Sterilizing

momo214

I've been pumping while my poor damaged nips heal so using bottles and pump parts regularly. I got a side eye from my MIL for not having a microwave sterilizer for the bottles (and a bottle warmer, and a diaper warmer...). I normally just wash my parts and bottles in super hot soapy water after each use and air dry. Is sterilizing necessary? Thoughts?

ho11yday

You are fine. Heck, some people put their pump parts in a bag in the fridge and only wash them daily.

deanna1313

Tell your Mother in law that it is recommended to not use a bottle warmer for breast milk anyway. Can't remember why, but my lactation consultant said not to.

As far as the sterilizing goes. I wouldn't worry about it. Sounds like you are cleaning them well.

SweetTea420

I sterilize new bottles and pump parts before I first use them. After that I wash with hot and soapy water.

I am guilty of putting my pump parts in the fridge and only washing them once or twice daily.

SMM1986

I sterilize once in a while. When I pump I put the parts in the fridge.

spinsoffresonance

I pumped at work for 6 months, never sterilized just washed with hot water or in the dishwasher.

ns1

I only sterilized new bottles. When I pumped for work with DD I put parts in the fridge between pumps, and then I only used the dishwasher at night.

I figure sterilizing is only needed if baby has some health issues that necessitate it.

momo214

Thanks for the feedback. I did sterilize everything prior to use. And I had no idea about putting parts in the fridge! What a great idea!! No more washing parts during the night! That'll maybe give me 5-10 more of sleep.

likeabel

If they're that important, she can buy them for you!