Thursday, March 16, 2023

Proper cleaning of the bottle and other baby utensils.. prevent the proliferation of harmful microorganisms in containers, toys



Proper cleaning of the bottle and other baby utensils

Breast milk offered directly to the breast is the ideal way to feed babies, but this is sometimes not possible.

Bottles are used to feed babies when it cannot be done naturally, however they require proper handling, conservation and cleaning, since they are an element that comes into direct contact with the baby and feeds her.

Similarly, all other utensils that have contact in one way or another with the baby such as toys, bottles, objects, among others, must be kept properly cleaned.

Why is it important to properly clean these utensils?

It is the only way to prevent the proliferation of harmful microorganisms in containers, toys and other objects.

Microorganisms generate diseases, compromising the health of children, especially those whose immune (protective) system is affected.

How can I do the cleaning?

Sterilization of utensils: the first time any utensil (bottle, toys, objects, among others) is going to be used, THEY MUST BE BOILED (sterilized) to eliminate all the germs present in them, even if they are completely new.

Sterilization is done as follows:

  •  Fill a large pot with water.
  •  Submerge the utensils in the water once they are clean, making sure that they are completely covered by the water.
  •  Cover the pot with a lid, place the stove over high heat until the water boils for one minute.
  •  Keep the pot covered until you need the utensils.
  •  After each use, it is not necessary to continue boiling them, although it is not bad, IT IS ENOUGH WITH A GOOD WASH WITH WATER AND SOAP.

safety precautions and protection against possible burns with hot liquids

Keep in mind that for this sterilization process, safety precautions and protection against possible burns with hot liquids must be taken. The person performing the sterilization must:
  •  Use pot holders or cloth gloves to protect your hands.
  •  Keep the pot of hot water away from your body.
  •  Ensure that the kitchen floor is clear of spilled appliances and liquids.
  •  Do not leave hot water in unsafe places, such as the edges of furniture or tables.
  •  Be aware that there is no other person around you who could cause a burn, especially a child or older adult.

Cleaning of utensils:

It is advisable to clean the different utensils that the baby uses with hot water and kitchen soap.

When washing them, the smallest areas of the objects, such as inside edges and threads, should be insisted on, because that is where residues accumulate more easily.

They should be rinsed with plenty of water to remove all the soap and left to air dry and not with a cloth.

In the case of baby bottles, clean as follows:

  •  Clean the bottle immediately after use, so that milk residue does not stick.
  •  For washing, use special bottle brushes.
  • These are very useful because they adapt to the long and narrow container and to the shape of the pacifier, allowing you to reach all the corners where waste accumulates more easily.
  •  Let the bottle dry in an airy and clean place, with each piece separately and upside down, so that the drops drain off.
  •  Store all the parts of the bottle (container, nipple, safety disc and lid) without fitting them together and when they are completely dry.

Never forget the following: it is not enough to clean the baby's utensils, it is important that the person who handles them always wash their hands very well.