Is Boiling Baby Bottle Enough for Germ Protection? Philips Challenges Age Old Practice Backed by Science and Innovation
- Apr 2, 2026
- 4 minute read
At a glance
Philips Avent launches new campaign blending cultural insight with science-backed claims to champion sterilization; welcomes Yami Gautam Dhar as brand ambassador
Survey indicates Philips Avent Sterilizer delivers up to 2x better germ protection vs boiling1, with infants falling ill less often in such homes2
New Delhi | April 02, 2026: For generations, Indian parents have done what they’ve always believed is best—boiling baby bottles and accessories to keep them clean. It’s a ritual rooted in care, passed down with the reassurance that it protects. And yet, infants continue to be exposed to germs that can lead to common infections. This raises an important question: in today’s world, should infant hygiene rely on tradition alone, or be guided by science? Recognizing this gap, Philips is bringing a science-led perspective to a conversation long shaped by habit. Backed by a recent survey and real-world evidence, the brand highlights that sterilization offers a more reliable approach to infant hygiene. The survey found that the Philips Avent Sterilizer delivers up to 2X better germ protection compared to boiling, along with fewer reported illness episodes among infants, reinforcing a science-backed approach to safer feeding hygiene.
As a part of this initiative, Philips announced the launch of a new campaign today highlighting the importance of sterilization as an essential step in infant care, along with onboarding acclaimed actor and new mother Yami Gautam Dhar as the brand ambassador for Philips Avent in India, bringing a relatable and heartfelt voice to the narrative.
The campaign also draws on a deep-rooted cultural insight in India: the tradition of protecting children from the evil eye (nazar). Across regions, parents follow customs such as using salt, chillies, or applying a black tika to ward off evil eye (buri nazar). In modern times, parents even tie evil eye bracelets or use evil eye stickers on their children’s photos while posting on social media. The film reflects on these practices, urging parents to pause and consider that while traditions offer comfort, they may not be enough to protect against germs and infections. Philips Avent positions its sterilizer as a scientifically backed safeguard that complements cultural beliefs with proven protection.
“Many parents still rely on boiling without realizing how sterilization differs in effectiveness” said Smit Shukla, Country Head – Philips Personal Health. “Our survey findings indicate fewer reported infant illness episodes in homes using the Philips Avent Sterilizer. With this campaign, we want to empower parents with knowledge and solutions that combine science with care.”
Welcoming Yami Gautam Dhar to the Philips Avent family, Shukla added: “As a new mother herself, Yami brings authenticity and relatability to this campaign, balancing trusted traditions with informed choices.”
Speaking about her association, Yami Gautam Dhar said: “Motherhood makes you conscious of every decision that impacts your baby’s well-being. Learning about proper sterilization was an important part of my journey. The Philips Avent Sterilizer offers up to 2x better germ protection compared to boiling, making everyday baby care safer and easier. I’m proud to partner with a brand that supports parents in making informed choices.”
The Philips Avent Sterilizer is available across leading e-commerce and quick commerce platforms including Amazon and FirstCry, major baby care retailers, and select electronics stores across India.
Link to the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_B_abhGFu8c
Sources
- “2x better germ protection" refers to comparative contamination rates for Klebsiella pneumoniae observed in survey samples collected immediately after sterilization/boiling. Based on analysis from a multicentric real-world survey conducted by IQVIA across 120 participants in four major Indian cities during July - August 2025 to compare the efficacy of the Philips Avent sterilizer versus traditional boiling for sterilizing baby feeding equipment. Actual germ protection depends on proper usage, maintenance, and hygiene practices. Individual results may vary.
- Based on analysis from a multicentric real-world survey conducted by IQVIA across 120 participants in four major Indian cities during July - August 2025 to compare the efficacy of the Philips Avent sterilizer versus traditional boiling for sterilizing baby feeding equipment, comparing contamination rates, frequency, severity and recovery period of infant illness. Individual results may vary. This information does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice.
