When I was pregnant, I remember staring at my baby shopping list, trying to figure out what I actually needed. One thing that went straight to the top? The best steriliser I could find. Now, two years later, I can honestly say it was one of the smartest decisions I made. Whether at home or on the go, a reliable steriliser made life so much easier—and saved me from stressing over germs.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the options—electric, microwave, UV, steam—you're not alone. Choosing the right steriliser can be daunting, but the truth is, it’s a game-changer.
A good steriliser isn’t just convenient; it keeps your baby's bottles clean and free of bacteria, which is crucial since breast milk and formula can breed germs. With babies’ immune systems still developing, the NHS recommends sterilising feeding equipment until their first birthday to help prevent tummy troubles - in particular diarrhoea and vomiting.
Whether you’re a first-time parent looking for an efficient option or a busy family needing a portable steriliser for travel, we’ve got you covered. This guide highlights the best options, considering what parents actually care about: efficiency, safety (hello, BPA-free materials), size, portability, ease of use, and budget.
To make it even easier, we break down how to choose a steriliser and share tips on everything from how to sterilise a breast pumpto keeping bottles clean on the go.
Once you find the right steriliser, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. Let’s get started!
The best sterilisers at a glance
How we chose and tested the best baby sterilisers
At Mother&Baby, we know that choosing the best steriliser can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with too many pieces. That’s why our recommendations come from hours of real-life testing, practical feedback, and expert-backed insights—all to make your life a little easier.
Our testing process starts with gathering a range of sterilisers, narrowing them down to the 13 that made the cut for our buying guide. From there, we get to work:
Efficiency
Let’s be real—parents don’t have time to wait. We tested how quickly and thoroughly each steriliser kills germs, so you can trust it to get the job done.
Safety
Keeping your baby safe is non-negotiable. Every product we recommend is BPA-free and uses safe methods like steam or UV light to sterilise without harmful chemicals.
Size and portability
Need a steriliser for a cramped countertop? Or a portable option for your weekend getaway? We checked how each product fits into different lifestyles, whether you’re at home or on the move.
Ease of use
Parenthood is hard enough—your steriliser shouldn’t add to the stress. We looked for intuitive designs that are easy to set up, operate, and clean, because nobody wants a manual that feels like a science textbook.
Budget
Quality shouldn’t come at an outrageous price. We included options for every budget, proving you can get reliable results without breaking the bank.
To make sure we had all the details right, we worked with Abbas Kanani, Superintendent Pharmacist at Chemist Click, who shared expert advice on what really matters in a steriliser. Combined with feedback from our trusted parent testers—real mums and dads who used these products every day—we’ve created a guide you can count on.
So, if you’re overwhelmed by options or unsure where to start, don’t worry—we’ve done the hard work for you. You can trust that every steriliser in this guide has been tested, loved (or not), and carefully chosen to make your parenting journey a little smoother.
Find out more about how we test products for Mother&Baby.
The best sterilisers 2025
best steriliser overall
©MOTHER&BABYAwarded Silver for Best Steriliser/Sterilising Product at the Mother&Baby Awards 2023 and 2024
Tied for Silver, we have the Advanced Pro UV Steriliser and Dryer from Vital Baby. Sleek, efficient and fast, this steriliser works at the speed of light, eliminating bacteria in just seven minutes in a longer cycle. Isn't that impressive? This handy bit of kit has a drying cycle that automatically switches to a sterilising cycle. Plus, it's not just for babies, it can take keys, cosmetic brushes and beyond.
Our Reviews Editor Emily was really impressed at how easy this steriliser was to use, and thought the drying function was really convenient too. It also looks nice to have out in your kitchen as opposed to some alternatives.
One thing some parents advised was overfilling the steriliser, as they were conscious too much would prevent even sterilisation.
