One of the most repetitive aspects of newborn care is maintaining the cleanliness of feeding equipment. One way to reduce that workload if you are pressed for time between the feeds is to learn how to sterilize bottles in the microwave. Microwave sterilizing is similar to stovetop boiling, but with the added benefit of being able to sterilize in minutes, provided you have the correct container, water level, and timing. A good bottle sterilizer makes the process even easier and more consistent. In this guide, you will learn how to safely microwave sterilize bottles, how frequently to do so, and how to put them away once they're sterilized.
Before sterilizing: Clean Bottles First
sterilizing is not an alternative to washing. All bottles must be cleaned before being placed in the microwave, as milk residue can get trapped in valves and tight spots if not cleaned. Dismantle all the components of the bottles, such as nipples, collars and valves, as thoroughly as possible, then wash each with warm, soapy water using a special bottle brush. A narrow brush reaches deep into the nipple where milk residue is likely to build up.
If hand washing isn't already challenging, Momcozy KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer can reduce the stress by washing all the parts properly before beginning the sterilization process! If the bottles are visibly clean and washed, they can proceed to the sterilizing stage.
Can I sterilize Baby Bottles in the Microwave?
Yes, microwave sterilizing is a very common practice for baby bottles – it is accomplished by generating steam in the sealed container that kills the bacteria and germs on contact. It's fast, no special appliance required, and parents have the microwave in the kitchen.
This can be done by placing a microwave-designed steam sterilizing bag or container into the microwave, or with a compact microwave sterilizer unit. Either way, it's the same concept. The water is boiled to steam, and the steam comes into contact with the bottles for a period long enough to sterilize the surface.
Is It Safe to sterilize Bottles in the Microwave?
When you follow a few basic rules, microwave sterilizing is safe. Use only microwave-safe containers and bags, always add the water level recommended on the container or bag and NEVER put a bottle in the microwave without water or without someone watching. Steam sterilizing bags and separate microwave sterilizers are built to withstand high heat and pressure, whereas a random plastic container could warp, melt or emit chemicals at high heat.
Also, always keep in mind that not all baby bottles are microwave safe, even with the right bag. Use only according to the directions of the bottle manufacturer; some materials or bottle components may not be microwave safe.
How to Use a Microwave Sterilizer
If you're wondering how do you use a microwave sterilizer, the process is more straightforward than it looks. Here are some general steps:
- Disassemble and clean bottles first. Washing all parts before sterilizing over milk residue will not completely clean the bottles.
- Add the correct amount of water. Most microwave sterilizing bags or units have an exact amount of water to be measured, which is typically a small amount added to the bottom of the bag or unit. If the water is too low, the steam will not be generated as it should, and if the water level is too high, it will overflow.
- Arrange bottles and parts loosely. Do not overcrowd and place bottles upside down, as well as nipples, collars, and valves. Steam requires space to flow around all the surfaces.
- Seal the bag or close the sterilizer. Follow the manufacture's sealing procedures, as a poor seal will allow steam to escape, reducing effectiveness.
- Microwave on high for the recommended time. This is usually about 90 seconds to 3 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave and the instructions of the sterilizer.
- Let it cool before opening. The bag or container will be very hot, and steam can cause burns if released too quickly. Give it a few minutes before carefully opening.
- Air dry or use a built-in drying function. Some sterilizers have a drying stage to stop bottles from getting damp and so bringing back bacteria.
This is a general process that will address both how to use a microwave sterilizer and how to microwave sterilize bottles with a bag-based method. However, if you prefer not to measure water and time your baby's feeding by trial and error, an infant bottle sterilizer and dryer such as Momcozy 4-in-1 Compact Bottle sterilizer and Dryer is designed to make things easier, as it sterilizes and dries bottles in a single device, instead of putting bottles in the drying rack after the first step.
Why You Shouldn't Microwave Baby Bottles Directly
It can be easier to avoid the bag or the sterilizer and simply place a bottle directly into the microwave, but this is not a safe way to save time. Without steam from water, a dry bottle won't heat up evenly or be able to kill bacteria effectively. Some plastics may warp or emit chemicals when put directly in the microwave, even if they can be microwaved, and the warning on the label does not mean it is safe to microwave.
Also, there is a risk of burning. Hot spots are a potential problem with water or milk heated directly in a bottle in the microwave, and can occur in any bottle in which liquid is heated in the microwave, not just when it is used for sterilizing. Therefore, microwave sterilizing must always be done in a correct steam bag or a dedicated microwave sterilizer, not just in a plain bottle and microwave.
