All pump parts will experience wear and tear over time. This all depends mostly on how often you are pumping. When a pump part is not working properly, this can affect your pump's suction, which will in turn affect how much milk you are collecting from the breast. This also can possibly decrease your milk supply by not expressing enough milk from the breast. Here is a guide for how often to replace your pump parts to avoid issues with your pump as well as your milk supply.
Below are general timeframes that you should use to replace your pump parts. It's always a good idea to check with your pump manufacturer or the instructions that came with your pump to confirm how frequently they should be replaced, as this can differ between brands.
Duckbills (aka Duck Valves)
These valves are made out of silicone and they will stretch and release each time your pump goes through a cycle. This creates the necessary suction to remove milk from your breasts.
If your pump begins to lose suction, this is the first part I would recommend to check. Replacing these valves is usually pretty cheap and often will take care of the suction issue.
How often to replace Duckbill Valves:
When the valve starts to sag (there is an opening through the bill of the valve where it used to be shut)
If you pump 3x or more per day: 1x per month
If you pump less than 3x per day: every 2-3 months
And of course if there is any damage to the valve, replace it
Note: Spectra notes to hand wash your valves with hot, soapy water instead of using a dishwasher to extend their life.
Valve Membranes (Medela)
A valve membrane serves the same purpose of a Duckbill Valve. This is commonly a part used in Medela pumps, whereas Spectra pumps will often come with a Duckbill Valve.
A valve membrane has two parts - the valve (yellow) and the membrane (white).
How often to replace Valve Membranes:
If you pump 3x or more per day: every 2-4 weeks
If you pump less than 3x per day: replace every 2 months
Backflow Protectors
A backflow protector is meant to prevent breast milk and moisture from entering your tubing, in turn preventing moisture from entering your pump motor.
Not all pumps will have a backflow protector that is removable. Medela pumps do not have these, but Spectra pumps do.
How often to replace Backflow Protectors:
If you pump 3x a day or more: every 3 months
If you pump less than 3x per day: every 6 months
Breast Shields/Flanges/Connectors
This is the part that connects/touches the breast.
Some pumps have two pieces here. One is called a connector and one is called a breast shield (Medela). Some pumps like Spectra just have one large piece that is all connected.
It is not uncommon that there is build up in the hard to reach areas of the connector or the flange. This build up can reduce the effectiveness of your pump.
How often to replace Breast Shields:
Every 6 months
When you notice cracks/tears
Tubing
A tube connects your pump parts to your pump motor. For a Spectra pump, if moisture or milk gets into the tube, it needs to be replaced immediately to avoid damage to the pump motor. If it is a Medela pump and moisture gets into the tube, you may be able to wash this tube out and let it dry.
How often to replace tubing:
If there is moisture in the tube
If the tube easily slides off and on the pump while you are moving around
Recommendations for Specific Brand Pumps
Spectra Replacement Recommendations
Spectra is my tried and true brand for pumps. I used a Spectra for both of my girls (the same pump even) and never had issues with it.
Below are Spectra's guidelines on how often you should replace your pump parts:
​ | ​Replacement Frequency for Exclusive Pumping | Replacement Frequency for Pumping 1-3x per day |
Valve membrane (if equipped) | 2-4 weeks | 2 months |
Duck valve | 2 months | 3 months |
Backflow protector | 3 months | 6 months |
Tubing | As needed - if it gets damaged/moisture | As needed - if it gets damaged/moisture |
Breast shield | 6 months | As needed (inspect regularly for buildup after 6 months) |
Find Spectra's recommendations here.
Medela Replacement Recommendations
​ | Replacement Frequency |
Breast shields and connectors | Every 6 months |
Yellow valve and white membrane |
|
Tubing | When it starts slipping out when you're moving around |
Keep in mind that for Medela's parts for their newer pumps should be replaced when damaged/as needed. They do not need to be replaced in a specific time frame.
Elvie Replacement Recommendations
Elvie's manual states that "The expected operating life of the replaceable washable components is six months".
Motif Replacement Recommendations
​ | Replacement Frequency |
Duck valves | Every 1-3 months or when valves are torn, warped, or discolored |
Backflow protectors | When they become torn, warped, or discolored |
Flanges/breast shields | Every 6 months or when they become cracked or warped |
Tubing | Every 1-3 months or when it easily slides off and on your pump. Replace if any moisture ever gets into the tubing. |
Find Motif's recommendations here.