It's important to take care of your breast pump. With the correct care, it can last
for as long as you choose to pump for this child.
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Read the instruction manual. Follow the recommendations for cleaning the equipment.
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When cleaning the pieces that collect the milk, take apart any pieces that separate.
Clean them one by one.
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If using an electric pump with collection kit, the pump itself and any tubing should
stay dry or they won't work correctly. (These pieces of equipment don't come in contact
with breastmilk that is to be stored for your baby.) But these pieces should always
be wiped clean after use.
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After each use, rinse all parts that come in contact with the breast or breastmilk
in cool water first. (A cool rinse removes any remaining milk without coagulating
hard-to-clean protein.) Then thoroughly clean these same parts in hot, soapy water.
Use a bowl that is only used for cleaning the parts of the breast pump that come in
contact with breastmilk. Don't place these parts in the sink. When rinsing the parts,
use a different bowl that is only used for rinsing these items. Rinse in hot water,
and air dry between each use. Don't use a cloth towel to dry the parts or place them
on a cloth towel. Cloth towels can harbor germs and bacteria. Place the parts on a
clean paper towel. Wash your hands before handling the clean parts.
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Some manufacturers advise boiling or sanitizing the parts that come in contact with
the breast or breastmilk once a day. (Check the instruction manual for the care of
your pump parts.)
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Check the instruction manual to learn if a dishwasher set to a certain water temperature
is considered appropriate for cleaning the collection pieces that come in contact
with the breast or the breastmilk. Also make sure that the manufacturer advises dishwasher
use for your type of pump.
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Some people prefer to sterilize their pump parts in microwave bags or bottle sterilizers
used for steaming. If you do this, only use approved bags for sanitizing pump parts.
Follow the directions closely. Again, make sure that the manufacturer advises microwave
sanitizing for your type of pump.