For mothers juggling jobs and child care, breast pumps are a lifesaver; however, their maintenance is absolutely vital. The need to change old components to preserve pump performance and hygiene is underlined in this essay. We'll look at key parts such as the Momcozy motor and milk-transporting tube, stressing why and how often to replace breast pump parts and including how-tos. Ideas on insurance coverage for basics like new flanges are also addressed. Use our simple guide for exact maintenance requirements to make sure your breast pump guarantees a successful and safe nursing experience.

SUNBO PUMP are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

What Are the Key Parts of Your Breast Pump?

Comprising several components, each of which is essential for milk extraction, your breast pump is a sophisticated tool.

• Motor (Electric Pumps): The heart of the electric breast pump that generates suction.
• Dust Cover: Protects the pump from contaminants, ensuring hygiene.
• Duckbill Valves: These one-way valves control the flow of milk into the collection container to prevent backflow.
• Flange: Sometimes accompanied by a flange insert, this part creates a secure and comfortable seal around the breast.
• Milk Collector (Collection Container): The bottle or bag where milk is collected and stored during pumping.
• Silicone Diaphragm: Maintains suction and hygiene by preventing air and moisture from entering the tubing.
• Backflow Protector (Conventional Pumps): A safeguard to prevent milk from entering the tubing and motor, which could cause contamination and damage.
• Tubing: Connects the flange to the motor, allowing the creation of vacuum pressure necessary for milk expression.

Why Is It Necessary to Replace Breast Pump Parts?

We should replace breast pump parts for several reasons. Hygiene is first; over time, even with a complete washing, milk residue, and moisture can cause mold or bacterial growth. The effectiveness of the pump is influenced by wear and tear; stretched or worn-out valves and membranes can reduce suction strength, therefore influencing milk output. Frequent replacement guarantees that your pump keeps a good seal and runs at optimal performance, therefore guaranteeing you are giving your baby the best and extending the lifetime of the pump itself. Furthermore, employing well-kept components lowers the possibility of pollutants, thereby defending the health of your kid and the breast milk.

Breast Pump Parts You Need to Replace

Maintaining your breast pump calls for several parts that are more often replaced because of direct milk contact and wear susceptibility. Every few months, the duckbill valves and membranes should be changed since they lose flexibility and influence

When to Replace Breast Pump Parts

Look for these obvious signs that you should replace your breast pump's parts:

Decreased Suction: If you notice a reduction in the pump's suction power, it could be due to worn-out valves or membranes.

• Visible Wear and Tear: Inspect for stretched, swollen, or cracked components, especially in valves and diaphragms, which can compromise the pump’s effectiveness.
• Irregularities in Milk Flow: A change in the usual milk flow rate may signal that certain parts, like duckbill valves, need replacement.
• Discoloration or Odor: Any discoloration, odors, or signs of mold in tubing or milk-collecting parts necessitate immediate replacement for safety.
• Tears or Holes: Even tiny tears or punctures in the membranes or tubing can greatly affect the pump's function.
• Trouble Fitting: If flanges or inserts no longer fit comfortably or securely, they may need to be replaced to ensure efficient pumping and comfort.

Regularly checking these aspects will help maintain your breast pump at peak performance, keeping the milk supply safe and abundant for your baby.

the suction. If the inside is foggy or damp, the tubing needs to be changed to stop moisture accumulation that can support mold. Another item that should be replaced right away whenever indicating wear or damage is the silicone diaphragm. Though they usually last longer, flanges and breast shields still require inspection for any shape or integrity changes. Regular replacements of these parts guarantee effective pumping and preserve the hygienic conditions required for the health of your baby.

How Frequently Should You Replace Breast Pump Components?

Although replacement frequency for breast pump components varies, a basic rule is to evaluate and replace the duckbill valves and membranes every two to three months since their operation is essential for preserving suction. Since tubing cannot be cleaned inside, it should be changed right away if moisture or mold shows up. Depending on use, the silicone diaphragm could need replacement every six months. Although flanges and breast shields last longer, check them often for wear or distortion. To guarantee the best pump performance and milk hygiene, it is advisable to follow the manufacturer's particular recommendations for every part and pay close attention to any degradation that would call for more regular replacement.

