What is a recommended approach to cleaning and storage of bottles to support safe feeding?

• A. Wash only with lukewarm water and store at room temperature forever.
• B. Sterilize bottles and nipples; refrigerate unused portions promptly.
• C. Reuse bottles without cleaning.
• D. Never refrigerate pumped milk.

Answer: (B)

Keeping feeding gear clean and milk stored safely reduces the risk of infection for a baby. Sterilizing bottles and nipples eliminates germs that may remain after washing, giving you a sterile starting point for every feed. Refrigerating unused portions promptly slows bacterial growth, preserving milk safety and quality until the next feeding. Together, these practices address both equipment cleanliness and milk storage, which are essential for safe feeding. Skipping sterilization or leaving milk unrefrigerated can allow bacteria to multiply and increase the risk of illness. For best results, wash hands and all parts with hot soapy water, rinse well, sterilize, let dry, then refrigerate pumped milk in clean containers promptly and use within the recommended timeframe.