Read our full Vital Baby advanced pro UV steriliser & dryer review
Pros
- It has multiple sterilisation modes, including a 7-minute and 29-minute cycle
- It's easy to use
- The steriliser looks more stylish than most
Cons
- Some parents advised not over filling, to ensure even sterilisation
| Dimensions: | H25 x W27 x D27cm |
| Sterilising Time: | 7 minutes |
| Not suitable for microwaves or dishwashers | |
| Batteries not included |
- HEPA filter
- Energy efficient
- Four modes
- Sterile and dry in 29 minutes
best baby bottle steriliser
Bebellobebello.club
Say goodbye to scrubbing bottles, pacifiers, and breast pump parts with the Bebello Washer. This all-in-one system sterilises, washes, and dries your baby gear, saving you valuable time and effort.
With the Bebello Washer, you can reclaim up to an hour a day without needing to wash everything by hand. It even comes with a month’s supply of all-natural Bebello Detergent, tough on grime but gentle on your baby’s items. Plus, the eco-friendly buyback promise ensures your purchase doesn’t end up in a landfill.
A must-have for time-strapped parents, the Bebello Washer handles everything—from bottles to sippy cups—without the hassle.
This product is currently being tested by our Mother&Baby tester, Chloe.
best baby steriliser and dryer
©MOTHER&BABYThe Philips Avent Premium Bottle Steriliser + Dryer allows you to sterilise, dry, and store all in one. Our tester said it was simple to use, getting bottles for your baby's next feed in 40 minutes. This bottle steriliser and dryer uses jets of filtered air to dry bottles before turning off and the steriliser is quick and hygienic, killing 99.9 per cent of germs, for peace of mind at every feed. The steriliser's thorough, chemical-free cleaning can keep its contents sterile for up to 24 hours.
It was hard to clean some of the steriliser elements, according to our tester, but this was only a minor issue compared to the practicality of its sterilising.
Read our full Philips Avent Premium Bottle Steriliser & Dryer review
Pros
- Doesn't use chemicals
- Can store up to six baby bottles
- It has an integrated drop tray to decrease unpleasant odours
Cons
- Some parents found some elements difficult to clean
| Dimensions: | 30.4 x 37.8 x 19.1cm |
| Sterilisation Time: | Sterilise and dry in 40 minutes |
- Keeps them sterile for up to 24 hours
- Integrated drip tray
best uv steriliser
©MOTHER&BABYAll parents want to protect their little ones; that's why Tommee Tippee Ultra UV 3-in-1 sterilisers are designed to kill viruses and 99.9 per cent of bacteria. Using UV light is a safe and dry method of killing 99.9 per cent of harmful germs without using heat, steam or harsh chemicals. You can rest assured that it sterilises those hard-to-reach areas, getting rid of germs that may linger in bottles, teats, breast pumps and other accessories even after thorough washing. Our tester said: "We found that it helps prepare the bottles quicker when your baby is hungry."
It takes longer to sterilise than most others, with a 25-minute cycle, so you might prefer something quicker, such as the Philips Avent Steam Steriliser. The steriliser suits alternative bottle brands and can keep items sterilised for up to 24 hours.
Read our full Tommee Tippee Ultra UV 3-in-1 Steriliser, Dryer and Storage review
Pros
- Has a convenient auto re-sterilising programme
- It doesn't use steam or chemicals
- Helps keep contents sterilised for up to 24 hours
- It fits alternative brands too
Cons
- It does take 35 minutes to sterilise, which is a lot longer than some alternatives
| Dimensions: | 378.1 x 35.5 x 35.3cm |
| Sterilisation Time: | 10 minutes |
- 3 different functions
- Long-lasting UV bulbs
- 2 replaceable, washable filters
best travel bottle steriliser
©MOTHER&BABYBronze Winner for Best Steriliser/Sterilising Product for M&B Awards 2023
The Bronze winner in the 2023 M&B Awards was the Nuby UV Steriliser, which sterilises items using UV light. Whether you're looking to sterilise your baby's bottles, or other items such as a soother or teether, this versatile steriliser will keep items sterile for 24 hours if it is left unopened.
