A breast pump is a significant investment for any breastfeeding mother, and proper maintenance is essential to ensure it remains hygienic, efficient, and long-lasting. Whether you use an electric double pump, a portable wearable pump, or a simple manual pump, following the correct care procedures protects both your equipment and your precious breast milk.
Understanding Your Pump Components
Before diving into maintenance, it is important to understand the different parts of your breast pump and which components require regular cleaning. Most breast pumps consist of several key parts:
- Breast shields (flanges): The cone-shaped pieces that fit over your nipple and areola
- Valves and membranes: Small parts that create the suction and control milk flow
- Connectors: Pieces that join the shields to the bottles or collection containers
- Tubing: Connects the pump motor to the breast shields (in electric pumps)
- Collection bottles or bags: Where expressed milk is collected
- Motor unit: The main body of an electric pump (should never be submerged)
Never submerge the motor unit of an electric breast pump in water. This can cause electrical damage and create safety hazards. Only clean parts that come into contact with breast milk.
Cleaning After Every Use
All parts that come into contact with breast milk should be cleaned after every pumping session. This prevents bacterial growth and ensures your milk remains safe for your baby. Follow these steps for routine cleaning:
First, disassemble all parts that touch breast milk. Rinse each piece under cool running water to remove milk residueāusing cool water first prevents milk proteins from becoming cooked on and harder to remove. Then wash each part thoroughly with warm soapy water using a clean bottle brush or dedicated pump cleaning brush. Pay special attention to small crevices where milk can collect.
Rinse all parts thoroughly to remove soap residue, then place them on a clean drying rack or clean paper towel to air dry completely. Avoid using cloth towels, which can harbour bacteria and leave fibres on pump parts.
Quick Cleaning Tips for Busy Mums
If you are pumping multiple times throughout the day, you can place pump parts in a sealed container or zip-lock bag in the refrigerator between sessions (for up to 4 hours) rather than washing after every use. However, you should still thoroughly clean all parts at least once every 24 hours.
Many pump parts are dishwasher safeācheck your manufacturer's instructions. If using a dishwasher, place small parts in a closed-top basket or mesh laundry bag to prevent them from falling through the rack. Use the hot water and heated drying cycle for best sanitation.
Sterilising Your Pump Parts
While daily cleaning is essential, sterilising provides an extra level of protection against harmful germs. The Australian Government's food safety guidelines recommend sterilising feeding equipment for babies under three months, premature babies, or babies with weakened immune systems.
There are several effective methods for sterilising pump parts:
- Steam sterilising: Using an electric steam steriliser or microwave steam bags
- Boiling: Submerging parts in boiling water for 5-10 minutes
- Cold water sterilising: Using sterilising solution or tablets according to package directions
Ensure parts are completely clean before sterilisingāsterilisation does not replace proper cleaning. Always allow parts to cool completely before handling after steam or boiling methods.
Caring for Your Tubing
In closed-system pumps, the tubing should not come into contact with breast milk. However, condensation can sometimes form inside the tubing during pumping. If you notice moisture in the tubing, run the pump for a few minutes after your session with the tubing attached but the breast shields removed to allow air to circulate and dry out the tubes.
If milk does get into your tubing, this may indicate a problem with your pump's backflow protector. Clean the tubing thoroughly and contact the manufacturer, as the backflow protector may need replacement.
Replacing Worn Parts
Even with proper care, some pump parts wear out over time and require replacement to maintain optimal suction and hygiene. Knowing when to replace parts ensures your pump continues working effectively:
- Valves and membranes: Replace every 2-3 months, or sooner if you notice tears, warping, or decreased suction
- Breast shields: Inspect regularly for cracks or discolouration; replace if damaged
- Tubing: Replace if you notice cracks, holes, or persistent moisture/milk inside
- Backflow protectors: Follow manufacturer guidelines, typically every 3-6 months
If you notice a sudden decrease in suction power, check your valves and membranes first. These small parts are often the culprit and are inexpensive to replace.
Storing Your Pump
Proper storage between uses helps protect your pump and keep parts clean. After parts are completely dry, store them in a clean, sealed container or the pump's carrying case. Avoid storing in the bathroom where humidity can promote mould growth.
If you are storing your pump for an extended period (such as between babies), ensure all parts are thoroughly cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool, dry place. Consider replacing valves, membranes, and tubing when you resume using the pump.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Regular maintenance can prevent many common pumping problems, but knowing how to troubleshoot issues helps you get back to pumping quickly:
Decreased suction: Check valves and membranes for wear, ensure all parts are properly assembled, and verify tubing is firmly connected. Also check that your breast shields are the correct size.
Motor running but no suction: This usually indicates a problem with the valves, membranes, or an air leak in the system. Check all connections and replace worn parts.
Unusual noises: While pumps do make rhythmic sounds, new or unusual noises may indicate a problem. Check for loose connections or debris in the motor area.
Creating a Cleaning Routine
Establishing a consistent cleaning routine makes pump maintenance feel less overwhelming. Keep a dedicated cleaning station with all necessary supplies: bottle brush, pump cleaning brush, dish soap, drying rack, and sterilising equipment if used.
Many mothers find it helpful to clean pump parts immediately after storing expressed milk, while others prefer to batch clean at the end of the day. Find what works for your schedule and stick with it consistently.