Guide to Replacing Parts and Reassembling a Breast Pump

Changing up old components for new ones on the breast pumps is an easy process that guarantees your pump runs as it should. Use these guidelines to have a seamless change:

Regarding an electric breast pump, take the Momcozy M9 and Momcozy M5 as examples:

Momcozy M9:

• Diaphragm: Detach the used diaphragm from the flange, then position the new diaphragm, ensuring it's securely in place to maintain suction integrity.
• Milk Collector: Remove the old collector. Position the new one and rotate it towards the lock icon until it clicks, indicating a secure fit.
• Flange Attachment: Line up the new flange with the milk outlet on the pump body and push firmly to attach.
• Pump Motor: Couple the new motor unit with the flange assembly, pressing together tightly to avoid air leaks.
• Dust Cover: Finally, place the dust cover over the new motor unit, pressing around the edges to seal and protect against contaminants.

Momcozy M5:

1. Attach the flange (breast shield) to the milk collection bottle or container.
2. Insert the valve and membrane securely into place.
3. Connect any linkers or connectors as required by your pump model.
4. If your pump uses tubing, ensure it is dry and free of moisture or mold before attaching.
5. Assemble the pump motor and ensure all parts are fitted snugly to prevent leaks.

For traditional breast pumps, using Medela as an example:

• Backflow Protector: Connect the new backflow protector to the tubing, ensuring it is firmly in place to prevent milk contamination.
• Tubing Connection: Attach the fresh tubing to both the breast shield and the pump motor. Make sure connections are tight to maintain proper suction.
• Breast Shield: Fasten the new breast shield to the bottle or milk collector. Check for a secure fit to avoid leaks during pumping.
• Valve Replacement: Insert the new valve into the breast shield, making sure it's attached correctly to allow milk to flow into the bottle.

Is Insurance on Your Side for Breast Pump Part Replacement?

The insurance company and plan will greatly affect the coverage for breast pump components. Many insurance plans mandated under the Affordable Care Act must cover the cost of a breast pump. But this usually relates more to the pump itself than to extra replacement components. While some companies may not cover these parts at all, others offer partial coverage or concessions for them. Review your policy information or get in touch with your insurance company personally to grasp your coverage. To really understand what is and isn't included in your plan, inquire especially about each kind of part—valves, tubing, membranes. Furthermore, some Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) could let you use money for these purchases, therefore offering even another possible source of financial help.

Ensuring Optimal Breast Pump Performance and Hygiene

Providing the best for your baby depends on regular maintenance and prompt replacement of breast pump components, thereby preserving your comfort and health as well. To maintain efficiency and hygiene, the Momcozy M9 and related electric pumps need constant monitoring for wear on important parts such as valves, diaphragms, and tubing. Conventional choices like Medela pumps also call for attention to their special features. Knowing when and how to replace these components—as described in this article—helps moms keep their pumps in perfect shape. Moreover, controlling the expenses related to nursing success depends on insurance coverage for these replacements. Staying informed and proactive can help you guarantee a smooth and encouraging nursing experience full of peace of mind derived from a well-maintained breast pump.

FAQs

Q1: Does changing pump components improve the milk flow?

Indeed, new pump components guarantee optimal suction and efficiency, thus directly improving milk expression and supply.

Q2: For a second baby, do you need to replace any pump components?

Yes, it's advisable since worn components could harbor bacteria and lower pump efficiency over time.

Q3: Should the motor of a breast pump be replaced?

No, the motor of a breast pump should not typically be replaced unless it shows signs of failure or declining performance.

Why, what, when and how to rejuvenate your pump parts

Skip the intro, I want the info

In Dani's first month of breastfeeding, she found herself predominantly pumping due to her baby having a tongue tie. After every use, she would carefully wash and sterilise all her pump parts. Dani understood that this rigorous cleaning was an important step in keeping her little one safe. What she didn't yet appreciate was how wearing her constant use and cleaning was on those pump parts. In fact, like many of us starting out pumping, Dani had no idea that she would ever, let alone regularly, need to replace parts like the valves and membranes on the pump she was using.

