You can do that by thoroughly washing away germs and bacteria with liquid dishwashing soap and warm water. I also have a 4 year old at home. I also think investing in this electronic sanitizer is a smart move (link to Amazon). Sign up for The Mama Notes newsletter, sent a few times a month with original content not published on the site! I may receive commissions for purchases made through links on this post (at no extra cost to you). You can also look at your pumping history and access training videos and tutorials from the app. Thank you Willow for sponsoring this post! Pumping your milk is one way to provide breast milk to your baby. The microwave sterilizer is an inexpensive way to ensure your breast pump parts are sterilized and stay sterile until youre ready to use them. The woman who is trying to juggle work and motherhood, who has a busy, active lifestyle and who may cringe at the traditional thought of pumping. Check with your pump manual, as not all breast pumps are designed to be placed in a dishwasher. Allow the clean pump parts, bottle brushes, and wash basins to air-dry thoroughly before storing to help prevent germs and mold from growing. Once the pump parts are dry, assemble the pump before you store it or use it. Avoid a heated dry cycle as the temperatures your dishwasher reaches are needlessly high and would cause pointless wear and tear on your equipment. It is best to use a baby-friendly dishwasher soap as they tend to be gentler with fewer unnecessary chemicals. Have you ever written a bad review for a sponsored post? Following these steps can keep your breast pump clean and help protect your baby from these germs. I love using the dishwasher to sterilize pump parts because you dont need to wash the parts first. A fully charged Willow will work for approximately five pumping sessions (although it varies based on the amount of time you pump each session). This electric bottle sterilizer is my favorite one to use with my Spectra pump parts (link to Amazon). For extra germ removal, sanitize pump parts at least once daily. Start the sterilizer and allow it to run through its cycle. Replace it with a new set of tubing, and check to see if the problem happened because. They will stay sterile for up to 24 hours if the container is not opened. If you dont have a dishwasher with a sanitize setting, then the electronic or microwave sanitizers are great. Tip I try to remember to charge the pumps at the end of every day. Shoppers find videos more helpful than text alone. Place the sterilizer on a level surface and out of the reach of children. And the pump fits in your nursing bra. I often pump more than 4oz per side and cant imagine having to stop to replace each bag mid pump? Please try again, Select the department you want to search in. It only sterilizes them. Prior Id have to add breaks to pump into our set-up schedule and find a room to go pump in which isnt exactly what you want to be doing while rushing to set up for a wedding! Note: If you use a dishwasher with hot water and a heating drying cycle (or sanitizing setting) to clean infant feeding items, a separate sanitizing step is not necessary. Wash each piece separately using liquid dishwashing soap and plenty of warm water. Once youve plugged Willow in to charge, it takes about two hours to fully charge. If you have a dishwasher with a sanitize setting, then this method is the best. However, sterilization is not necessary to keep these parts safe and sanitary. This gives them a chance to cool and prevents you from burning your fingers. If you cant charge Willow for the full two hours, a 20-minute charge will last for approximately one pumping session. Im Lisa. This electric bottle sterilizer is my favorite one, this electronic sanitizer is a smart move. Put the pot over heat and bring to a boil. Is it strong enough? For example, the Spectra S1 goes up to 280 mmhg. Add the appropriate amount of water in the appropriate location. Once youve plugged Willow in to charge, it takes about two hours to fully charge. I am a teacher. Use a microwave or plug-in steam system according to the manufacturers directions. It does fit right inside your bra and its pretty discreet but you will be able to notice youre wearing a pump (or have. Is it quiet enough to pump while giving a lesson? Basically, you just have to clean the breast pump parts, load them into the sterilizer, and operate it as you normally would for bottles. The site is secure. .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : none; } With a new baby, you are looking for every time-saving hack that can make your day a little easier. This post may contain affiliate links. 2020 The mama notes | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The problem with electronic and microwave sterilizers is that they only handle sterilization, so you still need to handle the time-consuming cleaning part of the process. It is really convenient to have the sterilizer and dryer function all-in-one. Read more product reviews here and more posts on breastfeeding & pumping here. Remove the sterilizer from the microwave. .noScriptNotDisplayExpander { display : none; } A bottle sterilizer can be a convenient way to sterilize breast pump parts. But changing the bags is easy, so overall I still think it would be worth it if you need to pump on the go or out of the home for work! Once completely dry, the items should be stored in a clean, protected area to prevent contamination during storage. You might get some discoloration on the breast pump pieces, but this is normal and should not impact the functioning of the pump pieces. Place any baskets in the sterilizer and close it. I exclusively nurse and pump and I have a crazy schedule at work. This page provides general information about cleaning a breast pump. I go into further detail below on which is the fastest method to wash and sterilize, and how to sterilize your breast pump parts in an electronic bottle sterilizer, a microwave sterilizer, and a dishwasher so you dont ruin your pump