Online headline:Print headline: Sterilise smart: protect your baby’s gear and your budgetTeaser:
Between feeding sessions, nap times, festive activities, hosting and all the little moments in between, your baby’s bottles, dummies, and teething toys get a real workout.They’re constantly being used, chewed on and cleaned: often several times a day. While keeping them germ-free is non-negotiable, all that washing and sterilising can take a toll, leaving items warped, sticky or brittle over time.“Bottles and other baby items go through the wringer,” says Catherine Oluwadare, brand manager for Milton. “Along with pulling, biting, and chewing, these items are also cleaned multiple times throughout the day, which can contribute to their wear and tear.”Since baby gear doesn’t come cheap, finding ways to extend its life while keeping it hygienic is key. Oluwadare offers five tips on how to sterilise smart while protecting both your baby and your budget:1. Know what you’re cleaning:Every material reacts differently to cleaning. Plastic bottles can warp under high heat, while silicone teats can become sticky. Always check the care label, it’s your best guide for choosing a method that won’t damage the item.2. Clean before you sterilise:Even the best steriliser can’t work its magic if there’s still residue on the surface. Give bottles and accessories a good wash in warm, soapy water first. This helps remove milk and dirt that could shield bacteria during sterilisation.3. Skip the heat:Boiling might seem like the ultimate deep clean, but repeated high heat can shorten the lifespan of your baby’s essentials. Instead, try gentler methods:• Warm, soapy water for daily cleaning before sterilising.• Steam sterilising with an electric or microwave steriliser for bottles and breast pump parts; but remember to check baby’s items as the heat can still cause damage over time.• Cold-water sterilising with products such as Milton is perfect for heat-sensitive items like bottles, dummies, teething rings, and toys. Trusted by parents for decades, Milton kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria – no boiling, no damage, and no electricity needed.4. Air dry, don’t wipe:After sterilising, resist the urge to grab a towel. Dishcloths can easily reintroduce germs. Instead, let items air dry naturally on a clean rack or tray.5. Don’t forget the extras:Bottles and pacifiers usually get all the attention, but don’t overlook teething toys, feeding spoons, and bath toys. Anything that goes near your baby’s mouth should be cleaned and sterilised regularly.Sterilising your baby’s items doesn’t have to mean sacrificing their quality. With a few mindful steps and the right products, you can keep bottles and toys clean, safe, and in great shape for longer. Because when it comes to your baby, peace of mind and practicality should always go hand in hand.
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