Breast pumps are valuable tools that help mothers feed their babies, but they’re not meant to last forever. When your pumping journey has come to an end, you may be left wondering what to do with your old breast pump. Whether you’re considering keeping it for future use, selling, donating, or recycling it, there are many ways to make sure your pump finds a new purpose or is disposed of responsibly. In this article, we’ll go over all the options, so you can make the best decision for you and your family.

Store Your Breast Pump for a Subsequent Baby

If you’re planning to have more children or think you might, keeping your breast pump could be a smart decision. Even though many insurance providers offer a new pump with each baby, having a backup can be incredibly convenient. You could keep one pump at work and use the newer one at home, making your pumping routine more flexible. However, before storing it, make sure it’s properly cleaned and maintained so it’s ready for future use.

1. Thorough Cleaning and Maintenance

Start by giving your pump a meticulous cleaning. Disassemble any parts that come into contact with milk, such as the flanges, valves, and bottles. Wash these pieces in warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry completely. For the motor and tubing, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines, as not all tubing is meant to be washed. Proper cleaning now will help keep your pump in good working order for future use.

2. Careful Storage

After cleaning, store the pump parts in an airtight container or sealed bag to keep dust and moisture out. Find a cool, dry place away from sunlight and extreme temperature changes for long-term storage. This will help keep the pump in good condition, ensuring it’s safe and effective when you need it again.

3. Replace Key Parts for Freshness and Efficiency

Over time, some pump parts, especially those made from silicone or plastic, may degrade and affect suction. If you plan to reuse your pump in the future, consider buying replacement parts like valves and membranes, which play a crucial role in maintaining good suction and hygiene. Some manufacturers even offer replacement kits to refresh your pump completely.

Even if your pump seems to be in good working order, it’s a good idea to get a new set of parts when you start pumping again. Your old parts can serve as backups, so if they still work well, they’ll be handy to have on hand. Regularly checking the suction quality and keeping parts in good shape can help make your next pumping experience as smooth as possible.

Selling Your Used Breast Pump

If you’ve completed your breastfeeding journey and your breast pump is still in good working condition, selling it can be a wonderful way to extend its use while recovering some of your investment. However, before listing it for sale, there are a few important steps to take to ensure a safe and smooth experience for both you and the buyer.

1. Check Pump Type

The first step is to check if your pump is a closed or open system. This is important because closed-system pumps are generally safer for resale; they’re designed with a barrier that keeps milk and moisture from reaching the motor, reducing the risk of contamination. On the other hand, open-system pumps do not have this barrier, which means milk particles and moisture can enter the motor area, making thorough cleaning difficult. Most experts recommend not reselling open-system pumps to avoid potential health risks for future users.

2. Prepare the Pump for Sale

To ensure the pump is hygienic and appealing to buyers, start with a thorough cleaning. Take apart all pieces that come into contact with milk, like flanges, tubing, and valves. Wash them in warm, soapy water and allow them to air dry completely. For extra peace of mind, consider replacing these milk-contact parts with new ones, as they’re relatively inexpensive and provide reassurance to buyers that the pump is safe to use. A well-prepared pump not only enhances hygiene but also boosts buyer confidence, making your listing more attractive.

3. Choose a Platform

There are several online platforms where you can list a used breast pump, including local buy-and-sell groups, parenting forums, and specialized websites for baby items. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and baby-focused resale sites are popular choices. Check the policies of each platform beforehand, as some may have restrictions on the sale of used breast pumps. Selling locally can also make it easier for potential buyers to inspect the pump before purchasing, which can increase their comfort level with the purchase.

4. Honest Description and Pricing

When creating your listing, provide an honest and detailed description. Include information about the breast pump brand and model, how long you used it, and any parts you’ve replaced. Mention if the pump has been professionally cleaned or if it comes with extra accessories. Clear, honest descriptions build trust with buyers, and many moms searching for a budget-friendly pump will appreciate transparency.

Set a fair and reasonable price based on the condition, brand, and current market value for similar pumps. Pricing it competitively can make the sale quicker, as many parents are looking for affordable options, especially if they only need the pump for a short period.

