Pump Sanitation?

kcdc6211

I just got an offer for a like-new Medela double breast pump. I am wondering though, even since it was only used 2-3 times, how can I be sure all the little nooks and crannys are free of bacteria? I read somewhere[possibly bump articl] before to never used a pump second hand unless you could replace a specific part (which of course I don't know the name of the part.)

I'm just scared that if there was even a tiny bit of moisture left in there that would be a breeding ground for germs? Is there any way to ensure that I can clean it to "new" condition or should I just stick to buying new? Orrr am I just being over paranoid?

jennterrell

if you replace the tubing, shields, membranes and valves and anything else that is replaceable, you should be fine. At least on my Medela, i don't see any way possible that something could get in there.

Sassy_Cassie

jennterrell:

if you replace the tubing, shields, membranes and valves and anything else that is replaceable, you should be fine. At least on my Medela, i don't see any way possible that something could get in there.

This. Our hospital uses medela pumps and all of this comes in a pack. They try to give me a new one each time I have to pump for Sam so I got an extra and gave it to a friend who got a used medela pump. 

Lotte134

Actually commercially available Medelas (not hospital grade) aren't a closed system.  Milk can get into the tubes and then into the motor of the pump (not likely to happen of course, but it's possible).  It's really up to you if you feel comfortable taking the chance or not.  The risk is that some disease the previous user has could be passed along.  I believe Ameda's and some others are closed systems so if you want a used pump you could look at those.

renee143

Lotte134:

Actually commercially available Medelas (not hospital grade) aren't a closed system.  Milk can get into the tubes and then into the motor of the pump (not likely to happen of course, but it's possible).  It's really up to you if you feel comfortable taking the chance or not.  The risk is that some disease the previous user has could be passed along.  I believe Ameda's and some others are closed systems so if you want a used pump you could look at those.

this.  i would totally use a friend or family member's, but not a stranger's.