![]() ![]() Replace these every 6 months if you pump once or twice a day, and replace every 3 months if you exclusively pump. Just like the valve membranes, the membranes in the backflow protectors can stretch and degrade over time, impacting suction. Duck valves last a little bit longer than valve membranes Backflow protectors: 3 - 6 months Replace these every 2-3 months if you use your pump once or twice a day, and replace every 4 weeks if you exclusively pump. If your milk collection kit has a silicone duck valve, it needs to be replaced frequently as well. The valve membrane needing replacement causes the vast majority of suction issues. If your pump loses suction on one side, or you experience a lot less suction when double pumping, these membranes need replacement. If you ever see that the membrane doesn’t lay flat against the valve, it’s time to replace it, but it’s worth noting that damage is not always visible in these small pieces. Replace these every 2 months if you use your pump once or twice a day, and replace every 2-4 weeks if you exclusively pump. The membranes are made of silicone and over time will stretch and lose elasticity, which can impact suction power. ![]() The little white flaps on the valves need to be replaced regularly. If you have purchased a second hand pump, a full shield set should be purchased before you begin using the pump. The more often you use your pump, whether that be times a day or minutes per session, the more regularly you should replace certain parts. ![]() Those who sterilise after every use and those who use the dishwasher to clean parts will need to replace more often than someone who washes with warm soapy water. Your cleaning technique may also impact how often parts need replacing. Not replacing parts regularly will make the pump motor work harder, leading to unnecessary wear and tear on the pump, and also risking moisture in the motor. Luckily, with the many safe and eco-friendly options for saying goodbye to a breast pump, we don’t have to throw it away.Some parts of the pump require replacing on a regular basis to maintain your pump in peak condition. After a while parts will degrade, and mums may notice a decrease in milk output and worry about their supply. You can always contact your manufacturer directly to find out if they offer a way to recycle your pump.įarewell with a good partner is emotional. Some manufacturers, like Spectra, suggest consumers to recycle the old pump by taking it to an appliance or PC recycling center. Some pump manufacturers, like Medela and Hygeia, offer recycling. Many non-profit organizations don’t accept a used pump due to liability and health concerns, so your best bet is to connect with other moms in your community. When considering donating your used breast pump, the rules above apply. Make sure you have a closed system pump with a still strong motor before selling it. Selling your used pump may be an option however, used pumps should only be reused by another individual when they are a closed system pump. If you are, too, ready to say goodbye to your breast pump, there are three things you can do: Selling it, donating it, or recycling it. My pump’s manufacturer offers a recycling program which allows me to ship my electric pump back to the company, where they send all eligible breast pumps to a third-party processing center where they will be broken down and all recyclable parts will be recycled appropriately. My pump has successfully completed her important task and it’s time for her to rest. Jade is now 7 and Jasper is turning 3 in one month. We were a great team.Īll good things come to an end, including my pumping journey and my partnership with my dear pump. I complained she responded with a steady pumping sound. I got upset when not having basic workplace accommodations and adequate break time, but my pump stuck to her job no matter what. I pumped on the road in the car at airports from California to Texas to Ohio. I pumped in toilet stalls, dirty or clean. I pumped in nasty storage closets at a baby unfriendly company. With the pump, I pumped in beautiful mother’s rooms in fancy shopping malls. ![]() The pump that provided the benefits of breast milk to my two babies. The pump that helped me achieve my breastfeeding goals. The pump that I share bitter-sweet memories with. The pump that I have wonderful experiences with. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |