Cleaning breast pump parts is essential to protect an infant’s developing immune system. Breast milk residue serves as a medium for rapid germ growth, posing a risk to babies, particularly those who are premature, under two months old, or medically fragile. Public health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasize that cleaning components is a time-sensitive process to mitigate contamination risks. Adopting a consistent routine ensures pumped milk remains safe for consumption.
Cleaning Pump Parts After Every Use
Clean all parts that contact breast milk immediately after every pumping session. Start by completely disassembling the pump kit, separating all collection bottles, flanges, valves, and connectors. Rinsing each piece under cool, running water immediately removes the majority of milk residue, preventing milk protein from sticking to the surfaces.
A thorough wash follows, using a wash basin designated only for infant feeding items, not directly in the sink, which can harbor germs. Scrub the parts with hot water and soap, ideally using a separate brush reserved solely for pump and bottle cleaning. This physical scrubbing removes the sticky, fatty film left by breast milk. After washing, rinse the components again, either under fresh running water or by submerging them in a separate basin of clean water.
Tubing, which carries air and not milk in most modern closed-system pumps, generally does not require washing unless milk or condensation is visible inside. If milk enters the tubing, wash it with soap and water, then air-dry it completely before the next use, as moisture can lead to mold growth. For mothers who pump frequently and cannot wash parts immediately, the “refrigerator method” can temporarily slow bacterial growth. This involves rinsing the parts and storing them in a sealed bag in the refrigerator between sessions, but a complete wash with soap and water is still required at least once every 24 hours.
Sterilization and Deep Cleaning Frequency
Beyond the routine wash, sanitizing is recommended to reduce the number of germs to a negligible level. Sanitizing is distinct from cleaning, which only removes visible residue, and is particularly important before the first use of any new equipment. For healthy, full-term infants older than two months, daily sanitizing may not be necessary if parts are cleaned carefully after each use.
However, health guidance suggests sanitizing all pump components, the wash basin, and the bottle brush at least once daily if the baby is under two months old, was born prematurely, or has a compromised immune system. One common method involves boiling the clean, disassembled parts in a pot of water for five minutes. Alternative methods include using a steam sterilizer unit or microwave steam bags, which rely on high-temperature steam to kill germs.
Dishwashers with a sanitize setting and a heated drying cycle can also be used for deep cleaning, provided the pump parts are confirmed dishwasher-safe. Sanitizing must always be performed on parts that have already been thoroughly cleaned with soap and water. Sanitizing milk residue can bake the film onto the parts, making them harder to clean effectively.
Proper Handling and Storage of Cleaned Parts
After cleaning, prevent recontamination by allowing all components to air-dry completely. Lingering moisture creates an environment where mold and bacteria can proliferate. Place the parts on a clean, unused drying rack designated for infant feeding items, or lay them out on a clean paper towel.
Do not use a cloth towel to dry the components, as this can transfer germs or lint back onto the clean surfaces. Once the parts are fully dry, store them in a clean, protected area to prevent exposure to dust or other environmental contaminants. A clean, covered container or a food-safe storage bag works well for this purpose.
Before handling the clean equipment for storage or reassembly, thoroughly wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. This minimizes the transfer of germs to surfaces that will contact the pumped milk. Storing the parts in a clean, dry location ensures they remain safe until the next pumping session.
Identifying When to Replace Components
The physical integrity of pump parts degrades over time and with frequent cleaning. Small silicone components, such as valves and membranes, are particularly susceptible to wear because they flex constantly to create suction. For individuals who pump four or more times a day, these small parts should be replaced every two to four weeks to maintain optimal suction.
Larger silicone parts, including backflow protectors and diaphragms, tend to have a longer lifespan, typically requiring replacement every three to six months, depending on the frequency of use. Hard plastic parts like flanges and connectors are more durable. However, they should be inspected regularly for warping, cracks, or discoloration that cannot be removed by washing. These plastic components are generally replaced every six months, or sooner if visible damage is present.
Signs of wear, such as a noticeable reduction in the pump’s suction strength, often indicate that a valve or membrane needs replacing. Tubing should be replaced immediately if there is any sign of mold, uncleared residue, or if it becomes torn. Replacing worn parts on a schedule ensures the pump operates efficiently and that the collected milk is not contaminated by deteriorating material.