Deciding whether to breastfeed or bottle feed your newborn baby is a decision every new mom must make. However, even if she has decided to breastfeed, at some point during her baby’s development, she will eventually begin bottle-feeding for one reason or another. This article will cover how to properly prepare your baby’s bottle once she has started bottle feeding.
Cleanliness is the key to proper bottle preparation. Everything you do during the preparation process will take this into account. This includes cleaning the preparer as well as cleaning the bottle and all associated equipment (bottle, nipple, cap and ring).
First, make sure your workspace is clean and sanitized. This can be done by first cleaning up all the debris and then cleaning the area with a disinfectant wipe or wipe. You can also spray the area with a disinfectant and then wipe it down with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Thorough hand washing should be the next step before you start handling your baby’s bottle and equipment. Use general common sense rules for handwashing. For example, use warm water and hand soap and rub vigorously. It is not necessary to use a special soap. Wash for at least 20 seconds by counting the seconds (one thousand, two thousand, etc.) or singing the “ABC” song. If necessary, use a stopwatch.
Next, wash all equipment with hot soapy water, making sure to scrub everything thoroughly. The equipment to be washed includes teats, bottles, rings and caps. You should use a bottle and nipple brush to make sure they are clean both inside and out. Be sure to rinse everything with hot water after you’ve cleaned it with soap. This will help with the disinfection process.
If you feel further disinfection is required, you can boil the entire kit in one pot. Make sure you use enough water to cover everything. Boil for a minimum of five minutes to ensure adequate disinfection. Once the boiling process is complete, wear flip-flops to remove all gear and allow everything to air dry.
If you are using disposable plastic bags, it is very important that you do not reuse them. Be sure to throw the bag away after one use. Disinfect the rest of the equipment as described above.
Ensuring proper bottle preparation is very important to your baby’s health. The number one key point to remember is cleanliness. Clean up your work area before you start, and then wash your hands thoroughly before handling your baby’s bottle and equipment. You will then be able to use proper bottle cleaning procedures as outlined in this article to always provide a clean, hygienic and safe bottle for your baby.