Breast Pump Cleaning Mistakes That Could Affect Baby’s Health

The leftover milk usually just resembles a white-looking liquid but is actually a microbial amusement park.

Bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus, etc., are harmful and have the tendency to multiply within 20 minutes. This further has the potential to cause huge health issues with respect to their still-developing immune system.

Cleaning mishaps of nipple, bottle, duckbill valve, or even the silicone cylinder of the breast pump could invite infection into the baby’s still developing immune system.

Sometimes even improper drying is also responsible for hampering the baby’s digestion, growth, and development.

Imagine your baby achieving growth and development milestones on one hand but susceptible to contamination on the other. All this, owing to the improper cleaning of breast pump parts.

However, do not panic as it never pairs well with parenting! We are here to walk you through the right cleaning routine, expose breast pump cleaning mistakes, and add enough wit to make hygiene feel slightly less sterile.

Understanding Why Cleaning Breast Pumps Properly Matters

Breast milk is a baby’s first source of nutrition, packed with antibodies or nutrients that support their growth, brain development, and immunity.

During pumping, the breast pump comes in direct contact with milk, making it a potential breeding ground of harmful microbes, if not timely or properly cleaned.

Hence, following proper breast pump cleaning and hygiene tips nurtures the baby’s overall development, besides ensuring nutritious feed every time.

8 Common Breast Pump Cleaning Mistakes Parents Often Make

Improper cleaning of the breast pump could cause potential health risk to infants due to high risk of contamination caused within hours.

Let us now investigate some common mistakes parents often make when cleaning breast pumps.

1. Not Washing Immediately After Use

Breast milk isn’t just food but also helps in seeding your baby’s gut with beneficial bacteria. Also, microbes found in a baby’s intestine come directly from maternal milk.

Why is Leaving Pump Parts Dirty More Than Just a Hygiene Risk?

Inadequate cleaning of the breast pump can expose the infant to pathogenic bacteria, impair performance, diminish the quality of the expressed milk, and even lead to infection. Other possible effects of poor pump cleaning include:

• Microbiome disruption: It contains live, good bacteria, like Bifibacterium, which colonizes the gut of a baby. If it is not cleaned out immediately, then it encourages bad bacteria with the leftover milk residue that affects the essential microbial transfer.
• Immune System Development: The early-life gut microbiome is important in the training of the baby's immune system. In cases of improper cleaning, the increase in harmful bacteria might expose the baby to harmful pathogens.
• Long-Term Gut Health: The mix of healthy bacteria is linked with more complex and stable microbiota networks in infants. By disrupting this with dirty pump parts, there is a risk of affecting the baby’s gut ecosystem with time.

2. Skipping Deep Sterilization

Irrespective of thorough cleaning, missing out on sterilization becomes one of the most prominent breast pump cleaning mistakes. This is because it enhances the microscopic threats that linger on the surface.

Deep sterilization is therefore a crucial step to eliminate the hidden threats, especially in the case of regular pumping, or handling milk for premature or immunocompromised babies.

Electric steam sterilizers, microwave steam bags, or even plug-in systems use moist heat to kill high percentage of microbes, without using harsh chemicals.

Below are three effective sterilization methods, tailored just for new mothers.

i. Steam Sterilization: Moist Heat Powerhouse

This is highly effective for delicate parts of the breast pumps, including flanges, bottles, membranes, connectors, etc., only if the manufacturer permits them.

Steam is less likely to distort certain parts, compared to dry heat or chemicals sterilant, provided that the steam is not so aggressive or too long.

It is one of the shortest methods of disinfection, usually lasting for up to 10 minutes, making it helpful in times of frequent pumping.

Warning: Not all pump components are steam safe. It is ideal to follow the breast pump manual strictly.

ii. Boiling: The Accessible At-Home Method

This is one of the most budget-friendly and simplest sterilization methods. All you require is a clean pot and water.

Correct Method: Steam Team Action

• Disassemble the pump parts and place them inside the water.
• Cover and bring the container to a boil. Continue sterilizing for around 5 to 10 minutes, depending upon the instructions.
• Pick out the sterilized parts with tongs and set them out to air-dry, with a fresh towel, or drying rack.

