Keeping your wearable breast pump clean is essential for your baby’s health and for maintaining the performance of your pump. Because breast milk is highly nutritious, it can also harbor bacteria if parts are not cleaned and sterilized properly.
Your Ameda GLO wearable breast pump is provided non-sterile. Before first use, the flange, silicone diaphragm, valve, and collection cup must be boiled in water for 10 minutes and cooled before assembly. A consistent routine ensures that every pumping session is safe, hygienic, and stress-free.
This guide explains how to clean, sterilize, and maintain your wearable breast pump so you can feel confident every time you use it. Always follow your Ameda GLO Instructions for Use (IFU) for specific cleaning and disinfection directions.
Why Cleaning and Sterilization Matter
Proper cleaning practices protect both your pump and your baby.
Safety for Your Baby
Always inspect parts before each use for cracks, chips, tears, or discoloration. Discontinue use and replace if any damage is found. Clean pump parts prevent bacteria, mold, or milk residue from reaching your baby’s milk supply. Even small amounts of buildup can create health risks if left unchecked.
Pump Performance
Residue on parts can affect suction and reduce efficiency. By cleaning regularly, you extend the life of your pump and maintain reliable performance.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that your pump is sanitized allows you to pump anywhere with confidence, whether you are at home, work, or on the go.
Daily Cleaning Routine for Wearable Breast Pumps
A simple daily routine helps you stay consistent and prevents buildup.
After Each Pumping Session:
- Disassemble all parts that come into contact with breast milk
- Rinse pump parts and accessories under running water to remove any milk residue
- Wash using warm, soapy water
- When using a dishwasher, place small items in a closed-top basket or mesh bag on the top rack and run a hot water and heated drying cycle.
- Air-dry thoroughly on a clean, unused dish towel or paper towel. Do not rub or pat parts dry with a dish towel.
What Not to Do
Avoid wiping parts with cloths that may leave fibers behind, and never store damp parts inside the pump where moisture can lead to mold.
- Do NOT wash or immerse the pump motor in water. Wipe with a clean, damp cloth only.
- Do NOT use a brush on valves or membranes
Sterilization Steps for Extra Protection
Clean parts before first use and after each use. Sterilize (boil for 10 minutes) all milk-contacting parts — flange, soft flange inserts, silicone diaphragm, valve, and collection cup — before first use. Afterward, clean after each use and disinfect by boiling as needed.
Boiling Water Method
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and place washable parts inside for 10 minutes. Carefully remove and place them on a clean surface to air-dry.
Special Considerations for Wearable Pumps
Because wearable breast pumps are compact and electronic, not all parts can be submerged or boiled.
Motor and Electronic Components
Never rinse or submerge the motor or charging ports. Wipe with a clean, slightly damp cloth and dry immediately.
Ameda GLO silicone and plastic parts
Ameda GLO silicone and plastic parts are boil-safe for 10 minutes. Do not wash or immerse the motor; wipe with a damp cloth if needed.
Storage Between Uses
If you are unable to fully wash and sterilize between sessions, store pump parts in a clean, sealed container in the refrigerator until you can wash them properly. Do NOT store wet or damp parts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cleaning and sterilization may feel straightforward, but small mistakes can lead to contamination.
Reusing Damp Parts
Moisture encourages bacterial growth. Always dry pump parts completely before reassembling.
Skipping Sterilization
Even if you clean regularly, skipping sterilization can allow buildup to form. Always sterilize parts before first use by boiling for 10 minutes or in a high-heat dishwasher cycle. After that, disinfect by boiling or in a high-heat dishwasher cycle as needed. Clean thoroughly after every pumping session.
Using Harsh Cleaners
Bleach, antibacterial wipes, or abrasive cleaners can damage pump materials and leave harmful residues. Always stick to recommended cleaning methods.
Tips for Maintaining Hygiene on the Go
Wearable pumps are designed for convenience, which means you may often clean while away from home.
Portable Cleaning Options
Pack travel-sized cleaning wipes that are safe for pump parts.
Extra Sets of Parts
Having an extra set of flanges, bottles, or valves makes it easier to swap out parts when you do not have immediate access to cleaning supplies.
Organized Storage
Keep clean and used parts in separate bags or containers to prevent cross-contamination.
Ameda’s Support for Safe Pumping
At Ameda, we designed our GLO Wearable Breast Pump with easy-to-clean parts and provided clear instructions for both cleaning and sterilization. Our goal is to make your pumping routine as simple and safe as possible, no matter where you are. With the right tools and knowledge, you can keep every session safe and your pump in top condition.
Always refer to the Ameda GLO Instructions for Use for complete cleaning, disinfection, and milk storage guidelines.
Take Care of Your Wearable Breast Pump with Help from Ameda
Consistent cleaning and proper disinfection are key to safe, efficient, and stress-free pumping. By washing your breast pump after every session and sterilizing all milk-contacting parts by boiling for 10 minutes before first use, and disinfecting by boiling or high heat dishwasher cycle as needed thereafter. Wash after every session.
Explore Ameda’s range of breast pumps and learn more about our CleanEase Microwavable Steam Sanitization Bags to make your routine easier and safer. Contact us today for more information.