It’s essential to maintain proper hygiene when using a breast pump. This is especially important for working moms who need to pump during the day.
Cleaning breast pump at work can seem daunting. But it can be quick and hassle-free with the right approach and tools.
This guide will walk you through the best practices for cleaning your breast pump at work and home. It will help keep it sanitary and safe for your baby.
Why Proper Cleaning Is Essential
Breast pump hygiene protects your baby from harmful bacteria. It can grow on pump parts if not cleaned well.
Whether you’re at work or home, following a consistent cleaning routine for your breast pump is key.
This not only keeps the pump functioning efficiently. But also ensures that every drop of milk is safe for your baby.
Cleaning Breast Pump at Work: Step-by-Step Guide
When you’re at work, you may have limited time and resources. So it’s important to have a streamlined process for cleaning your breast pump.
Here’s how you can effectively clean your breast pump while on the job:
- Disassemble the pump parts
After each pumping session, separate the pump parts that came into contact with breast milk. This typically includes the breast shields, valves, membranes, and connectors.
- Rinse immediately
Rinse each part with cool water as soon as possible. This helps remove milk residue and prevents it from drying on the parts. Dried residue can be much harder to clean later.
- Use breast pump cleaning wipes
For a quick clean, especially when a sink isn’t available, use breast pump cleaning wipes. These wipes are made to clean breast pump parts safely. They effectively remove milk residue and bacteria when you’re on the go.
- Wash thoroughly when possible
If you have access to a sink at work, wash the parts with warm, soapy water. Use a dedicated brush to clean small areas like the valves and membranes. Ensure that each part is thoroughly rinsed to remove all soap residue.
- Dry parts properly
After cleaning, place the pump parts on a clean and dry towel. Or use a drying rack to air dry. Avoid using paper towels as they can leave fibers on the parts. If you’re in a rush, consider using a clean and dry cloth to pat the parts dry.
- End-of-Day Sterilization
When you get home at the end of the day, remember to sterilize your pump parts. You can use a steam sterilizer, microwave sterilizer bag, or boil the parts in water for 10 minutes. This ensures they are fully disinfected.
If You Have Multiple Pumping Sessions or Cannot Clean The Breast Pump Immediately
If you need to pump multiple times at work, keeping your breast pump parts clean is crucial.
Here are some tips for managing multiple pumping sessions:
Related Reading: Master Your Breastfeeding Schedule as a Working Mom
Bring extra pump parts
Consider bringing an extra set of pump parts to work. Use one set in the morning and another in the afternoon. This will save you from having to clean between sessions.
Use a cooler bag
Store pump parts in a cooler bag with ice packs between sessions. This keeps them cool and helps prevent bacterial growth. It’s a great solution if you don’t have time to clean them right away.
Refrigerate between uses
If possible, refrigerate the used pump parts in a clean storage bag or container. The cold temperature helps inhibit bacterial growth until you can clean them properly.
Quick Cleaning Products
Use quick-clean products, like Medela Quick Clean Breast Pump Wipes or Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags. They’re designed for quick and effective cleaning between pumping sessions.
Cleaning Breast Pump at Home
Cleaning your breast pump at home is similar, but you have more time and resources. Here’s how to keep it clean.
- Disassemble and rinse:
Just like at work, start by disassembling the pump parts. Then rinse them under cool water immediately after use.
- Soak in soapy water
Fill a basin with warm, soapy water and soak the pump parts for a few minutes. Use a brush to clean any milk residue from the small parts.
- Rinse and air-dry
Rinse each part under running water to remove any soap. Place the parts on a clean towel or drying rack to air-dry completely.
- Regular Sterilization
Make it a habit to sterilize the parts regularly. You can do this daily or after every few uses, depending on how often you pump.
- Storage
Store the sterilized parts in a clean and dry container until the next use. Avoid storing parts in a humid area, as this can promote bacterial growth.
Cleaning your breast pump at work doesn’t have to be a stressful task. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can keep your breast pump clean and safe.
Whether at work or home, stick to a regular cleaning routine to keep your baby safe and healthy.
Remember, every mom’s situation is different. Find the routine and tools that work best for you.
Please share your tips and experiences in the comments. Let’s support each other with the challenges of pumping at work!
Check out more tips for working moms at workingmomandbaby.com.