One of the questions we hear from mums all the time is, "How am I supposed to keep my pump parts clean when I'm not at home?" Whether you're back at work, expressing in the car between appointments or travelling with your family, you won't always have a sink nearby.
If you're wondering how to clean breast pump parts on the go, you're definitely not alone. It can feel overwhelming at first, but having a simple plan can make pumping away from home much less stressful.
Every mum's routine looks a little different, so the goal isn't perfection - it's finding a cleaning routine that works for you while keeping your pump parts safe to use.
Quick answer
If you're wondering how to clean breast pump parts on the go, the Cleaning Trio is perfect for you! It comes with our Bubka Breast Pump Wipes, Portable Clean and Dry Kit, and Steam Steriliser Bags. This trio makes it fast and simple to clean your pump parts in between sessions. Packing a few essentials before you leave home can make all the difference. Once getting home then it is best to wash them with warm soapy water as soon as you can
How can I keep my pump parts clean when I'm away from home?
Every pumping situation is different, but these simple tips can help.
At work
If your workplace has a sink, wash your pump parts with warm soapy water after pumping and allow them to air dry on a clean surface. If you do not have access to a sink, the Cleaning Trio is perfect for you! Makes it a fast and easy way to clean your pump parts in between sessions. If you're preparing to head back to work, our guide to pumping at work in Australia has more tips for creating a routine that works for you.
In the car
If you're pumping between appointments or during a road trip, use the Bubka breast pump wipes and Portable Clean and Dry Kit to keep your parts nice and clean for the next use. Once wiped down, place used pump parts into a clean, sealed container until you can wash them properly. Try not to leave milk residue sitting in warm conditions for extended periods.
While travelling
Pack a small cleaning kit with pump wipes, a clean container for used parts and anything else you know you'll need. For more information see our traveling tips for a breastfeeding mum.
When there's no sink
If you can't wash your parts straight away, Bubka Breast Pump Wipes can help remove milk residue until you're able to wash everything properly. Wipes are designed for those moments when you're away from home, but they don't replace washing with warm soapy water or sterilising when required.
What not to do
-
Don't leave milk residue sitting in pump parts longer than necessary.
-
Don't use household cleaning products that aren't designed for breast pump equipment.
-
Don't assume pump wipes replace proper washing and sterilising.
-
Don't continue using cracked, damaged or worn pump parts.
Where Bubka products naturally help
A few simple essentials can make pumping away from home much easier.
Keeping Bubka Breast Pump Wipes and the Portable Clean and Dry Kit in your bag means you're always prepared when there's no sink nearby. Even if there is a sink nearby, the Breast Pump Wipes and Clean and Dry Kit are perfect for between pumping sessions. At the end of the day, or once you're home - or if you have access to a microwave - Bubka Reusable Steam Steriliser Bags make sterilising pump parts quick and convenient. If your valves, diaphragms or other components become worn over time, replacing them with genuine Bubka Pump Parts helps keep your pump performing as intended.
If you're expressing while you're out, our guide to breast milk storage also explains how to safely store expressed milk throughout the day.
When to get extra support from an IBCLC or health professional
If you're ever unsure about cleaning your pump parts, sterilising equipment or safely handling expressed breast milk, it's worth speaking with an IBCLC or your healthcare professional.
Always follow the cleaning and sterilising instructions provided by your breast pump manufacturer, along with current guidance from the Australian Breastfeeding Association, to help ensure your equipment is used safely.
FAQs
Can I use breast pump wipes instead of washing my pump parts?
No. Wipes are a practical temporary option when you're away from home, but they don't replace washing with warm soapy water and sterilising when appropriate.
When should I wash my pump parts with warm soapy water?
As soon as practical after pumping. If you can't wash them immediately, store them safely and clean them as soon as you can.
When do I need to sterilise my pump parts?
Follow your breast pump manufacturer's instructions and current Australian Breastfeeding Association guidance for sterilising recommendations.
What should I do if there's no sink at work?
Use breast pump wipes if needed, store your pump parts in a clean container and wash them properly as soon as you have access to warm soapy water.
How should I store expressed milk while I'm out?
Follow current Australian Breastfeeding Association recommendations for storing expressed breast milk. Our breast milk storage guide has more practical tips.
Next step
Pumping away from home won't always go perfectly - and that's okay. A little preparation can make busy days feel much less stressful. Keep a few essentials packed in your bag, find a routine that works for you, and remember you're doing an incredible job. We're here to help make your feeding journey feel just that little bit easier.
