Feeding & Hygiene

When can you stop sterilising baby bottles?
You need to sterilise all of your feeding equipment including baby bottles after every feed until your baby is at least 12 months of age. Once your baby has reached 12 months of age, it isn't recommended that you stop sterilising your feeding equipment completely, but rather, start to phase it out to help protect your baby against illnesses from non-sterile baby bottles, teats, or other feeding items. You can find a range of baby feeding sets and sterilisers at Direct4Baby to help manage the task of keeping baby bottles clean.

How to keep baby bottles sterile when out?
It isn't expected that you'll be sitting inside all day with your baby, sterilising equipment to hand when needed. You can help to keep bottles sterile by placing them in a sterilised sealed container, though after two to four hours depending on the temperature, they will need sterilising again before use. In your home, it's best to keep your bottles in the steriliser with the lid closed. Though if the bottle is left for longer than 24 hours it is advised to sterilize a second time.

Why does my baby squirm while bottle feeding?
If your baby squirms during feeding when using a baby bottle, it may be because they are experiencing gas, and may need burping for relief. There could also be an issue with the bottle, such as the milk flowing too fast or too slow which can be affected by how tightly the teat or cap is screwed onto the bottle, or if the teat is incorrectly sized for your child. Alternatively, if they have recently been weaned, they may not have taken to the bottle yet and prefer breastfeeding.