parts. I have used a UV sterilizer as well as boiled them and not had any issues. If youre convinced that you need to try one of these easy sterilization methods, you need to keep reading. Even if these wipes are used, breast pump parts that come into contact with breast milk should still be cleaned using liquid dishwashing soap and warm water before pumping. I can see how that would be annoying! Consult your instruction manual to make sure pieces are dishwasher safe before you put them in the dishwasher. Rinse thoroughly. It is not necessary to clean breast pump tubing unless it comes in contact with breast milk. A fully charged Willow will work for approximately five pumping sessions (although it varies based on the amount of time you pump each session). Everything you need to pump (including the bag to collect milk) is inside of the pump. Its the first and only all-in-one mobile breast pump that fits in a nursing bra. It only sterilizes them. How Long Until Lactation Cookies Start Working? There is usually an area for smaller parts and an area for larger parts. -The pump is mobile. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Here are the steps to using a microwave sterilizer to give you an idea of what to expect. An official website of the United States government, Recalls, Market Withdrawals and Safety Alerts. I need to pump more because my son eats everything I pump and I have no reserve. It also comes in handy when I have to pump when Im outside the home and it was incredible to use at my recent wedding when I was setting up floral installations. Lift the lid away from you, just like you would with a pot of boiling water, so that the escaping steam does not burn you. Since I posted about testing it out a few months ago Ive received so many questions and Im really eager to share my thoughts about this groundbreaking pump! A video can be up to 1 GB, We encountered a problem while trying to upload. This helps to ensure that the milk doesnt dry on the pump parts, getting stuck in some of the small crevices. CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website. You only need to sanitize pump parts until your baby is three months old unless your baby was premature or has a compromised immune system, according to the CDC. You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link. Avoid using cloth towels to dry your pump parts because they can carry germs and bacteria that are harmful to your breast milk and your baby. Every sterilizer will function a little differently, so you should always check with the instructions that come with it. Before washing and sterilizing your pump parts in the dishwasher, you should check with your pump manual. Run your dishwasher through a wash cycle. If small water drops (condensation) appear in the tubing after you have pumped, turn the pump on for a few minutes until the tubing is dry. The file size is too big. Please do not use a microwave sterilizer, as this will damage both the Flange and your microwave. It usually takes between 2 and 6 minutes of microwaving and another 2 minutes of cooling time. Do you find that you can pump the about the same amount with this pump? Electrical units, which hold the motor and batteries, should be wiped down with a clean paper towel or soft cloth after each use. And most importantly, how well does Willow work? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. -This is an all-in-one breast pump. Instead, you place it in your microwave. Can you sterilize this using a uv sterilizer, such as the wabi? Willow has sponsored this post but as always all opinions are my own. Clean in a dishwasher (if recommended by pump kit manufacturer). Microwave sterilizers are available for breast pump parts, but these sterilizers do not meet the FDA definition of sterilization. It is waiting for the sterilizer to run through its cycle and letting the parts cool down enough to handle. All an in all, Id highly recommend this pump to a mom with a busy lifestyle and or demanding job. From there you can text your coach whenever you have a question which I took advantage of. CDC twenty four seven. It is best to place items into the sterilizer in a way that limits the amount of water that collects in them. However, germs can grow quickly in breast milk or breast milk residue that remains on pump parts. (The amount and location will depend on the sterilizer you own.). Im also a Certified Lactation Educator Counselor and love to share my knowledge about pumping and breastfeeding (read more). Microwave sterilizers are essentially just a container or bag that you put your pump parts into, and that traps the steam so it can sterilize. But theres no getting around it cleaning and sterilizing is a real pain, especially when youre sleep-deprived and trying to keep up with normal life while caring for a newborn. I usually soak it in hot soapy water at night and rinse it in the morning. The longest part of the process doesnt require you at all. Everything you need to pump (including the bag to collect milk) is. What makes Willow different? A Beauty Junkie Shares Everything You Need From The Sephora Beauty Sale. There is a learning curve with the Willow pump, which is to be expected, because its an entirely new breast pump unlike any other pumps youve used! This process may sound like it takes a long time, but generally, youre only busy with it for about 5-10 minutes. If youre on the go, Medela makes Micro-Steam Bags that work in much the same way as the microwave sterilizer. Willow is changing that by providing women with the equipment that makes a time consuming task like pumping more manageable. You may want to use a basket like this to keep track and protect smaller parts like valves. While you still may be obligated to pump while youre at work, or away from home, Willow makes it easier and less stressful for you. This step is important because an electronic sterilizer does not clean the parts. Use the sanitize setting on your dishwasher or something similar. -Its simple and easy to clean