While it can't be collapsed down to make it easier for travel, our parent testers still found it to be more convenient when going travelling, which was a big win. There's no need to worry about drying items either, with this product due to it using the UV method.
Read our full Nuby UK UV Steriliser review
Pros
- It's ideal to take travelling
- Easy to wipe clean
- Doesn't need water, chemicals or a microwave
Cons
- It can't fold down smaller
| Dimensions: | 240 x 195 x 150mm |
| Sterilisation Time: | Minimum of 3 minutes |
- No water, chemicals or microwave needed
- Works in 3 minutes
- Lightweight
6.
Milton Sterilising Fluid, pack of 2
best sterilising liquid
©MOTHER&BABYAwarded Bronze for Best Steriliser/Sterilising Product at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024
Milton Sterilising Fluid allows you to sterilise in just 15 minutes. Milton is a well-trusted brand, and has been approved by midwives. It is also perfect for travelling when you might not have a microwave to hand, and it allows you to sterilise all sorts of different toys and other items, not just bottles.
While it might not be as convenient as other electric sterilisers, it does have a more multi-functional purpose as it allows you to sterilise a lot more.
Read our full Milton Sterilising Fluid review.
Pros
- Kills up to 99.9% of Germs
- Can be used multifunctionally to treat stains and brighten whites
- It's ideal for travelling and can be stored in a suitcase
Cons
- Using the fluid might not be as convenient for some parents than having a separate device
- Cannot be used in metal containers
| Ingredients: | Active Chlorine Released from Sodium Hypochlorite (Cas N°7681-52-9), 1.9% w/w |
| Contains: | 500ml |
- Milton Sterilising Fluid 500Ml
- Anti-germ efficacy: Bactericidal: en 14561 in 15 min at 0.6% v/v and en 16615 in 5 min at 3.0% v/ v.
- Yeasticidal: en 14562 in 15 min at 0.6% v/v and en 16615 in 5 min at 3.0%.
- Kills 99.9% of Germs
- Effective for 24 hours
- Sterilising Means Disinfecting
best steriliser for mam bottles
©MOTHER&BABYwww.very.co.uk
Awarded Silver and Gold for Best Steriliser/Sterilising Product at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024
The MAM Easy Start Bottle & Microwave Steriliser Set holds up to six bottles, which are also included in this set. This steriliser can be used as both a microwave steam steriliser or with cold water tablets. Bottles can stay sterile for up to 48 hours if stored in the steriliser and are ready in just five minutes.
Our parent tester found that it didn't actually fit in her microwave, but it did her in-laws', so it's worth double-checking the measurements of your microwave before purchasing.
Another plus of this set includes a SkinSoft™ silicone teat and a ventilated base designed to reduce colic. Our parent tester also said that their son really took to the MAM bottles, having previously breastfed, and reduced the amount of winding he needed.
Read our full MAM Easy Start Bottle & Microwave Steriliser Set review
Pros
- Comes with six baby bottles
- It helps make sterilising easier
- It can fit up to six bottles
- Can also be used as a cold water steriliser
Cons
- Some parents found the steriliser didn't fit their microwave, so check measurements
| Dimensions: | Unspecified |
| Sterilisation Time: | Minimum of 5 minutes |
- Works in as little as 5 minutes
- Comes with 2 bottles
- 2 basket levels
best practical baby steriliser
©MOTHER&BABY
An Amazon bestseller, this Milton cold-water steriliser kills all harmful bacteria in 15 minutes. It has a lockable lid to prevent it from accidentally being knocked open, and the contents inside stay sterile for 24 hours. It also has a handle to make it easier to transport; one dad was very happy with it, saying that it's more practical than steam sterilisers.
Testers did find it to be more bulky, so if you want a sleeker design you might prefer the Vital Baby Advanced UV Steriliser. They also find it did require more effort than alternate sterilisers, as the contents needed steriliser fluid and to be dried.