How to Store Bottles After sterilizing
The storage of bottles is as important as the sterilizing process, after they have been rendered sterile. Bottles should be kept sealed in the sterilizing bag or sterilizer unit until used, as this will prevent them from being exposed to airborne bacteria and dust. If removed, put bottles on a clean, dry surface or a special drying rack; do not let your hands touch the inside of the bottle or nipple.
Wait until the pieces are dry before reassembling them to ensure that moisture is not trapped and can cause the growth of bacteria, or use a bottle sterilizer that has a drying cycle.
How Long Do Bottles Stay Sterile After sterilizing?
Most sterilizers will ensure that bottles remain sterile for 24 hours if they are stored in the sterilizer, bottle bag or a clean, covered area. That sterility window is reduced once opened and when exposed to air, due to the bottles no longer being protected from the bacteria in the environment. sterilizing before each feed is a good idea if a bottle has been left out and open for more than a few hours, as it is not assumed to be sterile.
How Often Should You sterilize Baby Bottles?
For most babies, daily bottle sterilization should be sufficient, particularly once past the newborn phase when babies' immune systems are still maturing. Some parents choose to sterilize all bottles on the first day of the day and wash thoroughly between feeds after that. Further guidelines may be given for babies under 2–3 months, premature babies and babies with weakened immune systems, and more frequent sterilizing (e.g. after use) is recommended as an additional precaution.
Your pediatrician is always the best person to give you advice specific to your baby's health, particularly if your baby was born early and/or has any health issues at this time.
FAQs
What is the easiest way to sterilize bottles?
One of the quickest and easiest methods is microwave sterilizing, which does not require boiling water on the stove or waiting for a big sterilizer to complete a cycle. It takes only a few minutes to sterilize a complete set of bottles using a compact microwave sterilizer or microwave steam bag.
Is 5 minutes enough to sterilize baby bottles?
Most microwave sterilizing methods require only 90 seconds to 3 minutes, so 5 minutes is usually sufficient, but it will depend on the wattage of your microwave and the instructions of the microwave sterilizer manufacturer. Use the number that is given with your sterilizing bag or unit and not a generic number for all microwaves.
How can I sterilize baby bottles without using a sterilizer?
The most common alternative is boiling: the bottles and parts are completely immersed in boiling water for about 5 minutes. Or steam sterilize in a basket that may be placed on the hob, but not in a microwave. In either case, ensure that the material of the bottles is rated for that sterilizing method first.
Does the CDC recommend sterilizing baby bottles?
Only sterilize bottles at the end of the day for healthy babies who are full term, but more frequently for babies who are at higher risk, such as those who are newborns or have weakened immune systems, says the CDC. Discuss it with your child's physician about what they recommend for your baby.
Do pediatricians recommend sterilizing baby bottles?
In the first few months, bottles should be sterilized on a regular basis; after the baby is a bit older, bottles should be washed thoroughly. The recommendations are based on the baby's individual health and should be discussed with the child's personal pediatrician.
What age should I stop sterilizing baby bottles?
There is no universal rule, and most parents change to regular cleaning rather than sterilizing after 2-3 months. Some paediatrician suggest further reducing the use of sterilizers when a baby starts crawling around at around 6 months and picks up more of the germs they find around themselves. Never assume the age as a guideline for timing; always consult your pediatrician.
Is it better to boil or sterilize baby bottles?
The actual comparison is between the use of boiling water and other sterilizing techniques such as microwave or electric steam sterilizing. Boiling works, but it requires a pot to be placed on the burner; microwave or electric sterilizers tend to be quicker and less hands-on. All three methods are effective if applied properly.
What is the safest way to sterilize baby bottles?
As long as it is carried out properly, boiling, steam, microwave or an electric sterilizer is safe. The key factors are to use equipment that is suitable for bottles, to adhere to the manufacturer's instructions carefully and to ensure that bottles are completely clean prior to the beginning of the sterilizing stage.
Can you use a microwave sterilizer for breast pump parts?
Some microwave sterilizers will also work for breast pump parts, provided they are labelled as microwave-safe and will fit inside the sterilizer. Please refer to the pump manufacturer's instructions and the sterilizer's instructions first; the pump may have different parts, such as some silicone valves or membranes, which require special care.
Conclusion
With the knowledge of how to sterilize bottles in the microwave, it's no longer a stressful process in your feeding routine, but one of the quickest. The same steps are followed: wash bottles well before use, put the correct amount of water in a microwave-safe container or bag and use the suggested cooking time, and allow bottles to cool and dry after cooking before placing them in storage. Whether you're using a steam bag, a washer like the Momcozy KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer to simplify cleaning, or an all-in-one option like the Momcozy 4-in-1 Compact Bottle Sterilizer and Dryer, the goal is the same: safe, sterile bottles with less effort on your part.
