Types of steriliser
Use the following list of pros and cons to help parents determine which method of sterilisation will be most suitable for them.
Methods of sterilisation
Sterilising by boiling
- Inexpensive
- All they need is a hob and a suitable pan dedicated to sterilising
- Good option if they’re breastfeeding and for expressed milk bottles
Cons:
- Supervision is required while the water is boiling
- Safety issue of pans of boiling water
- Slowest method of sterilising
Cold water sterilising
- Inexpensive
- Good option when they’re travelling
- Items remain sterile for 24 hours if kept in the solution with the lid on
- They can easily sterilise other items, for example teething rings
Cons: requires the use of sterilising liquids or tablets and rinsing with boiled water
Microwave steam sterilising
- Requires no sterilising liquids or tablets or rinsing
- The quickest way to sterilise, takes just 5-10 minutes
Cons:
- More expensive; metal items cannot be sterilised in a microwave
- Microwave sterilisers tend to hold fewer bottles than electric sterilisers and they may not stay sterile for as long as with other methods
- May require occasional de-scaling, depending on the hardness of the water
Electric steam sterilising
- Requires no sterilising liquids, tablets or rinsing
- Fast, takes 8-10 minutes
Cons: More expensive, needs de-scaling on average once a month.