rinse the items with cooled, boiled water before use.
References: CDC, NHS, HealthyChildren.org
3. How to Store Feeding Bottles and Accessories?
A. Proper Storage
- Assemble: Once dry, assemble the bottles to avoid contamination of the inside. Keep the nipples and caps on.
- Store Safely: Store bottles in a clean, dry area, ideally in a closed cupboard. Avoid places with high moisture to prevent mold growth.
B. Handling
- Re-clean: If bottles or accessories are not used within 24 hours, consider re-cleaning and sterilizing them before use.
- Avoid Touching: Minimize touching the parts that will come into contact with the milk and your baby’s mouth to maintain hygiene.
C. Travel and On-the-Go
- Seal: Use clean bottle caps or travel covers.
- Clean Storage: Place bottles and accessories in a clean, sealable bag or container.
D. Long-Term Storage
- Disassemble: If storing for a prolonged period, disassemble the bottles to avoid trapping moisture.
- Wrap: Wrap individual parts in clean paper towels and store them in a sealed plastic container.
References: CDC, KidsHealth, HealthyChildren.org
Additional Tips
- Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling bottles and accessories.
- Regularly inspect bottles and nipples for cracks or signs of wear and replace them as needed.
- Use a dedicated brush and basin for bottle cleaning to avoid cross-contamination.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your baby’s feeding equipment remains safe and hygienic, minimizing the risk of infections and other health issues.
If you are planning to stop bottle feeding, check out our easy guide to stopping bottle feeding for your baby.