Choosing the right bottle for your newborn can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. Between the overwhelming array of shapes, materials, and marketing claims, it’s easy to become paralyzed by the pressure of making the “perfect” choice for your tiny, milk-dependent human. You’re not just buying a container; you’re selecting a tool that will be central to countless intimate feeding moments, potentially impacting comfort, digestion, and even your confidence as a new parent. The stakes feel high, and the sheer volume of information – often contradictory – can leave even the most prepared caregiver feeling uncertain.
Rest assured, the quest for the ideal newborn bottle isn’t about finding a mythical unicorn product. It’s about understanding your baby’s unique cues, your own practical needs, and the science behind bottle design. Forget the fleeting “top 10” lists that dominate search results; true success lies in knowing what to look for based on evidence and experience. This guide cuts through the noise, focusing on the critical features, safety considerations, and practical factors that genuinely matter when introducing a bottle to your newborn’s feeding routine. We’ll equip you with the knowledge to make an informed, confident decision tailored to your specific situation.
Top 10 Baby Bottles for Newborns
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Anti-Colic Options+ Narrow Baby Bottle, 4 oz/120 mL, with Level 1 Slow Flow Nipple, 0m+, 4 Pack
Overview: This 4-pack of 4oz narrow-necked bottles features Dr. Brown’s signature internal vent system, designed specifically to combat colic and gas in newborns using Level 1 slow-flow nipples.
What Makes It Stand Out: Clinically proven to reduce colic symptoms by eliminating vacuum and preserving milk nutrients, its unique vent system sets it apart. The breast-like nipple encourages proper latching, easing transitions between breast and bottle, while the removable vent allows the bottle to adapt as the baby grows, eliminating the need for a new bottle type.
Value for Money: Priced competitively for a 4-pack, it offers exceptional long-term value due to its adaptable design (vent removal for older infants) and focus on reducing feeding issues that can lead to costly doctor visits or formula waste. It outperforms basic ventless bottles in colic prevention.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Highly effective anti-colic technology; preserves milk nutrients; promotes natural latch; vent removal extends usability. Weaknesses: Narrow neck complicates cleaning and formula pouring; vent assembly adds parts to wash; nipple flow may be too slow for some newborns.
Bottom Line: An excellent, clinically backed choice for colic-prone or breastfed newborns seeking a bottle that actively supports digestion and adapts with their development, despite minor cleaning hassles.
2. Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottles with Natural Response Nipples (Slow Flow, Flow 2), 4oz, 4-Pack, SCY900/04
Overview: This 4oz, 4-pack set features Philips Avent’s Natural Response nipples designed to mimic breastfeeding’s natural rhythm, using Flow 2 (slow) nipples ideal for newborns.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its standout feature is the Natural Response nipple technology, which releases milk only when the baby actively sucks, pausing flow during swallows for controlled, paced feeding. The wide, soft breast-shaped nipple eases breast-to-bottle transitions, while the no-drip design minimizes mess.
Value for Money: Offers strong value as a reliable, well-established system. The focus on natural feeding rhythm reduces gas and fussiness, potentially saving money on remedies. It’s comparable in price to other premium brands but excels in intuitive flow control without complex vent systems.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Excellent paced feeding mimics breastfeeding; wide nipple aids latch transition; no-drip feature is practical; simple, fewer parts than vented bottles. Weaknesses: Anti-colic valve is less comprehensive than Dr. Brown’s; flow may be inconsistent for very gassy babies; nipple can collapse under vigorous sucking.
Bottom Line: A top recommendation for parents prioritizing a seamless breastfeeding mimicry experience and fuss-free paced feeding, offering reliability and ease of use at a fair price.
3. Philips Avent Anti-Colic Bottle with AirFree Vent, 4oz, with Flow 1 Nipples, 0m+, 4pk, Clear, SCY701/04
Overview: This 4oz, 4-pack utilizes Philips Avent’s AirFree vent system targeting colic, gas, and reflux, featuring Flow 1 (slowest) nipples for newborns.
What Makes It Stand Out: The key innovation is the AirFree vent, positioned at the bottle base, which keeps the nipple full of milk (not air) during feeding, even when tilted upright. This design directly combats air ingestion causing colic, while the vent’s removability offers flexibility as the baby grows, similar to Dr. Brown’s adaptability.
