Baby bottle sterilizer: tips and best models to buy
Pediatricians, nurses and midwives are all unanimous: the sterilization of baby bottles is optional and is no longer imposed as a few years ago. However, in some cases it can be useful to sterilize baby bottles and other baby accessories. For example, items such as breast pumps, tight-necked nipples, pacifiers or chew items are not always easy to clean and sometimes not enough. not even a pipe cleaner.
In terms of sterilization, the classic basic method remains the pot of boiling water, in which the accessories to be sterilized are immersed for about 20 minutes. For lack of time or to ensure impeccable hygiene, other more practical methods allow you to sterilize the bottles in a very short time. Let's find out together!
Two main types of devices coexist among sterilizers: electric sterilizers and microwave sterilizers. In both cases, sterilization takes place by steam: the bottles are placed in a device or container for a certain period of time and there the "oven" effect destroys the pathogens that can develop in the event of milk residues in the corners of the bottle or teats.
If you are looking for an effective sterilization tool, here is the comparison of the best models to help you make the right choice: these sterilizers are the most quoted and the most loved by parents!
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Philips Avent: microwave sterilizer
Practical and very easy to use, this sterilizer by Philip Avent works with steam and only and exclusively in the microwave. It can sterilize bottles and accessories in just 2 minutes at maximum power.
Features:
- Capacity: 4 bottles or 2 bottles + 2 breast pumps
- Sterilization: cycle from 2 to 6 minutes depending on the microwave power
- Lightweight and compact + carrying handles
- Compatible with most microwave ovens
- Product dimensions: 28 x 28 x H 16.6 cm
Our opinion:
Convenient for travel and vacations, this model fits most microwaves and has two side handles for easy carrying. It can sterilize a maximum of 4 bottles at a time, but in a record time of 2 minutes (at full power).
Tommee Tippee: electric steam sterilizer
Tommee Tippee's electric sterilizer looks like a steamer and offers a quick sterilization cycle in just 5 minutes. Designed with two interlocking stages, it can sterilize many items in one cycle.
Features:
- Capacity: 6 bottles + accessories
- Easy to use: automatic start and stop button
- Compatible with all brands of bottles and breast pumps
- Sterilization guaranteed 24 hours after the end of the cycle (lid closed)
- Rapid sterilization cycle: average duration of 5 minutes
- 2 stackable baskets: level for bottle + level for accessories
- Device dimensions: L 22.8 x W 35 x H 27.1 cm
Our opinion:
A large model that may seem imposing, but is instead very practical to store in the kitchen. The two phases allow the sterilization of many items in one go and for a duration of only 5 minutes. For even greater safety, you can put the bottles in a closed food container in the refrigerator and avoid any contact with already cold food and dishes.
Buy it on Amazon for 49.99 euros!
Chicco SterilNatural: 3 in 1 sterilizer
The Chicco 3-in-1 sterilizer is a functional electric steam model. All in one, it combines an electric sterilization mode (full or compact) and a microwave mode. Convenient for parents who need both sterilization systems.
Features:
- Cycle time: 5 to 8 minutes
- Adjustment: digital LCD display
- Automatic shutdown button
- Digital hot electric sterilizer.
- Complete version with 2 levels: 6 baby bottles + places for pacifiers
- Compact version: sterilization of accessories, pacifiers or parts of a breast pump
- Microwave version: 3-minute cycle, maximum power (1000 watts)
- Product size: 42 x 48 x 12cm
Our opinion:
This model has the advantage of offering 3 insertable formats, so as to be able to sterilize multiple bottles and accessories at the same time, or just teats / pacifiers. The microwave function can be used when going on vacation.
Buy it on Amazon for 41.99 euros!
Babymoov Turbo Steam Plus: 2 in 1 sterilizer
This Babymoov turbo + electric steam sterilizer has a cylindrical shape and is therefore narrower than the other models. The bottles are positioned on branches equipped with steam wands, which ensure optimal sterilization even on the bottom of the objects.
Features:
- Cycle duration: 10 minutes
- Automatic cycle end and acoustic signal
- 6 branches for the bottles
- 6 sprigs for the caps
- 6 double branches for pacifiers and rings
- Removable branches to place other items (breast pumps, pacifiers, etc.)
- Wafer included to pour the necessary water
- Removable central part with tray: convertible bottle dryer
- Product dimensions: L 27 x D 25 x H 35 cm
Our opinion:
An original shape that saves space and allows bottles to be hung on branches. The steam nozzles placed at the end of each branch of the Babymoov ensure effective cleaning of the bottom of the bottles. The central part of the product is equipped with a tray, which can be used as a drip tray.
Buy it on Amazon for 44 euros!
Philips Avent: 4-in-1 electric steam sterilizer
The Philip Avent 4-in-1 sterilizer combines the washing and sterilization system in one device, with a fast cycle time of 6 minutes. Suitable for all childcare items that may require sterilization, the device is supplied with a dishwasher-safe accessory basket.
