Quick Answer
Baby bottles should be washed after every feed — ideally as soon as possible to prevent milk residue from drying and harbouring bacteria. Wash with hot soapy water and a dedicated bottle brush, rinse thoroughly, and allow to air dry. Sterilising is recommended for all equipment in the first 12 months, particularly for newborns and premature babies.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Baby Bottles
- Rinse immediately after feeding: As soon as the feed is finished, rinse the bottle, teat, and any other parts with cold water to remove milk residue before it dries. Do not leave milk sitting in a bottle — it creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth
- Disassemble completely: Take the bottle apart fully — bottle, teat, collar, and any valves or venting components. Milk can hide in joins and threads if parts are not separated
- Wash in hot soapy water: Use hot water and a dedicated bottle brush to scrub the inside of the bottle, the teat (inside and out), and all other components. Pay particular attention to the teat hole and any grooves or ridges where milk can collect
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse all parts under hot running water to remove all traces of soap. Soap residue can affect the taste of milk and irritate a baby's digestive system
- Air dry: Place all parts upside down on a clean drying rack or clean paper towel. Avoid drying with a cloth or tea towel, which can transfer bacteria. Do not reassemble until completely dry
- Sterilise: After washing, sterilise all bottle components before use. See below for sterilisation methods
How to Sterilise Baby Bottles
Sterilising kills bacteria that washing alone may not remove. It is recommended for all feeding equipment for babies under 12 months. There are several effective methods:
- Electric steam steriliser: The most convenient option for regular use. Sterilises in 5 to 10 minutes and keeps equipment sterile for up to 24 hours if the lid remains closed
- Microwave steam steriliser: A cost-effective alternative to an electric steriliser. Uses steam generated in the microwave to sterilise in 4 to 8 minutes
- Cold water sterilising solution: Submerge all parts in a sterilising solution (such as Milton) for at least 30 minutes. No heat required — useful when travelling or without access to a microwave
- Boiling: Submerge all parts in a large pan of boiling water for at least 10 minutes. Ensure all parts are fully submerged and check regularly that the pan does not boil dry. Note that repeated boiling can degrade teats more quickly
Dishwasher Cleaning: Is It Enough?
A dishwasher on a hot cycle can clean baby bottles effectively, but it is not a substitute for sterilising. If you use a dishwasher, place bottle parts on the top rack and run on the hottest cycle available. Always sterilise after washing, regardless of the cleaning method used.
How Often to Replace Teats
Teats degrade with use and repeated sterilising. Check teats regularly for signs of wear — discolouration, stickiness, thinning, or any cracks or tears. Replace teats at the first sign of damage, or every 4 to 8 weeks as a general rule. A damaged teat can harbour bacteria and poses a choking risk if it tears during feeding.
Tips for Keeping Bottles Clean Between Washes
- Never top up a bottle with fresh milk — always start with a clean bottle for each feed
- Discard any milk left in a bottle after a feed — do not save it for later
- Store clean, sterilised bottles in a sealed container or steriliser until needed
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling sterilised equipment
A Note on Bottle Design and Cleaning
Bottles with fewer parts and simpler designs are generally easier to clean thoroughly. The Emulait bottle is designed with this in mind — straightforward to disassemble, clean, and sterilise, with no hidden components where milk can collect undetected.
When It's Worth Checking In With Your Pediatrician
Speak to your pediatrician if:
- Your baby develops recurring digestive upsets or infections that may be linked to feeding equipment
- You have questions about sterilising practices for a premature or immunocompromised baby, who may require more rigorous hygiene protocols
Key Takeaway
Wash baby bottles after every feed with hot soapy water and a bottle brush, rinse thoroughly, air dry, and sterilise before use. Disassemble all parts completely, replace teats regularly, and never save leftover milk. Clean feeding equipment is one of the simplest and most important things you can do to protect your baby's health in the early months.
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This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your pediatrician or a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your baby's health.