Before you start sterilising feeding equipment ensure that you have cleaned it thoroughly. You can use a mild detergent for washing and a bottle brush to scrub away milk residue.
Here are 3 ways to sterilise your baby’s milk bottle.
By Boiling
Step 1: Soak in Clean Water
Take a large vessel and soak all the components of your feeding equipment like the bottle, teats, caps and breast massagers (in case you use a breast pump) in clean water. Please note that the water should cover all the parts and there should be no air bubbles.
Step 2: Boil the Components
Place this vessel on the stove and bring the water to a boil. Leave the components in boiling water for 5 minutes. Turn off the stove and let it cool.
Step 3: Disinfect and Store
Wash your hands with a disinfectant before taking out the bottle. Shake off excess water. Place the sterilised components in a clean, airtight container and store them in the refrigerator.
Repeat the process if they are not used in the next 24 hours.
Using Chemical Sterilisers
Step 1: Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Before you use a chemical solution to sterilise your baby’s milk bottles, read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Step 2: Soak in Clean Water
Place all the feeding components in a large vessel with clean water. Ensure that they are fully covered in water and there are no air bubbles.
Step 3: Mix the Solution
As per the manufacturer’s instructions, add the sterilising solution to the water.
Step 4: Let it Rest
Let the solution act on the feeding components for the stipulated amount of time. This may vary depending on the manufacturer of the sterilising agent. Generally, the recommended time is around 30 minutes.
Step 5: Wash the Components
Wash all the components with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Using an Electric Steriliser
Step 1: Place in Steriliser
Take the feeding components and place them in the electric steriliser.
Step 2: Add Water
As per the instructions given in the manual, add water in the sterilising unit.
Step 3: Turn it On
Switch on the steriliser for the specified amount of time.
That’s it! You have 3 methods to choose from to sterilise your baby’s feeding equipment. Don’t forget to wash your hands before handling the sterilised feeding equipment to avoid any contamination.