Generally, breast pump hoses, also known as tubing, are not sterilized and should be kept completely dry to prevent mold and bacterial growth. If breast milk or moisture enters the tubing, it is typically advised to replace it rather than attempt to clean or sterilize it.
However, sterilizing other breast pump components (like flanges, bottles, and valves) is crucial for maintaining hygiene. Below, we'll cover how to handle your breast pump hose and sterilize other parts that are safe to do so.
Understanding Breast Pump Tubing
Breast pump tubing is designed to create a closed-system airflow between the pump motor and the breast shield, pulling air, not milk. Most modern breast pumps are designed so that milk should not enter the tubing.
- Closed System Pumps: These pumps have barriers that prevent milk from flowing back into the tubing. For these, the tubing should remain dry and clean.
- Open System Pumps: Older models or some designs may allow milk to enter the tubing. If this happens, immediate action is required.
Why You Shouldn't Typically Sterilize Hoses
- Material Degradation: Many tubes are made from PVC or silicone that can degrade, warp, or become cloudy when exposed to heat or harsh cleaning agents, compromising their function.
- Moisture Trapping: It's extremely difficult to thoroughly dry the inside of a long, narrow tube, even after washing or boiling. Residual moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and bacteria to flourish, which can then be transferred to your breast milk.
- Compromised Airflow: Damaged or moldy tubing can reduce pump suction efficiency, affecting milk expression.
What to Do If Your Breast Pump Hose Gets Wet or Contaminated
If you notice breast milk, condensation, or any other moisture inside your breast pump tubing:
- Stop Pumping: Discontinue use immediately.
- Inspect: Check the tubing carefully for visible milk, water droplets, or mold.
- Attempt to Air Dry (Last Resort & Not Recommended for Milk): For condensation only (not milk), you might try running the pump for a few minutes with only the tubing attached, allowing air to circulate and dry it. However, this is generally not effective for significant moisture or milk.
- Replace: The safest and most recommended course of action for contaminated tubing (especially with milk or mold) is to replace it with new tubing. Check your pump manufacturer's guidelines for specific replacement instructions.
Sterilizing Other Breast Pump Components
While the hose has specific care instructions, other pump parts that come into contact with breast milk do require regular cleaning and occasional sterilization.
Boiling Method for Pump Parts
Boiling is a highly effective way to sanitize breast pump components that are safe for high temperatures. This method is suitable for items like breast shields, bottles, and hard plastic parts, but generally not for tubing.
Steps for Boiling:
- Disassemble: Take apart all pump components that are safe to boil.
- Prepare: Place the disassembled items into a clean pot.
- Cover with Water: Fill the pot with water, ensuring all items are completely submerged.
- Boil: Put the pot over heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Maintain Heat: Allow the items to boil for 5 minutes.
- Cool & Remove: Carefully remove the pot from the heat and let the water cool. Use clean tongs to safely remove the sterilized items.
- Dry: Place the items on a clean, unused paper towel or drying rack and allow them to air dry completely before storing. Do not use a dish towel, as it can transfer germs.
Other Effective Sanitization Methods for Pump Parts
Besides boiling, other methods can be used to sterilize or sanitize breast pump parts (excluding tubing):
- Dishwasher Sanitization: If your pump parts are dishwasher-safe, place them on the top rack of your dishwasher. Use hot water and a heated drying cycle, or a "sanitizing" setting if available.
- Steam Sterilizers: Electric or microwave steam sterilizers are designed to quickly sanitize pump parts and bottles using hot steam. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific sterilizer.
- UV Sterilizers: Some modern sterilizers use ultraviolet light. While convenient, always check that your specific pump parts are compatible and that the UV sterilizer is proven effective for eliminating common bacteria and viruses.
General Cleaning Practices for All Pump Components
Even if you sterilize occasionally, daily cleaning is essential. For detailed guidance, always refer to your breast pump manufacturer's instructions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provides comprehensive guidelines for cleaning breast pump parts.
- Wash Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling pump parts.
- Disassemble: Take apart all pump components that came into contact with breast milk.
- Rinse: Hold parts under cool, running water to remove any residual milk.
- Wash: Use a dedicated wash basin (not the sink directly) with warm, soapy water. Scrub items with a clean brush reserved only for infant feeding items.
- Rinse Again: Rinse thoroughly under running water.
- Air Dry: Place parts on a clean, dedicated drying rack or paper towel. Do not use cloth towels.
Quick Reference Guide
| Breast Pump Component | Recommended Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tubing/Hose | Keep dry; Replace if contaminated. | Do NOT wash or boil. Designed for air, not milk. |
| Flanges/Breast Shields | Wash daily; Sterilize occasionally (boil, steam, dishwasher). | Safe for boiling (5 minutes). |
| Valves & Membranes | Wash daily; Sterilize occasionally. | Often delicate; check manufacturer for boiling safety. |
| Bottles & Lids | Wash daily; Sterilize occasionally. | Safe for boiling (5 minutes). |
| Connectors | Wash daily; Sterilize occasionally. | Safe for boiling (5 minutes). |
| Pump Motor | Wipe clean with a damp cloth. | Never submerge in water. |
