How to Clean Dr Brown's Glass Bottles and Teats Safely
By Dr Browns | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the safe way to clean and sterilize Dr Brown's glass bottles and teats, including step-by-step instructions and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
To clean Dr Brown's glass bottles and teats safely, disassemble all parts, rinse, wash with warm soapy water, and sterilize using your preferred method. Always air-dry on a clean rack.
Why disassembly matters
Dr Brown's bottles feature an internal vent system that channels air away from the feed to help reduce colic symptoms. Milk residue can hide inside the vent and teat, so you must take the bottle completely apart before cleaning.
Glass bottles are durable but can be slippery when wet. Handle them carefully, and avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent cracking.
Choosing a sterilizing method
You can sterilize Dr Brown's glass bottles and teats using boiling water, a steam sterilizer, or a cold-water sterilizing solution. Each method works well, but follow the manufacturer's instructions for timing and water quality.
Boiling is simple and cost-effective, but be careful: glass can crack if placed in boiling water while cold. Always place the bottle in cold water and bring it to a boil, or use a sterilizer designed for baby bottles.
Step-by-step cleaning process
- Disassemble all parts: Take the bottle apart completely: remove the collar, teat, and internal vent system. Rinse each part under cool running water immediately after feeding to remove milk residue. Check that the vent parts are fully separated before washing.
- Wash with warm soapy water: Use a clean bottle brush and a mild dish soap. Scrub the inside of the glass bottle, the collar, the teat, and the vent parts. Pay special attention to the teat hole and the vent channels. Avoid using abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals that could scratch glass or damage silicone.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse every part under clean running water to remove all soap residue. Leftover soap can affect the taste of milk and irritate your baby's mouth. Ensure no suds remain in the vent system or teat.
- Sterilize using your chosen method: Place all parts in a steam sterilizer, a pot of boiling water (following safety guidelines), or a cold-water sterilizing solution. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct time. Never remove parts from boiling water with bare hands; use sterilized tongs.
- Air-dry on a clean surface: Shake off excess water and place all parts on a clean, dry drying rack or a fresh paper towel. Allow them to air-dry completely before reassembling. Do not dry with a cloth that may harbor bacteria.
- Reassemble carefully: Once dry, put the bottle back together. Make sure the vent system is correctly positioned and the teat is securely attached before use. Inspect parts for wear or damage during reassembly and replace if needed.
Products that help
- Dr Brown's Options+ Narrow Neck 250ml Single Glass Bottle with Flamingo Design: The Dr Brown's Options+ Narrow Neck 250ml Single Glass Bottle with Flamingo Design features an internal vent system that channels air away from the feed. This vent system means thorough cleaning of all parts is essential to prevent milk residue from building up and affecting performance.
Dr Brown's Options+ Narrow Neck 250ml Single Glass Bottle with Flamingo Design - Dr Brown's Narrow Neck Options+ Level 1 Teats: The Dr Brown's Narrow Neck Options+ Level 1 Teats are made from ultra-soft silicone and provide a slow, controlled flow. Soft silicone teats need gentle handling during cleaning to avoid damage that could affect flow or hygiene.
Dr Brown's Narrow Neck Options+ Level 1 Teats