Value for Money: Provides excellent value through its dual-mode functionality (with/without vent) and effectiveness in reducing air intake. The wide neck simplifies cleaning and filling versus narrow bottles, enhancing practicality. It’s a cost-effective anti-colic solution without premium vent complexity.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: AirFree vent effectively minimizes swallowed air; wide neck eases cleaning/filling; simple assembly with few parts; vent removal extends usability. Weaknesses: Vent mechanism is less proven for nutrient preservation than Dr. Brown’s; initial vent setup can be fiddly; Flow 1 may be too slow for some newborns.
Bottom Line: A highly practical and effective anti-colic bottle, particularly for upright feeders, offering smart air reduction and ease of use, making it a strong contender in its class.
4. Tommee Tippee Natural Start 12 Piece BPA Free Bottle Set, Includes 2 x 5 oz, 3 x 9 oz, 1 x 11 oz Bottles, Newborn 0+ Months, Slow, Medium & Thicker Flow Breast-Like Nipples, Cleaning Brush, Clear
Overview: This comprehensive 12-piece set includes multiple bottle sizes (5oz, 9oz, 11oz), various flow nipples, travel lids, handles, and a brush, all featuring Tommee Tippee’s anti-colic valve and breast-like design.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its unmatched versatility is the highlight: multiple sizes and nipple flows cater to every stage, while the 100% leakproof claim (when assembled correctly) and self-sterilizing feature (3-minute microwave method) offer exceptional convenience. The soft, flexible nipple promotes genuine pace feeding.
Value for Money: Outstanding long-term value. The extensive set covers all feeding stages, eliminating the need for future purchases. Leakproofing and self-sterilizing save time and reduce waste, justifying a potentially higher upfront cost compared to basic packs. It’s a complete, all-in-one solution.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Huge versatility with sizes/flows; truly leakproof design; innovative self-sterilizing; excellent pace-feeding nipple; includes essential accessories. Weaknesses: Anti-colic valve effectiveness slightly lags behind Dr. Brown’s; multiple components increase initial cost; larger bottles may be bulky for newborns.
Bottom Line: The ultimate all-in-one set for new parents seeking maximum convenience, adaptability, and leakproof reliability, representing exceptional value despite a steeper initial investment.
5. Dr. Brown’s Anti-Colic Baby Feeding Set with Slow Flow Nipples, Travel Caps, Silicone Pacifier - Pink
Overview: This deluxe Dr. Brown’s set includes bottles with the proven internal vent system, plus travel caps, a silicone pacifier, and slow-flow nipples, all in a coordinated pink design.
What Makes It Stand Out: It combines Dr. Brown’s clinically proven anti-colic technology (reducing gas/spit-up and preserving nutrients) with significant added convenience. The inclusion of travel caps enables mess-free on-the-go feeding, while the matching pacifier enhances the cohesive feeding system, making it ideal for new parents.
Value for Money: Offers superior bundled value. The core anti-colic bottle performance is top-tier, and the extras (caps, pacifier) provide immediate practicality that would cost more if purchased separately. It’s more cost-effective than buying the bottle pack plus accessories individually.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Best-in-class colic reduction and nutrient preservation; vent removal for growth adaptability; travel caps add huge convenience; pacifier complements the system. Weaknesses: Narrow neck hinders cleaning/filling; pink color may not suit all; pacifier quality is functional but not premium.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended premium bundle for expecting or new parents, delivering Dr. Brown’s gold-standard anti-colic performance with thoughtful extras that enhance daily usability and peace of mind.
6. Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Anti-Colic Options+ Narrow Baby Bottle, 2 oz/60 mL, with Preemie Flow Nipple, 0m+, 4 Pack
Overview: This specialized 2oz narrow bottle set targets premature infants or babies with feeding challenges, featuring Dr. Brown’s clinically proven anti-colic internal vent system and ultra-slow Preemie Flow nipples. Designed for delicate newborns, it aims to minimize discomfort during early feedings. What Makes It Stand Out: The Preemie Flow nipple is uniquely engineered for extremely slow, controlled milk delivery—critical for underdeveloped suck reflexes. Its vacuum-free system reduces air intake, directly addressing colic triggers while preserving milk nutrients. The breast-like nipple shape also supports seamless transitions for infants switching between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding. Value for Money: Priced higher than standard bottles, the 4-pack justifies cost through its niche preemie focus and clinical backing. While alternatives lack this specific flow rate, the small 2oz capacity may require frequent refills for some infants, slightly limiting long-term utility compared to larger Dr. Brown’s options. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Exceptional for preemies; reduces gas/spit-up; nutrient preservation; promotes natural latch. Weaknesses: Very small capacity; narrow neck complicates formula mixing/cleaning; vent assembly adds parts to sterilize; nipple flow may be too slow for non-preemie babies. Bottom Line: An essential, high-value investment for parents of premature infants or those with severe feeding difficulties, though its specialized design offers less flexibility for typical newborns beyond the early weeks.
7. Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Anti-Colic Options+ Narrow Baby Bottle, 8 oz/250 mL, with Level 1 Slow Flow Nipples, 0m+, 4 Pack
Overview: This versatile 8oz narrow bottle set features Dr. Brown’s signature anti-colic vent system and Level 1 Slow Flow nipples, catering to newborns through early infancy. It emphasizes colic reduction while adapting to evolving feeding needs. What Makes It Stand Out: The removable internal vent system allows transition from anti-colic functionality (for newborns) to a standard bottle as baby matures—eliminating the need for a separate bottle purchase. Vacuum-free feeding mimics breastfeeding dynamics, reducing air ingestion and preserving nutrients more effectively than ventless designs. Value for Money: The 4-pack offers solid long-term value due to its “grows with baby” adaptability. While pricier than basic bottles, it outperforms cheaper anti-colic alternatives in clinical efficacy and durability, making it cost-effective over 6-12 months of use without replacement. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Adaptable vent system; reduces colic symptoms; consistent flow; nutrient retention; breast-like nipple aids latch. Weaknesses: Narrow neck hinders formula scooping/cleaning; multi-part assembly increases washing time; vent can leak if not seated perfectly; slight learning curve for first-time users. Bottom Line: Highly recommended for newborns prone to colic, offering exceptional adaptability and proven comfort—ideal for parents seeking a single bottle solution through infancy’s first year.
8. Dr. Brown’s Anti-Colic Options + Narrow Bottle to Sippy Gift Set with Soft Silicone Sippy Spout, Removable Silicone Handles, Travel Cap and Bottle Brush (Packaging/Brush Color May Vary)
Overview: This comprehensive gift set transforms Dr. Brown’s anti-colic narrow bottle into a sippy cup, including handles, travel cap, and brush. It targets parents seeking an all-in-one solution from newborn to toddler years. What Makes It Stand Out: The seamless conversion from anti-colic bottle to sippy cup via included spouts/handles is unmatched. The core vent system reduces colic early on, while the growth-focused design eliminates buying separate bottles and sippy cups—saving money and storage space long-term. Value for Money: Though premium-priced, the inclusion of sippy components (spout, handles, travel cap) and brush adds significant value over standard bottle sets. It outperforms competitors by covering 0-36 months, justifying cost through extended usability and reduced replacement needs. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Exceptional longevity (bottle-to-sippy); comprehensive accessories; proven colic reduction; easy-grip handles; travel-friendly. Weaknesses: Narrow neck complicates cleaning; sippy spout may not suit all toddlers; vent assembly remains intricate; packaging/brush color varies inconsistently. Bottom Line: A top-tier investment for new parents, delivering unmatched versatility and clinical benefits from infancy through toddlerhood—highly recommended for its holistic feeding solution.
