Most parents sterilize bottles by boiling. It is a good idea to be aware of other methods.
- Steam sterilizing units quickly and effectively destroy bacteria on your equipment
- You can sterilize your equipment in the microwave using a specially designed steam unit, as long as the feeding equipment is suitable for microwave use
- Wash all of the equipment and boil it for a least 25 minutes in a large, covered pot
- You can wash the bottles, cup, and knife on the normal cycle of the dishwasher. The nipples should be placed in a covered pan and boiled separately
- Cold-water tablets, popular in Europe, may be available in your area. These sterilize bottles and equipment without the use of heat.
Cleaning the bottles Use a bottle brush and warm soapy water to remove all traces of milk from the bottles. Rinse them.
Cleaning the nipples Rinse the nipples thoroughly. Remove all traces of milk by rubbing them with salt.
Soaking the equipment Half – fill the sterilizing unit with cold water, and dissolve a sterilizing tablet in the water. Put the bottles, nipples, measuring cup, and spoon into the unit, then add enough cold water to fill it. Submerge all the equipment and leave for the required time. When you are ready to use the equipment, rinse and drain it.
It is wise to practice with your feeding equipment before you go into the hospital, so buy it well in advance of your delivery date. Large department stores and drugstores sell bottlefeeding packs that have all the essential equipment.
I always found it most convenient to sterilize and make up a full batch of bottles, and refrigerate them until needed. After the feeding, rinse the bottle in warm water and then put it aside. It is a good idea to continue sterilizing all formula-feeding equipment until your baby is 12 months old.
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