Before cleaning, store milk safely by placing breast milk in a storage bag, bottle, or food-grade container. Seal the storage container and label it with the date and time. See How to Store Your Breast Milk care guide for more information. Proper rinsing, washing and sanitizing of pump and milk collection parts helps protect your breast milk from contamination.
Rinse
Disassemble and rinse all pump and milk collection parts that come in contact with your breast or breast milk. Hold each part under running water to remove remaining milk.
Caution: Tubing should NOT be rinsed or submerged in water because it does not come in contact with breast milk.
Wash
There are two methods you can use to clean your pump and milk collection cup parts: the hand washing method and the dishwasher method. See page 2 for instructions.
Sanitize
For babies less than two months old, or babies with a weakened immune system, sanitize pump and collection cup parts at least once daily, in addition to washing after every pumping session. Sanitation options include using boiling water, electric steam sterilizers, or microwave sanitizing bags.
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Boiling Water
Put the bottle parts in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
Boil for five minutes, then remove with tongs and let air dry. -
Dishwasher
Use the sanitize-certified dishwasher cycle or hot water and a heated drying cycle. You might already be sanitizing when you use the dishwasher for washing. -
Microwave Bag or Electric Steam Sterilizer
Follow the manufacturers’ instructions.
Keep an extra set of breast pump supplies on hand in case you don’t have time to clean between pump sessions.
Hand Washing and Dishwasher Methods
Hand Washing Method
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Step 1: Wash Basin
Place pump and collection cup parts in a clean wash basin used only for infant feeding items. Do not place pump or collection cup parts directly in the sink!
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Step 2: Soap & Water
Fill wash basin with hot water and add soap.
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Step 3: Scrub
Scrub according to manufacturer’s guidance. Scrub items with a clean brush used only for infant feeding items.
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Step 4: Rinse
Rinse by holding items under running water, or by submerging in fresh water in a separate basin.
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Step 5: Dry
Air-dry thoroughly. Place the pump and collection cup parts, wash basin, and bottle brush on a clean, unused dish towel or paper towel in an area protected from dirt and dust. Do not use a dish towel to rub or pat items dry. Items must become completely dry to help prevent germs and mold from growing before storing. Store in a clean, dry, protected area. Wash brushes and drying racks every few days.
Dishwasher Method
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Step 1: Contain
Only use this method if your pump and collection cup parts are dishwasher-safe per your pump manufacturer’s guidelines. Place small items into a closed-top basket or mesh laundry bag and place it on the top shelf of the dishwasher. Other items may be in the dishwasher at the same time.
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Step 2: Wash
Add soap and run the dishwasher using hot water with a heated drying cycle (if possible) or use the sanitize setting.
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Step 3: Dry
With clean hands, remove the pump and collection cup parts from the dishwasher. If the parts are not completely dry, place the pump and collection cup parts on a clean, unused dish towel to air-dry before storing. Do not use a dish towel to rub or pat items dry! Items must be completely dry to help prevent germs and mold from growing. Store in a clean, dry, protected area.
More Pregnancy Care Guides
Bottle Feeding Tips
Doula Support
Breastfeeding Pillows
Breastfeeding Snacks: Nourishing Choices for New Moms
Essential Nutrients in Pregnancy & Postpartum