Donating Your Used Breast Pump

If selling doesn’t appeal to you, donating your breast pump is another way to help mothers who may be unable to afford one. However, donation centers often have specific requirements, so make sure to verify their policies first.

1. Verify with Donation Centers

Before donating, check with local hospitals, women’s shelters, or breastfeeding support organizations to see if they accept used breast pumps. Some organizations only accept closed-system pumps for hygiene reasons, while others may request specific models.

2. Local Donation Drives or Charities

Some charities, community centers, and family support services accept used baby items, including breast pumps. Look for local organizations or check with your community’s donation drives to see if they have any upcoming events where breast pumps are accepted.

3. Ensure Cleanliness

As with selling, ensure that all parts are thoroughly cleaned before donation. If you can, replace parts that come in contact with milk to make the pump ready for immediate use by the new owner. Many organizations will appreciate this added effort, as it helps them pass along a sanitary, functional product.

Recycling Your Used Breast Pump

When your pump is no longer usable, recycling is an eco-friendly option. Breast pumps contain both electronic and plastic components, so they shouldn’t be thrown in the regular trash.

1. Manufacturer Recycling Programs

Some breast pump manufacturers have recycling programs that allow you to send in your old pump for disposal or recycling. Check the brand’s website or contact customer support to see if they offer a recycling option. These programs ensure that pumps are disposed of in an environmentally responsible way.

2. Electronic Recycling Centers

Because breast pumps often contain electronic parts, consider taking them to an electronic recycling center. Many communities have e-waste collection centers that will accept electronic appliances, including breast pumps. Be sure to separate any parts that aren’t electronic, like flanges or tubing, as these may need to be recycled differently.

3. Separate Components for Recycling

If you can’t find a recycling center that takes the entire pump, consider separating its components. Plastic parts can be recycled with general household plastic recycling, and the motor or electronic components can be taken to an e-waste center. Be sure to dispose of parts responsibly, as plastic waste can harm the environment if not recycled correctly.

Can I Buy or Use a Used Breast Pump?

We hear this question often! Pumps can be expensive which can make used pumps seem appealing. They are often listed on eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook sale groups. Maybe a co-worker or friend has offered to give you the pump she used for her last child. Many breastfeeding families want to help others who may not get a breast pump covered by insurance by donating or selling theirs to them. This is a kind gesture, but it’s essential to understand the potential risks and differences between pump types before making this decision.

1. Be Aware of Potential Health Risks

When it comes to used breast pumps, there are some health risks to keep in mind—particularly with open-system pumps. Open-system pumps lack a barrier that prevents milk and moisture from reaching the motor, which means that even if the pump looks clean, there’s a possibility that bacteria, mold, or viruses may be present within the motor and tubing. These hidden contaminants could potentially affect both your health and the safety of your breast milk. Even a careful cleaning may not remove all traces, so it’s crucial to weigh these risks carefully.

2. Replacement of Accessories

If you decide to buy or accept a used pump, it’s essential to replace all parts that come in contact with breast milk, such as flanges, tubing, and valves. Purchasing new breast pump accessories provides peace of mind by ensuring that all milk-contact components are completely clean and safe. Many pump manufacturers offer replacement kits specifically for this purpose. By starting with fresh accessories, you’re taking an extra step to protect your health and your baby’s safety.

3. Consider Renting Instead

If budget is a major factor or if you only need a pump temporarily, renting might be an excellent option. Many hospitals and breastfeeding support centers offer hospital-grade pumps for rent, which are carefully sanitized between uses. When you rent a pump, you’ll receive a new, personal accessory kit with fresh parts that come in contact with milk. Renting provides the best of both worlds—a top-quality, professionally maintained pump and the peace of mind that your pumping experience is safe and hygienic.

Conclusion

Your breast pump may no longer serve its original purpose, but there are many ways to extend its usefulness, whether you plan to store it, sell it, donate it, or recycle it. Storing it properly, preparing it for resale, donating it responsibly, or recycling it through the right channels ensures that it remains valuable and doesn’t end up as waste.

Whichever option you choose, take pride in knowing that you’re making a responsible decision, whether it’s helping another family, protecting the environment, or ensuring you’re ready for future babies. Your breast pump has been a valuable tool in supporting your baby’s feeding journey, and with a bit of thought, it can continue to have a positive impact.