Checking Bottle Materials and Preparation
Before placing any container into the machine, confirming its material compatibility is necessary to prevent warping or degradation. Manufacturers typically label bottles made from glass or stainless steel as safe for machine washing, as these materials can withstand the high heat levels of the cleaning cycle without issue. Certain hard plastics, such as polypropylene (PP), silicone, or co-polyester materials like Tritan, are also commonly rated as safe, often indicated by a specific symbol on the product base.
Materials like standard polyethylene (PE) or decorative elements painted onto the exterior may not be designed to endure the sustained high temperatures inside the appliance. Exposing lower-grade plastics to temperatures exceeding 140°F can cause them to soften, deform their shape, and potentially compromise the bottle’s sealing capabilities. Always consult the bottle’s original packaging or the manufacturer’s website for explicit instructions regarding machine washing safety and temperature limits.
Preparation starts with a thorough manual rinse immediately after the bottle’s use. Any remaining liquid, especially sticky residues or dried milk film, should be flushed out under running water to prevent it from baking onto the surface during the wash cycle. Failing to pre-rinse can also lead to the residue clogging the dishwasher’s filter or being redeposited onto other dishes during the cycle.
All components must be separated to allow water and detergent to reach every surface. This includes unscrewing the lid, removing any silicone sleeves or gaskets, and detaching internal parts like straws, vents, or nipples from their rings. Disassembly ensures that no hidden crevices or sealed areas remain protected from the cleaning action of the spray arms, guaranteeing a complete wash.
Optimal Placement of Bottles and Parts
Bottles should be placed upside down on either the top or bottom rack, depending on their size and material. This positioning allows the pressurized water jets to effectively reach the entire internal surface area. It also ensures that water drains out completely after the wash cycle.
Plastic bottles are susceptible to heat damage and should be loaded onto the top rack, which is situated further from the primary heating element. This placement reduces the risk of material deformation since the top rack experiences slightly cooler water temperatures. Secure the bottles between the tines or over dedicated prongs to prevent them from tipping over and filling with dirty wash water.
Small, lightweight accessories, such as bottle rings, collars, or infant nipples, can be displaced by the force of the water spray. If these parts fall to the bottom of the machine, they may melt upon contacting the heating element or obstruct the rotating spray arms. Specialized containment is required during the wash cycle to keep these smaller components safely in place.
Utilizing a small-parts basket or a fine-mesh laundry bag specifically designed for the dishwasher is the most effective way to secure these items. These containment systems keep the small pieces upright and stationary while allowing water and detergent to flow through and around them for efficient cleaning. When loading larger bottles, always confirm their placement does not interfere with the movement of the detergent dispenser door or block the path of the upper or lower spray arms.
Selecting the Right Wash and Drying Cycles
Selecting an appropriate wash setting protects the bottle’s material integrity. A standard or normal wash cycle generally uses sufficient temperature and water pressure to clean bottles effectively without the extreme heat of specialized settings. Avoid using the high-temperature sanitizing cycle unless the bottle is made of glass or stainless steel and explicitly rated for sustained heat exceeding 160°F.
The heated drying cycle should be deactivated, particularly when washing plastic components, to mitigate the risk of deformation. The intense, focused heat used to evaporate water droplets can cause plastic to soften, shrink, or warp over time, compromising the seal. Allowing the parts to air dry naturally is a safer alternative, or selecting a machine setting that uses only residual heat or a fan to dry the load.
Once the cycle is complete, remove the clean bottles and parts using freshly washed hands to avoid reintroducing contaminants. Thoroughly inspect each piece to ensure all residue is gone. Allow the components to finish air drying completely on a clean rack or towel before reassembly and storage.