Caution: Avoid used cloth to pat them dry, as it can reintroduce the germs.

Limitations of Boiling

• It might degrade or deform some plastic or silicone parts over repeated cycles.
• Tubing doesn’t require boiling, unless milk has seeped inside it.
• Ensure you read the manual carefully as boiling tubing isn’t advisable for many breast pumps.

The CDC recommend sanitizing at least once a day for babies under 2 months old. This provides extra protection, particularly for very young, premature, or immunocompromised babies.

iii. Electric Sterilizers: Precision & Convenience

These are encompassed with modern technology, especially curated for busy parents.

i. Electric Steam Sterilizers: Instant Germ-Shield

They are counter-top units, specially designed for babies, including breast pump parts. All you have to do is load the clean parts, add water, and run the cycle.

Many models also include a drying phase to avoid contamination from handling damp sterilized items.

It is great for frequent routine sterilization, especially if the pumping of milk occurs several times a day.

ii. Microwave Steam Bags: Steam on the Go

They are portable and space-saving, making them great for travel or work. It is also easy to use.

Place the disassembled parts in the bag after cleaning it with little water and microwave the bag as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Also, ensure to remove the hot parts with clean tongs. This method is efficient for quick sanitization, often faster than boiling.

Why is Skipping Sterilization Risky for Pump Parts?

• Even microscopic milk traces are susceptible to bacterial growth.
• Pumping for preemies, immunocompromised babies, or donating milk, strongly recommends sterilizing.
• Improper sterilization degrades the pump's performance, while also shortening their usable lifespan.
• After sterilization, parts must be completely air-dried and stored in a clean, protected area to avoid re-contamination.

3. Using Harsh or Scented Detergents

Using a strong, chemical-laden, or scented detergent to clean the breast pumps usually leaves tiny traces of those chemicals, even post rinsing.

These harmful residues might leach into the expressed milk, potentially affecting the baby’s digestion due to it's impurity.

Also, experts recommend steering clear antibacterial soaps, bleach, and heavily fragranced detergents while washing the items that touch the breast milk.

It is mindful to opt for mild, fragrance-free, dry-free cleansers, that are especially formulated for cleansing baby feeding equipment. R for Rabbit’s Hygo Care Cleanser, is specially curated for safe cleaning for babies.

Tip: Ensure to rinse thoroughly under running hot water after washing to flush out any soap molecules.

4. Ignoring Small Parts and Tubes

Even after cleaning the main parts of breast pumps, small parts like valves, membranes, and tubing are susceptible to infection. This creates a perfect breeding ground for various molds and bacteria.

Also, when trapped, the milk residue further leads to microbial growth, compromising both hygiene and safety of future feeds.

Ensure to disassemble the parts of the breast pump like valves, membranes, and connectors, and rinse them under water. Later, let it air dry in a ventilated space.

In case of visible water droplets in the tubing post-pumping, disconnect it from the pump and run the pump for a few more seconds to blow it out.

Always make use of a small, food-grade brush to scrub the inside of the valves, gaps, and corners. This would help dislodging the milk or residue.

Also, if you are seeking to purchase one, do check out R for Rabbit’s Hygo 3-in-1 Cleaning Brushes, useful for multi-purpose cleaning.

Lastly, ensure to store all parts only when fully dry in a dry container as damp storage further encourages mold growth.

5. Not Letting Parts Air-Dry Completely

Leaving the breast pumps damp after washing or sterilizing also becomes a hotspot for bacterial and mold growth, especially in the crevices or tubing.

According to CDC guidelines, it is mandatory to let the parts air-dry thoroughly before storing it, to prevent the spread of germs and mold from growing.

• Always use clean, and lint-free towel to avoid re-contaminating the pump pieces.
• Before storing, ensure that all the probable and invisible tiny damp spots in valves, membranes, or tubing are cleaned thoroughly.
• In the presence of condensation in the tubing after use, run the pump for a few more seconds to force out the moisture.
• Always store or reassemble the parts only once they are dry to reduce the risk of contamination during storage.

