How to Properly Clean Your Breast Pump Between Uses

Pumping breast milk can be a time-consuming task. Apart from hooking up the parts to your breasts and pumping every two hours or so, you’ll also need to clean the breast pump after every use. 

While the chore is daunting, cleaning and sanitising your breast pump is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria so you can protect your baby from germs. Follow these steps to properly clean your breast pump:

Before each use:

1. Wash hands. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

2. Check for moulds. While assembling your clean breast pump, check the parts carefully for any signs of moulding. If you see it, discard it and replace it immediately.

3. Clean the area. Use disinfectant wipes to make sure your machine and pumping area are unsoiled.

After each use:

1. Store breast milk properly. Whether you are using milk storage bags or feeding bottles, remember to store breast milk that’s good for one feeding. Label it with the date and time, and immediately place it in your refrigerator, freezer or cooler bag with ice packs (if you’re on the go). Read more dos and don’ts for storing and thawing breast milk here.

2. Clean the area. Again, use disinfectant wipes to make sure your pumping area is dirt-free.

3. Inspect your pump. Disassemble breast pump parts and separate each one that comes in contact with your breast and breast milk, i.e. flanges, valves, connectors, and milk collection bottles. 

4. Rinse. Hold the breast pump parts under running water to rinse off the remaining milk. Never place them directly in the sink. 

5. Clean breast pump parts thoroughly. Any breast pump part that came in contact with your breasts or breast milk should be cleaned after use. You can do it in a number of ways:

• By hand:
  
  
  
  • Use a wash basin. Place breast pump parts in a basin used only for cleaning the pump kit and infant feeding items. Wash all parts with warm soapy water and scrub with a clean brush used only for cleaning infant feeding items.
  
  
  
  
  
  • Rinse. Rinse breast pump parts under running water or by submerging in fresh, clean water in a separate clean basin.
  
  
  
  
  
  • Air dry. Place the breast pump parts on a clean, unused dish towel or paper towel in an area free from dirt and dust. Do not use a dish towel to rub or pat the parts dry. Make sure the parts are completely dry before storing them in an air-dried container. Do the same with the brushes and wash basins used for cleaning the parts and other infant feeding equipment.
  
  
  
  





• Using the dishwasher: 
  
  
  
  • Ensure that the breast pump is dishwasher safe.
  
  
  
  
  
  • Wash. Place the disassembled pump parts in the dishwasher. Place small items in a closed-top basket or mesh laundry bag so they don’t end up in the dishwasher filter. Run the dishwasher using hot water and a heated drying cycle to help kill more germs.
  
  
  
  
  
  • Remove. Wash your hands with soap and water before removing and storing the breast pump parts. If items are not completely dry, air dry them by following the steps above.
  
  
  
  

Sanitising breast pump parts at least once daily is recommended for extra protection. This is particularly helpful for babies less than 2 months old, premature infants, or those with a weakened immune system due to illness or medical treatment.

For your peace of mind, look for an all-in-one steriliser for cleaning and drying your breast pump. The Eonian Care Electric Steriliser, Dryer, and Baby Bottle Warmer 3 in 1 can automatically sterilise and dry your breast pump parts, feeding bottles, and accessories. Just place the items inside, and they will be ready for use after every wash! 

As a mum, we know that you have a ton of things on your to-do list, but keeping your babies safe and healthy is a priority. Let Eonian Care provide you with helpful tools that will save you time and effort so you can focus on the things that matter the most: taking care of yourself and your little one.