How Often Should You Replace Your Breast Pump?

A number of factors influence how often you need to replace your breast pump. Because a breast pump can be an expensive purchase, checking on the pump well in advance of when you will need it because of the price of the pumps. Here are few ways to tell how often you need to replace your breast pump.

Age

Even the most well-kept breast pump has an age limit. If you have not used your pump for more than three years, then chances are you need to replace it. Because the parts of most pumps are plastic, they will not hold up well over time.

Amount of Use

Some women find they use their pumps only once or twice a week or that they use them only for times when their milk production far exceeds their baby's needs. Pumps used in this way can stay in use for much longer. If you pump daily at work, then your pump may last through only one child. Also consider the length of time your child nursed. Many babies drink breast milk for only 6 months or so while others drink breast milk for up to 2 years.

When considering whether or not to get a new breast pump, think about whether you will be using the pump about as often as you did previously. A mom who is at home with her baby will have much less need for a pump than a mom who needs to pump while at work daily. You may find that your circumstances have changed and that you need to consider a pump that will work for better for your current situation.

Partial Replacement Failure

The first step when your pump has trouble functioning is to replace some of the parts. In particular, the suction cup on manual pumps and the tube leading from the pump to the dispenser often need replacement. These parts can wear out quickly. In the case of the tubing, the piece is difficult to clean and needs to be replaced after time in storage. After replacing the parts, you should see a significant difference in the functioning of your pump; if not, you may need to get a new one.

Storage Conditions

Breast pumps have moving parts. Even the manual pumps have cogs and handles. If you stored your breast pump in a dry location and protected it by wrapping it up, then you may be in good shape. If your breast pump was tossed in with other baby items without much care, then chances are that you need to consider a new purchase.

Bottles and Other Accessories

Some pumps have a built-in basin for catching milk while others require the user to screw on a certain bottle before pumping. In the case of the latter type, make sure you either have a sufficient number of bottles or that you can purchase more. Sometimes a model doesn't last for long, or a newer version comes out with different requirements. In these cases, getting a new breast pump may be your only option.

If you find you need to get a new breast pump, don't despair! Simply start looking, but remember that you know the basics this time around. The process won't take as long before you find the right pump for your new baby.