All the Breast Pump Accessories You Need to Know About

If you’re a new mom, then chances are that you’ve heard about breast pumps but may not be familiar with all the important accessories that come along with them. From bottles and nipples to flanges and tubing, there is an array of accessories available designed to make your pumping experience smoother and more productive. Keep reading if you want to learn more about the most essential breast pump accessories!

Bottles and Nipples

Many breast pumps come with bottles and nipples, but if yours didn’t, it is essential that you have these on hand for feeding your baby directly from the bottle as well as storing expressed milk in the refrigerator or freezer. When selecting bottles, look for ones made from BPA-free plastic that fits your specific pump model. As far as nipples go, make sure they fit well and that your baby will be able to latch onto them easily.

Flanges

Flanges are what connect the suction cup of a breast pump to your nipple area in order to create a vacuum seal while pumping. The size of the flange should fit comfortably around your nipple without being too tight or too loose so that you can get the most efficient suction possible from your machine. It is also recommended that moms replace their flange parts every 6-12 months because bacteria can build up over time which can cause infections or mastitis.

Tubing

Tubing provides an airtight connection between the motor of your breast pump and its flanges. If any cracks form in this piece due to wear or tear over time, it can affect how efficiently your machine works so it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of damage like holes or tears in this part and replace it when necessary.

While these are some of the most common accessories associated with breast pumps, there are many other pieces available like valves, membranes, carrying bags, etc., depending on what type of machine you have chosen. Investing in quality parts will help ensure that you get maximum efficiency out of each session while also keeping you healthy since many pieces need to be replaced after regular use due to bacteria growth concerns. With a little research into what type of accessories work best for your particular machine, you’ll be well on your way towards having successful pumping sessions!