and setup to use there are only 3 parts. When used correctly, breast pump tubing does not touch the pumped milk and does not need to be cleaned routinely. Place the breast pump parts into the sterilizer. However, they will adequately reprocess the parts, which is sufficient for safe use by a single user. Can you sterilize this using a uv sterilizer, such as the wabi? I used the microwave steam bags when at work because we had a microwave available in the break room. It should also never be cleaned using a microwave sterilizer. Some brands of breast pump parts can be carefully cleaned in a bottle sterilizer and dishwasher. Thats where bottle sterilizers and dishwashers come in. Sanitize all items (even the bottle brush and wash basin!) This is because of the heat of the water and the jets in your dishwasher, but it is such a huge timesaver, and when you have a little baby in your home, time is everything. If the outside of your tubing is soiled, wipe it with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe. Be sure to place them open side down so that water does not collect in them. The .gov means its official.Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Welcome! Set your microwave to the appropriate time (check your manual). Some breast pump manufacturers make wipes just for cleaning breast pumps, which can make cleaning more convenient when you are away from home. I pumped for a year to provide milk for my preemie. -This is an all-in-one breast pump. Im having trouble finding a bar that supports them. Hello Im thinking about getting this pump. Im so excited to share a review of the Willow Wearable Breast Pump today! I found it to be just as efficient as my other traditional pump. Place breast pump parts in the top rack of your dishwasher with the open sides down. When I return to school, ( past pregnancies) my supply would always goes down because its hard to find time to go pump in a different area away from my students. What did you think about using the bags? why does willow say replace flange and flextube every 3 months? Keeping breast pump parts clean and sterilized is an important part of the pumping process and keeping your baby healthy. If your tubing has water droplets in it at the end of a pumping session, disconnect the tubing from the flange/pump kit, but leave it attached to the pump. If dishwasher safe shouldnt be clean and fine to use. By using your dishwasher, you can clean and sterilize all at once and save you some precious time. At this point, it should not be plugged in. I prefer to rinse the pump parts immediately after using them. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely. Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website. Best Nursing-Friendly Pieces For Spring , A Beauty Junkie Shares Everything You Need From The Sephora Beauty Sale. I spend the same amount of time pumping (usually around 8 minutes total I have fast letdown) and its much more quiet. Prior Id have to add breaks to pump into our set-up schedule and find a room to go pump in which isnt exactly what you want to be doing while rushing to set up for a wedding! For example, Medela and Spectra parts can go into a sterilizer or dishwasher but Willow and Elvie parts should not go into the sterilizer or dishwasher. Load the sterilizer. If you recently started pumping, you might be wondering if you can sterilize breast pump parts in a bottle sterilizer or dishwasher. First of all, I love the mission of this company, who is aiming to help todays MODERN mother. Learn more about my Usborne Books & More business! They are less expensive than electric sterilizers and wont add to your collection of kitchen gadgetry, a real plus if you dont have a ton of counter space. You wont be plugging it in, though. You can walk around while you pump and not be connected to a power source! I also used them while traveling because the hotel rooms usually came with a microwave. Thank you kindly for your thorough review! Do you think this pump will work for a larger chested mommy? Using a microwave sterilizer is similar to using an electric sterilizer. Some pump parts, like Elvie pump parts, are not dishwasher friendly. I definitely recommend running the cycle with only pump parts other baby items to avoid food particles getting on the items. If you have a long commute, like riding the train or carpooling with a coworker, I can see Willow coming in really handy. Willow Pump Reusable Breast Milk Containers, 2 Count in1-Pack | 24mm| Holds up to 4 oz. Print version: How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean [PDF 1 page] (English), Print version: How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean [PDF 1 page] (Espaol). Well I think quite a bit! The tubing was attached to the pump incorrectly. It does fit right inside your bra and its pretty discreet but you will be able to notice youre wearing a pump (or have something in your bra- ha) if youre wearing a fitted shirt! They offer 1:1 coaching, which is included in the cost of the pump and set up a call after youve used the pump a few times. Saving Lives, Protecting People, Water, Sanitation, and Environmentally Related Hygiene (WASH), Print version: How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Water, Sanitation, and Environmentally Related Hygiene, Diaper Changing Steps for Childcare Settings, Frequently Asked Questions on Cleaning Infant Feeding Items, How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean: The Essentials, Frequently Asked Questions on Breast Pump Cleaning, How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean: Science Behind the Recommendations, Clean Hands and Spaces: Web-Based Training, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, If milk collection container will be stored at a hospital or childcare facility, add name to the label. If you cant charge Willow for the full two hours, a 20-minute charge will last for approximately one pumping session. Thats one of the parts I dislike the most about pumping. If you wash your