Pros
- Large design means more can fit in
- It's a simple process to use
- Solution stays sterile for up to 24 hours
Cons
- It's a bulky design
- Requires more effort to use than an electric steriliser
| Dimensions: | 25 x 16.5 x 24.5cm |
| Sterilisation Time: | 15 minutes |
- Lockable lid
- Sterilises in 15 minutes
- Solution stays sterile for 24 hours
best microwave steriliser bags
©MOTHER&BABYShortlisted for Best Steriliser/Sterilising Product at the Mother&Baby Awards 2021
If you're looking for something that is really convenient, then these Munchkin Steriliser Bags are brilliant. They are an easy way to sterilise anytime, anywhere, and are handy for packing in your bag. They kill up to 99.9 per cent of common bacteria on bottles, pump parts and accessories in as little as 90 seconds (high-wattage microwave), with each bag having up to 30 uses.
Our mum tester, Lyndsay, says: "The munchkin steriliser bags are great as a travel solution for sterilising. As long as you have access to a microwave, then they provide a compact space-saving solution to sterilising on the go, rather than taking bulky cold water sterilising equipment. They are particularly useful if you are just going out for a day or two to visit friends or family and want to travel light."
Read our full Munchkin 6pk Steriliser Bags review
Pros
- Ideal for taking on the go or on holidays
- It has a cool-touch grip for safer handling
- Can sterilise in as little as three minutes
- The bags can be used up to 30 times each
Cons
- Cannot be used for sterilising a lot of products at once
| Dimensions: | Unspecified |
| Sterilisation Time: | 90 seconds - 5 minutes |
- 30 uses for each bag
- Lightweight
- Cool-touch grip
Best baby bottle steriliser and dryer
best electric steriliser
©MOTHER&BABYThe Baby Brezza Bottle Washer is a great choice as a steriliser for your baby bottle and nursing products, as it's the ultimate all-in-one system for busy parents. An automatic wash, dry and sterilising system makes cleaning bottles a lot easier and more efficient.
While quite large and takes up a lot of counter space, the Baby Brezza uses a lot less water than hand washing the bottles first, meaning it's more eco-friendly, too.
Our parent tester loved how it gave back freedom to her day than having to do each wash, sterilise and dry step seperately. It does take a long time, so you do have to be more organised with the items you're needing when sterilising, but overall our tester thought it was a brilliant steriliser.
Read our full Baby Brezza Bottle Washer review
Pros
- The instructions are clear and easy to follow
- It's eco-friendly as it saves water and time
- It has multifunctional settings such as washes, sterilises and dries
Cons
- May need to do a separate cycle for the lids, depending on the bottles
| Dimensions: | 46 x 23 x 39cm |
- 20 high-pressure spray jets
- All-in-one solution
- Hot air drying system
- Uses 50% less water than hand washing
Best travel baby sterilisers
best steam steriliser
AmazonThese Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Sterilisation bags work like microwave steam cleaners for all your feeding accessories. Each bag fits most breast pumps, teats or bottles and cleans and disinfects in around three minutes.
The only downside is you have to ensure the bags are properly sealed when using, as otherwise the sterilisation isn't effective. One bag can be used up to 20 times though, so this is a great idea if you are travelling and don't want to carry your normal steriliser with you, with one reviewer saying 'These are so handy!".
Pros
- Convenient to take on the go
- Each bag can be used up to 20 times
- They're fast and efficient
Cons
- You have to ensure the bag is perfectly sealed, so you cannot put too much in
| Dimensions: | 5 x 14.7 x 10.8cm |
| Sterilisation Time: | 3 minutes |
- Works in minutes
- 20 uses per bag
best microwave steam steriliser
Amazon
The Philips AVENT Microwave steam steriliser is compact and easy to use. While easy to clean, it only holds four AVENT bottles. However, it is also compatible with various other brands and can keep items sterile for up to 24 hours if left unopened after the two-minute sterilisation cycle.
