Cleaning a baby bottle should not be done randomly… 

When used, the milk bottle will stick to the baby’s mouth and hold the milk he will drink. That is why proper baby bottle cleaning is very much related to the health of the little one.

Although it looks simple, not all parents have cleaned baby bottles the right way, you know! 

Cleaning baby bottles in the right way can prevent babies from getting various digestive infections that can cause diarrhea and vomiting.

Related: Which Formula Is Right For My Baby?

How to Clean a Baby Milk Bottle

Cleaning baby bottles can be done in many ways, here are the common ones.

Clean The Milk Bottle Manually:

If you clean the baby bottle manually, there are several steps you can do, namely:

  • Wash hands first with soap and running water for about 20 seconds.
  • Get rid of all the leftover milk.
  • Separate all bottles parts, such as the bottle, dot, bottle valve, and bottle cap. Then, rinse with clean running water.
  • Soak the bottle’s parts in a basin of warm water and soap. Avoid putting it in the sink, as it can increase the bottle’s risk of contamination with germs.
  • Clean the bottle sections one by one using a special brush. Don’t forget to clean the bottle to the core.
  • When cleaning the dot, make sure you can get water out of the dotted hole. This is useful to make sure the dot is completely clean.
  • After that, rinse all parts of the bottle with clean water and dry with a clean towel free of dust.

Related: 5 Best Bottles For Breastfed Babies

Clean The Bottle With a Washing Machine

Here, you will be using the washing machine to get the baby bottle cleaned. It is essential to check the cleaning directions on the bottle package before you place it inside the washing machine. 

Then, you can start washing the milk bottle by:

 

  • Separate all bottle parts, such as the bottle, dot, ring, and bottle valve.
  • Rinse the bottle’s parts under running water. You can rinse them one by one with cold water or warm water.
  • Put all the pieces in the washing machine. However, don’t forget to put small items in a closed basket.
  • You can also fill the washing machine with warm water to kill as many germs as possible for maximum results.
  • When done, lift all parts of the bottle and place them on a clean towel.

 

In addition to cleaning baby milk bottles, mothers are advised to sterilize baby milk bottles. 

Separate the bottle parts, then soak them in a pan of boiling water for about 5 minutes. 

Then, lift all the parts and clean them using a soft and clean towel.

Related: Here Are The 6 Best Anti-colic Baby Bottles

Baby Bottle Sterilizing Ways

Boiling Sterilization:

Boiling works by raising the temperature high enough to kill any bacteria after washing. 

  • Place the bottles, teats, caps, and clean utensils in a large saucepan behind the stove.
  • Add enough water to cover all the utensils, ensuring no air bubbles. 
  • Keep the water boiling for around 5 minutes.
  • Turn off the stove and let the water cool down. 
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before you handle the equipment. 
  • Take the utensils out of the pot and drain the excess water. 
  • If you don’t use it right away, place the cap and nipple on the bottle, and store it in a clean container in the refrigerator. 
  • Boil bottles and other utensils when not in use within 24 hours.

Steaming The Baby Bottles (microwave or electric sterilizer): 

Like boiling, steam sterilization is also done by raising the temperature high enough to kill bacteria. 

Here is how to do it:

  • Make sure bottles, teats, caps, and utensils are clean before starting. 
  • Make sure bottles and nipples are placed with the opening facing down to be sterilized. 
  • Follow the instructions to add water to the unit and turn it on.
  • Leave the vial in the sterilizer until needed. 
  • If you don’t use the bottle right away, check the instructions on how long you can keep it in the sterilizer before you have to sterilize it again.

For better cleaning and staying on the safe side, you can consult a pediatrician to determine how to clean the baby’s milk bottle correctly and whether or not to sterilize the milk bottle.

Written By: Dema JS

Founder of newbabysmell.com and a mother of two little kids. Dema had her MBA from St. John’s University- NYC in dual concentrations: Executive Management and Marketing Management. 

Contact: Please email [email protected] or go to newbabysmell.com