Choosing between the Papalic Classic and Pro sterilizers can be tricky, especially with the price difference. This review compares both models, highlighting their key features and performance to help you make an informed decision. We'll delve into the design, functionality, capacity, drying times, and overall value of each, analyzing whether the extra features and cost of the Pro justify the upgrade for new parents. We'll examine the differences in build quality, ease of use, and sterilization effectiveness to determine which model provides the best bang for your buck.This in-depth comparison focuses on the practical aspects of each sterilizer, exploring the pros and cons of each model's features. From the simple dial interface of the Classic to the six distinct modes of the Pro, we'll assess their usability and suitability for different needs. Ultimately, this review aims to help you decide whether the added versatility and capacity of the Papalic Pro outweigh its higher price point and longer drying times, or if the more affordable and efficient Classic model perfectly suits your baby bottle sterilization needs.
Pros And Cons
- Very well priced
- Gives a lot of value for the price
- Sterilizing only takes 8 minutes
- Sterilizing and drying takes 45 minutes
- Extra drying takes 60 minutes
- Narrower than the Pro model
- Basket only fits six bottles comfortably
- Steam may not reach all bottles if more than six are used
- No digital clock
- Looks nicer than the classic model
- Has six different modes (auto, sterilizing, drying, storage, heating food, dehydrating)
- Storage mode keeps bottles dry for up to 24 hours
- Metal plate in basket allows for more bottles (nine)
- Tray can be flipped to accommodate tall bottles and accessories
- $40 more expensive than the classic model (more than 50% more)
- Sterilizing takes 12 minutes
- Drying takes 60 minutes
- Total sterilizing and drying time is 72 minutes (longer than advertised)
- Heating food takes 18 minutes
- Dehydrating features are not a primary selling point for new parents
Read more: Top 5 UV Baby Bottle Sterilizers of 2024
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The Papalic Pro sterilizer arrived in a sleek package, quite different from the classic model's packaging. The Quick Start guide was included, a nice touch for setting up quickly. The Pro version immediately impressed with its refined appearance, visibly more polished than its predecessor. The metal plate inside the basket was a noteworthy addition.
Upon opening the box, I found the sterilizer itself, along with the basket (featuring the aforementioned metal plate), and a detailed instruction manual. The manual for the Pro seemed more extensive than the Classic's. The build quality felt premium—a significant visual upgrade from the Classic model.
Feature Comparison: Classic vs. Pro
The Papalic Classic boasts a simple dial for selecting sterilizing, drying, and extra dry settings. The Pro, however, offers six distinct modes: Auto, Sterilize, Dry, Storage (up to 24 hours with intermittent drying), Heat Food, and Dehydrate. This wider range of functions gives the Pro significantly more versatility.
Both models use distilled water to prevent mineral buildup and require occasional descaling. The maximum water capacity differs; the Classic holds up to 100ml while the Pro uses 130ml for sterilizing and drying, and 160ml for heating functions. The Pro's larger capacity is advantageous, particularly for larger families or those using numerous bottles.
Basket and Capacity Differences
The Classic's basket features rings to hold bottles; it comfortably holds six standard bottles. Attempting to fit more compromises ventilation, potentially impacting sterilization effectiveness. The Pro model, however, incorporates a metal plate with multiple steam vents, which significantly enhances capacity and ensures even steam distribution.
The Pro's metal plate allows for at least nine bottles compared to the Classic's six. Both baskets include a top tray for smaller accessories, but the Pro's tray is reversible, optimizing space for taller bottles. This design difference is a major advantage for the Pro model in terms of bottle capacity and overall convenience.
Performance and Drying Time Comparison
Both sterilizers exceeded their stated drying times, with the Classic taking slightly longer than the Pro. The Classic's sterilizing cycle took 8 minutes, drying took 45 minutes, and extra drying took a total of 71 minutes. The Pro model took 12 minutes for sterilizing, 60 minutes for drying, and the full cycle, including extra drying, lasted 73 minutes.
Despite the extended drying times, both machines left bottles and accessories completely dry. The Pro, while taking slightly longer, offered a more thorough drying process due to its more robust ventilation system. The added drying time on the Pro model is a significant drawback, considering the extra cost.
Final Verdict: Classic or Pro?
The Papalic Pro, despite its extra features like food heating and dehydrating, isn't necessarily worth the extra $40 and significantly longer drying time for new parents. The core function—sterilizing and drying baby bottles—is efficiently handled by the Classic model, often within comparable drying times to other sterilizers on the market.
The extra functions of the Pro model are nice-to-haves but not essential for most new parents focused on sterilizing bottles quickly and efficiently. Unless you specifically need the additional functions and longer drying cycle isn't an issue, the Classic Papalic sterilizer offers excellent value and functionality at a more reasonable price.