Yes, you can put baby bottles in the dishwasher only if they are labeled as "dishwasher safe." Do check the manufacturer's instructions before washing them in the dishwasher to prevent unnecessary damage to the bottles.
Cleaning baby bottles doesn’t need to be a big hassle. Whether you’re washing baby bottles in dishwasher, or using bottle brush, or even a steam sterilizer, there are plenty of ways to get the job done quickly. The trick is finding what works best for you while making sure the bottles are safe and clean.
How to Wash Baby Bottles in the Dishwasher
For a convenient and effective washing, you may take the following steps:
- Before placing baby bottles in the dishwasher, make sure you disassemble them completely.
- Rinse the bottles and bottle parts under cold running water to get rid of any remaining milk or formula for a good elimination of residue from drying onto the surfaces.
- Place the bottle parts, nipples, and caps on the top rack of the dishwasher. Smaller parts should be placed inside a closed-top basket or mesh laundry bag. Which can prevent them from falling into the dishwasher filter or getting lost during the wash cycle.
- Use the dishwasher’s hot water and heated drying cycle or any available sanitizing setting to effectively kill germs and bacteria.
- Once the wash cycle is complete, remove the items from the dishwasher. Wash your hands before handling the clean bottles. If the items are not completely dry, place them on a clean, unused dish towel or paper towel to air-dry thoroughly. Do not use a dish towel to rub or pat the items dry, as this can transfer germs back onto the bottles.
- When you are done with washing and drying, inspect each item for any leftover residue. , Rinse them again or give them a quick scrub by hand if any pieces are not completely clean
Alternative Tools to Wash Baby Bottles
Aside from dishwashers, you can also adopt some other effective tools and methods to clean and sterilize baby bottles：
Cleaning
Bottle Washer
The Momcozy KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer and Sterilizeris a game-changing tool for busy parents. It automatically washes, sterilizes, dries, and even stores baby bottles, pump parts, and tableware.
How to Use:
- Disassemble all bottle parts (bottles, nipples, caps, rings, etc.). Rinse each piece with warm, soapy water to remove any milk or formula residue.
- Carefully arrange the bottle parts in the bottle washer. Ensure the items are placed properly so the spray jets can reach all surfaces. Use the dual-layer feature for additional accessories like pump parts or nipples.
- Fill the reservoir with the required amount of water (refer to the product manual). Close the lid and select your preferred mode, such as the 19-minutes Rapid Wash, 29-minutes Normal Wash, 60-minute Sterilize + Dry and etc., and press the start button to begin the cycle.
- Once the cycle completes, let the items cool. Remove the bottles and parts using clean tongs to maintain their sterility.
- If you use the Storage Mode, your bottles will remain sterile and dry inside the washer for up to 72 hours. Otherwise, place the dry items on a clean, unused towel or in a clean storage area until needed.
Bottle Brushes
You may need a bottle brush with soft, non-abrasive bristles to avoid scratching or damaging the bottle.
How to Use:
- After disassembling the bottle, rinse out any remaining milk or formula.
- Apply warm, soapy water to the bottle brush and scrub the inside of the bottle.
- Use a smaller brush or the nozzle of the brush to clean the nipple and other small parts.
- Pay extra attention to the nipple holes, as milk can get trapped in these areas.
- Rinse thoroughly under clean running water.
Baby Bottle Soaking Basket
A baby bottle soaking basket holds bottles, nipples, caps, and rings while soaking them in warm, soapy water.
How to Use:
- Fill the soaking basket with warm, soapy water and submerge all parts of the bottle.
- Let them soak for a few minutes to loosen any milk or formula residue.
- Use a bottle brush to scrub each piece individually after soaking.
Basins or Sink Bins
A clean basin or dedicated sink bin is required if used for washing baby bottles. This way, the bottles will not be exposed germs and residue in the regular kitchen sink.
How to Use:
- Fill the basin with warm, soapy water, ensuring that it’s clean and free of any food or dish residue.
- Wash each item separately using a bottle brush, making sure to clean every part thoroughly.
