How Often Should I Replace Breast Pump Parts?

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It&#;s a question we hear all the time and one that has the eternally frustrating answer&#;It depends!

Sorry, mama! No worries, though, we can help. When to replace pump parts has everything to do with how often you pump - and a little to do with personal preference, too.

In this video, our friend Sterling Grey-Simmons at Loyal Lactation explains how often to replace pump parts based on your pumping schedule. She'll take you through every breast pump part and share her recommended replacement timeline for each - and how to get them covered by insurance!

Replace Pump Parts to Maintain Tip Top Performance

Hey y'all, my name is Sterling Grey-Simmons. I'm a certified breastfeeding specialist, full spectrum doula, and owner of Loyal Lactation.

I don't know if all of my pumping moms out there know, but the Milkzoom by 1 Natural Way provides pump parts directly through your insurance each month. Milkzoom subscribers receive, on a monthly basis, milk storage bags, bottles, breast shields, and cap converters.

Lots of moms are not aware that some of the pump parts need replacing regularly to maintain performance. After a while, some of the parts wear down and can become stretched, resulting in a loss of suction.

If you notice your pump seems to have lost suction, the first thing you should do is take a look at the parts, particularly the valves. Inspect them for wear and stretching, and replace if needed. Here's a rundown on pump parts you will need to replace regularly, and how often they should be replaced.

When To Replace Breast Pump Parts

The membranes need to be replaced every two months if you pump once a day. And every two to four weeks, if you pump more frequently. A general rule of thumb is if you see that the membrane does not lay flat against the valve, it's time to replace it.

The duct valves need to be replaced every one to three months, while the backflow protector diaphragm needs to be replaced every three to six months.

As for the tubing, it needs to be replaced occasionally. The backflow protector should prevent moisture from entering the tubing. However, should moisture enter the tubing, it is recommended to replace it. There is no way to sterilize the tubing, and it is important to keep tubing completely dry because moisture can damage the motor.

Lastly, you want to replace the breast shield every six months, if you exclusively pump, or as needed, if you pump less frequently. Keep an eye out for build up or residue in the cracks and crevices of the shield. Check out 1Natural Way's website for more information on how you can start receiving your Milkzoom boxes.

Link to SUNBO PUMP

Breast Pump Parts through Insurance

1 Natural Way's Milkzoom program will keep your breast pump parts replacement on schedule (and emergency spare parts on hand) with monthly deliveries - all through insurance. On average, moms save $71 a month versus retail!

Find out if you're eligible for breast pump replacement parts and accessories through the Milkzoom program by filling out our short qualification form.

About the Author

Cindy Puppos is 1 Natural Way's Customer Service Manager, so she has a good idea of all the different and wonderful questions that moms have for her team. Thankfully, as the mother of two boys (who are now grown!) and a veteran of the company and breastfeeding, Cindy is always knowledgeable about breastfeeding, pumping and all the latest and greatest pumps!

The moment you get your breast pump starts the beginning of your breast milk journey. From unboxing it, learning how to use it, late-night pumping sessions, supporting breastfeeding goals, and more, you and your pump have a lot of work to do together. That's why it's crucial to take care of your breast pump by regularly replacing certain parts so it can take care of you during your entire breast pumping journey.

Why Do I Need To Replace Breast Pump Parts?

The key to keeping your breast pump in top working order involves regularly placing breast pump parts. As you use your pump, the hard-working parts can become worn out, stretched, and frayed. It can also be a playground for bacteria and mold, as small cracks, residue build-up, and other compromises make it difficult to clean and keep clean.

Breast pump replacement is also important. Too often, we see pump sharing or using the same pump for subsequent pregnancies. Breast pumps should be single-use and used only for up to a year.

Avoid Low Milk Supply and Low Breast Milk Output

Worn-out breast pump parts are one of the leading causes of lower milk supply.

This is because worn-out parts can lead to a decrease in breast pump suction. As a result, mothers will often assume that there is an issue with their breast milk supply or that their pump is broken. However, the first thing you should do if you notice a decrease in suction is to check on your pump parts. Check for gaping valves, whether using duckbill valves or flat white valves, as this decreases the vacuum suction strength. Proper flange sizing is important, as is the integrity of the flange. Build up of residue, cracking, or warping may impact the ability to form a vacuum seal on the breast. 

Unfortunately, the simulation of low supply from low output may turn out to be an actual low supply problem over time if not adequately removing milk. Address issues and complications early on!

Prevent Mold and Bacterial Growth

Also, by frequently breast pumping and sanitizing your supplies the parts that become stretched and worn out, they may become cracked or form crevices that make it easier for residue, bacteria, and mold to build up in. New parts help keep your breastmilk cleaner!

Replacing the breast pump also helps to keep unwanted microbes out of the picture by having the closed filtration system work with full integrity. 

Game Plan for Spare Parts and Emergency Back-ups

Having an extra set of breast pump parts can be beneficial for moms as it helps make sure they have a spare, clean set to use or spare items to leave at work. Then if something breaks, there's no need to rush out to the store to see if they have that particular replacement part in stock, and you won't have to wait for your replacement part to arrive in the mail. Keep your spare parts, such as extra milk collection bottles and breast pump flanges, or ones you dedicate for keeping at work, in your breast pump bag, tote, cooler bag, or a particular container to help you remember.

Check with the breast pump manufacturer first, for replacement and spare parts, along with the pump kit your pump is accompanied with. Many companies will include a few spare parts with the electric breast pumps, such as extra flanges or milk collection bottles. Companies like Amazon, may have ample parts available, like replacement valves, that need to be replaced more often and can ship it quickly.

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