How to Store Sterilised Baby Bottles Safely
You've done the washing and sterilising. Now you need to keep those bottles clean until your baby needs them. Where you store sterilised bottles matters more than most parents realise – here's how to do it right.
How long can sterilised bottles be stored?
Sterilised bottles remain suitably sterile for up to 24 hours, provided they're stored correctly. After 24 hours, sterilise again before use – even if the bottles look clean and haven't been touched.
The best ways to store sterilised bottles
In a sealed steriliser
The most straightforward option. Many electric steam sterilisers have a sealed lid designed to maintain sterility inside the unit for up to 24 hours. Leave the lid on after the cycle finishes, and take bottles out as needed. The unit acts as both steriliser and storage.
Assembled in the fridge
Assemble each bottle immediately after sterilising – teat, collar, cap – and store upright in the fridge. The cold environment slows any bacterial growth. This is particularly useful if you're pre-making formula feeds (which should be kept in the fridge for no more than 24 hours).
In a dedicated sterile storage container
Sterile containers or bags are available specifically for storing pre-sterilised bottles. They're useful for travel and hospital stays – anywhere you can't leave a steriliser plugged in.
Assembled upright in a clean cupboard
A sealed, assembled bottle stored in a clean, dry cupboard away from food preparation areas is an acceptable option for short-term storage (within 24 hours). The key word is assembled – a bottle with the cap in place and teat covered maintains internal sterility better than one left open.
Can you store sterilised bottles in a cupboard?
Yes, in a closed cupboard, away from the sink and food prep areas. A sealed bottle stored in a dry cupboard retains sterility for the 24-hour window.
Don't store sterilised bottles:
- Open or with the cap off
- On an open shelf near cooking areas where steam and splashes can reach
- On a drying rack used for other dishes|Near cleaning products or chemicals
What not to do
- Don't leave sterilised bottles open on a drying rack – bacteria from the air settle inside within hours
- Don't pat dry with a cloth or tea towel – this introduces bacteria from the fabric
- Don't store in the same cupboard as items that aren't clean
- Don't assume a bottle is still sterile just because it looks clean – time matters
- Don't leave sterilised bottles near a hot surface like the hob or toaster – temperature fluctuations can create condensation inside
Batch sterilising and sealing a full day's supply makes storage simple. The Bebello 4-in-1 washes, sterilises, and dries so you can store a clean batch inside the machine for 72h.
Frequently asked questions
Can you store sterilised bottles in the cupboard overnight?
Yes – a sealed, assembled bottle stored in a clean, dry cupboard is suitable for overnight storage, as long as you use it within 24 hours of sterilising.
Does it matter if the sterilised bottle gets cold in the fridge?
No. Cold doesn't compromise sterilisation. A chilled bottle is fine – warm it as you normally would before feeding.
How do you know if a sterilised bottle is no longer sterile?
You often can't tell by looking – which is why the 24-hour rule exists. If you're unsure how long a bottle has been sitting or whether it's been opened, sterilise again.
Can you sterilise and store bottles when they still have milk smell?
No – always wash thoroughly first. Sterilising doesn't clean. Milk residue left in a bottle before sterilising can harbour bacteria even after a sterilising cycle.