How to Clean and Sterilize Breast Pump Parts？

As a new parent, you're juggling countless responsibilities, from feeding your baby in the middle of the night to ensuring they are growing up healthy and happy. One area that often goes unnoticed is the cleanliness of the breast pump. With frequent use, ensuring your pump parts are clean and sanitized is essential for keeping your baby safe from harmful bacteria. But in the chaos of parenting, how do you manage this process without adding more stress to your routine?

Why ls Cleaning and Sterilizing Breast Pump Parts Crucial?

Properly maintaining your breast pump through regular cleaning and sterilization is essential for both the health of your baby and the longevity of your equipment. Here are several key reasons why this practice is crucial:

1. Prevent Bacterial Growth

Breast milk creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, especially when left at room temperature. If breast pump parts aren’t sterilized after use, leftover milk can lead to contamination, which may cause gastrointestinal issues or infections in your baby.

2. Reduce Fungal Infections

Inadequate cleaning and sterilization can increase the risk of fungal infections, like thrush. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, and contaminated pump parts can transfer spores to expressed milk, potentially leading to discomfort and medical treatment for your baby.

3. Promotes Pump Efficiency

Regular cleaning and sterilizing protect your baby and extend your pump's lifespan. Residual milk can cause clogs and decrease suction power, leading to frustration for mothers who depend on their pump. Consistent sterilization prevents buildup and ensures optimal performance.

4. Peace of Mind for Parents

Knowing that your pump parts are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized offers peace of mind, ensuring that your baby is receiving the safest milk possible.

Which Parts of the Breast Pump Need to Be Cleaned and Sterilized?

For specific cleaning instructions, always refer to your breast pump's manual to ensure proper care and maintenance of your device.

1. Cleanable Parts:

• Breast Shields/Flanges: Must be cleaned and sterilized after each use.
• Valves and Membranes: Should be cleaned regularly to prevent milk residue buildup.
• Bottles and Caps: Need thorough cleaning and sterilization.
• Tubes (if applicable): If they are designed to be cleaned, ensure you follow the guidelines. However, some pumps have tubing that should not be submerged in water.
• Backflow Protectors: These can usually be cleaned and sterilized.

2. Non-Cleanable Parts:

• Pump Motor: This part should not be submerged in water or exposed to moisture. Instead, you can wipe it down with a damp cloth.
• Electric Components: Any electrical parts should be kept dry and cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.

How to Clean Breast Pump Parts 

To ensure the safety and hygiene of your expressed milk, it's important to follow a consistent cleaning routine for your breast pump parts. Here are the steps to effectively clean them both before and after use:

Before Use:

• Wash Hands: Always start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and warm water (at least 20 seconds) before handling any breast pump parts.
• Inspect Parts: Check all parts for any visible milk residue or signs of wear and tear before assembling.
• Rinse Pump Parts: If the pump has not been used for a while, give the parts a quick rinse in warm water (about 37-43°C or 100-110℉) before assembly.

After Use:

1. Cleaning by Hand

• Disassemble the Parts: Take apart all parts that come into contact with milk, including bottles, valves, and breast shields.
• Use Warm Water and Soap: Fill a clean basin with warm soapy water (use a mild, fragrance-free soap). The water temperature should be around 37-43°C (100-110°F). Scrub each part using a soft brush.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse each part under running water (at least 38°C or 100°F) to remove any soap residue.
• Air-Dry: Place cleaned parts on a clean drying rack or use a clean towel to air-dry completely.

2. Using a Dishwasher:

• Top Rack Placement: Place the pump parts on the top rack of the dishwasher to avoid excessive heat damage.
• Use Hot Water and a Heated Dry Cycle: Opt for a high-temperature water cycle (at least 60°C or 140°F) and a heated drying option for maximum cleanliness.
• Remove and Air-Dry: After the cycle is complete, allow the parts to air-dry before storing.

3. Hand Washing vs. Dishwasher Cleaning：

Hand washing breast pump parts offers the advantage of thorough cleaning, ensuring all milk residue is removed, and allows immediate cleaning right after use. However, it can be time-consuming and may pose a risk of contamination if done in an unclean environment.

Using a dishwasher is convenient and allows for high-temperature sanitation, but it may not accommodate all parts at once and could potentially damage delicate components.

Each method has its merits, and a combination can be beneficial, with hand washing for regular use and the dishwasher for deeper cleaning when needed.

How to Sterilize Breast Pump Parts (Methods & Steps)

Once the cleaning process is complete, sterilizing your breast pump parts adds an extra layer of protection by eliminating any remaining germs. There are three ways to sterilize breast pump parts: boiling, using an electric steam sterilizer, and using microwave with sterilization bags. Follow these sterilizing steps for each method to ensure your pump parts are thoroughly sanitized:

1. Boiling Method + [A detailed video guide]:

• Fill a pot with enough water to cover all parts (except the pump hub).
• Bring the water to a rolling boil (100°C or 212°F).
• Submerge all parts and boil for no more than 5 minutes.
• Carefully remove and place on a clean drying rack to air-dry.

Watch the following video for a detailed guide on how to thoroughly clean and sterilize your eufy Wearable Breast Pump S1/S1 Pro using the boiling method. Through this video, you will see the correct cleaning process for each part, with a focus on how to handle the pump components to ensure safe and effective sterilization. Additionally, we offer a helpful tip: while boiling the parts, make sure to stir them continuously to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot and getting damaged. 

