Blog

While it can be tasking, breast pumping has many benefits. You must know when to start pumping, how to clean your breast pump, tips on storing breast milk, etc., and we want to teach you how to do so since it is National Breastfeeding Month!

When You Should Start Pumping

All moms should begin pumping when it is right for them. Some new moms begin pumping right after their child is born and some wait a few weeks. When you begin, pumping should be based on your particular situation. By the time your baby is four to six weeks old, breastfeeding should be established, allowing you to pump between sessions, saving the milk for later.

Benefits of Pumping

There are many benefits for you and your baby when it comes to breast pumping. These benefits include:

• Allows you to build your milk supply even when the baby doesn't need milk so you can have some for the future
• You don’t have to be the only one that feeds the child, a caregiver or partner can feed them too
• Gives you the opportunity to donate your extra milk to mothers who want to feed their children breast milk but are unable to
• You can go back to work, travel, etc., and still have milk for your baby

How to Clean Your Breast Pump

It is important to clean your breast pump after every use, so your baby does not ingest any harmful germs. Make sure you scrub all parts of the breast pump with hot, soapy water and rinse under running water. Do not use the kitchen sink to clean the parts, use a clean wash bin. Also, allow the parts to air dry. If the breast pump parts are dishwasher-safe, put them on the top rack and use a hot washing and drying cycle.

How to Store Breast Milk

Many breast pumps come with custom containers to store your milk, but some allow you to use a standard bottle. You can also use plastic breastmilk bags to freeze your breastmilk. If freezing, fill them three-quarters of the way full. Always label them with the date when storing them. Breast milk can last up to four days in the fridge and up to twelve months in the freezer - we recommend using it before six months.

We hope you learned a thing or two about breast pumping. It might seem daunting at first but once you get the hang of it, it will allow you to live a convenient lifestyle. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.