6. Using the Same Towel or Cloth Repeatedly

Re-using a towel or cloth to dry the breast pump parts might seem harmless but can actually reintroduce germs and bacteria that you washed off.

Also, according to the FDA, cloth towels are more susceptible to carrying microbes that contaminate the cleaned parts.

When the towel is repeated, the bacteria from the previous drying have the possibility of getting transferred back to the pump parts. This makes the cleaning worthless.

CDC also warns against rubbing the towel and recommends patting dry to prevent the transfer of germs.

Why Microfiber Helps?

Microfiber cloth is considered a good option because of its tendency to absorb water, without leaving the lint. However, they have to be clean.

It is recommended to wash them frequently in unscented detergents and also ensure that they dry out completely before reusing.

If you are seeking to purchase a detergent for washing kids’ essentials, then do take a peek at R for Rabbit’s Hygo Care Liquid Detergent, curated with a gentle, bio-enzyme formula for the children.

Even at the hospitals, paper towels or fresh disposable towels are preferred over reusable cloth towels, because of their high risk of contamination.

Tip: Use clean paper towels or a drying rack to ensure overall hygienic maintenance.

7. Storing Unsterilized Parts Together

Mixing freshly cleaned breast pump parts with used or unwashed components is susceptible to the reintroduction of germs. This further renders your cleaning and sanitizing efforts worthless.

Also, to maintain hygiene and ensure safe pumping experience, it is important to keep the following in mind:

• Store the sanitized breast pumps in a clean, lidded container. Avoid placing them on countertops or inside the drawers where the dust might settle.
• Create a separate place for storing clean pump parts and used pump parts to prevent accidental mixing.
• Allow the pump parts to air dry completely by placing them on drying rack, before transferring them to storage.
• Avoid storing them in the pump bag pockets due to the high possibility of dust and dirt in them. Rather, place them in a clean, sealed bag or container before placing them inside the pump bag.
• Keep the sanitized baby essentials separate from the unsanitized ones like nipples, pacifiers, toys, etc., to prevent cross-contamination.
• In case of using reusable containers or bags, ensure washing and drying them frequently. Also, replace them often to prevent germ build up.
• If pumping outside home, ensure to carry two separate pouches, one for used pieces and one for cleaned or sanitized ones. Mixing cleaned and used parts spreads germs again.
• Keep separate storage containers for sanitized pieces.

8. Ignoring Pump Motor and Tubing Hygiene

Despite the pump motor staying distinct with the contact of milk, it still requires regular hygiene care.

Poor maintenance of the motor and tubing could result in the growth of mold that lowers suction and contaminates the expressed milk.

For safe and efficient running of the pump, considering the following is important:

• The motor in a breast pump contains electrical components, which must be kept away from water. Do not wash; instead wipe the exterior with a disinfecting wipe or a cloth lightly dampened with mild soap and water.
• If you pump at work, in your car or outdoors, then it is advised that you should wipe the motor casing more often due to dust particles settling on its surface.
• Many pumps have small vents for air flow and may become the entry point for the buildup of lint or dust. Ensure that these aren’t clogged as it might reduce performance or introduce contaminants.
• Tubing isn’t always designed to touch milk, but condensation or backflow could occur. Check for any droplets of milk residue or discoloration before each use.
• If the moisture becomes trapped inside the tubing and cannot be dried completely, it could encourage mold growth. It is advisable to replace the tubing immediately in case the water spots won’t disappear.
• After cleaning the parts, it is recommended to hang the tubing in an open, dry space for a few minutes to help clear out extra moisture from inside its surface.
• Utilize backflow protectors, if supported by the pump parts, to prevent the milk from entering the tubing and motor. This also helps in minimizing the contamination, while extending the pump's life.
• Be careful because small tears or loose fittings can decrease suction and compromise hygiene. In case of weakening suction, if visible wear and tear is observed, replace the tubing without any delay.
• Wipe high-touch areas such as buttons, dials, and cords of the breast pump to avoid transferring germs to the sanitized pump parts. This is important because they are usually touched with not-so-clean hands.

Safe and Effective Cleaning Routine for Breast Pumps

It is essential to keep the breast pump clean for the baby’s safety and optimal maintenance of pump performance.