- Rinse the items under running water or by placing them in a second basin with clean water to rinse off the soap.
Sterilization
Steam Sterilizers
Steam sterilizers use steam to kill germs and bacteria, quite suitable for parents concerned about extra sterilization.
How to Use:
- Place the disassembled bottles and nipples in the steam sterilizer as per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Run the sterilizer, which will use hot steam to kill bacteria.
- Once the cycle is complete, remove the items carefully (they may be hot) and use various methods to dry them.
UV Sterilizers
UV sterilizers use ultraviolet light to disinfect babay bottles and accessories, which is free of chemicals when killing bacteria and viruses.
How to Use:
- Place the disassembled bottle parts inside the UV sterilizer.
- Turn the sterilizer on and let it run through its cycle to disinfect the bottles thoroughly.
- Once the cycle is complete, remove the items and store them in a clean, dry place.
Boiling Water
Boiling water is a simple, effective way to clean baby bottles and accessories when you need extra sanitation.
How to Use:
- Boil a pot of water on the stove.
- Once it’s boiling, carefully place the disassembled bottles and bottle parts into the water.
- Let them sit for 5 minutes in the boiling water.
- Carefully remove the items using clean tongs, and allow them to air-dry completely before storage.
Disinfectant Wipes (For Bottle Parts and Surfaces)
If you want to quickly sanitize your bottles and nipples between thorough washings, disinfectant wipes can be an option. Choose wipes that are safe for baby products.
How to Use:
- Wipe the outer surfaces of the bottles, nipples, and caps after they have been cleaned and dried.
- Be sure to let the surfaces air-dry before reassembling the bottles to avoid transferring germs back onto the parts.
FAQs
Are Plastic Baby Bottles Dishwasher Safe?
Most plastic baby bottles are dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Some plastics can warp or get damaged by high heat, so put them on the top rack to avoid direct heat exposure. Ensure the bottles are labeled “dishwasher safe” before washing them.
Can You Sterilize Baby Bottles in the Dishwasher?
Yes, many dishwashers have a sanitizing setting that uses high heat to kill germs, making them suitable for sterilizing baby bottles. If your dishwasher doesn’t have this feature, you can still clean the bottles well, but you may need to sterilize them further using boiling, steaming, or a UV sterilizer.
Can You Sterilize Bottle Nipples in the Dishwasher?
Yes, as long as the nipples are labeled "dishwasher safe." Place them on the top rack and use a sanitizing or hot water cycle. Separate the nipple from the bottle for better cleaning.
How Often Should You Wash Baby Bottles?
Baby bottles should be cleaned after every feeding. If your baby doesn’t finish the bottle within 2 hours, discard any leftover milk or formula and clean the bottle immediately to prevent bacteria from growing.
Do Baby Bottles Need to Be Sterilized After Every Wash?
No, sterilization after every wash is not necessary for healthy babies over 2 months old. For babies younger than 2 months, born prematurely, or with weakened immune systems, sterilizing bottles after each wash is highly recommended.
What Should You Do If Baby Bottles Come Out Cloudy After Washing in the Dishwasher?
Cloudy bottles may be caused by hard water or detergent residue. To fix this:
- Soak the bottles in a vinegar-water solution for 15–20 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
How Do You Prevent Baby Bottles From Smelling After Washing?
- Rinse bottles thoroughly before placing them in the dishwasher.
- Use a sanitizing cycle to kill bacteria that can cause smells.
- Allow bottles to air-dry completely before storing them.
Can You Reuse a Mesh Bag for Washing Baby Bottle Parts in the Dishwasher?
Yes, mesh bags can be reused for washing small baby bottle parts, as long as they are cleaned and dried after every use. Periodically inspect the bag for wear and tear and replace it if necessary.
Summary
There are lots of ways to wash baby bottles, from dishwashers to hand washing or even sterilizing with steam. No matter what method you choose, it’s all about making sure your bottles are clean and safe for your baby. A little care and the right approach can make bottle cleaning fast and easy.