Features:
- Power: 650W
- Duration of a sterilization cycle: 6 minutes + automatic switch-off
- On-screen digital display: cycle progress and cooling time
- Compatible with most bottles (narrow or open neck)
- Capacity: up to 6 bottles of 330 ml
- Three formats: compact / medium / large
- Compact size: pacifiers / small accessories / cups
- Medium size: breast pumps, baby dishes, knives, forks, jars
- Large format: 6 bottles + teats
- Dishwasher basket for easy pre-cleaning of bottles and accessories
- Product dimensions: L 29 x W 16 x H 35 (L x W x H)
Our opinion:
The stations are large and allow you to place both bottles and accessories. On a countertop, it can be easily stored lengthwise in a corner. The dishwasher basket allows you to pre-wash small items (pacifiers, caps, pacifiers, etc.). Its size may cause some humidity on the elements, but all you have to do is leave the accessories a little longer. The presence of water does not affect the effectiveness of the sterilization.
Buy it on Amazon for € 71.99!
MAM Easy Start: 6 in 1 sterilizer and water heater for children
This model of the MAM brand has been awarded for its safety (European Safest Product Award 2019) and its innovative performance. Functional and compact, this MAM device combines an electric and microwave sterilizer as well as a bottle warmer. It is compatible with all brands of bottles on the market and, included in the price, 2 anti-colic bottles and pacifiers for babies. It is the most complete model!
Features:
- Compatible with all bottle sizes and models
- The package contains: 2 MAM Easy Start anti-colic baby bottles of 160 ml, 2 MAM Start pacifiers for babies, a forceps to grasp the elements
- Cycle time: 5 minutes
- Total capacity: 6 bottles + 5 teats
- Electric steam sterilizer + microwave
- Pacifier type: Orthodontic Skin Soft silicone model suitable for newborns
- Compact design and convenient to stack
- Easy to remove lid, which can then be used to drain items
- Express or delicate bottle warmer for breast milk
- Heating mode: small jars, bottles
- Defrost mode
- Keep warm function
- Device dimensions: H16.5cm x diameter 28cm
- Included: Electric sterilizer and microwave sterilizer, Express bottle warmer, electric base, 2 MAM Easy Start 160ml bottles, 2 MAM Start pacifiers, 1 forceps
Our opinion:
A model that will please you for its versatility. The keep warm and warm function can help when the baby is breastfeeding. This device obviously allows you to sterilize any type of accessory as needed: breast pumps, caps, pacifiers, chew toys. An average price for an above average device!
Buy it on Amazon for 120 euros!
Milton: 28 sterilizing tablets
The tablets for sterilization are sodium hypochlorite tablets that allow you to cold sterilize accessories for children. Simply immerse the items to be sterilized in a container containing the tablet dissolved in cold water and leave to soak for the indicated time, approximately 30 minutes. The only drawback is that a slight chlorine odor may persist after sterilization. Convenient for travel, these tablets are safe for your baby's health.
In general, the sterilization capacity depends on the size of the tank and the number of tablets. This is a longer method, but it helps if you can't sterilize your accessories in a microwave or electric device. Sterilization is guaranteed 24 hours after completion, provided that the sterilized accessories do not come into contact with other elements or are rinsed.
Buy it on Amazon for 9.99 euros!
Even 30 years ago, many health and hygiene professionals asked parents to thoroughly sterilize bottle components (teats and bottles) in order to destroy all germs and bacterial agents on their surfaces. In fact, bacterial proliferation is particularly rapid in the case of powdered milk or breast milk residues in bottles or teats. This recommendation is now optional: the child's immune system is in fact strengthened by the gradual exposure to bacteria and an excessively sanitized environment could lead to a greater sensitivity to allergies and infections.
However, it is advisable to proceed with a meticulous cleaning of the accessories and bottles after each use, for obvious reasons of hygiene but also to avoid infections:
> Cleaning after each use: immerse objects (baby bottles, pacifiers, etc.) in hot soapy water, then scrub carefully using a brush, sponge and, if necessary, toothbrushes. Remember to change your brushes and sponges regularly. Let everything dry on a clean cloth, with the bottle upside down.
> Sterilization: to thoroughly clean the tightest teats, make sure there are no milk residues on the bottom of the elements and to sterilize the baby's new purchases that may come into contact with his mouth (pacifiers, cutlery, jars, cups) .
> The case of breast pumps: disinfection helps prevent irritation and nipple infections, which we may tend to overlook.
> Sterilization in case of infectious disease: if the child is subject to regular infections and is often in contact with other children, this is a precaution to be taken with absolute urgency.
Sterilization destroys all germs and bacteria present on a tool, container, device or any other object. In the case of childcare, the bottle sterilizer has the purpose of eliminating germs, microbes and any residues present in the interstices and on the bottom of the baby accessories.
