Using a microwave to sterilise

Microwaves are versatile kitchen appliances. Although their most common use is cooking and re-heating leftovers, they can also be used to sterilise items, from baby bottles to jam jars. Our guide explains more about microwave sterilisation, including frequently asked questions and step-by-step instructions.

How effective are microwaves at sterilising?

Since microwaves can quickly heat items to high temperatures, they’re one of the best ways to sterilise. But does a microwave kill bacteria? The microwaves themselves don’t, but heat does. Most bacteria begin to die at around 65°C, and the time it takes each appliance to reach this temperature will vary. So, to be safe, we recommend microwaving any products you want to sterilise for at least 1 minute.

How to sterilise baby products  

Baby products are some of the top items that require sterilisation. Since babies’ immune systems are more vulnerable from the newborn stage to 3 months, extra precautions are necessary to keep baby products germ-free. Learn how to sterilise baby bottles and dummies below.

How to sterilise baby bottles

Wondering how to sterilise baby bottles in a microwave? Follow these steps:

  1. Fill the bottles halfway with water.
  2. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s settings.
  3. Leave the bottles to cool down for about 5 minutes before removing them from the microwave.
  4. Pour the water out and leave the bottles to air dry.

How often should you sterilise baby bottles?

BPA-free bottles are safe to sterilise as often as you like, although the general recommendation is once a day. However, if you use a dishwasher to clean your baby’s bottles, the high heat and drying cycle will sterilise them, so you don’t need to use the microwave as well.

How to sterilise dummies

Some dummies come with a box for microwave sterilisation, or you can buy sterilising bags. Always sterilise new dummies before use and then daily to remove any germs.

  1. Fill the box or bag with water, place the dummies inside and close.
  2. Microwave on high for 1-3 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.
  3. Leave the container inside the microwave to cool down.
  4. Remove after 5 minutes, pour the water out and let the dummies air dry.

How to sterilise jars  

Whether making homemade jam or pickles, you’ll need to sterilise the jars first. Here’s how to sterilise glass jars and bottles:

  1. Wash the glass jar or bottle thoroughly using hot water and dish soap.
  2. Rinse any soapy residue, fill the jar halfway with water, then microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
  3. If your jars or bottles have metal lids, boil a pan of water on the stove and let them simmer for 10 minutes. Metal should never be put in the microwave.
  4. Let your jars and bottles air dry, then they’re ready to use.

What else can you sterilise in a microwave?  

Several other household items can be sterilised in a microwave to kill bacteria. Find out more about each below.

  • Sponges

    Kitchen sponges can quickly accumulate bacteria, but you can sterilise them to prolong their life. Here’s how:

    1. Wet the sponge and place it in the microwave.
    2. Microwave for 1-2 minutes on high.
    3. Let the sponge cool down before removing it from the microwave.
  • Dental products

    Acrylic dentures with no metal components can be sterilised in a microwave following these steps:

    1. Place the item in a clean, microwaveable container and fill it with water.
    2. Microwave for 1-2 minutes on a high heat.
    3. Let the water cool down before removing the container from the microwave

    Don’t attempt to sterilise plastic aligners or dental products with metal components. Some plastics can warp when exposed to high temperatures, and metal should never be put in the microwave as it can spark.

  • Potting soil

    It may seem like an unusual tip, but potting soil can be sterilised in the microwave to remove any harmful bacteria that could jeopardise your plants’ health. This is a good idea if you’re reusing soil or planting new seeds, which are more vulnerable.

    However, it’s important not to over-sterilise, as you want to preserve the good microorganisms and essential chemical components. Here’s how to sterilise soil in the microwave:

    1. Place the soil in a zip-lock plastic bag and add a small amount of water to keep it moist.
    2. Leave the bag open so steam can escape.
    3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the soil reaches 85°C-95°C (you can place a thermometer in the back to check the temperature).
    4. Let the soil cool down, then remove it from the microwave.
    5. Once it has completely cooled, it’s ready to use.

Explore the range of microwaves at AEG

  

If your appliance isn’t as powerful as you need it to be for sterilisation, or you’re looking to upgrade to a more efficient model, explore the range of microwaves at AEG. We offer integrated solutions for cooking, defrosting and cleaning, with customisable functions to suit your needs.