What is the purpose of membranes on a breast pump?
What is the purpose of membranes on a breast pump?
Your breast pump valves (and backflow protector membranes) are made of a flexible silicone material which stretches and releases each time your breast pump sucks in. This creates the suction you feel on your breast which draws breastmilk out. After a while of regular use, the elasticity of these parts wear down.
What are breast pump valves and membranes?
Breast pump valves, as well as backflow protector membranes (see below) are made of a flexible silicone material. This is partly because the valves stretch and release each time your breast pump sucks in, therefore creating the suction you feel when nursing your infant.
What do you do with pump parts after pumping?
After every use, take apart the pump parts and rinse them under running water. Don’t put them directly in the sink! Clean your pump parts as soon as possible with hot, soapy water in a wash basin and brush used only for cleaning pump parts, or in the dishwasher.
How do you recycle breast pump parts?
Breastshields,flanges, and connectors can be recycled in your regular recycle bin. Tubing needs to be thrown away in your regular trash. It cannot be recycled. Bottles, bottle necks, caps, and sealing discs can be recycled.
How often should I change the membranes on my breast pump?
The membranes within the backflow protectors may stretch and lose elasticity over time, making them less effective at keeping moisture out of your breast pump motor. They need to be replaced between 3 to 6 months depending on use. If you see any tearing, warping, rips, or discoloration then it’s time to replace them.
How often do you need to replace Medela membranes?
every 6-8 weeks
When do I need to replace my Medela Symphony parts? We do recommend purchasing extra parts, especially your valves and membranes as they should typically be replaced every 6-8 weeks if you are a frequent pump user.
What is a valve membrane?
Membrane Valves or Diaphragm Valves consists of a valve body with two or more ports, a diaphragm, and a saddle or seat upon which the diaphragm closes the valve. The valve is constructed from either plastic or steel.
How often do Medela membranes need to be replaced?
When should I replace Medela membranes?
Medela pump parts such as valves and membranes should be replaced every 2 to 8 weeks. This depends on the number of pumping sessions they are used in each day. Other Medela pump parts such as breast shields, connectors, and bottles should be replaced every 6 months or if they look dirty.
What do I do with my old breast pump Spectra?
Spectra suggests that you recycle your old Spectra pump by taking it to an appliance or PC recycling center. That might be an option for other non-Spectra pumps without a recycling program.