How to Properly Clean Your Breast Pump: A Step by Step guide by Star of Baby

By Star of Baby

If you're a breastfeeding mother who uses a breast pump, it's important to keep your pump clean in order to prevent the growth of bacteria and ensure that your baby is receiving milk that is free of contaminants. Star of Baby is here with a step-by-step guide on how to properly clean your breast pump:

How to Properly Clean Your Breast Pump?

1. Disassemble the pump

Start by disassembling the breast pump into its various components. This usually involves removing the bottle, breast shield, valve, and membrane.

2. Rinse the components

Rinse all of the pump components that have come into contact with breast milk under running water. Use a soft brush, like a toothbrush, to scrub any milk residue from the components.

3. Clean the components

Next, wash the components in hot, soapy water. Use a mild dish soap that is free of fragrance and antibacterial agents. Scrub the components with a soft brush and be sure to clean any nooks and crannies where milk residue can hide.

Also read : Get started with breastfeeding and pumping schedule by Star of Baby

4. Rinse again

After washing, rinse all of the components thoroughly in hot, running water to remove any soap residue.

5. Sterilize the components

Sterilization is an optional step but recommended by many healthcare providers, especially in the first few months after birth. You can use a microwave steam sterilizer, boiling water, or a sterilizing solution recommended by your breast pump manufacturer. If you use boiling water, make sure to boil the components for at least 5 minutes.

6. Air dry the components

After cleaning and sterilizing, air dry all of the components on a clean, dry towel or drying rack. Avoid using a cloth towel to dry, as it can harbor bacteria.

7. Reassemble the pump

Once the components are dry, reassemble the pump and store it in a clean, dry place until the next use.

It's important to clean your breast pump after every use to prevent the growth of bacteria and ensure that your baby is receiving a healthy milk supply that is safe for him/her. By following these simple steps, you can keep your breast pump clean and in good working order.

How to Sterilize Breast Pumps?

As a breastfeeding mother, you want to make sure that your baby is receiving the safest and healthiest milk possible. Sterilizing your breast pump is an important step in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and ensuring that your baby is protected from potential infections. Here are some methods for sterilizing your breast pump:

• Steam Sterilization

Steam sterilization is a popular method for sterilizing breast pumps. This involves using a special sterilizer that uses steam to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. You can purchase a microwave steam sterilizer or an electric steam sterilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to use the sterilizer, and be sure to clean your breast pump components before sterilizing them.

Also read: Frequently asked questions Breast Pumps by Star of Baby

• Boiling

Boiling is another effective method for sterilizing breast pump parts. Simply boil a pot of water, then submerge the breast pump components in the boiling water for at least five minutes. Remove the components using tongs or a spoon, and allow them to air dry on a clean towel or drying rack.

• Chemical Sterilization

Some breast pump manufacturers recommend using a chemical sterilizing solution to sterilize the components. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to properly use the solution, and be sure to rinse the components thoroughly with water after using the solution to remove any residue.

• UV Light

UV light is a newer method of sterilizing breast pump components. This involves using a special UV sterilizer that uses UV light to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. These types of sterilizers are often portable and easy to use.

• Dishwasher

Some breast pump components can be sterilized in the dishwasher. Check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that your specific breast pump components are dishwasher safe. Use a hot water setting and run the dishwasher for a full cycle. Allow the components to air dry on a clean towel or drying rack.

Also read: Easy way to get a free breast pump through insurance by Star of Baby

It's important to note that while sterilization is an important step in keeping your breast pump clean, it's not necessary to sterilize after every use. It's recommended to sterilize your breast pump components at least once a day or as directed by the manufacturer. By following these methods, you can ensure that your breast pump is clean, safe, and ready to use for your baby's next feeding.

How Often Should You Clean Your Breast Pump?

If you're a breastfeeding mother who uses a breast pump, you may be wondering how often you should clean your pump to keep it safe and hygienic for your baby. Cleaning your breast pump is an essential step in ensuring that the milk you provide for your baby is safe and healthy. Here's a guide on how often you should clean your breast pump and what factors to consider:

Also read: Struggling with breastfeeding? Check out these tips for new mothers by Star of Baby 

• After every use

You need to clean your breast pump after every use. This will prevent bacteria and other microorganisms from growing on the pump components, which can potentially harm your baby's health. Additionally, cleaning your pump after every use will ensure that it's ready to use the next time you need it.

• Monthly deep cleaning

In addition to cleaning your breast pump after every use, it's important to do a monthly deep cleaning of the pump components. This can involve taking apart the pump and soaking the parts in hot, soapy water to remove any build-up or residue that may be left behind even after daily cleaning.

• Factors to consider

The frequency of cleaning your breast pump may also depend on the type of pump you are using, how often you use it, and your baby's age. For example, if you're using a hospital-grade pump or pumping frequently with an electric or manual breast pump, you may want to clean it more often than if you're using a personal pump and only pumping occasionally. Similarly, if your baby is a newborn or has a weakened immune system, it may be best to clean your pump more frequently to reduce the risk of infection.