AVENT SCF281/05
Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer User Manual
Model: SCF281/05
Brand: AVENT
Introduction
The Philips Avent SCF281/05 Microwave Steam Sterilizer is designed to effectively sterilize baby bottles, pacifiers, cups, and other microwave-safe baby items using natural steam. This method eliminates 99.9% of germs and bacteria without the need for chemicals, providing a safe and hygienic environment for your baby's feeding accessories. Its compact and lightweight design makes it convenient for both home use and travel.

Image: The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer, a white and clear plastic unit, shown with three baby bottles inside, ready for sterilization.
Safety Information
- Always ensure the sterilizer is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
- Use only the recommended amount of water as specified in the operating instructions.
- Exercise caution when removing the sterilizer from the microwave, as it will be hot and contain hot steam. Use the cooler side grips.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not open the lid immediately after sterilization; allow a few minutes for cooling and steam dissipation.
- Only sterilize microwave-safe items. Do not place metal objects inside.
Parts List
The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer consists of the following main components:
- Sterilizer Base (water reservoir)
- Inner Basket/Rack (for holding bottles and accessories)
- Lid with Safety Clips
- Tongs (for safe removal of sterilized items)

Image: The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer with its clear lid removed, revealing the blue inner basket designed to hold various baby items for sterilization.
Setup and Preparation
- Before first use, wash all parts of the sterilizer thoroughly with warm soapy water and rinse.
- Pour 200ml (approximately 7 fl oz) of tap water into the base of the sterilizer. Do not overfill.
- Place the inner basket onto the base.
- Arrange clean, disassembled bottles, pacifiers, and other accessories into the inner basket. Ensure all openings face downwards to prevent water collection. The sterilizer can hold up to four Philips Avent bottles.
- Securely close the lid using the safety clips on the sides.

Image: The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer shown with four baby bottles arranged inside, demonstrating its capacity.
Operating Instructions
The sterilizer uses the power of your microwave to create steam for effective sterilization.
- Place the assembled sterilizer into the microwave oven. Ensure it fits comfortably and the microwave door can close completely.
- Set the microwave power and time according to the table below:
Microwave Wattage Sterilization Time 1100-1850W 2 minutes 850-1000W 4 minutes 500-800W 6 minutes - Once the microwave cycle is complete, allow the sterilizer to cool down for at least 2 minutes before opening. This allows the steam to condense and reduces the risk of burns.
- Carefully open the lid by releasing the safety clips. Use the provided tongs to remove sterilized items.
- If the lid remains unopened, the contents inside the sterilizer will remain sterile for up to 24 hours.

Image: The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer with various bottle parts and pacifiers inside, highlighting its ability to sterilize in just 2 minutes depending on microwave wattage.

Image: A person placing the Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer into a microwave oven, illustrating its compact and lightweight design that fits most standard microwaves.

Image: The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer with an overlay indicating "Kills 99.9% of germs & bacteria," emphasizing its effectiveness.

Image: The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer with an overlay stating "Uses steam; no chemicals!", highlighting its natural sterilization method.

Image: The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Sterilizer with an overlay indicating "Keeps contents sterile while lid is unopened" for up to 24 hours.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning of your sterilizer will ensure its longevity and continued effectiveness.
- After each use, empty any remaining water from the base.
- Wash all parts of the sterilizer in warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
- The sterilizer is dishwasher safe, making cleaning convenient.
- To remove limescale buildup, which may occur over time depending on water hardness, use a descaling solution suitable for kitchen appliances or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Follow the descaling product's instructions or soak parts in the vinegar solution, then rinse thoroughly.
- Allow all parts to air dry completely before storing or reassembling.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Items are not fully sterilized. |
|
| White residue (limescale) inside the sterilizer. |
|
| Lid does not close securely. |
|
Specifications
- Model Number: SCF281/05
- Product Dimensions: 11 x 11 x 6.5 inches (Length x Width x Height)
- Item Weight: 1.63 pounds (approximately 26.1 ounces)
- Material: BPA free (No polycarbonate, PVC, nitrosamines, BPF, chemicals, lead, EA, phthalates, PET)
- Style: Microwave Sterilizer
- Capacity: Holds up to 4 Philips Avent bottles (standard and wide neck)
- Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- Color: White
Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information and customer support, please refer to the official Philips Avent website or the full user manual provided with your product. A digital version of the user manual can often be found on the product's Amazon page or the manufacturer's support site.
You can also visit the AVENT Store on Amazon for more products and information.
For a comprehensive guide, you may download the official User Manual (PDF) here.
Ask a question about this manual
Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.