tubing, make sure you hang it to air dry before attaching it to your breast pump. Try not to touch the inside of any parts that will come in contact with your breast milk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website. Daily sanitizing of pump parts may not be necessary for older, healthy babies, if the parts are cleaned carefully after each use. All breast pump parts that come in contact with breast milk, such as bottles, valves and breast shields, should be cleaned after each use. For specific information about cleaning your breast pump, check the pumps instruction manual for the manufacturer-recommended method of cleaning. Children's books have always had a special place in my heart, and sharing them with my girls is one of my favorite parts of motherhood. It also comes in handy when I have to pump when Im outside the home and it was incredible to use at my recent wedding when I was setting up floral installations. And the pump fits in your nursing bra. .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : block; } Throughout the process, be sure that you handle your parts with clean, freshly washed hands. Rinse thoroughly. I dont see why not. Place a dishwashing soap in your dishwasher. of the pump. An electric steam sterilizer is a great way to sterilize your Flange. Its a smart device thats connected to an iPhone app that can show you battery life, suction level, and how much milk has been expressed. -Willow is high-tech. Does the pump packaging or manual say exactly what the strength is of the pump? The biggest drawback of using the dishwasher is that it may cause your parts to wear out a little more quickly. If your tubing has milk or mold in it, throw it away immediately because it is difficult to clean properly. Im pumping about 3-4oz on one side and only 2oz on the other but my let down with pump is super slow so Im pumping for a good 20-30min. You really only have to connect the flange, Milk Bag and Flextube, stick it in your bra, get the alignment between your breast and the pump, and swipe open the app to pump. Sanitizing is especially important if your baby is less than 2 months old, was born prematurely, or has a weakened immune system due to illness or medical treatment (such as chemotherapy for cancer). make pretend play easy with our interactive coloring poster kit. Right now I pump every morning so I love being able to pump while I get ready for the day or make coffee instead of just being stuck on the couch. Some breast pumps parts can be put in the top rack of a dishwasher. Again, this step is important because a microwave sterilizer does not clean the parts. Place the appropriate amount of water in the base of the sterilizer. You can use a bottle sterilizer or put the Flange and Flextube in the dishwasher. Place disassembled items that are safe to boil into a pot and cover with water. And they are so expensive! per. Run the pump for a few more minutes until the tubing is dry. Less parts = easier to set up and start pumping. I love, love, love the convenience of not having a ton of parts to clean with Willow. I thought this pump will help me make up for times that Im doing stuff around the house and I can be pumping. What nursing bras work best? In addition, you have to make sure that your dishwasher has a sanitize setting. Place the lid back on the sterilizer and place the entire thing in your microwave. When you remove the lid, point it away from you so that the steam escapes away from your hands and face. This means you dont need to put on a special bra, or take off your shirt to pump! Rinse each piece that comes into contact with breast milk in cool water as soon as possible after pumping. Rinse each piece thoroughly with hot water for 10-15 seconds. Once the sterilizer has finished the sterilizing process, allow the parts to sit for at least 5 minutes. There is no need to open until youre ready to use the parts. Last year my friend Mandy and I launched Magic Playbook - a monthly printable subscription for moms to keep their kids busy & having fun! It is not possible to completely sterilize breast pump parts at home, even if you boil them. The valves or membranes need to be replaced. It took me a good week to really get adjusted to how the pump works but I have to say the Willow support team is incredible! For example, you should place the valves open side down. Open the sterilizer and remove the rack (if there is one). The electrical unit should never be put into water or other liquids for cleaning. I never pump more than 3-4oz per side so it wasnt an issue to me. Here are the step-by-step instructions on using a bottle sterilizer that should apply to most models. Tip I try to remember to charge the pumps at the end of every day. Clean parts in soapy water using a designated pump parts brush or sponge. If your baby was born prematurely or has other health concerns, your babys health care providers may have more recommendations for pumping breast milk safely. This means you dont need to put on a special bra, or take off your shirt to pump! In many senses I find this pump offers you FREEDOM that others dont. Right now I pump every morning so I love being able to pump while I get ready for the day or make coffee instead of just being stuck on the couch. Keep your kids busy & having fun with a membership to Magic Playbook -- the monthly printable subscription for kids! For me, it was really worth it because my countertops were not covered in pump parts and baby bottles that were air drying. Place the pieces neatly on a clean paper towel or in a clean drying rack and allow them to air dry. Keep a spare set of tubing on hand in case the set you are using gets soiled or damaged. Clean parts in soapy water using a designated pump parts brush or sponge. Consult the instruction manual to determine which parts should be washed and the best method for removing parts that must be cleaned. by using one of the following options. Providing breast milk is one of the best things you can do for your babys health and development.