How to Clean a Baby Bottle Teat Brush Properly
By Dr Browns | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to clean and maintain your baby bottle teat brush to prevent bacteria buildup and extend its life. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Rinse your teat brush immediately after every use, then wash it with hot soapy water weekly and sterilise it monthly. Replace the brush every 2–3 months or when bristles show wear.
Why regular cleaning matters
A teat brush that stays damp or holds onto milk residue can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. Even if you sterilise the bottles, a dirty brush can reintroduce germs during the next wash cycle.
Bristles that are matted or clogged with formula powder lose their ability to reach inside narrow teats and vent systems. Keeping the brush clean preserves its cleaning power and protects your baby.
When to replace your brush
No brush lasts forever. Replace your teat brush every 2–3 months, or sooner if the bristles are bent, frayed, or discoloured. A worn brush cannot scrub effectively and may harbour bacteria in damaged areas.
If you notice a persistent sour smell even after cleaning, that is a sign the brush needs replacing immediately.
How to clean your teat brush step by step
- Rinse immediately after each use: Hold the brush under hot running water and rotate the bristles to dislodge milk solids and formula residue. Pay extra attention to the centre of the bristle cluster where debris tends to collect. A common mistake is letting the brush sit in the sink. Rinse it right away so residue does not dry and harden on the bristles.
- Deep wash once a week: Fill a small bowl with hot water and a few drops of liquid dish soap. Swish the brush vigorously for 30 seconds, then rinse thoroughly under running water. Squeeze the bristles gently to remove trapped particles. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads — they can damage the bristle tips and reduce cleaning effectiveness.
- Sterilise monthly (or after illness): Submerge the brush in boiling water for 5 minutes, or run it through the dishwasher on a hot cycle. Alternatively, soak it in a sterilising solution (follow the product instructions for contact time). Boiling can warp plastic handles over time. If you use this method, limit it to once a month unless your baby has been sick.
- Air dry completely before storing: Shake off excess water and stand the brush upright in a clean cup or holder with the bristles facing up. Place it in a well-ventilated area away from the sink. Never store it while damp. Storing a wet brush in a closed drawer or container encourages mould growth. If your brush holder has a solid base, empty any pooled water daily.
Product fact
- Dr Brown's Natural Flow Vent Brushes: A small brush with big cleaning power! Keep vent inserts and reservoirs clean in any Dr Brown’s bottles with Dr Brown’s Cleaning Brushes. This multi-purpose brush is designed to reach the internal vent system that standard brushes miss, so proper care ensures it continues to clear blockages effectively.
Dr Brown's Natural Flow Vent Brushes
