Philips Avent SCF293/00 – Steam Steriliser with Dryer

The Philips Avent SCF293/00 combines steam sterilisation with a drying function in one unit. The process takes 40 minutes: first steam sterilisation, then drying with a concentrated air stream. That last part is what sets it apart from a standard steriliser – no wet bottles you have to dry yourself. After the cycle, the contents stay sterile for up to 24 hours as long as the lid remains closed. A practical device for anyone who wants bottles and accessories ready in one go.

The steriliser uses pure steam – no chemicals, no additives. The principle is simple: heat water to steam, which reaches every surface inside the steriliser. According to the specs, this kills 99.9% of harmful germs. The steam is gentle on bottles and teats – no risk of damaging plastic or silicone. The downside of steam: afterwards, the bottles are hot and damp. That's why the drying phase is built in. The air stream dries the bottles, so you can use or store them straight away.

Specifications at a glance

• Power: 650 W – enough to bring water to a boil quickly. One cycle takes 40 minutes.
• Voltage: 220–240 V, 50–60 Hz – suitable for the European mains. Class 1 safety.
• Material: plastic (PP) – BPA-free, but not dishwasher-safe. Hand cleaning is required.
• Dimensions: 36 x 30 x 18 cm – weight 2.98 kg. Sits stably on the countertop.
• Capacity: up to 6 Philips Avent bottles – plus teats, soothers and manual breast pumps. Only compatible with the Philips Avent range.

The SCF293/00 is white plastic, straightforward and practical. The lid seals well – essential for maintaining sterility. At the bottom, there's an integrated drip tray that catches milk drips. This prevents dried-on milk residue from causing odours. The device can be cleaned from top to bottom, including the heating plate. Assembly is simple: the parts click together, no tools needed. The weight of nearly 3 kg provides stability – the unit stays put, even during boiling.

Fill the water reservoir, place the bottles and accessories, close the lid and press start. After 40 minutes, bottles are sterile and dry. The drying phase is the key difference: with a standard steriliser, you have to let bottles cool and dry them. Here, you take them out dry, ready to use. The device keeps the contents sterile for up to 24 hours – handy for sterilising in the evening for the next day. The limitation: only Philips Avent bottles and accessories fit. Other brands haven't been tested and may not fit. Also, the device isn't dishwasher-safe – you have to clean it by hand. That's a drawback if you prefer to put everything in the dishwasher.

The integrated drip tray catches milk drips. It sounds minor, but it stops the heating plate from caking on and developing smells. The device is easy to assemble and disassemble – no screws or clips that break. The 650 W power is standard for this type of device: it takes a while, but it gets the job done.