Customer Reviews

Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer

5 star:		(33)
4 star:		(9)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

MODEL SELECTION:

There are two microwave sterilizer models marketed by Philips/Avent. The first is the SCF271/07 (ASIN B001C3KXPG) and the second is the SCF271/02 (ASIN B000056OUH). BOTH actually contain the basic Express II Microwave Steam Sterilizer which holds up to six (6) bottles or a combination of other items including microwaveable breast pumps, cups, etc.

The only difference is that the SCF271/02 contains an ADDITIONAL two (2) of the 9oz/260ml Airflex Natural Feeding Bottle and Nippple.

Strangely enough as of this writing, Amazon is selling the SCF271/02 (the one that contains two extra feeding bottles) for a much lower price than the SCF271/07. So until prices remain like this, know what you are buying and consider it a bonus to have the two extra bottles.

TO STERILIZE OR NOT TO STERILIZE...WITH THIS MICROWAVE STERILIZER:

The argument is not whether you should sterilize your baby products (or expose the baby to germs as argument in strengthening the immune system) because if you're searching for a sterilizer and reached this page, then I'm going to assume you agree with the sterilization process.

The other argument in question is whether you are content with using hot running water and anti-bacterial soap or running a dishwasher and if these steps alone are enough to sterilize. Well it doesn't help to take an extra step to go thru a short few minutes in the microwave. Again, if you're in this page then you've come to accept that this sterilization process is worth the extra caution.

HOW MANY MINUTES IN THE MICROWAVE AT FULL POWER AND 200ml OF WATER?

2 MINUTES @ 1,100 - 1,850W, 2 MINUTES COOLDOWN
4 MINUTES @ 850 - 1,000W, 2 MINUTES COOLDOWN
6 MINUTES @ 500 - 800W, 2 MINUTES COOLDOWN

I'm restating these from the manual because it's important to ensure proper use. Too little water and you can end up damaging the sterilizer. Too much water and you fail to properly sterilize.

Check to see the wattage of your microwave. The model number is usually a giveaway on this.

How much is 200ml? Your baby bottle should give you that info.

Also remember to allow 2 minutes cooling time prior to unlocking the lid unless you want to be greeted with hot steam on your face and second degree burn or worse.

HOW LONG WILL IT REMAIN STERILE?

The manual further states that the items will remain sterile for 24 hours PROVIDED THE LID IS NOT REMOVED. So yes you can sterilize in advance and leave it inside until you need it for the day.

COMMENTS:

Avent and Philips have consistently provided quality plastic products. The look and feel is what I have come to expect. It is well made and there are no rough edges or protruding plastic parts that may have not been molded properly.

The manual will tell you how to position the items in the sterilizer versus simply dumping them in. The point of the sterilizer is to allow hot steam to circulate around. So incorrect position may mean not creating a good sterilization process.

When all is said and done, this is a simple sterilizer you put in the microwave. For the low cost it is offered, it's a small price to pay for extra security for your baby. Follow the included instructions and enjoy.

This is a really handy container. It is round shaped and you need at least 12" space in your microwave for it to fit comfortably. It's also 7" tall so make sure you have clearance. In other words, make sure your microwave is big enough to hold it. You might not use this as much at home as you would traveling. Since most motel rooms have microwaves now, this would be really convenient.

It will hold six 4oz bottles or three 11 oz bottles (Avent Airflex bottles, that is and they are not included with unit). It will also hold the Avent Isis Breast Pump and two 4oz bottles, or six 6oz VIA cups and lids, or one VIA Feeding system and up to four 6oz Via Cups and lids. 180ml equals 6 oz, 240ml equals 8oz, 125ml equals 4oz and 260ml equals 9oz. I'm adding this part in case you want to compare it to non Airflex bottles now to see if the ones you have on hand now will fit. There are conversion charts online if you get lost here. The unit contains the rack, which is removeable, to hold the bottles and accessories. Wash all items in warm soapy water, rinse and pour in 200ml of water in container (approx. 6.7 ounces) and place unit with bottes in microwave for time recommended on directions. Time is 2 minutes if your microwave wattage is 1100-1850W, 4 minutes for 850-1000W, 6 minutes for 500-800W. If the lid isn't opened then they will remain sterile for up to 24 hours. Also, make sure your microwave is clean before using this. The unit is plastic and of good quality but still lightweight. It contains no accessories, just the rack to hold the bottles.

On the lighter side...when you take it out of microwave, not only will your baby's bottles be sterilized but you can benefit as well. That steam is great for opening clogged pores and it would be a great time for a facial!

wasn't sure if i should buy a sterilizer. it is worth it though. not for everytime use but bottles sure need to be sterilized from time to time. wouldn't buy an electric one as this one is just as good and the other ones are crazy expensive for what they do. recommend.

I really like this sterilizer because it holds a lot of bottles but it not a huge appliance. It is so fast and convenient to pop it in the microwave for a couple of minutes. When not in use, you can easy throw this steamer/sterilizer into the cabinet. I feel like the electric steamers are harder to clean and take up more permanent space on the counter. However, I have to admit that sterilizing in the microwave makes me a tad nervous. We got all BPA free bottles, but I still wonder if they'll find something else wrong wiht htat plastic in the years to come. Because of that, we may use the dishwasher to steam/sterilize intermittently.

i really liked the product. its a perfect choice. The drawback is if baby bottle is little bit big like i have a dr brown's 8 oz bottle. it doesnt fit. only small bottles till 6 oz fits in the sterlizer.

Phillips makes a few models of sterilizer units called Avent. This particular unit requires a microwave oven. It provides a quick and easy way to sterilize your baby's bottles. Even though this is a great idea, I am concerned about the amount of plastic we're using in our lives and the possible toxicity of the plastics we use, especially when it comes to heating plastic.

It has 3 pieced: a base with removable plastic bottle holders and a large top with 2 clips on the side. Please be aware it does not come with bottles and you must purchase those separately. It will hold up to 6 bottles, but you can also sterilize breast pumps and cups. You get a detailed instruction booklet along with photos on all the different ways to load the unit. It just takes a few minutes to zap in the microwave and will keep your items sterilized for up to 24 hours. It is made of quality plastic, similar to Tupperware products.

The "Avent Express II" is a well made and handy sterilizer designed for use in your microwave oven. There are self contained units like Philips Avent iQ24 Steam Sterilizer without Bottle, but they are more expensive. Note that this comes without bottles!

First and foremost, always follow the included directions to avoided serious injury (steam burns!) and to ensure proper sterilization! That being said, this unit is very handy for those who don't want to boil bottles on the stove top or who want a sterile place to store the bottles after they have been sterilized (for up to 24 hours).

As a side note, while this intended for baby bottles and other infant care items, my older children (who are science minded) immediately recognized that this would work well on their Petri dishes and other test equipment when doing bacteria related lab projects.

This is made of very high grade plastic and should last a very long time.

Recommended!

I use this everyday, 3-4 times a day and then throw it in the dishwasher. It's made my life easier and I would recommend it to anyone. I'm an "AVENT" lover and this product is a must for every mommy to be.

This sterilizer is so easy to use! When you have a newborn, every second saved is a plus.I am very pleased with this product that does everything promised AND is easy to use . Price was great and shipping was FAST!

It does the job and it is a lot easier than boil water. I really like it. I use it for any bottle for my baby.