How to clean and sanitize breastpump accessories?

The immune system of newborn babies is immature, and they are more susceptible to infection by germs. Therefore, mothers must thoroughly disinfect breast pump accessories before using them. Below are our recommended cleaning and disinfection methods.

If you use an electronic sterilizer, please pay attention to the temperature when the product is sterilized

Preparation before disinfection:

1. Clearly understand which breast pump accessories must be sterilized

  • It is advisable for mothers to clean and disinfect all pump accessories that come into direct contact with breast milk before their initial use and after each use. This includes items such as the breast shields, silicone valves, silicone teats, and milk storage bottles, in order to maintain optimal hygiene.
  • Sterilizing the pump accessories that won't come into contact with your breast milk, such as the breast pump tubing and backflow protector, is NOT necessary. Instead, simply wash them with warm, soapy water and rinse with clean tap water before their first use. After each use, wipe the parts with a damp cloth and allow them to air dry before reattaching them to your breast pump. To remove any condensation or milk from the tubing, wash it and hang it up to air dry right away.
  • And you can turn the breast pump on for a few minutes until the tubing is dry before you pumping.

2. Select the appropriate disinfection method

  • It is recommended that mothers use Boiling Disinfection Method, which is safe and effective to kill germs.
  • If you use an electronic sterilizer, please pay attention to the temperature when the product is sterilized. Mothers can choose an ultraviolet UV sterilizer that is dried and sterilized at low temperature to avoid the possibility of deformation or damage of accessories due to high temperature during disinfection.
  • Do not use a microwave for disinfection.

 

1. Before first use

  1. Disassemble and clean: Disassemble all breast pump accessories and clean them using a cleaning solution. Be sure to rinse each component thoroughly with water afterward.
  2. Soak and Boil : Place the accessories that need sterilization into a large pot. Fill the pot with cold water until it covers all the accessories. Ensure that the water's depth prevents the accessories from touching the sides or bottom of the pot.
  3. Continue the boiling for 2-3 minutes: Cover the pot and allow the water to reach a boil, then maintain this for an additional 2–3 minutes before turning off the heat. Take care not to immerse the accessories in boiling water for more than 5 minutes, as prolonged exposure may cause deformation and impact their effectiveness.
  4. Take it out and air dry : Use tongs to carefully remove the accessories from the pot. And place them on a clean towel to allow for air drying. Avoid direct contact with your hands on the sterilized accessories.
  5. Store properly: Store sterilized accessories in a clean, dust-free storage box or refrigerator for later use. Keep your hands and tongs clean when taking them out.

 

2. After each use

  1. Disassemble and clean: Disassemble all breast pump accessories that come into direct contact with breast milk, except for the breast pump tubing and backflow preventer. Clean these components using a suitable cleaning solution, and ensure that each part is rinsed thoroughly with water afterward.
  2. Soak and Boil : Place the accessories that need sterilization into a large pot. Fill the pot with cold water until it covers all the accessories. Ensure that the water's depth prevents the accessories from touching the sides or bottom of the pot.
  3. Continue the boiling for 2-3 minutes: Cover the pot and allow the water to reach a boil, then maintain this for an additional 2–3 minutes before turning off the heat. Take care not to immerse the accessories in boiling water for more than 5 minutes, as prolonged exposure may cause deformation and impact their effectiveness.
  4. Take it out and air dry : Use tongs to carefully remove the accessories from the pot. And place them on a clean towel to allow for air drying. Avoid direct contact with your hands on the sterilized accessories.
  5. Store properly: Store sterilized accessories in a clean, dust-free storage box or refrigerator for later use. Keep your hands and tongs clean when taking them out.
  6. Clean the remaining accessories: To ensure the proper maintenance of your backflow preventer and tubing, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and allow them to air dry after each use. If you observe any solidified material or milk residue in the tubing, clean it with cleaning solution and dry it immediately. For cleaning the surface of the breast pump, wipe it with a slightly dry damp cloth.

 

3. Precautions

  1. Boiling Disinfection Method: is a cost-effective and efficient method for sterilization. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the water temperature reaches 100℃ and boils continuously for 2 to 3 minutes, but not more than 5 minutes, as prolonged exposure may cause deformation and impact their effectiveness. Additionally, proper storage after air drying is vital to achieve the desired sterilization effect.
  2. Spacious Pot: the pot used for sterilizing the accessories should be spacious enough to accommodate an adequate amount of cold water, ensuring that all items are fully submerged and covered. It is essential that the accessories do not come into contact with the sides or bottom of the pot.
  3. Regular Check for Silicone Accessories: perform regular inspections of silicone valves and backflow protectors. Look for any signs of wear, including cracks or deformities. Replace any damaged parts promptly to ensure optimal suction efficiency and hygiene.
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