The Haakaa breast pump has become a must-have for many new moms. This simple, affordable pump makes it easy to collect letdown and build a stash of breastmilk. But like any pumping accessory, you’ll need to keep your Haakaa clean for optimal use. So can you wash the Haakaa pump parts in the dishwasher, or should you hand wash them?
How The Haakaa Breast Pump Works
The Haakaa pump is a manual breast pump designed to catch letdown. It uses suction to gently express milk from one breast while your baby nurses on the other side. The Haakaa is shaped like a small bowl or flange with an extended bottom. To use it, you simply suction the flange to your breast. As milk lets down, it will collect in the bottom of the Haakaa.
The Haakaa pump doesn’t require any batteries or charging. You don’t pump it by hand. The suction is created by the seal between the flange and breast, along with the force of gravity pulling milk down. This makes it a very convenient and easy way to collect milk hands-free as you nurse your baby. Many moms find they can collect anywhere from 2 ounces to 4 ounces per session.
Haakaa Pump Parts
The Haakaa breast pump is composed of just a few main parts:
- Silicone flange: This is the breast cup portion that creates the seal on your breast to collect milk. It is made of soft, pliable food-grade silicone.
- plastic cap: The cap fits onto the top of the flange. It can be used to prevent spills if needed.
- Silicone bottom collection container: This is the extended bulb shape on the bottom where expressed milk collects.
- Base: The newest Haakaa models include a plastic base or stand that allows the pump to stand upright on a table. Older models do not have a base.
That’s it! The simplistic design is part of what has made the Haakaa so popular.
Can You Put Haakaa Pump Parts In the dishwasher?
So when it comes time to wash up the Haakaa, can you just toss the parts in the dishwasher for easy cleaning? Let’s go over the dos and don’ts:
- Hand wash the silicone flange. The flange should not go in the dishwasher, as high heat can damage the material over time. Use warm soapy water to wash the flange by hand after each use. Allow to fully air dry.
- Don’t put the plastic cap in the dishwasher. The cap is small and can get lost during the wash cycle. It is best to hand wash only.
- DO put the collection container in dishwasher. The silicone bottom bulb is dishwasher-safe on the top rack, according to the manufacturer. Use the delicate or low-heat cycle. Be sure to remove any milk residue first.
- Don’t put plastic bases in the dishwasher. If your Haakaa has a base, hand wash only to prevent warping from heat.
By hand washing the silicone flange after each use, you’ll help it last longer and prevent mold or bacteria buildup. The collection container and cap can go in the dishwasher for convenience but may last longer with hand washing. Check the user manual for your specific Haakaa model for any variations.
Tips For Cleaning the Haakaa Pump
Follow these tips for safely cleaning and sterilizing your Haakaa breast pump:
- Rinse thoroughly after each use. Don’t let milk residue dry on Rinse all parts in hot water to remove milk immediately after pumping.
- Clean the flange with soap and water. Use mild dish soap and warm water. Wash by hand. Use a clean toothbrush to scrub the inside and outside of the flange.
- Sterilize weekly. Boil the flange and collection container for 5 minutes, or use a steam sterilizing bag or UV sterilizer.
- Inspect for tears. Check the silicone parts for any cracks, tears, or holes regularly. This can affect suction.
- Replace the flange every 3-6 months. Silicone will break down over time. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on when to replace the flange.
- Air-dry all parts. Allow all components to completely air dry before reassembling to prevent mold. Don’t store it wet.
Proper cleaning and sterilizing are key to ensuring your Haakaa continues to work effectively and safely. Take the extra minute to hand wash the flange after each use for best results.
Troubleshooting Haakaa Washing Issues
Having trouble getting your Haakaa fully clean? Here are some tips for troubleshooting:
- Moldy smell? Soak the flange in equal parts vinegar and hot water for 20 minutes.
- Cloudy plastic? Soak the collection container in hot water with a couple denture tablets to remove the residue.
- Mineral deposits? Fill the flange with equal parts water and white vinegar. Microwave for 1–2 minutes until steaming. Let it soak overnight.
- Oily residue? Clean with diluted rubbing alcohol using a cotton pad. Dry thoroughly.
- Warped base? Replace the base with a new one, and don’t run plastic through the dishwasher again.
- Weak suction? Check for cracks in the flange. Replace if needed. Also replace every 3–6 months.
Don’t be afraid to get a little tough on sticky milk residue. A good cleaning is essential to keeping your Haakaa working properly session after session.
FAQs About Cleaning The Haakaa Pump
How often do you need to clean the Haakaa?
You should clean the Haakaa after every use. The flange and collection container should be hand-rinsed thoroughly after each pumping session. The flange should also be washed with mild soapy water. Sterilize all parts at least once a week.
What is the best way to clean the Haakaa silicone?
Use warm, soapy water and wash by hand. Pay attention to small crevices. Avoid dish soap with added moisturizers. Vinegar soaks can help remove built-up oils. Replace the flange every 3-6 months.
Can I put the whole Haakaa pump in the dishwasher?
No, only the collection container is dishwasher safe. The silicone flange and plastic base should always be hand-washed. The cap should also be hand washed only.
How do you get dried milk out of the Haakaa?
Rinse immediately after use for the easiest cleaning. For dried milk, fill with hot soapy water and let soak before hand washing. You may need to use a bottle brush on the collection container. For extreme buildup, boil or use a sterilizer.
Why does my Haakaa turn cloudy?
Cloudiness is caused by a buildup of milk residue. Try soaking it in hot water with a couple denture cleaning tablets to restore clarity and remove residue. Always fully clean after each use.
With some basic care, your Haakaa breast pump can remain in great working condition for months of use. Proper cleaning is the key to keeping it functioning properly and safely.
Hi, I’m Julie, the passionate foodie and founder of Juliesfamilykitchen.com. I created this blog out of a drive to prove someone wrong, and then I realized how much I truly enjoy cooking and trying new recipes. In my free time, when I’m not running around after my kids or spending quality time with my partner, you can usually find me in the kitchen experimenting with new dishes.