How to Use a Drying Tower for Baby Bottles

By Dr Browns | Published: 2026-10-20

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to set up and use a vertical drying tower for baby bottles, sippy cups, and accessories. Includes step-by-step instructions, common mistakes, and product tips.

Quick answer

To use a drying tower for baby bottles, place the base on a flat counter, insert the central rod, then stack bottles upside-down on the pegs. The vertical design lets air circulate through each item, speeding up drying while saving counter space.

Why a drying tower works better than a flat rack

A drying tower holds bottles upright, allowing water to drip down and air to flow through the openings. This prevents moisture from pooling inside the bottle, which can happen when bottles lie on their side on a flat rack. The vertical footprint also frees up counter space for other kitchen tasks.

Which items fit best

Standard baby bottles, sippy cups, and small accessories like nipples and caps fit easily on a drying tower. The pegs are spaced to accommodate different bottle widths. Oversized or oddly shaped containers may not stay upright, so check the fit before loading.

How to set up and use your drying tower

Assemble the tower on a clean, dry counter: Place the base on a flat surface near a sink or drying area. Insert the central rod into the base until it clicks or sits firmly. Make sure the tower is stable before adding bottles. A common mistake is placing the base on a wet or uneven surface, which can cause the tower to tip over.
Wash and rinse all parts thoroughly: Clean bottles, nipples, and caps with hot soapy water or a dishwasher. Rinse well to remove any soap residue. Shake off excess water before placing them on the tower. Leaving soap residue on bottles can leave a film that traps bacteria. Always rinse until water runs clear.
Load bottles upside-down onto the pegs: Slide each bottle over a peg with the opening facing down. The peg should hold the bottle securely without forcing it. Place larger bottles on wider pegs if available. If a bottle wobbles or sits crooked, it may not dry evenly. Adjust the peg or switch to a differently sized peg.
Arrange small parts on the top or side slots: Place nipples, caps, and rings in the designated slots or on the top tier. Keep similar items together so you can find them easily when assembling bottles later. Cramming too many small parts into one slot can block airflow. Leave a little space between each item.
Let everything air dry completely: Allow bottles to sit for at least 2–3 hours, or until no moisture remains inside. The tower's open design speeds drying, but check the bottom of each bottle for trapped water. If bottles are still damp after several hours, the room may be too humid. Move the tower to a drier spot or use a fan nearby.

Product spotlight

Dr Brown's Drying Tower: The Dr Brown's Drying Tower uses a vertical stand-up design that maximizes counter space while keeping baby essentials organized. This means you can dry a full set of bottles without spreading towels across the counter, and the tower takes up less room than a traditional drying mat.
Dr Brown's Drying Tower