It's convenient for its quick sterilisation, but it is a large steriliser, so ensure your microwave is big enough.
Pros
- Takes up to two minutes to sterilise products
- Works with bottles from other brands
- It's easy to clean
Cons
- Can only store up to four bottles at once
| Dimensions: | 28 x 28 x 16.6cm |
| Sterilisation Time: | A minimum of 2 minutes |
- Steralises in just 2 minutes
- Fits 4 Avent bottles at once
best soother steriliser
milton If you're looking for a simple-to-use steriliser that you can use out and about, then the Milton Portable Soother Steriliser would be great. It's particularly a good buy if your little one is constantly dropping their dummy.
While it can't sterilise bottles, our parent tester found it really convenient to take on the go thanks to its small size. This watertight sterilising device allows you to clean the dummy in 15 minutes, with the contents staying sterile for 24 hours.
Read our full Milton Mini Portable Soother Steriliser review
Pros
- It's ideal for taking on the go
- Convenient to use for dummies
- The solution can be re-used throughout the day
Cons
- It cannot be used for bottles
| Dimensions: | 8 x 13.5 x 17cm |
| Sterilisation Time: | 15 minutes |
- Leak-proof lid
- Works in 15 minutes
- Can attach to prams and strollers
How to choose the right steriliser for you
Here, we break down the criteria—everything you need to know—to help you decide which steriliser best fits your lifestyle, budget, and parenting needs.
What to consider when choosing a steriliser
Your lifestyle
Are you home most of the time, or constantly on the go? Compact, travel-friendly options like microwave sterilisers or self-sterilising bottles might suit you better if you’re always out and about.
Speed
Time is precious as a parent. Some sterilisers take just a few minutes, while others may need 15–30 minutes.
Safety
Look for BPA-free options and chemical-free sterilising methods like steam or UV light. These are the safest for your little one.
Capacity
Larger sterilisers are ideal for families with multiple bottles to clean, but they may not fit smaller kitchens.
Ease of use
Parenthood is hectic—your steriliser shouldn’t be. Opt for one that’s intuitive and easy to clean.
Budget
Sterilisers vary widely in price. Decide whether you need a basic model or are willing to invest in premium features like UV sterilisation.
Six types of sterilisers
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to sterilisers. Here’s a breakdown of the six main types:
1. Electric steam sterilisers
Plugged into the mains, these use steam to kill germs and are great for families who need to sterilise multiple bottles at once. Modern models often boast fast cycles, perfect for busy parents. However, they can be bulky and require regular cleaning or descaling.
Pharmacist Abbas Kanani explains, “Steam sterilisers are the most commonly used and work well for daily use at home. They’re quick and let you sterilise multiple items simultaneously.”
2. Microwave steam sterilisers
These work like electric steam sterilisers but don’t require a power plug—just a microwave. Add water, place bottles inside, and microwave for a few minutes. They’re space-saving and easy to clean, but ensure your microwave is large enough to accommodate one.
3. Cold water sterilisers
Using sterilising tablets or liquid in cold water, this method is quiet and keeps items sterile as long as they’re submerged. It’s a good backup for when there’s no electricity, though it takes longer (around 15–30 minutes).
Abbas notes, “Cold water sterilising can be useful when electricity isn’t available but requires careful handling of chemical solutions. You’ll also need to rinse thoroughly to ensure there’s no residue.”
4. Travel sterilisers
Designed for portability, travel sterilisers typically work with microwaves or cold water. They’re compact and great for vacations or overnight stays but usually fit only one or two bottles.
5. Self-sterilising bottles
These innovative bottles sterilise themselves in the microwave by adding a little water to the base. Perfect for on-the-go use, but limited to one bottle at a time.
6. UV sterilisers
The newest addition to the sterilising world, these gadgets use UV light to kill germs—no heat or water required. While they’re mess-free and efficient, they come with a higher price tag.