One evening, Dani noticed how full she felt and began to worry she may have clogged ducts. Despite diligently pumping overnight, she was still engorged with milk the next morning. It was then that a niggling feeling began. Could it be that her much relied upon pump was faltering? Having no alternative at hand, Dani continued to pump even as she became certain that much of her milk was being left behind.

Soon after, on a visit to her in-laws for dinner, Dani brought her manual hand pump to use for the night. When it came time to pump, Dani was surprised and delighted with how quickly she was able to fill her daughter's bottles. Relief washed over her as she felt properly drained of milk once again, and her suspicions about her main pump's diminished performance were validated.

Back home, after some troubleshooting, Dani confirmed that the pump in question was technically working fine and reasoned that it must indeed be the pump parts themselves in need of replacement. Dani realised that as the pump parts had gradually lost efficiency, she'd been spending more and more time pumping to get the same results - on top of everything else she was tackling each day as a new parent. And, though grateful to have pinpointed her issue, she could see how stressful it had been to be stuck in the dark, without helpful guidance on how to keep her pump working well for her.

Dani quickly jumped online and ordered new parts, managing the short wait for them to arrive with her manual pump. Thankfully, a few days later, her new pump parts arrived and huzzah! Everything worked perfectly again, and Dani felt properly drained after much less time pumping! Understanding how to properly maintain the performance of her pump meant Dani was able to establish a successful exclusive pumping regime when the need arose. Also made easier was Dani's decision to continue pumping and building a supply of breast milk for her daughter that would last right through to the birth of her next baby! Woo!

Ever feel so under the pump you find yourself letting your performance slide and hoping no one notices? Your breast pump parts do...

Breast pump parts wear out. Consider it a badge of honour. The good news is: new parts = new pump! Let us take you through why, what, when and how to replace and recycle your worn out parts so you can enjoy optimum performance from your breast pump once more. Save time, pressure, battery and output by following our helpful tips below.

Ok, so what parts on my breast pump are we talking about?

Well, we'll go into more detail on each one, but essentially, we're looking at all the plastic and silicone parts that connect to your pump motor.

Why do breast pump parts even need replacing?

When the parts required to deliver the suction wear out, it will undermine the performance of your otherwise wonderful pump. Nobody's got time for that. For the parts that come in contact with your breast milk, it's essential that these are replaced frequently, so that they are safe and free from scratches or damage (ironically, most commonly caused by the cleaning process) that can harbour bacteria.

What are the benefits of replacing breast pump parts?

Ensuring that breast pump parts responsible for suction are in great working order will pay dividends in terms of:

• Optimal breast milk expression which means minimising time on the pump;
• Optimal power efficiency means you're able to use the lower levels of the pump's range, which uses less battery and is typically quieter and more comfortable; and 
• Protection for your supply through more effective drainage.

Replacing breast pump parts that are in contact with your breast milk is beneficial for keeping your milk safe and free from any build up of contaminants that might make your little one unwell.

How do I know when my breast pump parts need replacing?

Your pump manufacturer should provide a recommended schedule for the turnover of each part, usually listed on the product description and packaging for each part.

We've summarised ours here, which you can use as a general guide:

Why do the pump parts wear out at different rates?

If you're curious as to why each part has a particular lifespan, you can click on their names (in green) below to see a full explanation. Otherwise, feel free to skip ahead to cleaning considerations and responsible recycling of your spent parts.

1. Parts that are the main drivers of pump performance will be the first to wear out.

Valves work in tandem with membranes to create a vacuum seal within the valve base of your pump and provide adequate stimulation to your nipple. This means the entire time you are pumping these silicone parts are subjected to stress and eventually, that means their elasticity will weaken over time and compromise the ability of the pump motor to deliver effective suction.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website pump spare parts.

Valves

Valve lifespan: 2–4 weeks for frequent pumping, or 2 months for daily pumping

Remember how your pump came with a spare set of duckbill valves? That’s because these little, unassuming parts are absolutely crucial to the functioning of your pump and require a high turnover frequency.

