How to Wash Baby Bottles in Dishwasher

Is It Safe to Wash Baby Bottles in the Dishwasher?

Yes — washing baby bottles in the dishwasher is safe and effective, provided the bottles are dishwasher safe and you follow the right steps. The dishwasher’s hot water and detergent clean and sanitize bottles thoroughly, making it a convenient option for busy parents.

Check the Bottle Is Dishwasher Safe First

Before putting any baby bottle in the dishwasher, check the bottom of the bottle for a dishwasher-safe symbol. Most modern plastic, glass, and silicone baby bottles are dishwasher safe, but older bottles or bottles without a symbol should be hand washed.

• Glass baby bottles: Generally dishwasher safe
• BPA-free plastic bottles: Usually dishwasher safe — check the label
• Silicone bottles and parts: Dishwasher safe
• Older plastic bottles without a dishwasher-safe symbol: Hand wash only

Disassemble Completely Before Loading

This is the most important step. Baby bottles have multiple small parts — the bottle body, nipple, collar ring, and any valves or vents. Water cannot clean between assembled parts.

• Separate every component before loading
• Remove all valves, vents, and small silicone parts
• Rinse each part briefly under running water to remove milk residue before loading

Use a Dishwasher Basket for Small Parts

Nipples, valves, collars, and small silicone parts are too small to load directly on the rack — they will fall through and either get damaged or block the drain. A dedicated dishwasher basket keeps all small parts secure and allows water to reach every surface.

Dr. Brown’s Dishwasher Basket is designed specifically for small baby bottle parts, pacifiers, and accessories. It is BPA-free and keeps everything organized and secure through the entire wash cycle.

How to Load Baby Bottles in the Dishwasher

• Place bottle bodies upside down on the top rack so water drains out
• Place all small parts — nipples, valves, collars — in the dishwasher basket
• Position the basket on the top rack
• Do not put any bottle parts on the bottom rack — the heat can warp plastic and silicone

Choose the Right Wash Settings

• Use a hot water cycle — hot water sanitizes more effectively than warm or cool cycles
• Most dishwashers have a sanitize cycle that reaches 155°F (68°C) or higher — use this for the most thorough clean
• Avoid the heated dry setting for plastic parts — air dry instead to prevent warping

Use a Gentle, Baby-Safe Detergent

For baby items, a fragrance-free, dye-free detergent is the safest choice. BLUELAND Dishwasher Detergent Tablets are free of harsh chemicals, plastic-free, and USDA certified — a clean choice for washing baby items.

After the Cycle

• Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling — moisture trapped inside bottles can encourage bacterial growth
• Store assembled bottles in a clean, dry location
• Inspect nipples and silicone parts regularly for cracks or discoloration and replace as needed

Final Tips

• Always disassemble completely before loading
• Use a dishwasher basket for all small parts
• Top rack only — no bottom rack for baby items
• Use the sanitize cycle when available
• Air dry completely before reassembling and storing