Washing baby bottles by hand is time-consuming, and getting them truly clean is vital for your baby’s health. A good dishwasher can make your life much easier, but not all models are ideal for bottles, teats, and small plastic items. Here’s what to look for and the best options available for busy parents.
Quick Picks: Top 3 Dishwashers for Baby Bottles
- LG QuadWash Freestanding Dishwasher – View Price
Why it’s great: Extra cleaning arms for thorough wash, “TrueSteam” feature for better sterilisation, and customizable racks for bottle placement. - Bosch Serie 6 Free-standing Dishwasher – View Price
Why it’s great: “HygienePlus” option for higher-temperature rinse, bottle jets, and a third rack for small baby items. - Fisher & Paykel Double DishDrawer – View Price
Why it’s great: Two separate drawers (run a small load any time!), gentle yet hot “Sanitise” cycle, and flexible tines for bottle parts.
Why a Dishwasher is Better for Baby Bottles
- High-temperature cycles kill more germs than hand-washing.
- Special bottle holders or racks secure bottles upright for optimal cleaning and drying.
- Sanitise and hygiene cycles are designed to meet the extra cleaning standards needed for baby items.
- No need to boil or sterilise separately—the right dishwasher cycle does it for you.
How to Choose a Dishwasher for Baby Bottles
- Sanitise or Hygiene Cycle: Look for a model with a high-temp rinse or dedicated baby cycle (usually 70°C+).
- Third rack or cutlery tray: Great for small bottle parts, dummies, teats, and breast pump components.
- Flexible or adjustable racks: Space for tall bottles and sippy cups upright.
- Low heat-dry (or air dry) options: Prevents plastic bottles warping.
- Quiet operation: Essential for running cycles at nap time or overnight.
- Optional bottle jets or holders: Some models have accessories or bottle washing jets—ask your retailer.
Detailed Reviews: Best Dishwashers for Baby Bottles
LG QuadWash Freestanding Dishwasher
Who it’s for: Families who want high-performance cleaning for bottles and everyday dishes.
- Key Benefits:
- “TrueSteam” technology for deep cleaning and fewer water spots.
- Four spray arms for total coverage—even for bottles upright on the top rack.
- Half-load and adjustable rack features for quick baby-only washes.
- Quiet, reliable, and gentle on plastics.
- Pros:
- Extra cleaning power for bottle residue and milk film.
- Racks adjust easily for big or small items.
- Great for everyday family use.
- Cons:
- No specific baby bottle jets (but many owners use the adjustable rack + bottle basket accessory).
- Final Verdict: Excellent for new parents who want full household cleaning plus bottle-ready hygiene.
Bosch Serie 6 Free-standing Dishwasher
Who it’s for: Those who want peace of mind with “HygienePlus” high-temp rinse and special features for small baby parts.
- Key Benefits:
- HygienePlus (maintains 70°C+ for 10 minutes for extra germ kill).
- Third rack (top) for dummies, lids, and small bottle parts.
- Option for bottle jets (in some models or via accessory rack).
- QuietMark certified—can run overnight or during naps.
- Pros:
- Trusted brand, very reliable, and gentle on plastic bottles.
- Racks can hold tall bottles upright and spaced out.
- Cons:
- Must check model/retailer for bottle jet or baby bottle rack availability.
- Final Verdict: Best overall pick for safe, simple, and fuss-free bottle cleaning—plus it’s great for all your dishes too.
Fisher & Paykel Double DishDrawer
Who it’s for: Households wanting to wash small baby loads or mixed family items anytime.
- Key Benefits:
- Two independent drawers (run baby bottles only in the top, dishes below).
- Sanitise cycle for thorough, high-temp cleaning.
- Flexible tines for holding bottles upright and separated.
- Pros:
- Wash a small baby-only load any time, no waste.
- Gentle but thorough; adjustable for bottles and breast pump parts.
- Good for apartments and busy families.
- Cons:
- Premium price for double-drawer design.
- Takes a bit of trial to optimise rack layout for bottles.
- Final Verdict: Ultimate convenience for parents—use one drawer just for baby items, run anytime, and sanitise as needed.
Comparison Table
| Name | Baby-Safe Features | Special Racks | Sanitise Cycle | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG QuadWash | TrueSteam, extra spray arms, adjustable racks | Customisable; bottle basket optional | Yes | See Price |
| Bosch Serie 6 | HygienePlus 70°C rinse, 3rd rack for small items | 3rd rack and optional bottle jets | Yes | See Price |
| Fisher & Paykel Double DishDrawer | Dual drawers, separate small loads, flexible tines | Configurable for bottles | Yes | See Price |
FAQ Section
Is it safe to put baby bottles in the dishwasher?
Yes, if you use a model with a sanitise or hygiene cycle. Most bottles are now dishwasher safe—just place them top rack and use the baby/bottle cycle or high-heat option.
Do I need a special basket or rack for bottles?
It’s highly recommended! A bottle basket or dishwasher-safe mesh rack holds bottles and teats upright, keeping them secure and making sure water jets reach inside. Many brands offer these as accessories.
Will dishwasher heat damage bottles?
Not if you use the top rack and follow manufacturer guidance. Avoid the hottest dry settings for plastic bottles and always check that your bottles are labeled dishwasher safe.
How do I get rid of milk film?
Use a sanitise cycle and a high-quality detergent. If residue remains, soak stubborn bottles in a little baking soda and hot water, then run another cycle.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The right dishwasher will save you hours of scrubbing and give you total confidence that baby bottles, teats, dummies, and pump parts are truly clean and safe. Choose a model with a sanitise cycle, flexible racks, and reliable cleaning performance—and enjoy more time with your baby and less at the sink. Ready to make bottle cleaning a breeze? See the latest deals on parent-approved dishwashers today!