If you are a parent that loves to save money where you can and prefer to re-use items when possible, then this is the article for you.
Here we explain how to store your baby bottles for your next baby, so it is one less thing you have to purchase.
Storing baby bottles either in storage or at home helps the environment by recycling and saves your wallet on bottle expenses.
Follow these tips to ensure you store baby bottles correctly, so they stay in a hygienic condition.
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How To Store Baby Bottles For Your Next Baby?
If you have glass bottles, then they will need special care as they can break in storage. Wrapping the baby bottles in bubble wrap or using some baby blankets offers padding between the bottles to avoid them breaking. If you have a few stuffed animals you no longer need or want to keep for the next baby, these also make great padding for glass bottles too.
If you are using a box, ensure you place all the bottles wrapped in padding into the box first; then, if you have any gaps fill these with more bubble wrap or stuffed teddies. Label the boxes with a bright ‘fragile’ label so everyone knows to handle with care. You can keep the baby teats with the bottles, so everything is organized together.
How Do You Clean A Baby Bottle Before Storing It Long-Term?
When storing bottles long-term, you want to give them a good clean, which is easy to do in just a few steps.
Sterilize the baby bottles as you normally would, either on the stovetop with a pot or in a bottle sterilizer. Once the bottles are done, spread everything out on a clean cloth or drying rack to dry off completely.
Once everything is dry, you can put the bottle parts together, which will make storing them easier. If you would like to store the parts separately and disassembled, then there is no need to complete this step.
You will now need to sterilize the container that the bottles are going to be stored in.
If you are storing it in a cupboard, ensure that you clean it out and wipe the surfaces down with a baby-friendly natural antibacterial dishwashing liquid such as Dapple Baby, Bottle, and Dish Soap Dish Liquid.
Once fully dry, you can place the bottles in the cupboard or in the container you are storing them in. It is a good idea to use an airtight container when storing in the shed or a facility to ensure no rodents get near the bottles.
Why Do You Need To Store Bottles Properly?
Good question! Storing baby bottles the correct way along with all the gear that comes with them, like caps and formula storage cups, helps to keep them organized and ensures they are kept well sanitized and safe for use by your baby.
How Do We Store The Bottles Correctly?
It is recommended to purchase new nipples for the bottles when the next baby arrives. If the bottle has no cracks, splits, and doesn’t leak, and has no discoloration, then you can re-use it safely.
Nipples that have been well used can be a hazard for children as they can break down over time.
A lactation consultant, Ms. Pitcher Cooper, states that the flow of nipples can become bigger over time which will give newborns a faster flow which can be dangerous.
The other problem with old bottles is the fact that they can release chemicals. If you have bottles that are not BPA-free, then it is best to throw these away as they can be dangerous to a baby after a long time in storage.
You want to go for BPA-free bottles with the proper regulations. BPA is a chemical that helps to harden the plastic of bottles and aids in preventing rust and bacteria.
You can store the bottles with the lids on if they are completely dry inside and no wet parts remaining in the teat.
It is better to store bottles without the lids on as a smell can develop. You can then sterilize the bottles when you bring them out to be used again.
Dry everything thoroughly before placing it into storage, and don’t allow anything wet to be stored as this can cause mildew or mold that can easily spread and grow rapidly.
Mold and mildew will make the baby bottles and everything else stored with them unusable and dangerous to everyone’s health. If you find mold, ensure you throw the bottles away and do not use them.
Can Baby Bottles Be Stored In A Storage Facility?
It doesn’t really matter whether you store the bottles in storage or in the middle of your lounge room as long as they are cleaned and stored in something properly first.
If you are storing in a facility, you need to take consideration to look for a storage facility that offers a safe environment for your items, especially if you are storing other items with the bottles like blankets, toys, etc.
You want to ensure that the storage facility has pest control measures in place and is well equipped and secured shall there be huge downfalls of rain with no possibility of flooding in the storage cubes.
What Do I Do When I Bring The Bottles Out Of Storage?
When you are ready to use the bottles, check them over for signs of deterioration and discoloration.
Check the lids and under the teats for any mildew and the bottles themselves for any offensive smells.
It is a good idea to sterilize the bottles a few times to ensure they are thoroughly clean and clear of any nasties before giving them to your baby.
FAQ About Storing Baby Bottles for the Next Baby
Is There A Right Way To Store Bottles?
There is not just one right way to store baby bottles. As long as it’s a clean and sanitized area free of pests, then it is ok to store the bottles. As long as sanitation and safety are being followed, you can store bottles based on your wants and needs.
How Long Can Bottles Be Stored Safely For?
It is not recommended to store baby bottles when not being used for more than two years. Baby bottles can break down over time, and if your bottles are already second-hand, they shouldn’t be stored for a long period of time.