Also, following a consistent step-by-step routine also ensures that milk stays free from contaminants and in good condition.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

1. Disassemble All Parts Completely: Separate every detachable part of the breast pump including flanges, valves, membranes, connectors, bottles, tubing, etc. Avoid partial disassembling as hidden gaps have the tendency to often trap milk residue, dust, and dirt, leading to contamination.
2. Rinse Immediately After Every Use: It is vital to rinse each part separately under water to remove the fresh milk proteins before they harden. This would also reduce the effort during thorough washing and cleansing. Make use of cold water to prevent the fat from sticking to the surface.
3. Wash with Warm Water and Mild Soap: Clean each piece using a soft brush designed only for the pump parts. It is also important to avoid harsh or scented detergents that could leave harmful residues.
4. Sterilize for Deep Hygiene: It is important to sterilize the washed parts at least once a day by using an electric steam sterilizer, microwave sterilizer, or boiling method, whichever is compatible with the pump parts. Some manufacturer guidelines specify delicate valves and membranes. So, be cautious before proceeding to rinse them.
5. Air-Dry Thoroughly: Place the parts on a clean drying rack or towel, free from dust. Avoid wiping with multi-purpose dish towels that could transfer fibers or bacteria.
6. Store Safely: Store the sanitized parts in a clean, airtight container or zip lock pouch, before placing them in the pump bag.

How Often Should You Clean?

• After Each Pumping Session: Rinse and wash immediately to prevent bacteria buildup, growth, and contamination.
• Daily: Sterilize pump parts at least once a day in case of newborns, premature or immunocompromised babies.
• Weekly: It is recommended to scrub all the components thoroughly every week, while also inspecting cracks, discoloration, or mold, especially visible in tubing or valves.
• Tubing Care: It is recommended to wash it only in the presence of milk residue. Also, replace the tubing immediately if mold or persistent condensation appears.

Lastly, in case you are seeking to purchase bottle cleaning accessories, sterilizers and warmers, do check R for Rabbit’s collection, specially designed for smart parenting.

Why Sterilizing Breast Pump Parts Is a Must

• Helps in the elimination of harmful bacteria that might impact the child’s developing digestive and immune systems.
• Newborns are more vulnerable to infections, making sterilization a critical hygiene step in early feeding care.
• Pediatricians recommend routine sterilization to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal illness and nipple thrush.
• Regular sterilization ensures that the milk stays clean and safe, supporting healthy feeding, growth, and development of babies.

How R for Rabbit Ensures Safe and Hygienic Feeding Gear

At R for Rabbit, We ensures safe and hygienic feeding gear, designed especially for babies with safety-certified materials, parent-focused functionality, and engineered designs.

The feeding bottles, breast pumps, sterilizers, and cleaning accessories are all made up of BPA-free, food-grade material, crafted for easy disassembly and maintenance.

Each product is designed by keeping the modern and smart parenting in mind to enhance the parent’s trust towards our products.

Celebrated by a family of 5 million parents, ensures its products as reliable, durable, and containing high hygiene standards. This further makes them a preferred choice for families seeking safer feeding experience.

R for Rabbit’s Breast Pump Guide

1. How to Use a Breast Pump for the First Time
2. Electric Breast Pump vs. Manual Breast Pump: Which is The Best?
3. How to Use Manual Breast Pump Like a Pro?
4. First Feed Pure vs. First Feed Nova: Which Electric Breast Pump is Right for You?
5. Breastfeeding vs. Pumping: Which Is the Best Option for Your Baby?
6. Guide to Using an Electric Breast Pump Like a Pro

Conclusion – A Small Step That Protects Your Baby

Maintaining a clean breast pump might seem like a task, but it plays a powerful role in protecting a baby’s overall growth and development.

With regular maintenance, it emphasizes that cleanliness equals safety for the child, ensuring their proper nourishment without exposure to unnecessary bacteria.

With R for Rabbit’s Breast Pumps, along with the cleaning and hygiene tips, maintenance becomes much safer and smoother. This further provides the parents with peace of mind for the baby’s healthiest start.