Most baby bottles and their parts are dishwasher safe. Follow the maker guidance and keep the small parts in a closed basket.
The CDC says you can wash baby feeding items in a dishwasher when the maker says they are dishwasher safe. Taking the bottle apart and using hot water with a heated dry or sanitizing setting is the recommended approach. The practical problem is losing nipples and rings, which fall through the rack.
| Short answer | Yes if labelled dishwasher safe |
|---|---|
| Rack | Small parts in a closed-top basket or mesh bag (CDC). Top rack is the usual maker advice |
| Cycle | Hot water with a heated dry or sanitize setting |
| Disassemble | Take apart bottle, nipple, ring and cap |
| Check | The maker guidance for each part |
How to wash baby bottles in the dishwasher
- Take the bottle fully apart as soon as the feed is finished.
- Rinse each part under running water to remove milk.
- Put the bottles upside down on the top rack and small parts in a closed-top basket.
- Run a hot cycle with a heated dry or sanitizing setting.
- Wash your hands, then let the items air dry on a clean, unused towel. The CDC says not to dry them with a dish towel.
What happens when you get it wrong
- Lost nipples and rings. They fall through the rack, or end up on the element.
- Warped parts. Plastic near the heating element can deform, which can affect fit.
- Milk residue. Dried milk left on the bottle does not always wash off in a cycle.
Hand washing in a clean basin with hot soapy water and a bottle brush, then air drying, per CDC guidance.
A steam sterilizer if you want to sanitize beyond washing.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to sterilize baby bottles?
Cleaning is the essential step. The CDC suggests sanitizing at least daily for babies younger than 2 months, premature babies or those with weakened immune systems. Older healthy babies usually only need careful cleaning after each use.
Can you put baby bottle nipples in the dishwasher?
Usually yes, in a closed-top basket on the top rack. Check the maker.
Should you use the heated dry cycle?
The CDC recommends a heated drying cycle or sanitizing setting if your dishwasher has one.
Can you put plastic baby bottles on the bottom rack?
No. Keep them on the top rack, away from the heating element.