How do I clean and boil (sterilise) bottles?
Good hygiene and cleaning and sterilising (boiling) dummies and bottles before feeding your baby are vital in preventing any risk of infection for the baby.
- Rinse bottles and other items after use in cold water.
- Wash the items thoroughly using a separate brush in hot, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly under running water.
Sterilise the bottles by boiling them or using a steriliser.
Boiling:
- Place in a saucepan and make sure the bottle is completely covered with water.
- Bring to the boil and leave to boil under a lid for 5-10 minutes.
- Remember to set an alarm so that you don’t leave the pan to boil dry.
- Using a bottle steriliser: Follow the instructions for use.
Drying and storage:
- Make sure your hands are clean before handling sterilised bottles.
- Once the items have been boiled (sterilised), remove them using sterilised kitchen tongs (or barbecue tongs).
- Air-dry on a clean surface, such as a clean tea towel.
- After air-drying, re-assemble the items and store them in a clean place. If you use a steriliser, the items can be left in the steriliser until you are ready to use