Using a breast pump correctly is essential for maintaining milk supply and ensuring comfort. This guide walks you through the entire process, from preparation to storage.
Preparation
Before You Start
1. Wash your hands thoroughly (20+ seconds)
2. Check your pump parts are clean and dry
3. Choose a comfortable location
4. Have your storage containers ready
5. Stay hydrated- have water nearby
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Assemble Your Pump
1. Connect the tubing to the pump motor
2. Attach the flange to the collection bottle
3. Connect tubing to the flange
4. Ensure all connections are secure
5. Plug in (or install batteries if portable)
Step 2: Find Your Flange Size
Measure your nipple diameter:
· Use a ruler or measuring tape
· Measure at the base of your nipple
· Add 2-4mm for comfort
|
Nipple Diameter |
Recommended Flange |
|
15-17mm |
21mm |
|
18-20mm |
24mm |
|
21-23mm |
27mm |
|
24-26mm |
30mm |
Pro tip: Slight discomfort means the size may be wrong. A proper fit should feel comfortable.
Step 3: Position Yourself Comfortably
· Sit in a comfortable chair
· Use a pillow for support
· Lean slightly forward
· Keep the bottle upright
· Relax your shoulders
Step 4: Start Pumping
1. Turn on the pumpat low suction
2. Center your nipplein the flange
3. Begin with let-down mode(fast, light suction)
4. Wait 1-2 minutesfor milk to start flowing
5. Increase suctionto comfortable level
6. Maintain steady rhythm
Step 5: Pumping Duration
|
Purpose |
Duration |
Frequency |
|
Building supply |
15-20 min |
8x/day |
|
Maintaining supply |
15-20 min |
6x/day |
|
Occasional |
10-15 min |
As needed |
Remember: Pump until milk stops flowing, then 2-3 minutes more.
Step 6: End the Session
1. Turn off the pumpbefore removing
2. Break the sealby pressing on your breast
3. Remove the flangecarefully
4. Unscrew the bottleimmediately
5. Store or feedthe milk
Storage Guidelines
Breast Milk Storage Chart
|
Location |
Temperature |
Duration |
|
Room temp |
68-77°F (20-25°C) |
Up to 4 hours |
|
Refrigerator |
40°F (4°C) |
Up to 4 days |
|
Freezer |
0°F (-18°C) |
6-12 months |
|
Deep freezer |
-4°F (-20°C) |
12+ months |
Storage Tips
· Use freezer bagsspecifically for breast milk
· Leave 1-inch spaceat top (milk expands)
· Label with datebefore freezing
· Store in backof freezer, not door
· Use oldest milk first
Cleaning Your Pump
After Each Use:
1. Disassemble all parts
2. Rinse in cool water
3. Wash in hot, soapy water
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. Air dry on clean towel
Deep Clean (Daily):
1. Boil parts for 5 minutes
2. Or use dishwasher (top rack)
3. Check for wear and tear
4. Replace parts as needed
Troubleshooting
Low Milk Output
|
Cause |
Solution |
|
Stress |
Relax, try skin-to-skin |
|
Dehydration |
Drink more water |
|
Irregular schedule |
Pump regularly |
|
Wrong flange size |
Measure and resize |
|
Pump issues |
Check settings, clean parts |
Pain or Discomfort
· Check flange size
· Lower suction temporarily
· Use lubrication (purified lanolin)
· Ensure correct positioning
Tips for Success
✅ Pump regularly (every 2-3 hours)
✅ Stay hydrated and fed
✅ Look at photos of your baby
✅ Listen to relaxing music
✅ Keep a pumping routine
✅ Be patient - it takes time
Need more help? Check our FAQ or contact support.

