How to Clean Breast Pump Parts: A Step-by-Step Guide for Moms

1. Why Proper Cleaning Matters for Breast Pumps

Breast milk is nutrient-rich, which means milk residue left on pump parts can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Consistent and thorough cleaning helps to:

• Protect your baby from harmful germs
• Prevent mold and residue buildup
• Maintain strong, stable suction
• Extend the lifespan of wearable pump components

2. Which Breast Pump Parts Need to Be Cleaned?

Any pump component that comes into contact with breast milk must be cleaned after every session, including:

• Flanges (breast shields)
• Silicone valves and membranes
• Milk collectors or bottles
• Connectors and seals

Do not wash: motors, electrical units, or tubing (unless milk enters the tubing).

Wearable pumps such as the MomMed S21 are designed so that all milk-contact parts can be fully detached, making thorough cleaning easier and more reliable.

3. How Often Should You Clean Breast Pump Parts?

4. Step-by-Step: How to Clean Breast Pump Parts

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Always wash hands with soap and water before handling pump parts.

Step 2: Fully Disassemble All Parts

This step is especially important for wearable breast pumps. For pumps like the MomMed S21 and S33 Luma, separate all silicone components, valves, and collectors to ensure no milk is trapped.

Step 3: Rinse with Cool Water

Rinse each part under running water to remove milk residue before washing.

Step 4: Wash with Warm, Soapy Water

• Use mild, fragrance-free dish soap
• Clean parts in a dedicated wash basin
• Use a soft brush designed for baby items

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Make sure no soap residue remains, especially on silicone valves.

Step 6: Air-Dry Completely

Place parts on a clean drying rack. Avoid drying wearable pump parts with shared kitchen towels.

5. Sanitizing Breast Pump Parts: When and How

Sanitizing is recommended:

• For newborns under 3 months
• After illness
• For premature or medically fragile babies

MomMed wearable pump parts are compatible with common sanitizing methods such as:

• Boiling (5 minutes)
• Steam sterilizer bags
• Electric sterilizers

Always allow parts to cool and dry fully before reassembly.

6. Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

• Reassembling wearable pump parts while still damp
• Missing small silicone valves or seals
• Using scented or antibacterial soaps
• Storing parts in closed containers before drying

7. Cleaning Tips for MomMed Wearable Pumps

If you are using a MomMed S21 or S33 Luma wearable pump, these tips can help simplify daily cleaning:

• Keep a spare set of pump parts to rotate
• Rinse immediately after pumping if washing is delayed
• Check silicone valves daily for residue or wear
• Fully air-dry before snapping parts back together

The modular design of MomMed wearable pumps allows moms to clean quickly and thoroughly, even during busy days or nighttime pumping routines.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do wearable breast pumps require different cleaning?

The cleaning steps are similar, but wearable pumps like MomMed require extra attention to small silicone components.

Can I use the dishwasher?

Some parts may be dishwasher-safe (top rack only). Check the manufacturer’s instructions before using this method.

How do I know when to replace pump parts?

If suction weakens or silicone parts show wear, replacement may be needed.

Conclusion

Knowing how to clean breast pump parts properly is essential for safe, effective pumping — especially when using wearable pumps.

By following a consistent cleaning routine and fully disassembling components, moms using pumps like the MomMed S21 and S33 Luma can protect milk quality, maintain suction, and pump with confidence.