“UV is effective because it disrupts microbe DNA,” explains Abbas. “It’s a chemical-free option but tends to be more expensive. However, no heat or chemicals are involved, so it’s very safe.”
Sterilising safety
Keeping your baby’s bottles and feeding equipment sterile is essential for their health, especially in their first year. Here’s what you need to know about sterilising safely.
Is it necessary to sterilise baby bottles?
Yes! Babies are more vulnerable to germs because their immune and digestive systems are still developing. According to Abbas, "Babies are at a higher risk of getting sick because their immune and digestive systems are not fully developed, making them more sensitive to contaminants. Sterilising baby items reduces the risk of harmful bacteria and viruses causing illnesses like diarrhoea and vomiting.”
How to clean bottles before sterilising
-
Rinse bottles, teats, and feeding equipment in hot, soapy water.
-
Use a dedicated bottle brush and teat brush for thorough cleaning.
-
Dishwasher-safe? Feel free to run bottles and equipment through the dishwasher (top rack), but remember that cleaning isn’t the same as sterilising.
How to use different types of sterilisers
-
Steam sterilisers: Add water, load items, and press start. Ensure you descale regularly.
-
Cold water sterilisers: Submerge bottles in the solution and wait for the recommended time.
-
Microwave sterilisers: Add water, place bottles inside, and microwave for the recommended time.
-
UV sterilisers: Load items, press a button, and let the UV light do the work—no water or chemicals needed.
Sanitising vs. sterilising
Sanitising is all about reducing bacteria on surfaces your baby might touch—think tables, high chairs, or countertops. Sterilising, on the other hand, is the heavy-duty stuff—it wipes out microorganisms on items like bottles and teats, giving you peace of mind and helping to prevent infections.
How to store bottles after sterilising
Keep bottles in the steriliser with the lid closed until needed. Alternatively, store them in a clean, dry container, assembling bottles with teats and lids immediately to maintain sterility.
Sterilisers FAQs
Do you really need a steriliser for baby bottles?
Yes, especially for the first six months when your baby’s immune system is still developing. Sterilisers provide an extra layer of protection from harmful bacteria.
Are UV sterilisers safe?
Absolutely. UV sterilisers are effective and chemical-free, using light to eliminate germs without heat.
Which is better: steam or UV sterilisers?
It depends on your needs. Steam sterilisers are more affordable and widely available, while UV sterilisers are perfect for parents looking for convenience and innovation.
Which type of steriliser is best?
The best steriliser for you depends on your lifestyle, budget, and space. Steam sterilisers are reliable for daily home use, while UV sterilisers are perfect for parents looking for a high-tech, mess-free option.
Why you can trust us
At Mother&Baby, we’ve done the research so you don’t have to. With expert insights from Pharmacist Abbas Kanani and hands-on testing by real parents, you can trust that our recommendations are practical, safe, and effective. Our testers include parents of newborns and toddlers, who put these sterilisers through their paces in everyday life.
Our Mother&Baby Awards are one of the most trusted sources for independent product reviews, with thousands of parents testing the latest baby products each year.
We take pride in our editorial independence—our reviews are never influenced by manufacturers, and we don’t accept payment for product reviews. If we wouldn’t buy it ourselves, we won’t recommend it to you.
With all this in mind, you can feel confident that our recommendations come from a blend of careful research, expert input, and real-life testing. We’ve done the hard work so you can make an informed decision and find the best baby steriliser for your family.
Read more about why you can trust our recommendations.
About the expert
Abbas Kanani is a Superintendent Pharmacist at Chemist Click. He graduated in 2013 and spent three years working for high street multiples, before moving to a consulting role within the NHS.
About the author
Anne Lora Scagliusi is a Senior Digital Writer at Mother & Baby. She is a Scotland-based journalist with over a decade of international writing experience, specialising in women’s health, maternal mental health, and wellness. Her work has been featured in Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Glamour and has appeared on several Vogue global editions. She is mum to a one-year-old bambino and lives between Italy and the UK.