Resolved question:
I bought brand new Dr. Brown's plastic bottles for my 7 month old daughter and plastic sippy cups. I was wondering if I need to sterilize the bottles by boiling them and all the other plastic parts-at least for the first use. I don't have a sterilizer but I do have a dishwasher. I'm concerned about the chemicals in the plastic leeching.
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Infectious Disease Specialist
Dear Parent,
Thank you for your consult at DoctorSpring.com. I can understand your concerns. We generally do not recommend BOTTLE feeding because of the exact risks that concern you.
Ideally, all bottles need to be cleansed in hot water (near-boiling) for nearly 20 minutes to free them from germs. But, unfortunately, most of these plastics do not withstand the heat well. This is of particular concern with the 'plastic nipples'; they seem to leech earlier. Leeching makes the plastic surface uneven and makes it easier for the germs to stick on. Hence, (in an ideal world) I would altogether do away with BOTTLE feeding, if that is possible. You can use the cup and spoon or even the sipper, that seems to be easier to clean/maintain.
If you think that you cannot do away with bottles, you can use them with the above method of cleaning. That procedure needs to be carried out at least once every day. Adequate hygiene with bottles is easier said than done.
Regards
Dr. Saptharishi L G
The above question was old-sorry. I had a pedicure today and the manicurist was using a tool that cuts cuticles. The cuticle on my toe started to bleed. She sprayed and wiped it with alcohol. Should I be concerned about contracting infectious diseases? She said they clean their tools. Please advise. Thanks.
Hello.
The same query has just been answered in your other consult. If you have any other query, you can post it in the follow-up.
Thank you.