Cleaning baby bottles can be a hassle, but using your dishwasher can make the process quick, easy, and hygienic—as long as you do it the right way! Here’s a step-by-step guide to loading your dishwasher with baby bottles for a safe and effective wash.
Step 1: Check If Your Bottles Are Dishwasher-Safe
Not all baby bottles can handle the dishwasher’s high heat. Before loading, check:
✔ The manufacturer’s instructions on the bottle or packaging.
✔ If they are BPA-free and labeled as dishwasher-safe.
✅ Most glass and high-quality plastic bottles are safe for the dishwasher.
Step 2: Disassemble All Parts
To ensure a deep clean, separate all the parts:
✔ Bottles
✔ Nipples
✔ Collars/rings
✔ Caps
✔ Vents (if using anti-colic bottles like Dr. Brown’s)
✅ Why? If left assembled, milk residue and bacteria can get trapped inside.
Step 3: Place Small Parts in a Dishwasher Basket
Small items like nipples and vents can get lost or damaged. To keep them secure:
✔ Use a dishwasher-safe basket or a mesh bag.
✔ Place the basket on the top rack to protect soft silicone parts from high heat.
Step 4: Load the Bottles on the Top Rack
✔ Always place bottles on the top rack to avoid warping from high heat.
✔ Angle them downward to allow water and detergent to reach inside.
✔ Avoid overcrowding—space them out so water can circulate properly.
✅ Tip: If your dishwasher has a “bottle wash” feature, use it for extra cleaning power!
Step 5: Use a Baby-Safe Detergent
✔ Choose a mild, fragrance-free detergent to avoid harsh chemicals.
✔ Skip the heated drying cycle to prevent melting or warping.
✅ Tip: Use the “sanitize” setting if available—it uses extra heat to kill bacteria.
Step 6: Air Dry Completely
✔ After the wash, place bottles, nipples, and parts on a clean drying rack.
✔ Let them air dry fully before storing to prevent mold or bacteria growth.
🚫 Avoid using a dish towel, as it can introduce germs.
Final Thoughts
Loading baby bottles in the dishwasher the right way saves you time while ensuring they’re germ-free and safe for your baby. Just remember:
✅ Disassemble everything before washing.
✅ Use the top rack and a secure basket for small parts.
✅ Use a baby-safe detergent and avoid harsh chemicals.
By following these steps, you’ll get perfectly clean baby bottles—no scrubbing required!