During the first few months of life, newborns have a weak immune system, which strengthens over the months. Gradual exposure to daily bacterial agents helps children build up their natural immune defenses. Indeed, many scientists agree that "too much" hygiene is neither useful nor beneficial for children, who, on the other hand, need be in contact (very gradually) with various potential pathogens.
This consent must obviously be considered according to the situation and it is obviously essential a "careful disinfection of the elements that come into contact with the baby's mouth. After each use, bottles and teats must be washed and rubbed with hot water and soap, while the sterilization can complete this cleaning for added safety.
Previously highly recommended by pediatricians and child care specialists, the sterilizer is now optional. In fact, meticulous washing with a pipe cleaner with warm soapy water can theoretically destroy most of the germs in bottles and teats. However, by choice and sometimes for health safety reasons, some parents prefer to continue to sterilize the containers before feeding the baby with the bottle:
> To disinfect some accessories that are more difficult to clean: breast pumps, pacifiers, narrow teats, cups, containers for powdered milk
> When the infant is often in contact with other children or regularly shares the same living space with small children: nanny, nursing home, alternate care, etc.
> When the child has already had or suffers from an infectious disease, to avoid any potential contamination
> For the same hygienic reason, when the child is sick and is entrusted to a collective structure (maternal assistant, nursery, etc.)
> To eliminate the slightest residue of milk or bacterial agent, especially if it is breast milk.
> For reasons of hygiene and in order not to take risks: frequent trips, holidays, pacifiers with tight corners, pandemic situation, etc ...
There are 4 sterilization methods for baby bottles, all of which are effective, provided they are used correctly.
> Classic sterilization with boiling water: simply immerse the bottle and the teat in a saucepan of boiling water (for 20 minutes) before use or in the refrigerator (in this case, sterilization is only guaranteed 24 hours). items must be removed from the bathroom using forceps, without touching them directly.
> Microwave sterilization: the accessories and objects are placed in a closed plastic container in which a little water is poured, before turning on the microwave for 2-6 minutes depending on the model. The items remain sterile for 24 hours provided that the lid of the sterilizer is closed.This type of sterilization is efficient and fast and is performed by steam.A microwave sterilizer can usually sterilize 4 to 6 bottles at a time.
> Electric steam sterilization: these are larger models, sometimes with more stages and with heating functions. The material is placed in a tank containing water, before being closed during the cycle. Practical and complete, this type of device is a little more expensive but can sterilize at least 6 bottles and accessories at the same time, without having to monitor the water or the temperature. Another advantage is that some models also act as a bottle warmer and combine a "microwave" mode. Furthermore, some devices are programmable.
> Cold sterilization: disinfection is carried out using sodium hypochlorite-based sterilization tablets to sterilize accessories for children without the need to heat the water. It is sufficient to immerse the objects in a container filled with cold water with the tablet (s), practical when traveling or on vacation. The soaking time varies from brand to brand (on average 30 minutes). The only drawback: a slight chlorine odor may persist after soaking. It is a longer method, but inexpensive and can be purchased at any pharmacy or on the Internet.
How to choose and use the baby sterilizer?
> Stationary or nomadic: for mobile use, opt for microwave-only models, often compact in size. For daily use, use electric or combined sterilizers.
> Multiple functions: some devices offer a bottle warmer function, as well as some robot cookers for babies offer sterilization. Brands are doubling their inventiveness to offer increasingly versatile models. It is up to you to determine your needs in advance!
> Dimensions of the device: as soon as the baby arrives, the space available in the house becomes an important factor. Considering the amount of purchases necessary for the little ones, give priority to practicality and ease of storage!
> Sterilization capacity: if there is only one child in the house, a model with a capacity of 4 to 6 bottles will suffice. For a large family, with 2 or more small children in the house, you will have to choose between two compact models or a large format (9 bottles and more).
> Duration required for sterilization: The duration of the microwave cycles varies according to the brands and especially the power of the microwave. Wait 2 to 6 minutes for microwave sterilization and 6 to 15 minutes for an electric model.
> Price and delivery: the cheapest method remains the pot of boiling water, but at the rate of several bottles a day, this system can prove too slow and cumbersome over time (and complicated at night). Sterilization tablets cost around 6 euros for a pack of 30. An inexpensive alternative if you are going on a trip, but perhaps not for everyday use. A microwave sterilizer costs between 15 and 60 euros. A good electric sterilizer is sold at a price ranging from 60 to 90 euros. All models presented in our article have free shipping.
The use of demineralized water in the tanks prevents the formation of product deposits.
For a deep cleaning: brush the device with white vinegar, before rinsing thoroughly with hot water. At the end of the cycle, grab the bottles from the outside or with pliers and soak them in an airtight plastic container in the refrigerator. Never clean accessories with cloths, as this will make sterilization unnecessary.
