Maintaining a clean breast pump is crucial for the health and safety of both you and your baby. In this blog post, we'll walk you through a comprehensive guide on the proper techniques for cleaning your breast pumps, ensuring a hygienic and worry-free breastfeeding journey.
1. Wash your hands:
The foundation of cleanliness starts with your hands. Wash them thoroughly with soap and water before handling your breast pump or any related accessories.
2. Disassemble and rinse:
After each use, carefully disassemble your breast pump components – from flanges to valves. Rinse them under cool running water to remove any residual milk.
3. Use warm, soapy water:
Prepare a basin of warm, soapy water. Submerge each part of your breast pump in the soapy solution. Use a bottle brush or dedicated cleaning brush to scrub away any milk residue. Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas.
4. Rinse thoroughly:
Once scrubbed, rinse all the parts again under running water to ensure there is no soap residue left. Proper rinsing prevents any potential contamination of your breast milk during the next pumping session.
5. Air Dry on a clean towel:
Allow all the cleaned components to air dry on a clean, unused towel. Avoid using dish towels, as they may carry bacteria. Ensure that each part is completely dry before reassembling.
6. Sanitise regularly:
While routine cleaning is essential, periodic sanitisation is equally important. Boil or steam the breast pump parts that are safe for these methods. Refer to each pumps product page to find out more detailed cleaning information related to each specific pump.
7. Clean pump motor and controls:
Don't forget about the pump's motor and controls. While these components don't come in direct contact with breast milk, they can still harbour germs. Wipe them down with a damp cloth making sure to not get water in the motor parts. Ensure the cloth is only damp and not too wet as water can damage and ruin a pump.
8. Create a cleaning routine:
Establish a consistent cleaning routine. Whether it's after each use or at the end of the day, having a regular schedule ensures that your breast pump is always ready for safe and hygienic use.
Maintaining a clean breast pump is not just about hygiene – it's a vital step in ensuring the well-being of your baby. By following these simple yet effective cleaning steps, you're not just cleaning a pump; you're safeguarding the health of your little one. A clean breast pump means worry-free pumping, allowing you to focus on the joyous moments of motherhood.