How Do You Clean a Breast Pump?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast pump parts that come into contact with breast milk should be cleaned after every use. The recommended process includes washing hands, disassembling pump parts, rinsing them under running water, washing with soap and warm water, and allowing the parts to air dry completely. Cleaning breast pump parts properly is an important step in protecting breast milk from germs and bacteria. 

Many breastfeeding moms pump multiple times a day, especially when returning to work or building a milk stash. Having a simple cleaning routine can make pumping easier and help prevent contamination.

Why Cleaning Breast Pump Parts Matters

Breast pump parts that come into contact with breast milk can collect bacteria if they are not cleaned properly. The CDC recommends washing these parts thoroughly after each pumping session to help prevent germs from entering stored breast milk.

Keeping pump parts clean helps protect the safety and quality of breast milk.

Which Breast Pump Parts Need to Be Cleaned?

Pump parts that come into contact with breast milk should be cleaned after each use. These parts often include:

• breast shields (flanges)
• valves and membranes
• connectors
• bottles or milk collection containers

Tubing usually does not need to be washed unless it comes into contact with breast milk.

How to Clean Breast Pump Parts

The CDC recommends the following steps for cleaning breast pump parts:

1. Wash Your Hands

Before handling pump parts or breast milk, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

2. Disassemble Pump Parts

Take apart all pump parts that come into contact with breast milk.

3. Rinse Pump Parts

Rinse parts under running water to remove any remaining milk.

4. Wash with Soap and Warm Water

Wash pump parts in a clean basin using warm water and dish soap.

5. Rinse Again

Rinse each part thoroughly under running water to remove soap residue.

6. Air Dry on a Clean Surface

Allow parts to air dry completely on a clean towel or drying rack.

According to the CDC, pump parts should not be dried with a towel that may carry germs.

How to Sanitize Breast Pump Parts

The CDC recommends sanitizing pump parts at least once daily for babies younger than 3 months, premature babies, or babies with weakened immune systems.

Pump parts can be sanitized by:

• boiling in water for 5 minutes
• using a microwave steam bag
• using a dishwasher with a sanitize cycle

After sanitizing, allow parts to air dry completely before storing them.

Cleaning Breast Pump Parts at Work

Many working moms pump during the workday. When pumping away from home, moms can clean pump parts using:

• a clean basin and dish soap
• sanitizing wipes designed for pump parts
• microwave steam bags if a microwave is available

Keeping pump parts clean during the workday helps protect breast milk that will be stored or transported home.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning breast pump parts is an essential part of pumping safely. Following CDC breast pump hygiene guidelines helps reduce bacteria and protect stored breast milk.

By washing pump parts after each use and sanitizing them regularly, pumping moms can keep their equipment clean and maintain a safe breastfeeding routine.

Common Breast Pump Cleaning Mistakes

When cleaning breast pump parts, the CDC recommends avoiding several common mistakes that can introduce bacteria into breast milk.

Common mistakes include:

• Not washing hands before handling pump parts
• Using the same basin used for washing dishes
• Drying pump parts with a towel that may carry germs
• Storing pump parts before they are fully dry

Allowing pump parts to air dry completely on a clean surface helps reduce the risk of contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you clean breast pump parts?

The CDC recommends cleaning breast pump parts that come into contact with breast milk after every use.

Do you need to sanitize breast pump parts every time?

Sanitizing once per day is recommended for babies under 3 months old, premature infants, or babies with weakened immune systems.

Can you clean breast pump parts in the dishwasher?

Yes. Many pump parts can be cleaned in a dishwasher if they are dishwasher safe. A dishwasher sanitize cycle can also be used to disinfect parts.