Thanks, Scoop for such a great post!
I do the same as Scoop with one exception. Instead of a baby bottle sterilizer, I use microwavable steam cleaning bags. I pop them in the microwave for 3 min with 2 oz of distilled water. I don't have enough counter space for a baby bottle sterilizer so these work better for me. I get them from Amazon. This link is below. Best of luck to you.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000096QQ5/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
One final thought: If you do have a high mineral content in your water, it may help to soak your items in a solution of 1:1 water to white vinegar every so often. It will clear out the minerals. All the best to you!