You can sterilise a baby soother by boiling it in water.
Here's a breakdown of how to sterilise a baby soother effectively using the boiling method:
Boiling Method:
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Prepare a clean saucepan: Fill a small, clean saucepan with enough water to completely submerge the soother. Tap water is generally fine.
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Submerge the soother: Place the soother into the water. Ensure it's fully submerged to ensure even sterilisation.
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Boil the water: Cover the saucepan with a lid. Heat the water on the stove until it reaches a rolling boil.
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Boil for the appropriate time: Once boiling, continue to boil the soother for 5-10 minutes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions if available, as some materials may require shorter boiling times. Over-boiling can damage some soothers.
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Cool down safely: Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the water and the soother to cool completely before handling.
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Dry on a clean surface: Once cooled, remove the soother from the water and place it on a clean, unused tea towel or a sterilised drying rack to air dry. Avoid using a towel that could introduce new germs.
Important Considerations:
- Material Compatibility: Check the soother's packaging for specific sterilisation instructions. Some soothers may not be suitable for boiling.
- Inspect for Damage: Before and after sterilising, inspect the soother for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears. Discard the soother if you find any damage.
- Cooling Time: Allow the soother to cool completely before giving it to your baby to prevent burns.
- Frequency: Sterilise new soothers before their first use. Afterwards, sterilise frequently, especially for newborns and babies with compromised immune systems. Consult your pediatrician for specific recommendations.
Why Sterilise?
Sterilising baby soothers helps to kill harmful bacteria and germs that can cause illness, especially in young babies whose immune systems are still developing.
