Bottle sterilization question: help!

[PollyC]

Hello all

I just pumped 4 oz of milk into a glass bottle, then realized I had sterilized it not recently, but almost a month ago.  It was stored uncovered on its side.  Do I dump it and start over?  Or is the milk okay?  My fear is that it was no longer sterile, and that bacteria could possibly build up in there.  I would just boil the milk but I think that is a major no-no.

What do you think?

thanks ladies!

Polly

[PatioGardener]

how old is baby?  was baby term or premature?  any immune system issues with baby?

i had a healthy term baby and I sterilized the pump and bottle into which I pumped once, when I first started to use them.  I was not worried about contamination.

[cristeen]

Most people just give the bottles a good washing. Sterilization is overkill in most cases.

If you're still concerned though, you can scald the milk. Heat it gently until it starts steaming - don't boil it. It'll lose it's beneficial bacteria, but will still have antibodies and is still perfwct nutrition.

[PollyC]

Originally Posted by cristeen 

If you're still concerned though, you can scald the milk. Heat it gently until it starts steaming - don't boil it. It'll lose it's beneficial bacteria, but will still have antibodies and is still perfwct nutrition.

Thanks...great answer!  Much appreciated

--Polly
 

[Llyra]

I've never sterilized a bottle in my life. Even with DD1, who was entirely bottlefed from 2 months. Even with formula, when we were using it. I washed bottles with hot soapy water, and let them air dry, and then put them in the cupboard.

Bottle sterilization is no longer routinely recommended, in areas with a safe drinking water supply, unless there are specifically concerns with compromised immunity-- in preemies, brand-new newborns, or babies with health problems.

[KoalaMommy]

I thought you only had to sterilize if you have well water.  Otherwise regular washing is fine.  I wouldn't worry if it had been sterilized already, I don't with mine. 

[JudiAU]

Unless the baby in a premie or has a compromised immune system I wouldn't worry about it. I don't sterilize my bottles and I don't think it is necessary. We just run them through the dishwasher.