9. NUK Smooth Flow Anti Colic Baby Bottle, Elephant, 5 Ounce (3 Pack)
Overview: This 5oz wide-neck bottle set features NUK’s asymmetrical nipple and temperature indicator, targeting colic reduction with a simpler, user-friendly design. It emphasizes baby-controlled flow and safety awareness. What Makes It Stand Out: The SafeTemp indicator (color-changing icon) alerts parents to overheated milk—a unique safety feature absent in competitors. The orthodontic nipple mimics breastfeeding motion, while the wide neck enables effortless cleaning and formula mixing, addressing key pain points in bottle care. Value for Money: Positioned as a mid-range option, the 3-pack offers excellent affordability without sacrificing core functionality. It matches Dr. Brown’s colic-reduction claims at a lower price, though lacks clinical nutrient preservation evidence, making it ideal for budget-conscious parents prioritizing simplicity. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: SafeTemp indicator; wide neck eases cleaning; high baby acceptance rate (98%); dishwasher-safe; simple 4-part assembly. Weaknesses: Less clinical data on colic reduction vs. Dr. Brown’s; nipple shape may not suit all babies; temperature indicator fades over time; no vent system for severe colic cases. Bottom Line: A practical, cost-effective choice for parents wanting reliable anti-colic features with added safety and convenience—best for mild colic concerns and those valuing ease of use over clinical-grade systems.
10. Dr. Brown’s Anti-Colic Options+ Wide-Neck Baby Bottle Designer Edition Bottles, Woodland Decos, 5 oz/150 mL, Level 1 Nipple, 0m+, 2-Pack
Overview: This 5oz designer wide-neck bottle set combines Dr. Brown’s anti-colic technology with aesthetic appeal (Woodland Decos) and user-friendly wide openings. It targets style-conscious parents seeking functionality without assembly hassles. What Makes It Stand Out: The wide neck simplifies filling, cleaning, and sterilizing versus narrow alternatives, while retaining the proven vent system for colic reduction. The chic Woodland Decos and BPA-free, dishwasher-safe construction cater to parents wanting both performance and visual appeal in a compact size. Value for Money: Priced slightly above standard Dr. Brown’s narrow bottles, the wide-neck convenience and designer aesthetic justify the premium. Though the 2-pack offers fewer units than 4-packs, time saved on cleaning and the reduced risk of cracked bottles (due to sturdy design) enhance long-term value. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Wide neck eases maintenance; attractive design; effective colic reduction; dishwasher-safe; compact 5oz ideal for newborns. Weaknesses: Smaller capacity requires frequent refills; 2-pack limits initial value; vent still adds assembly steps; designer decals may wear over time. Bottom Line: A stylish, practical upgrade for newborns—highly recommended for parents prioritizing easy cleaning and aesthetics alongside Dr. Brown’s trusted anti-colic performance, despite the smaller pack size.
Understanding Newborn Feeding Fundamentals
Before diving into bottle specifics, it’s crucial to grasp the basics of newborn feeding physiology and common challenges. This foundational knowledge directly informs why certain bottle features are more beneficial than others during these early, delicate weeks.
The Unique Needs of Newborn Digestion
Newborns possess incredibly immature digestive systems. Their esophageal sphincters are weak, making them highly prone to reflux and gas. Their stomachs are tiny, requiring frequent, small feedings. Bottles that minimize air intake and mimic the natural pacing of breastfeeding are paramount for reducing spit-up, discomfort, and colic-like symptoms. Understanding this vulnerability shifts the focus from mere convenience to digestive support.
Recognizing Early Feeding Cues and Challenges
Babies communicate hunger and fullness through subtle cues long before crying erupts. Newborns may struggle with flow rates – too fast causing choking or gulping, too slow leading to fatigue and frustration. They are also highly sensitive to nipple shape and feel, especially if combining breastfeeding and bottle-feeding. Observing your baby’s latch, swallowing pattern, and post-feed demeanor is key to evaluating if a bottle setup is working.
The Importance of Paced Bottle Feeding Techniques
How you use the bottle is often as important as the bottle itself. Paced feeding techniques, mimicking the natural let-down and pauses of breastfeeding, help prevent overfeeding and reduce air swallowing. This involves holding the baby more upright, keeping the bottle tilted just enough to fill the nipple, and taking intentional breaks. Bottles designed with this technique in mind offer significant advantages.
Key Bottle Features to Evaluate Critically
Moving beyond aesthetics, focus on the functional elements proven to impact your newborn’s comfort and your feeding experience. Prioritize features grounded in infant development and feeding science.
