Maintaining Hygiene and Freshness: The Essential Cleaning Process for Silicone Baby Products
Silicone baby products have become incredibly popular due to their durability, flexibility & BPA Free.
However, it is important to note that silicone is not designed to be left with food residues overnight, as it can develop an unpleasant smell akin to a lingering soup. To ensure the cleanliness and freshness of your silicone baby products, it is essential to follow a strict cleaning process. In this blog, we will delve deeper into the significance of proper cleaning methods for silicone products and provide you with essential guidelines to maintain their hygiene and prevent any unwanted smells.
The Importance of Proper Cleaning: Silicone baby products, require meticulous cleaning due to their non-porous nature. While silicone itself is resistant to bacterial growth, it can still harbor food residues and develop odors if not cleaned properly. Hence, it is crucial to establish a cleaning routine that includes thorough cleaning after each use.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
- Promptly Remove Food Residues: After each feeding session, promptly remove any food residues from the silicone products. Use a soft cloth or tissue to wipe away any visible residue before it has a chance to settle into the material.
- Rinse with Warm Water: Start by rinsing the silicone items under warm running water to remove any loose food particles. This initial rinse helps to get rid of most of the residue and prepares the items for the next cleaning steps.
- Use Mild Dishwashing Liquid or Baby-Safe Soap: Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid or baby-safe soap. Submerge the silicone products and use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to gently scrub them. Pay extra attention to any textured surfaces or crevices that may trap food particles.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the items under warm running water to remove any soap residue. Soap residue can contribute to lingering odors and affect the taste of the food.
- Dry Completely: Allow the silicone baby products to air dry completely before reassembling or storing them. Ensure that there is no moisture left on the items.
Additional Tips for Optimal Cleaning:
- Vinegar Soak: If you're still experiencing persistent odors, consider soaking the silicone items in a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar for about 30 minutes. Vinegar is known for its deodorising properties and can help eliminate stubborn smells. Afterward, rinse and dry the items as usual.
- Baking Soda Paste: For extra odor-fighting power, create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply the paste to the affected areas of the silicone products and let it sit for a few hours. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Baking soda is a natural deodoriser and can help neutralise odors effectively.
- Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on silicone. They leave scratches that catch food and oils, and they diminish the nonstick qualities of the piece.
- Use Oven Heat: If silicone pieces are really sticky and washing doesn't seem to be cleaning them easily, you can use the oven to help speed up the process. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). When the proper temperature has been reached, place the silicone pieces in the oven for 10 minutes. This will help the residue soften for easier removal.
Love Dani xx