Sterilizing your baby’s bottles is an extra step on top of your regular cleaning routine that provides added protection against germs. According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are four main ways to safely sanitize your baby’s bottles: in the dishwasher, by boiling them on the stove, using an electric or microwave steam sterilizer, or—if nothing else is available—sanitizing with a diluted bleach solution.
Below, we’ll walk through when and how often to sterilize baby bottles as well as step‑by‑step instructions for each method.
How Often to Sanitize Baby Bottles
It’s good practice to sterilize all new bottles and nipples before they are used for the first time. For babies who are younger than 2 months, were born prematurely, or have a weakened immune system (because of illness or medical treatment), it’s important to sanitize feeding items at least once daily (or more often).
For older, healthy babies, handwashing bottles after each use is typically enough. You can sanitize periodically (for example, after illness, or when bottles are new) for extra peace of mind.
When in doubt about how often to sterilize baby bottles for your specific baby, check in with your pediatrician.
Clean Bottles After Every Feed
Before you sanitize, bottles and nipples should be thoroughly washed by hand. Think of sanitizing as an extra step on top of normal cleaning. It's recommended to dedicate a separate wash basin and brush for baby items only. This helps keep bottles away from food scraps and kitchen sink germs.
How to Sanitize Baby Bottles (4 Methods)
Once bottles are clean, you can choose one of 4 ways recommended by the CDC to sanitize them. You don’t need special gear, but if you prefer, there are sterilizers designed specifically to sterilize baby bottles and nipples.
Option 1: Dishwasher (With Sanitizing/Heated Dry)
A good dishwasher cycle often gives you the same benefits as a countertop bottle sterilizer, especially if it has a sanitizing option.
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Take bottles and parts apart.
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Rinse parts under running water.
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Place everything in the dishwasher (use a closed‑top basket or mesh bag for small pieces).
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Run a cycle with hot water and heated dry / sanitize.
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Wash your hands, then remove items and let them air‑dry fully if anything is still damp.
Option 2: Boiling (Stovetop Method)
Boiling is a simple way to sanitize without the need for a dedicated baby bottle sterilizer.
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Place separated bottle parts into a large pot.
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Add enough water to fully cover everything.
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Bring the water to a rolling boil and let it boil for at least 5 minutes (this answers the common “how long to sterilize baby bottles?” question for this method).
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Turn off the heat and let the water cool slightly.
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Use clean tongs to remove parts and place them on a clean towel or drying rack to air dry.
Option 3: Steam Sterilizer (Electric or Microwave)
A dedicated baby bottle sterilizer and dryer isn’t a must-have, but it can save you time:
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Follow the exact instructions for your specific model.
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Place clean, wet parts in the unit with openings facing down.
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Run the steam cycle (usually 10–15 minutes).
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Keep the lid closed until you’re ready to remove parts, so they stay clean.
Option 4: Bleach Solution (When Other Options Aren’t Available)
If you don’t have access to hot water, a dishwasher, or a steam unit, a diluted bleach solution can be a useful backup method. Always use unscented bleach and follow label directions.
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Mix 2 teaspoons of unscented household bleach into 1 gallon of water.
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Fully submerge bottles, nipples, and rings (they should be washed first).
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Make sure no air bubbles are trapped in the parts.
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Let them soak for at least 2 minutes.
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Remove with clean tongs and allow to air dry. There’s no need to rinse if you’ve used the correct dilution and allowed them to dry completely, but if anything feels or smells off, you can re‑wash with warm, soapy water and rinse well.
Drying and Storing Baby Bottles
How you dry and store bottles can also help keep germs away and reduce wear and tear. Here are some tips:
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Place clean or sanitized parts on a clean, unused dish towel or paper towel in an area protected from dust and splashes.
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Let everything air dry completely. Avoid rubbing with a dish towel, which can transfer germs.
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Wash your hands again before handling dry parts.
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Once fully dry, store bottles and parts in a clean, dry place (a closed cabinet or a dedicated bin works well).
Your Feeding Routine
Whether you’re pumping, combo feeding, or using formula, keeping bottles clean and safely sanitized is one simple way you’re taking care of your baby. You don’t need a ton of fancy equipment—just a method that fits your home, your routine, and your comfort level.
However you feed, we're here for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I replace bottles and nipples?
Plastic baby bottles should be replaced every 4-6 months. Glass bottles do not need to be replaced on a set schedule, but should be replaced at the first sign of any chips, cracks, or deep scratches.
Nipples should be replaced every 7 weeks, or sooner if you notice any:
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Tears
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Warping
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Thinning, stickiness, or discoloration
Can I sanitize Lansinoh® bottles and NaturalWave® Nipples in boiling water?
Yes. Lansinoh® bottles and NaturalWave® Nipples can be sanitized by boiling in water for five minutes. Be sure no parts are touching the bottom or sides of the pan, as this could cause warping or melting.
Can I sanitize Lansinoh glass bottles?
Yes. Our glass bottles are safe to clean in microwave‑safe steam sterilizer bags and special sterilizing machines designed for bottles. Avoid harsh chemicals or solvents—stick to gentle, baby‑safe cleaners and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any machine you use.
Do you have to sterilize baby bottles every time?
Not necessarily. You should clean bottles after every use. Daily sanitizing is especially important if your baby is under 2 months, premature, or has a weakened immune system. For older, healthy babies, careful cleaning after each use is usually enough; you can sanitize periodically for extra reassurance.
How often to sterilize baby bottles for a healthy, older baby?
There’s no single rule, but many parents sanitize when bottles are new, after illness, or once in a while as an extra “deep clean.” Your pediatrician can help you decide what makes sense for your family.
How long to sterilize baby bottles when boiling?
Once the water reaches a rolling boil, keep bottles and parts submerged for at least 5 minutes, then let them cool and air dry.
Do I need a special baby bottle washer sterilizer and dryer?
No. Dishwashing, boiling, or a basic steam bottle sterilizer all work well when used correctly. A baby bottle washer sterilizer and dryer is more about convenience than necessity.
What’s the best way to sterilize glass baby bottles?
Check the manufacturer’s directions. Many glass bottles can be boiled or steam‑sterilized. Make sure they are heat-safe, avoid sudden temperature changes, and place them carefully so they don’t knock into each other or the pot.