Material Safety and Practicality Considerations
Glass offers durability, no chemical concerns (BPA/BPS-free by nature), and ease of sterilization but is heavy and breakable. Modern plastics are lightweight and nearly unbreakable but require diligent checking for cracks and ensuring they are certified free of harmful endocrine disruptors. Consider your lifestyle: frequent travel might favor plastic, while home use could lean towards glass. Always prioritize bottles clearly labeled BPA, BPS, and phthalate-free.
Nipple Shape, Texture, and Flow Rate Dynamics
Nipple shape should ideally encourage a deep latch similar to breastfeeding, often with a wider base. Texture (smooth vs. textured) can influence acceptance. Flow rate is critical: newborns need “slow flow” nipples designed specifically for 0-3 months. True slow flow allows milk to drip slowly when bottle is inverted; faster flows overwhelm newborns. Remember, flow rate depends on both nipple design and how the bottle is held.
Anti-Colic Technology: Beyond the Marketing Hype
Many bottles boast “anti-colic” features, primarily vent systems designed to reduce air ingestion. Effectiveness varies significantly. Look for systems that actively separate air from milk during the feed (like internal vents or collapsible liners) rather than just providing a passive air channel. While not a cure-all, a well-designed vent system can noticeably decrease gas and spit-up for many infants.
Ergonomic Design for Caregiver Comfort
Feeding a newborn happens countless times, often in awkward positions while exhausted. A bottle that fits comfortably in your hand, is easy to hold at the correct angle, and doesn’t roll off surfaces is essential for sustained use. Consider grip texture, bottle shape (straight vs. angled), and overall weight. What feels good for a few minutes might cause strain over weeks of use.
Practical Usage and Maintenance Factors
The reality of newborn care means bottles need to withstand frequent use, rigorous cleaning, and fit seamlessly into your chaotic routine. Don’t overlook the daily practicalities.
Sterilization and Cleaning Requirements
Newborn immune systems are fragile, making thorough cleaning and initial sterilization non-negotiable. Consider how easily the bottle disassembles (fewer parts = easier cleaning), compatibility with your sterilizer (steam, UV, boiling), and dishwasher safety. Narrow-neck bottles can be harder to scrub than wide-neck designs. Factor in the time and effort required for your daily routine.
Heat Resistance and Longevity Concerns
Bottles must withstand high-temperature sterilization without warping or degrading. Check manufacturer guidelines. Also, assess durability: do plastic bottles cloud or develop odors quickly? Do glass bottles have protective sleeves? Consider how long you realistically expect a bottle to last before needing replacement due to wear.
Compatibility with Your Feeding Setup
If you pump breast milk, ensure the bottle neck matches standard pump flanges to avoid transferring milk between containers. If using formula, consider how easy it is to add powder and mix without spilling. Bottle capacity (typically 4oz or 5oz for newborns) should suit your baby’s current intake – starting too large can lead to waste or pressure to finish.
Navigating Common Concerns and Misconceptions
The world of baby bottles is rife with myths and anxieties. Separating fact from fiction reduces unnecessary stress and helps focus on what truly matters.
Debunking the “One Bottle Fits All” Myth
There is no universal “best” bottle. What works flawlessly for one newborn might be rejected by another due to individual preferences, feeding style (breastfed vs. formula-fed), or even minor reflux issues. Be prepared to try 1-2 different types (e.g., a vented bottle and a slow-flow silicone bottle) if the first choice isn’t a hit. Flexibility is key.
Addressing Reflux and Spitting Up Realistically
While certain bottle features (like effective venting) can help reduce symptoms for some babies, bottles are rarely the sole solution for significant reflux. Spitting up is very common and usually harmless in newborns. If reflux is severe or accompanied by poor weight gain, consult your pediatrician – the bottle is just one piece of a larger puzzle.
The Reality of Nipple Confusion Fears
The concept of “nipple confusion” is often overstated, but a significant difference in flow rate or texture can cause temporary frustration for a breastfed baby. If exclusively breastfeeding initially, introducing a bottle after milk supply and latch are well-established (around 3-4 weeks) with a very slow-flow nipple mimicking breast flow can ease the transition. Focus on paced feeding technique regardless of bottle type.
Making Your Decision and Getting Started
Armed with knowledge, the process of choosing becomes less daunting and more strategic. Approach it methodically to increase your chances of success.
