Keeping Cups Clean

As you may have seen in the news lately, many children’s cups are being found to have significant amounts of bacteria and mold growing inside that can make children sick. Bacteria and mold like to grow in warm, damp areas- making the spaces inside your child’s cup ideal. Here are some tips on choosing a cup for your child and keeping it clean:

Choosing a cup:

• When shopping, open the cup’s lid and choose one that is simple to take apart, clean, and put back together
• Ideally, select a cup with a see-through valve
• Replace any cups with deep scratches as bacteria can live and grow here
• Check the CPSC website to see any cups that have been recalled

How to clean cups:

• Completely disassemble your child’s cup each day and wash thoroughly
• Especially areas in the plastic stopper or valve device used to prevent leakage and slow flow
• Use a bottle brush to ensure you reach all of the difficult to reach areas in your child’s cup
• Regularly boil and disinfect cups and their parts
• Do not leave cups full of liquids throughout the day (if possible)
• Especially if they contain anything apart from water
• Remind your child to bring their cup home each day to be cleaned
• As always, if you have questions about keeping your child’s cups clean and/or risks associated with bacteria and mold exposure, consult your pediatrician.

For more information, visit these helpful links:
 

https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/family/kids-parenting/sippy-cup-safety
 

Videos on cleaning:
https://sistemaplastics.com/news/entry/twist-n-sip-caps-cleaning-instructions-announcement