Spectra Replacement Parts Best Practices

Below are the top 5 questions I get from moms about their breast pump parts so I thought I would share the answers with you.

1. How often do I replace my breast pump parts?

While most parts are replaced as needed when they age or if you need a new size flange, some parts are essential to replace on a regular basis. For example, if you are pumping for work three times a day, replace your valves every 4-6 weeks and diaphragms or backflow protectors every 8-12 weeks to prevent your aging breast pump parts to reduce your suction and your milk supply. Valves should be checked to make sure that they close properly. This is not just a visual check when they are at rest since new valves can have a slight openin. To check them properly, squeeze the sides of the tip between your thumb and index finger and the end should close for a moment when you release it.

2. Is it ok to buy off-brand breast pump parts?

Absolutely not. Each pump manufacturer tests their pumps for optimal suction with the parts they design and manufacture. If you change anything from the valve to the backflow or even the tubing, it will change the mmHg (miligrams of mercury) which is how suction is measured. Anything less than optimal suction can affect your milk supply. To give you an example, below are images of the Spectra valves and "valves for Spectra pumps" created by after-market companies. You can see by the underside that they are in no way the same and therefore the suction can in no way be the same!

Even the length of the tubing can change the suction on your breast pump so we encourage moms to only purchase original manufacturer's parts. They can be expensive on the manufacturer's website, but Lactation Connection offers discounted prices on premium brand name parts. And you certainly don't want to buy from Amazon whose "free shipping" is actually tacked onto the price and if you read the reviews you will see where moms have received used items that have been returned and resold.

The one caviat to the rule of only using original parts is when it comes to flanges. If Spectra does not make the flange size you need or you prefer a silicone flange for small nipples or an angled flange for larger nipples, it is acceptible to buy Pumpin' Pal with MayMom adapter as they fits exactly with the parts that create the suction including the tubing (without adding an aftermarket adapter), the valves and the backflow protectors or diaphragms so your suction will not be affected.

3. How do I clean my breast pump parts?

Use the manufacture's instructions but as a general rule, you only sterilize the parts that come into contact with the milk. Using a steam sterilizer is the best way. The microwave steam sterilizer bags are really convenient and unlike boiling water, it is unlikely you will overheat and warp or cloud your pump parts.

4. Is it ok to use pre-owned breast pump parts?

Again, absolutely not. Yeast naturally occurrs in our bodies, but overgrowth of yeast can cause nipple pain, pass an oral yeast infection called thrush to babies and even be the reason moms terminate breastfeeding early. Yeast cannnot be killed by sterilization and it harbors in microscopic scratches on plastic pump parts so it is imperative that you do not share breast pump parts just as you would not want to share a toothbrush.

5. How do I find the parts I need?

Below is a Spectra replacement parts diagram. I will list the item numbers for genuine Spectra parts and links for your convenience.