Starting Small: A Smart Approach for Newborns
Resist the urge to buy a dozen bottles immediately. Purchase 2-3 bottles of one type you’ve researched based on the features discussed. Give it a fair trial over several feeds, observing your baby’s latch, swallowing, and comfort. Only if it’s clearly problematic should you explore a different design. Starting small saves money and prevents overwhelming clutter.
Observing Your Baby’s Response is Key
Your newborn is the ultimate reviewer. Watch for signs of acceptance: comfortable latch, rhythmic sucking without gulping or pulling off, minimal air swallowing (less clicking sounds), contentment after feeding, and reduced gas/spit-up. Signs of rejection include fussiness, refusing the bottle, choking, or excessive crying during feeds. Trust these cues over online hype.
Knowing When to Seek Professional Guidance
If you encounter persistent feeding difficulties – significant refusal, choking, excessive spit-up/vomiting, poor weight gain, or signs of pain – consult your pediatrician or a lactation consultant (IBCLC). They can rule out medical issues (like tongue-tie or GERD) and provide personalized advice on bottle and feeding technique, far beyond generic online guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many newborn bottles do I actually need to start with?
Begin with 2-4 bottles. Newborns eat frequently but in small amounts (2-4 oz max per feed initially), so you won’t need a large quantity right away. Having 2-3 allows for rotation while cleaning/sterilizing one. You can always add more later if needed.
When is the best time to introduce a bottle to a breastfed newborn?
If exclusively breastfeeding, wait until breastfeeding is well-established (usually 3-6 weeks) before introducing a bottle. This helps ensure a strong milk supply and latch. Introduce it during a calm time, not a hungry meltdown, and have someone other than mom offer it initially if possible.
How do I know if the nipple flow rate is too fast or too slow?
Too fast: Baby chokes, gulps, coughs, milk leaks from mouth, seems frantic. Too slow: Baby sucks vigorously with little milk release, falls asleep from fatigue, takes excessively long to finish, pulls off frustrated. Test flow by inverting the bottle; slow flow for newborns should drip slowly, not pour.
Are glass bottles safer than plastic for newborns?
Glass is inert (no chemical leaching concerns) and highly durable against scratches that harbor bacteria. However, plastic is lighter and unbreakable. Both are safe if plastic is certified BPA/BPS/phthalate-free. The safety difference is minimal with modern, compliant plastics; choose based on your practical needs.
Do anti-colic bottles really work?
They can significantly reduce air swallowing and associated gas/spit-up for many babies, but aren’t a guaranteed fix for all colic. Effectiveness depends heavily on the specific vent system design and proper assembly. They are often worth trying if gas is a noticeable issue.
How often should I replace newborn bottles and nipples?
Replace plastic bottles if scratched, clouded, or warped. Glass bottles last longer unless chipped. Nipples (especially silicone) should be replaced every 1-2 months, or immediately if torn, thin, or losing shape, as flow rate changes and bacteria can harbor in damage.
Is it necessary to sterilize bottles after the newborn stage?
Initial sterilization is crucial for newborns. After 3-4 months (or as advised by your pediatrician), thorough hot, soapy water washing or dishwasher cleaning is generally sufficient for healthy babies, as their immune systems develop. Continue sterilizing if your baby is immunocompromised.
What’s the difference between slow, medium, and fast flow nipples?
Flow rate is determined by the size/number of holes in the nipple tip. Slow flow (newborn) has the smallest hole(s), requiring active sucking. Medium (3-6 months) allows slightly faster milk release. Fast (6+ months) has larger holes for thicker liquids. Always start with slow flow for newborns, regardless of age label.
Can I use any nipple brand with any bottle brand?
Generally, no. Nipple compatibility is brand-specific due to differences in collar threading and base shape. Some systems offer “universal” nipples, but true compatibility is rare. Always check manufacturer specifications before mixing brands.
How do I properly clean and sterilize newborn bottles?
Clean all parts thoroughly with hot, soapy water and a bottle brush immediately after use, ensuring no milk residue remains. Sterilize initially and during illness by boiling for 5 minutes, using a steam sterilizer, or UV sterilizer. Air-dry completely on a clean rack before reassembling.