I wasn’t aware when I started pumping just how frequently your breast pump parts needed to be replaced. It wasn’t until I lost some suction power and looked into it, that I learned about the importance of regularly replacing your breast pump parts. And how crucial replacing them can be to your milk supply.
Depending upon how frequently you pump throughout the day also determines how often to replace breast pump parts. Whether you’re using a Medela pump, Spectra pump, or any other brand, your pump parts will need to be replaced at some point.
This post will be your complete guide for how often to replace breast pump parts.
Why is this Important?
Over time and with use, your pump parts will experience wear and tear. Silicone parts can experience tears and plastic parts may build up residue or get cracks.
This will affect your pump suction which can cause a decrease in your milk production, especially if you’re exclusively pumping. If you notice your milk output starting to decrease during a pumping session or lose of suction, it’s a good idea to check these parts listed below first.
One of the first things you should do is check with your breast pump manufacturer before purchasing any replacement parts. Depending upon the type of pump you have and your insurance, some of the spare parts may be provided for you and you won’t have to pay for everything out of pocket.
People pump for many different reasons and in many different ways. Some people exclusively pump (6+ times per day), which will require more frequent replacement of pump parts.
Others may pump a few times a day (3-4) if they have to be away from their baby at work or other responsibilities. These people will still have to replace their pump parts more frequently.
And some people only pump once a day or less. In this case they wouldn’t have to replace their breast pump parts as frequently. We will go over all of this and more with each specific pump part.
How Often to Replace Breast Pump Parts
The below recommendations are general guidelines for how frequently to replace certain breast pump parts. Mainly to ensure you maintain your milk supply and also for hygiene purposes. Always check with the manufacturer of your pump.
Duckbill Valves
Duckbill valves (also known as duck valves) are more commonly used with a Spectra pump. But can be used interchangeably on most pumps. These are one of the first things I usually check if I’m experiencing suction problems.
Duckbill valves need to be replaced every 3-4 weeks if pumping more than once per day and every 2-3 months if pumping once a day or less.
Valve Membranes
Valve membranes are the other more commonly used breast pump valves. The yellow pieces are the valves and the little white flaps are the membranes that provide the suction for your pump.
Valves membranes need to be replaced every 2-4 weeks if pumping more than once per day and every 2 months if pumping once per day or less. OR if the little white flaps aren’t laying flat anymore.
Backflow Protectors
Backflow protectors are used on closed system pumps and help prevent moisture and milk droplets from backing up into the breast pump motor and tubing.
They also protect your baby’s immune system by preventing bacteria from entering the tubing and into the breast milk. Not all pumps have backflow protectors.
Backflow protectors need to be replaced every 6-8 weeks if pumping more than once per day and every 3 months if pumping once per day or less.
Breast Shields
Breast shields (or flanges) should be replaced every 6 months or if there is any noticeable breast milk residue buildup or cracks. This is for hygiene purposes but many mothers do use them past 6 months as long as the shields are in good condition.
Breast Pump Tubing
It’s very important to keep your breast pump tubing completely dry in order to not damage the breast pump motor. If you notice any moisture or residue in your tubing, you should dispose of them immediately.
The original Medela pumps do not have backflow protectors, so it is especially important to check the tubing on these pumps to ensure there is no moisture.
This is so no milk gets into the electrical unit. It would be much easier for moisture to enter the motor in an open system pump, therefore causing damage to your pump.
Your tubing may also stretch with time so if you notice the tubing slides off the motor, you’ll want to replace with new tubing.
Otherwise, you should be able to use your tubing for a considerable amount of time.
Milk Collection Bottles
Similarly to breast shields, breast milk bottles should be replaced every 6 months or if residue builds up for hygiene purposes.
If the bottles become distorted or cracked, then they should also be replaced.
These bottles are highly rated and compatible for Spectra breast pumps.
PersonalFit Flex for Medela
The newer Medela pumps have connectors called PersonalFit Flex. These create a closed system for the Medela pumps that they didn’t usually have. Meaning milk shouldn’t backflow into the tubing and they’re more hygienic.
Medela recommends not replacing these parts unless you have a loss of suction, signs of wear and tear, or pieces not fitting properly.
Cleaning Breast Pump Parts
The best way to take care of your pump parts is by soaking and washing them in a clean wash basin with warm water and soap. The clean wash basin should be used only for your pumping parts.
Some parts may be able to be placed in the top rack of the dishwasher, but check with the instruction manual of your pump first. I found that if I hand wash my pump parts, they tend to last longer.
You can also use pump specific disinfectant wipes for in between pumping sessions if you are using your pump at work and don’t have time to wash all of your parts in between each session. Some moms also keep additional breast pump parts so they don’t have to worry about cleaning at work.
Your pump parts should be washed before their first use and after each use. Dry the parts with a clean cloth or fully air-dry.
It’s always a good idea to have extra parts at home as well for the ease of not having to wash parts after each pumping session. And as a back up in case you notice any visible damage to your parts so you don’t miss a pumping session to maintain your milk supply.
You Want to Use Your Pump for Another Baby
Milk collection kits should be repurchased if you’re wanting to use your pump for your next baby. This will include any new parts you need such as tubing, valves, bottles, breast shields, and backflow protectors if your pump uses them.
If you take good care of your breast pump and parts, they should last you many hours of pumping! Some women don’t notice a change in their suction quality or milk production, and continue using the same parts for longer than the recommended time. No matter what, always replace your breast pump parts if you notice any visible damage.
I hope this post was useful in helping you determine how often to replace your breast pump parts!
Related Posts:
- 10 Breastfeeding Must Haves for New Moms
- The Best Proven Ways to Increase Your Breastfeeding Milk Supply
- 12 Tips for Overcoming Bottle Refusal | How to Help Your Breastfed Baby Take a Bottle
This was such a. Good read and a great reminder that somethings do need to be replaced. I know when I was breastfeeding/pumping that is something I often forgot needed to be done. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you Ashley! It’s definitely easy to forget with the chaos of mom life!
This is super interesting. I didn’t realize that you need to change them so often and that it can make such a difference. Remembering this time around when baby #3 comes in May!
Congrats on baby #3! I hope you see some good results with changing your parts!
This is such great information! I solely pumped for 8 months, and I had to completely learn everything as I went. This blog post is very helpful and truthful.
Thanks Jessi! Even as a nurse & breastfeeding counselor I wish I saw these as a first time mom!