If you're planning on giving your baby a dummy, you'll want to ensure it is sterilised both before you first give it to them and at regular intervals.
Just like bottles, any items that are in your child's mouth should be sterilised to ensure good hygiene and avoid infection. Here are a few quick ways that you can sterilise your baby's dummies...
How to sterilise a dummy in hot water
Place the dummy in boiling water for five minutes before allowing it to cool and gently squeeze out any trapped water from the soother.
How to sterilise a dummy in the microwave
Some dummies come with steriliser boxes that are filled with water to the indicated level before popping the dummy in teat down, closing the box and heated in the microwave for around three minutes. Alternatively, you can buy microwave steriliser bags that work in a similar way.
How to sterilise a dummy in UV
Using a UV steriliser is the newest way of cleaning your baby's feeding equipment. UV sterilisers use LED lights to emit UV, killing off bacteria safely and quickly. Simple to use, all you do is pop your baby’s items into the steriliser, close it and push a button and in just a few minutes, your baby’s item will be fully sterilised. Some of our favourites include the Munchkin UV Mini Steriliser and the Nuby UK UV Steriliser.
Can you sterilise a dummy in the dishwasher?
While certain brands of dummies can be put through the dishwasher (be sure to check first!), be aware that the dishwasher will clean it but does not sterilise it.