How to Keep Breast Pump Parts Clean Between Uses
The best way to keep breast pump parts clean between uses is to properly clean and sanitise them after each pumping session. This process helps keep your breast milk free from bacteria and safe for your baby. Here are some what to do with breast pump tips on how to keep your breast pump parts clean in between uses:
1. Start by washing your hands with soap and water before handling the pump parts. This will help prevent the spread of germs from you to the bottle or other components.
2. Rinse all of the pieces that come in contact with the milk, such as tubing, bottles, flanges (the part that fits over your nipple) and valves, under warm running water immediately after each use or at least every 8 hours if not used during this what to do with breast pump time frame. Make sure you rinse all surfaces thoroughly including any crevices or hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can hide or grow quickly if not cleaned properly.
3. Use a mild dish liquid soap without additives such as moisturisers or fragrances and mix a small amount into lukewarm water (around 95 degrees F). Submerge all of the pieces into this soapy solution for about five minutes then rinse them well with warm water until they are free of any suds or debris before moving on to step four below
4. Sanitise all of these what to do with breast pump pieces by submerging them in boiling hot tap water for at least one minute then allow them to cool off completely before next use OR Use a steam sanitizer such as Milton tablets according to manufacturer instructions OR Place parts in top rack of dishwasher using hot cycle but no detergent.
5. Dry components by air drying on a paper towel lined tray away from direct sunlight OR Towel dry what to do with breast pump items placed on top rack only.
6. Reassemble everything once it’s completely dry – make sure there are no moisture droplets left behind! Once reassembled, store items in the refrigerator until next use but be aware that refrigeration does not stop bacterial growth just slows it down significantly.
7. Replace tubing regularly – Most manufacturers suggest replacing tubing every 1-3 months depending on frequency and intensity of what to do with breast pump usage.
8. Do NOT share breast pumps among multiple users - If you need access to another one always buy new sterile supplies for yourself only.
9. Clean & inspect bottles regularly – Inspect nipples & sealing discs inside bottles for signs of wear & tear; replace when needed.
10. Regularly inspect flanges/valves etc.,– Check often for signs & cracks; replace when necessary.
11. Wash containers used while travelling - If you have been away from home while pumping make sure all containers used have been washed thoroughly prior.
12. Clean up spills promptly - Any spills should be wiped up immediately with paper towels followed by an antibacterial cleaner like Lysol® wipes.
13. Discard worn out items - Keep an eye out for any worn out components like cracked nipples, discoloured valves etc., which should be discarded immediately instead of being reused.
14. Follow manufacturer's instructions carefully - Always check product manual included with purchase before using so you know exactly how long each component should last & what type what to do with breast pump cleaning methods must be used.
15. Avoid storing milk at room temperature – Breast Milk stored longer than two hours at room temperature can spoil quickly; transfer chilled pumped milk into the fridge/freezer as soon as possible.
16. Don’t forget about accessories like shields/bottles holders – These also need regular cleaning; throw away when showing signs of wear & tear.
17. Keep work surfaces spotless - Wipe down work surfaces / countertops often using disinfectant wipes especially after the pumping session has ended.
18. Discard what to do with breast pump unused expressed milk – Never save leftover expressed milk that was not consumed within two hours post-pumping session.
19. Dispose old pumps responsibly – If looking at the upgrade pump model, dispose of the old one safely following guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
20. Regularly sterilise equipment - Sterilise equipment regularly following instructions provided either via manual or product website.
21. Store equipment correctly post cleaning – Be diligent about storing what to do with breast pump cleaned equipment correctly e g placing teats onto bottle lid upside down.