Breast Pump Cleaning: Keep It Safe and Simple

That breast pump is working hard for you, helping you feed your baby when you can't be there or giving you some flexibility in your feeding routine. But all those parts—the flanges, valves, membranes, bottles—can feel overwhelming to clean. The good news? Once you establish a routine, pump cleaning becomes second nature. And doing it right protects your baby from harmful bacteria.

This guide breaks down exactly how to clean your pump safely and efficiently, without making it more complicated than it needs to be.

Why Proper Cleaning Matters

Breast milk is a perfect food for your baby—and unfortunately, also for bacteria. When milk residue sits on pump parts, bacteria can multiply rapidly, potentially contaminating your next pumping session. CDC

What can grow on dirty pump parts:

• Bacteria like Cronobacter and Salmonella
• Mold in parts that stay wet
• Yeast, especially if you have thrush

Who's most at risk:

• Newborns under 3 months
• Premature babies
• Babies with weakened immune systems

For these vulnerable babies, a contaminated pump could cause serious illness. But even healthy babies benefit from clean equipment—it just makes sense. CDC

The Basics: What Needs Cleaning

Clean after every use:

• Breast shields (flanges)
• Valves and membranes
• Bottles and caps
• Any part that touches your breast or the milk

Never needs cleaning:

• Tubing (for closed-system pumps)—if milk gets in it, replace it
• The pump motor—just wipe the outside

Closed vs. open system pumps:
Closed-system pumps have a barrier preventing milk from entering the tubing. If you have an open system and see milk or moisture in the tubing, it needs to be replaced and the pump may need professional cleaning. CDC

Step-by-Step Cleaning After Each Use

Here's the CDC-recommended routine for keeping your pump parts clean: CDC

Step 1: Rinse immediately

• As soon as you finish pumping, rinse all parts under running water
• This prevents milk from drying and becoming harder to clean
• Don't let parts sit in the sink—sinks harbor bacteria

Step 2: Wash thoroughly

• Use a dedicated wash basin (not your sink directly)
• Fill with hot water and dish soap
• Scrub all parts with a dedicated brush
• Pay special attention to small crevices in valves

Step 3: Rinse again

• Rinse all parts under running water
• Make sure no soap residue remains

Step 4: Air dry

• Place parts on a clean paper towel or dedicated drying rack
• Don't use a dish towel (harbors bacteria)
• Let parts air dry completely before storing

Step 5: Store properly

• Once completely dry, store in a clean, covered container
• Don't store damp parts—moisture breeds bacteria

Sanitizing: When and How

Sanitizing goes beyond regular cleaning and kills more germs. The CDC recommends sanitizing once daily if your baby is under 3 months, premature, or immunocompromised. CDC

When to sanitize:

• Once daily for high-risk babies
• After purchasing new or used parts
• After illness (you or baby)
• If parts weren't cleaned right away

Sanitizing methods:

*Boiling:*

• Place parts in a pot with enough water to cover them
• Bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes
• Remove with clean tongs
• Let air dry on clean surface

*Steam sanitizing:*

• Use a microwave steam bag or electric steam sanitizer
• Follow manufacturer's instructions
• Quick and effective

*Dishwasher (if parts are labeled dishwasher safe):*

• Use the sanitize cycle and hot water
• Place small parts in a mesh laundry bag or top rack
• Heated drying cycle helps

Important: Check your pump parts—some can't handle high heat and may warp. Check manufacturer guidelines.

The "Fridge Hack"—Is It Safe?

You may have heard about storing pump parts in the fridge between sessions instead of washing each time. Let's be clear about what experts say: CDC

The CDC does not recommend this practice.

Why some people do it:

• Convenience when pumping multiple times daily
• Cold temperatures slow bacterial growth
• Saves significant time

Why it's not officially recommended:

• Refrigeration slows but doesn't stop bacterial growth
• Higher risk for vulnerable babies
• Hasn't been studied for safety

If you choose to do it anyway:

• Only for healthy babies over 3 months
• Keep parts in a dedicated, covered container
• Never longer than 24 hours
• Still wash thoroughly at least once daily
• Wash before the very first session and after the last session of the day

This is a personal decision based on your baby's health and your risk tolerance. Discuss with your pediatrician if you're unsure.

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Using the kitchen sink directly:
Sinks contain bacteria from raw meat, dirty dishes, and other sources. Always use a dedicated basin. CDC

Wiping with a dish towel:
Cloth towels harbor bacteria. Use clean paper towels or air drying only.

Not cleaning valves thoroughly:
Those tiny membranes and valves are bacteria traps. Inspect them carefully.

Storing while still damp:
Moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Wait until completely dry.

Not replacing worn parts:
Valves and membranes wear out and become harder to clean. Replace according to manufacturer recommendations.

Sharing pumps without proper sterilization:
Personal-use pumps shouldn't be shared. Hospital-grade pumps designed for multiple users require new personal kits for each user.

Managing Multiple Pumping Sessions

If you're pumping at work or multiple times a day, cleaning can feel overwhelming. Here are realistic strategies:

At work or on the go:

• Bring a dedicated wash basin and brush
• Use a cooler bag to transport dirty parts safely
• Microwave steam bags work quickly in most break rooms
• Some parents bring multiple sets of parts and wash all at once at home

Setting up a pump station at home:

• Keep all supplies in one place
• Dedicated drying rack
• Backup valves and membranes on hand
• Paper towels nearby

Batch cleaning:
If you're pumping 6+ times a day, having 2-3 sets of parts and batch washing can save sanity—just make sure each set is fully dry before use.

Signs Something's Wrong

Replace parts if you notice:

• Cracks or damage in any part
• Discoloration that doesn't wash away
• Lingering odor despite thorough cleaning
• Valves that don't seal properly
• Decreased pump output (could indicate worn parts)

Signs of contamination in milk:

• Unusual color or smell
• Visible particles or film
• If you suspect contamination, discard the milk

Traveling with Your Pump

Cleaning on the go:

• Pack dish soap in a travel container
• Bring your wash basin (or buy a collapsible one)
• Microwave steam bags are travel-friendly
• Quick wipes exist for emergencies but shouldn't replace washing

Airport security:

• Breast pumps are allowed in carry-on and checked bags
• Breast milk follows the 3-1-1 liquid rules only if it's more than 3.4 oz
• Inform TSA agents about any breast milk or pump equipment

The Bottom Line

Keeping your breast pump clean doesn't have to be complicated:

1. Rinse immediately after pumping
2. Wash in a basin with soap and hot water
3. Scrub all parts with a dedicated brush
4. Air dry completely on a clean surface
5. Sanitize daily for babies under 3 months or immunocompromised
6. Replace worn parts regularly

Yes, it takes time and effort—but you're protecting your baby's health with every clean. Create a routine that works for you, and it becomes just another part of the pumping rhythm.

Clara can answer your specific questions about pump cleaning, storage, or any pumping challenges you're facing.