Vega Baby & Mom firmly believes that breastfeeding is the best for babies for their health and development. That’s why a manual breast pump comes as a savior for moms who are juggling between professional and personal life. It ensures the nutritional needs of babies are always met while also allowing mothers to get the rest they deserve. In addition, it enables fathers or other caregivers to easily feed the baby with nutritious breastmilk. As you are here, chances are you own a manual breast pump and wondering how to keep it clean and hygienic. Good news because you have arrived at the right page! This blog will share tips on how to clean manual breast pump at home. But first, let’s understand why it’s important to clean it in the first place. Keep scrolling!
Why cleaning your manual breast pump is important
Manual breast pump needs to be cleaned everyday before and after use because of the following reasons:
· Considering newborns have developing immune systems they are more vulnerable to infections. When not cleaned properly, it can transfer harmful bacteria to your baby.
· The milk residue can also affect the taste or smell of the expressed breastmilk.
· Regular cleaning of manual breast pump also ensures breast pump hygiene and helps your pump work properly and efficiently.
Things to do before cleaning manual breast pump
· Always wash your hands thoroughly with soapy water before handling a breast pump or any other baby or breastfeeding accessory.
· Prepare a clean washing area where the manual breast pump and other breastfeeding accessories are placed.
· Understand the different parts of your manual breast pump before cleaning. This includes breast shield, storage cap, silicone valve, collection bottle, and protective cap.
Step-by-step manual breast pump cleaning guide:
Step 1: Disassemble the parts
Take apart all the components of your manual breast pump. This ensures each component is cleaned properly.
Step 2: Rinse Immediately
Rinse each part under running water to remove any milk residue, especially those which come in direct contact with the breastmilk like the breast flange, valves, collection bottle, storage cap, and protective cap. This step is beneficial to remove the remaining milk. Do not place the parts in the sink as it can harbor bacteria.
Step 3: Wash Parts in Warm, Soapy Water
Clean all the parts with a cleaning brush and mild dishwash liquid cleanser. Choose Vega 2 in 1 Bottle & Nipple Brush to clean efficiently. This bottle and nipple cleaning brush features soft nylon bristles which help to easily clean and remove 99.9 % of milk residue. The vacuum base on the handle promotes convenient standing of the brush while washing or post-washing. To clean the silicone valve, simply rub it gently in lukewarm water. Do not insert any object into the valve as this may cause damage. Rinse each part again under running water to ensure all soap residue is removed.
Step 4: Disinfect the manual breast pump items
Finish off by sterilizing manual breast pump items to protect both you and your baby from harmful germs. The best way to sanitize breast pump is using Vega Baby & Mom 4 in 1 Electric Steam Sterilizer with Dryer. This sterilizer with dryer is carefully crafted with a revolutionary design for sterilizing, drying, steaming food, and storing dried-up bottles and other feeding accessories. It is made with 100% BPA free safe material which makes it safe to use for baby feeding accessories. The accessories remain sterilized for up to 24 hours after you complete the sterilization and drying process and keep the accessories inside the sterilizer with the lid closed. The sterilizer has an easy knob operation for clear indications and functionality for a smooth operation. The total time taken for this function will range from 40-50 minutes based on the quantity of water and the number of items placed in the basket
Ø Fill the sterilizer with recommended water. (100ml-120ml purified water recommended into the heating plate).
Ø Place all the parts in the sterilizer
Ø Assemble the lid tightly and plug into the mains supply. Then, turn the knob to “Sterilize/Dry”
P.S. Always follow the user manual for safe and right usage of this sterilizer with dryer.
Step 5: Store safely
Wash your hands well before storing the sterilized manual breast pump components safely in a clean and protected area. Also, reassemble the breast pump in a clean and protected area.
Vega Baby & Mom Manual Breast Pump – Advanced
It is also important to invest in the right manual breast pump as it can make a big difference to offer comfortable and effective pumping. Just like Vega Baby & Mom Natural Expression 7 level suction Manual Breast Pump – Advanced featuring 2 modes of expression for stimulation and deep expression of milk with utmost comfort. Additional features include:
· Pump pressure adjustment technology which enables breastfeeding moms to adjust 7 different suction levels
· Super soft silicon pad to create the right amount of vacuum
· Mimics natural suction to promote better milk output
· Easy assembly & cleaning to maintain hygiene
· Compact & lightweight to use on the go
· Ergonomic handle for comfortable pumping
· Easy to sterilize to prevent the risk of infections
· Painless & comfortable pumping for smooth process overall
Always safely store breastmilk immediately in the freezer. You can store the breast milk in a refrigerator for up to 48 hours at 4°C or below provided it’s stored inside a sterilized bottle only with full cover cap or in a breast milk storage bag. Learn how to express breastmilk using a manual breast pump if you haven’t already to ease your breastfeeding journey.
Key Takeaways
Breastfeeding is one of the most rewarding experiences for a mother and using a manual breast pump can make the journey more comfortable. Along with the benefits of pumping milk, cleaning and sterilization are equally important. So, learn how to clean manual breast pump parts before and after every use to protect your baby and nourish them with the most nutritious breastmilk. Hope this manual breast pump cleaning guide will help to ensure breast pump hygiene and good health of your little ones.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general purpose only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any decision regarding your baby's health and care.
FAQs:
How often should I clean my manual breast pump?
Clean breast pump and then sterilize & dry everytime before and after usage.
How do I dry my manual breast pump parts after washing?
Use Vega Baby & Mom 4 in 1 Electric Steam Sterilizer with Dryer which sterilizes and dry manual breast pump easily and efficiently.
Do I need to sterilize my breast pump after every use?
Yes, you need to sterilize your manual breast pump before and after every use.
