How to Clean and Sanitize Pump Parts and Know if Dishwasher Safe
- Selin Tamer
- 18 hours ago
- 2 min read
New parents often ask how to clean and sanitize pump parts and whether the dishwasher is safe. Proper cleaning is key to keeping breast milk free from harmful bacteria and protecting your baby’s health.
Why Cleaning and Sanitizing Pump Parts Matters
Breast milk can leave behind residue where bacteria grow. Without regular cleaning and sanitizing, these germs can make infants sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend cleaning after every use and sanitizing at least once daily for babies under three months or if your baby is sick or premature.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean and Sanitize Pump Parts
• Wash hands first. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Disassemble pump parts. Separate all pieces that come in contact with breast milk.
• Rinse right away. Rinse each piece under running water to remove milk residue.
• Wash with hot, soapy water or place parts in a dishwasher if dishwasher safe (see below). Use a clean basin or the top rack of the dishwasher.
• Rinse and air-dry. Place parts on a clean towel or drying rack; avoid using cloth towels that might harbor germs.
• Sanitize once daily. Boil parts for 5 minutes or use a steam sterilizer.
Is the Dishwasher Safe for Pump Parts?
Most pump parts made from BPA-free plastic or silicone can go on the top rack of the dishwasher, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions. The CDC notes that a hot-water dishwasher cycle followed by heated drying can sanitize effectively. If your pump parts include small valves or soft tubing, hand washing may be safer to prevent warping.
Tips to Keep Cleaning Easy
• Keep a second set of pump parts to reduce daily washing.
• Use a dedicated basin and bottle brush—avoid washing in a sink that may contain food residue.
• Store clean parts in a covered container or clean zip-top bag until the next pumping session.
Comments