How to sterilize a bottle

To sterilize means to “make something free of bacteria and other germs”. Sterilization of a feeding bottle is important for many reasons. Washing alone is not enough to get rid of all bacteria that can grow in the formula milk stored in the bottle. All components of a bottle must be washed and then sterilized to keep a baby safe.

Warning:

Do not sterilize a dirty bottle – make sure you wash it first.
Preferably wash all the baby’s dishes separately from other dishes.

Method 1 – stove top

Take all the components of the bottle apart. Wash them with warm water and soap. You may wash the teat with salt as well.
Place the parts of the bottle separately into approximately two cups of water in a clean pot.
Place the pot onto high heat. (gas, electric, paraffin or charcoal stove top).
Boil the water and the bottle components for 5 minutes. (Meaning, let the water boil with big bubbles for 5 minutes).
Let it cool.
Take out the components of the bottle and let them dry on a clean plate.
Use the bottles as needed.

Method 2 – Microwave

Take all the components of the bottle apart. Wash them with warm water and soap. You may wash the teat with salt as well.
Open the microwave sterilizer and pour in the correct amount of water as per the container brand. ( It may be 100ml or 200ml depending on the brand)
Arrange the clean bottles to fit carefully. Cover the container.
Place the container in the microwave for the amount of time (usually 10 min) on high.
Let the container cool for a few minutes. You may allow the bottles to dry in the container, as it remains sterile for 24 hours if not opened.
Use the bottles as needed.

Method 3 – Using sterilizer fluid or tablets

If you do not have access to heat as a source of sterilization, you may use sterilization tablets or fluid to sterilize the bottles after washing them.

Wash the components of the bottle separately with warm water and soap.
Mix the fluid with clean water according to the instructions on the bottle or place a sterilizer tablet in the specified amount of water.
Place the separated parts of the bottle into the fluid.
Leave the bottle components for the required amount of time.
After the time has lapsed – take the bottles out. Rinse them with boiled cooled water. (this rinsing step is very important!).
Allow the components to dry on a clean surface (e.g. a plate)
Wash hands and put the bottle back together. Use as needed.