The one-way valve's little duckbill opening lets out the excess pressure created by air or milk into your pump's collection cup, bottle or bag. Over time, as the valve material and opening become weakened by use or rough cleaning, it will let more and more pressure out. When too much of the pressure escapes, there won't be enough to stimulate your nipple and express your milk as effectively.

Membranes (Round Membranes and U-Membranes)

Membrane lifespan: 2–3 months

The membrane is the barrier that transfers the vacuum pressure (mmHg) coming from your pump motor or its tubing into the space created by the valve base. The membrane, valve and flange all connect into and seal off the valve base when your nipple is in place. In this way, the pump's suction is introduced through the membrane, trapped by the one-way valve, concentrated at the nipple and released through the valve as puffs of air and, post-letdown, drips of precious milk!

Over time, this constant pressurisation has a weakening effect on the membrane, limiting its ability to translate the pressure from your pump to the valve base in full. When too little pressure is transferred, there won't be enough to stimulate your nipple and express your milk as effectively.

If either or both of these parts already need replacing you may have noticed:

• you need to pump for longer to achieve your usual output
• you are using higher suction levels than usual
• the edges of the valve's duckbill may no longer press together 
• there may be tears visible in the silicone

 
To be proactive, replace according to the following recommendations:

• Valves: every 2–4 weeks for frequent pumping or every 2 months for daily pumping 
• Membranes: at the first signs of wear, if damaged or every 2–3 months

2. Parts that are in contact with your body or breast milk will be most susceptible to bacteria growth.

Breast milk itself has brilliant antimicrobial and antibiotic properties, which help to bolster your baby's growing immune system beautifully. That said, breast milk (and its residue) definitely has a shelf-life, and harmful microorganisms will be able to grow in it if given the opportunity. This can happen if parts are not cleaned adequately, or where bacteria dodges cleaning efforts by hiding in surface scratches, and where parts are assembled or stored without being completely dry.

Breast Shields and Breast Shield Convertors

Plastic breast shield and breast shield convertor lifespan: 3 months
Silicone breast shield lifespan: 6 months

Breast shields and convertors sit against your skin and form a connection with the valve base and a seal around your nipple. This constant, pressurised contact with your skin provides easy access for any skin-borne bacteria to work its way into any available scratches on the surface of parts, as well as into your milk. Plastic breast shields can become brittle over time, mainly due to the extreme temperature changes required for sterilisation and any exposure to UV. The silicone breast shields used for our wearable pumps and cups tend to be thicker, softer silicone and with proper care enjoy a longer life.

Valve Bases and Cups

Valve Base and Cups lifespan: 3 months

Valve bases and cups are the pump parts that your milk passes through or into, and as such they need to remain as clean as possible. The shape of the valve base makes it tricky to get into and clean all the nooks where residue can build up. The collection cups themselves are the equivalent of bottles – both need regular replacement to ensure your milk is stored safely, albeit temporarily.

If one of these parts already needs replacing you may have noticed:

• there is a buildup of residue on the surface of the part
• there may be scratches visible in the plastic or silicone surface

To be proactive, replace according to the following recommendations:

• Plastic breast shields/flanges: at the first signs of wear, if damaged or every 3 months
• Silicone breast shields: at the first signs of wear, if damaged or every 6 months
• Breast shield convertors/flange inserts: at the first signs of wear, if damaged or every 3 months
• Valve base: at the first signs of wear, if damaged or every 3 months
• Cups: at the first signs of wear, if damaged or every 3 months

3. Meant-to-stay-dry parts that can trap condensation and dust are the most difficult to clean.

In a closed-system double electric breast pump, there are certain parts that are meant to stay dry, like tubing and any tubing connectors, as well as the cap that fits over the membrane. However, this doesn't mean they won't need replacing.

Tubing and Tubing Connectors

In theory, the tubing and connectors are only exposed to air in the pumping process. In practice, absentmindedly using the pump while assembled incorrectly or washing these items with the other parts can introduce hard-to-dry pockets of moisture and increase the risk of mildew or mould forming. Separately, tubes are bendy but can become stiffer over time, this effect is exacerbated with any UV exposure, and any tears or splits will create weak points through which the pump's effective suction can dissipate.

