All about sterilizers & bottle warmers
Sterilizers
Newborn babies are extremely vulnerable little beings. Their immune
systems are still growing and they need extra special care and protection
from infection. Babies are protected in the womb, but when they make their
first entrance into the world they are susceptible to germs and bugs, so
it is important that everything your baby comes into contact with is
spotless, especially feeding equipment. Everything that goes into your
baby's mouth must be sterile.
Milk provides a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, so everything you
use for feeding, including breast pumps, must be sterilized on a frequent
basis. This is particularly important for bottle-fed babies.
Another useful tip is to remember to close the lids of formula milk
containers and keep them stored in a dry place so they are free from
contamination. Also, always wash your hands before starting your baby's
feed.
Bottle warmers
We have a range of different types of sterilizer available: cold water,
electric steam, microwave and travel. You should never try to sterilize
bottles in the microwave without the correct equipment, as there could be
spots that aren't properly sterile. Always follow the instructions on your
sterilizer closely.
Bottle warmers create mixed emotions: some mums and dads swear by them;
others think they are a waste of time and money. If you're a microwave
advocate, then chances are you won't want a bottle warmer. But, if you're
concerned about microwaves causing hot spots in your baby's feed, or if
you just prefer to do things 'by the book', then there we have the best
available choose from.
With only a few exceptions, they work by being filled with water that
is heated by an element, which in turn heats your baby's bottle or jar of
food. Obviously this means that the bottle comes out of the warmer
dripping wet and hot so be careful not to scald your baby. Place the
bottle in the heating chamber first and then top up with water from a jug.
Once the milk is warm, test it on the back of your hand or pulse point,
well away from your baby.
Its also worth remembering that the length of time it takes to warm a
feed depends on the amount of milk being heated, the starting temperature
(from the fridge or at room temperature) and the' consistency of the feed.
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