2. Steam Sterilizers:

• Place pump parts in an electric steam sterilizer.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions, typically involving adding water and selecting a sterilizing cycle.
• Let the parts cool and air-dry before assembling or storing.

3. Microwave Sterilization Bags:

• Place pump parts in a microwave-safe sterilization bag.
• Add the recommended amount of water.
• Microwave for the designated time, (usually 3-5 minutes, depending on the microwave wattage).
• Carefully remove the bag and allow parts to dry completely.

Enhance Your Cleaning Routine with eufy Products

We highly recommend eufy wearable breast pump S1 Pro, S1 and E10, where convenience meets cleanliness for your peace of mind. eufy's S1 Pro is designed to simplify your cleaning and sterilization process. With only four parts to clean, you can easily boil or steam sterilize them, saving you time and effort. Plus, the pump can be stored in the fridge, offering peace of mind. The heating component has been rigorously tested, withstanding boiling for over 56 hours and bending over 1,000 times without damage. Lightweight and wearable, the S1 Pro can hold up to 6 oz (177ml) of milk, catering to your busy lifestyle.

How Often to Clean and Sterilize Breast Pump Parts

Here’s a guideline to help you establish a routine for keeping your equipment clean and free from harmful bacteria and fungi:

1. How Often to Clean

After every single use, all pump parts that come into contact with breast milk should be cleaned immediately. This prevents milk residue from hardening and becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.

2. How Often to Sterilize:

It’s generally recommended to sterilize your pump parts at least once a day, especially if your baby is younger than 3 months, was born prematurely, or has a weakened immune system. Sterilizing also becomes necessary after periods of illness or if the pump has been in storage for a long time.

Storing Breast Pump Parts

1. Best Practices for Safe and Effective Storage of Pump Parts

• Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: Store the containers in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Excessive heat or humidity can compromise the integrity of the pump parts. Store parts in a clean, dry container or a resealable bag until the next use.
• Use Airtight Containers: Store the cleaned and dried parts in airtight containers to protect them from dust, dirt, and other contaminants. This helps maintain their sterility until you need to use them again.
• Store Pump Parts in Fridge: If you’re pumping multiple times a day and don’t have time to clean between each session, you can store the assembled pump parts in a sealed container or plastic bag in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This prevents bacteria growth until you have time to thoroughly clean the parts.
• Avoid Storing in the Bathroom: It may be tempting to store pump parts in the bathroom for convenience, but this can expose them to moisture and bacteria. Instead, choose a different area in your home that is clean and dry.

2. Storage Solutions for Different Situations

Travel Storage:

When traveling without access to washing facilities, it's advisable to use a portable cooler with ice packs to safely store cleaned breast pump parts. This helps prevent bacterial growth. Consider bringing a portable sterilizer for quick disinfection of the pump parts. Additionally, pack resealable bags to store each part separately when not in use, keeping them clean.

Office Storage:

For working mothers, it's helpful to establish a clean area in the office, such as a designated nursing room or a quiet office space. During work hours, use a small cleaning kit for immediate washing of pump parts. Utilize a portable storage box to keep cleaned parts organized and protected from contamination. Also, communicate your pumping schedule with colleagues to minimize interruptions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning and Sterilizing Breast Pumps

Myth 1: Sterilizing is More Important Than Cleaning: Cleaning is the first and most crucial step. Sterilizing alone won’t remove milk residues or prevent buildup. Both cleaning and sterilizing are essential.

Myth 2: Harsh Cleaners Clean Better: Avoid using strong chemical cleaners. They can leave harmful residues on the pump parts, which could be ingested by your baby. Stick to mild, unscented soap.

Myth 3: Air-Drying Isn't Necessary: Leaving pump parts wet can lead to mold and bacteria growth. Ensure all parts are thoroughly air-dried before storage.

Myth 4: You Don't Need to Clean Between Uses: Even if you're using the pump frequently throughout the day, it’s essential to at least rinse and clean after each use to prevent bacterial growth.

Conclusion

Proper cleaning and sterilization of breast pump parts are critical to ensuring your baby receives safe, uncontaminated breast milk. By following these guidelines for both daily cleaning and regular sterilization, you can protect your baby’s health while also maintaining the functionality of your pump. Developing good cleaning habits from the start ensures peace of mind and a smoother breastfeeding journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Need to Sterilize the Breast Pump After Each Use?

It’s not necessary to sterilize breast pump parts after every use, but it is recommended to clean them immediately after use to prevent milk residue from drying and breeding bacteria. Sterilization should be done at least once a day, especially for newborns or if the pump is stored for a long time.

Do breast pump parts need to be dry before use

Yes, breast pump parts should be completely dry before use. Moisture can promote bacterial growth, which can contaminate the milk. Ensure that all parts are thoroughly cleaned and air-dried before reassembling the pump for use.

How Long Does a Breast Pump Stay Sterilized?

The duration of sterilization depends on the storage conditions. Sterilized breast pump parts should remain sterile as long as they are stored in a clean, dry environment. It's essential to re-sterilize parts if they come into contact with any potentially contaminated surfaces or substances.

How often to replace pump parts?

Replace breast pump parts according to the manufacturer's recommendations, usually every 3 to 6 months, or when you notice signs of wear, such as cracks or decreased suction. Regular replacement helps maintain efficiency and ensures safety for your baby.