Membrane Caps

Membrane Caps lifespan: 3 months

Membrane caps are responsible for securing the membrane in place over the top of the valve base opening, and can benefit from replacement to ensure their fit remains tight. In traditional direct-to-bottle style pumps, the membrane cap will not come in contact with any breast milk, however in collection cups the membrane cap needs to be cleaned as it sits within the volume of the cup and the outside of the cap can come in contact with breast milk.

If any of these parts already need replacing you may have noticed:

• there is condensation present in the tubing
• there is mildew or mould present
• there are vertical cracks visible in the tubing
• the tubing has been pinched, and tears are visible
• the membrane cap is warped or pops off the membrane

To be proactive, replace according to the following recommendations:

• Tubing: at the first signs of wear, if damaged or if unable to clean
• Membrane Caps: at the first signs of wear, if damaged or every 3 months

How do I make sure I'm cleaning my breast pump parts safely?

With much of the damage to breast pump parts accumulating at the cleaning stage, it can be helpful to double-check that you're following the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning. At Youha, when it comes to cleaning any plastic and silicone items, we recommend to:

• use a separate washtub (not the sink) 
• use dishwashing liquid free of bleach, essential oils and/or fragrances
• air dry on a rack only used for your pump parts
• avoid exposure to direct UV light and do not use UV sterilisers
• store in an airtight container when not in use, and only once completely dry 
• use non-abrasive cleaning brushes, like these silicone ones:  

How can I recycle old or worn parts?

We're so happy to talk about recycling options. Let's all keep our breast pump parts out of landfill.

Here's a breakdown of each our parts at Youha, showing how they can be recycled or disposed of responsibly:

Local Council Kerbside Recycling

Your local council kerbside recycling can be used for all Polypropylene (PP) plastic parts.

Use kerbside recycling for:

• collection cups
• pump flanges 
• valve bases
• membrane caps
• Y-tubing connectors
• dust caps 
• bottle rings
• bottle lids

Terracycle through Youha Australia

Kerbside recycling cannot be used for silicone or certain plastics like the Polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) used in Youha bottles. You can mail us your well-cleaned silicone parts and PPSU bottles for Youha Australia to recycle with Terracycle via their Zero Waste Box solution. This will allow you to bypass landfill and turn your used pump parts into recycled products such as flooring tiles, playground or field covers, and athletic tracks.

Clean and send us your:

• silicone valves
• silicone membranes
• silicone massage cushions
• silicone breast shields
• silicone flange inserts (aka breast shield convertors)
• silicone tubing
• silicone teats
• silicone bottle storage caps
• PPSU bottles

What about motor units when I'm finished with them?

Many pumps (like Youha's) use lithium batteries, and these, together with their motor units and charging cables are classified as e-waste and require thoughtful disposal. Your local council is best placed to provide details on drop-off locations or transfer stations in your area that will accept e-waste. Of course, if these items are in good working order, they could be ripe for regifting or donating as they'd only need a fresh set of replacement parts for another pumper to enjoy!

Wrap-up: Benefits of replacing your pump parts

In the midst of everything else on your plate in early parenthood, it can be easy to overlook when your breast pump's performance inevitably drops. Use the tips above, and the recommendations for your pump usage levels, to determine when you might benefit from some shiny new breast pump parts. Set up reminders in your calendar to swap out (and recycle) worn parts and enjoy the benefits of optimal performance, safer milk for your little one and less time on the pump. 

Use the share button and share this blog to highlight the benefits of replacing your breast pump parts and remind all the others in your life that they don't have to settle for less than optimal breast pump performance.

Thanks for sharing Dani!

Our delightful mate Dani is a Certified Lactation Counsellor, mama of two, former exclusive pumper, and a primary school teacher to boot! 

For encouragement and exclusive pumping support, you can visit, follow and connect with Dani on Instagram at to.the.pump.and.back

Return to intro

Just a friendly reminder that this blog provides general information and is not intended and should not be considered, nor used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If in doubt, please always consult your healthcare professional.

For more Horizontal Slurry Pumpinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.