Abstract: A microwave activated ultraviolet sterilizer for surface sterilization of articles such as baby bottles, contact lenses and the like permits rapid irradiation and easy operation. The sterilizer includes a substantially non-conducting housing, a plurality of transparent ultraviolet lamps disposed within the housing, and a microwave source, such as a conventional home microwave oven. In use, the sterilizer is placed within the oven and derives its power from the oven's microwave field.