New Mum's Guide to Bottle Sterilisers: UV or Steam?

Before I got pregnant, I thought people still boiled their milk bottles or used sterilisation tablets. So I won't deny that when I first got hit with Instagram ads for the sleek Haenim 4G+ UV LED Steriliser, I decided almost immediately that I wanted it. I also realised from the various support groups I'm in that, like me, many considered UV options without knowing exactly what it entails, especially when it comes to what bottles may or may not be suitable for UV sterilisers. 

After some research (and listening to sales pitches at Mummy's Market), my preference changed to a 2-in-1 Steam Steriliser and Dryer with a HEPA filter instead. 

My main reasons are:

• Flexibility: I don't know yet which bottles my baby will take to, and I didn't want to run the risk of getting a UV steriliser only for the bottles not to be suitable for UV sterilisation. Check out this post for a quick guide to choosing bottles for newborns.
• Space and Functionality: I don't have a big kitchen, so I wanted something light to move around and multi-functional (can serve as a storage unit as well). 
• Tried and Tested: I must admit this is quite personal. Indeed, many tests have been done for UV sterilisers, but after speaking to an engineer friend about bulbs, bulb position, materials, etc., I somehow felt more comfortable with something more tried and tested - heat and steam.  

I'm not ruling out the possibility of getting a UV steriliser though, especially if I can get a good bargain or a second hand unit for cheap! I like that UV sterilisers are multi-functional in its own way. 

There are other portable, travel friendly options I didn't know existed too, such as microwave steriliser bags, microwave steam sterilisers, and tablets. 

If you're deciding whether to choose a UV or steam steriliser, here's a handy summary I put together (click to enlarge, and feel free to save and share!). Once you're done, you can check out my weekly Price Watch for Sterilisers to find the best deals! 

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