If you’re switching between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, MAM baby bottles are a popular choice with their breast-like nipples for easy latching. But something every bottle-feeding parent wants to know is whether MAM bottles are dishwasher safe? After all, you don’t want to spend more time at the kitchen sink cleaning bottles when you could be playing with your baby!
All MAM bottles and parts can be washed in the dishwasher. The manufacturers recommend only using the top rack of the dishwasher. MAM bottles and parts shouldn’t be washed at a temperature lower than 65°C. These bottles can also be cleaned in the microwave or bottle sterilizer.
Methods of sterilizing baby bottles
Here are the best ways to clean and sterilize infant baby items including feeding bottles.
Using a dishwasher
If your baby bottle is dishwasher-safe, you can breathe a sigh of relief! This is one of the most convenient methods for washing and sterilizing baby bottles. When using the dishwasher for bottles and nipples, always place them on the upper rack.
Place parts inside a mesh laundry bag or dishwasher basket to keep them together during a wash cycle. Baby bottle manufacturers recommend washing at a temperature of 65°C for hygienic purposes. Running the heated dry cycle and sanitization setting is ideal for sterilizing bottles.
Using a (steam) sterilizer
Sterilizing bottles with steam is another method used for sanitization. Steam sterilizers can be plugged into an electric source or used in the microwave. Water is added to the sterilizer before the sterilizer is turned on. This water heats up, turning into steam which kills any bacteria in the bottle and parts.
The bottle must be disassembled, with all parts separated, and cleaned before being placed in the steam sterilizer. When placing in the sterilizer, make sure there’s enough space between all the parts to ensure proper sanitization.
Using hot water
A common and easy method used for sterilizing baby bottles is placing them in hot water. The bottle and disassembled parts need to be cleaned before putting them into a saucepan on the stovetop. Cover with water, making sure the bottles and parts are fully submerged. Bring the water to a boil.
When the bottles and parts have been boiled for five minutes, switch off the stove and leave the feeding equipment in the water to cool down. Remove and air dry on a rack before using for the next feed..
Using a liquid sterilizing solution
Using a liquid sterilizing solution such as bleach and water is another method of sanitizing baby bottles. Place two teaspoons of bleach into the water and fully submerge the bottle and parts (which must be disassembled before being placed in the solution.) Leave to soak for two minutes.
When done soaking, remove the bottles and parts from the solution using tongs and place them on a rack or paper towel to air-dry. Never rinse or use a dishcloth as germs could be reintroduced.
Using MAM self-sterilizing bottles
The MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Bottle comes with a self-sterilizing feature, making them one of the easiest baby bottles to clean. There’s no need to use bottle sterilizers or the dishwasher with this baby bottle. All you have to do is follow a few simple steps, place the bottle in the microwave, and in three minutes it’s sterilized and ready for the next feed!
This simple method of sterilizing baby bottles makes feeding a newborn a breeze, whether you’re at home, traveling, or visiting the grandparents for the night. What better way to take the stress out of newborn feeding with this unique easy cleaning method?
Watch this video which demonstrates how to use the self-sterilizing feature of the MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic bottle.
How to wash MAM bottles using a dishwasher
If you’re going to use a dishwasher to wash and sterilize your baby bottles, choose the right one to do the job. Some of the best dishwashers for your baby bottles include the following features:
- Adjustable racks and dishwasher baskets for smaller items.
- A child lock to prevent curious fingers from opening the appliance!
- Control buttons at the top for easy operation while being out of reach from smaller children.
- Automatic air circulation for drying the items at the end of the wash cycle.
- Baby care wash cycle for extra sanitization.
One of the most popular units is this Farberware portable countertop unit you see below which you can get also at Walmart.
Use the following steps when washing and sterilizing MAM baby bottles in the dishwasher.
1. Disassemble bottles and parts
Before cleaning the bottle, you need to take apart the bottle and all its parts. This includes the ring, cap, valves, and nipples. If you attempt to wash the bottle while still assembled it won’t clean properly.
2. Rinse bottles and parts
Give the bottles and parts a good rinse under running tap water to remove milk residue in parts such as the teats, threads, and bottom of the bottle. Cold or warm water is adequate at this stage.
3. Use a nipple brush
If you want to make sure milk residue has been removed from the teat before placing it in the dishwasher, use a nipple brush. The OXO Tot Bottle Brush With Nipple Cleaner and Stand works well for cleaning nipples and bottles.
4. Use a dishwasher basket
To prevent the bottle parts from getting thrown around and lost during a wash cycle, place them inside a dishwasher basket for baby bottles. The bottles can also be safely stored in baskets designed to hold them while being washed in the dishwasher.
5. Place inside the dishwasher
Place the bottles and parts on the top rack of the dishwasher. This is done to minimize the risk of baby bottles and nipples turning yellow or orange from food leftovers on dirty dishes in the dishwasher. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents with abrasive chemicals as this will shorten the lifespan of your baby bottles.
6. Run hot water cycle
Switch on the dishwasher and select a hot water cycle. Baby bottle manufacturers recommend a temperature of at least 65°C. If the appliance comes with a baby care wash, select that option. This often includes a sanitization setting which is important for removing germs efficiently.
7. Remove from the dishwasher
Before removing the bottles and parts from the dishwasher, wash your hands with soap and water. If the feeding items aren’t completely dry, place them on a rack or paper towel to air-dry before storing them away.
Conclusion
All MAM baby bottles, including their glass range, can be safely washed in the dishwasher. This makes life as a parent so much easier! You’ll also be glad to know that MAM bottles do fit in all Tommee Tippee sterilizers if your dishwasher doesn’t include a sanitization setting.
Keep life simple and begin feeding your newborn with the MAM Easy Start Anti-Colic Bottle with its unique self-sterilizing feature.
Then transition to the MAM Easy Active Bottles or MAM Feel Good Glass Bottles which are both dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning and sterilization.
Last update on 2024-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
