Cleaning & Sterilizing Baby Bottles and Feeding Equipment
- Christina Newell
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Why It Matters
Keeping feeding gear such as bottles, pump parts, and nipples germ-free helps protect your baby’s health. Harmful bacteria can grow in leftover formula or breast milk and make infants sick. Cleaning and sterilizing baby bottles and feeding equipment regularly is an easy way to keep every feed safe.
Cleaning
Step 1 – Wash Your Hands
Wash your hands with soap and water and dry with a clean towel.
Step 2 – Wash the Gear
Clean all bottles, nipples, pump parts and other feeding items in hot, soapy water.
Use a clean bottle brush and nipple brush to scrub inside and outside so every trace of milk is removed.
Step 3 – Rinse Well
Rinse everything thoroughly in safe, clean water.
Sterilizing
You can use a commercial sterilizer (follow the manufacturer’s instructions) or boil the items in a pot of water.
Step 1 – Fill the Pan
Fill a large pot with water.
Step 2 – Submerge the Equipment
Place all cleaned bottles, nipples, and other feeding items in the pot. Make sure they are fully covered and no air bubbles remain.
Step 3 – Boil for at Least 5 Minutes
Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a rolling boil for at least 5 minutes, making sure the pot doesn’t boil dry.
Step 4 – Keep Covered
Keep the lid on until the feeding equipment is ready to use.
How Often to Sterilize
Sterilize at least once a day, especially for babies under 2 months, premature babies, or if your baby has a weakened immune system.
Storing
Wash and dry your hands before handling sterilized items.
Use sterilized tongs or forceps if possible.
If you remove equipment before it’s needed, keep it covered in a clean place.
Assemble bottles fully before storing so the inside of the bottle and nipple stays clean.
Key Takeaway to Cleaning and sterilizing baby bottles and feeding equipment
Clean, sterilized feeding equipment—prepared daily and stored safely—keeps germs away and your baby healthy. Just a few simple steps give every bottle with confidence.
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