Allow them to air-dry — using a dish towel to dry them may transfer germs to the kit. Additionally, ensure that the drying area is free from dirt or dust. 2. Cleaning the Wash Basin and Brush They felt that many women are not properly taught how to clean their pump, and they wanted to make the steps clear and really emphasize why they were important. Place all the pump parts in a clean basin that’s used exclusively for washing your baby’s feeding equipment. Avoid washing the parts in the kitchen sink, as both the sink and drain may be contaminated with bacteria. This bacteria could find its way into the pump kit.

Breast Pump Cleaning Wipes - 30ct : Target Dapple Breast Pump Cleaning Wipes - 30ct : Target

Disinfecting wipes contain sodium hypochlorite and Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride which are found in common disinfectants. Both of which you do not want on your baby’s bottom. It may take a week or two, but eventually you and your baby will settle into a routine, and you'll be pumping and breastfeeding like a pro. Have a good pumping spot Due to their initial role of cleaning a baby during a diaper change, they are not meant to kill germs. If you’ve used a wash basin and brush, rinse them thoroughly afterward, and allow them to air dry. This should be done after every use.Your lifestyle will dictate what you need. For example, if you plan to pump mostly in the comfort of your home, you won't need as many extras as you might if you're frequently on the go or working outside of your home. Rinse out the soap by holding the parts under running water. You can also submerge the kit in another basin filled with fresh water.

Breast Pump | FDA - U.S. Food and Drug Administration Cleaning a Breast Pump | FDA - U.S. Food and Drug Administration

If you are going to be pumping very regularly (i.e., exclusively, or when you return to work or school), having an extra pump and pump parts can make life a lot easier," says lactation consultant and LLL leader Amanda DeWeese, MPH, CPH, IBCLC. If you work outside the home, keeping one pump at home and one at work can "help reduce the chances of accidentally leaving something at the other location." And that reduces stress, a huge plus for busy, tired parents. Always keep a big bottle of water at your desk or workstation. Breastfeeding, whether you're pumping or nursing, is hard work, and you need a lot of fluids to keep up your supply. Rinse. Rinse by holding items under running water, or by submerging in fresh water in a separate basin that is used only for cleaning infant feeding items. As most pumping moms can attest to, pumping is hard work but worth it for the baby to drink the all-important breastmilk. Plan your pumping sessions for when your baby would be feeding if you were at home to avoid engorgement and leaking. You may also want to invest in some breast pads to absorb any leakage between pumping sessions.

Of course, working moms don't always have access to a clean sink (let alone a dishwasher) or enough counter space to follow all of these recommended cleaning directions. So what are other options for you? These cloths are meant to be gentle on a baby’s bottom. They do not include disinfectants that are made to kill germs. Fill the basin with hot water, then add soap. Scrub all parts using a clean brush that is used exclusively for cleaning your baby’s food items. Have spares of everything at the office, including a bra, power cord and extra pump if you can swing it — even if it's just a manual one. But especially make sure you have bottles and lids (or storage bags). Nothing will ruin your day like having a decent pump and then realizing you have no way to transport it home." — Kate R., California Don't forget the car charger