Last Updated on July 8, 2023 by Jada Glover
As a busy breastfeeding mom, finding convenient and efficient ways to clean your breast pump is essential. When it comes to the popular Haakaa breast pump, known for its simplicity in saving breast milk, you might be wondering if you can toss it in the dishwasher for a quick and easy clean.
In this article, we’ll explore whether it’s safe to put a Haakaa in the dishwasher, along with other cleaning methods and tips to keep your Haakaa pump in good condition.
What Is a Haakaa Pump?
The Haakaa pump is a manual breast pump that is used to capture breast milk while you’re nursing your baby on the opposite breast. Even if you have an electric breast pump, many moms use it this way as an easy way to get more breast milk for their freezer stash.
I used one of these Haakaa Pumps when I had my son and I was going back to work in an office setting. A few weeks before returning to work, I started using one to save milk.
I prefer the second-generation version with a flat suction base and a cap that can be used with it. I first had the one without the suction base and I can’t tell you how many times that thing tipped over accidentally. This newer model also holds 5 ounces of milk rather than the original 4-ounce version.
It is also a great way to increase breast milk supply without having to do much extra work because of the gentle suction. A best practice is to use it on the breast that your baby has already nursed on so your baby is getting the freshest milk while she is nursing.
Attach the Haakaa pump to the opposite breast to catch the milk that is still trickling out through a gentle suction of the pump. A Haakaa pump can also be used as a manual hands-on breast pump if you need it.
If you’re not sure how to use your Haakaa Pump, check out the official Haakaa website which includes a video. It is super helpful!
Can You Safely Put a Haakaa in the Dishwasher?
While some breast pump parts can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher, it’s important to consider the material and manufacturer’s instructions before deciding to go the dishwasher route.
Let’s take a look at what the official Haakaa Pump website says:
Before you use your Haakaa for the first time, sterilize it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Be careful the Haakaa does not rest on the bottom of the pan and burn.
Haakaa manufacturer’s website
Be sure to wash with warm water and soap after each use and allow the Haakaa to air dry. Although your silicone products can go in the dishwasher, we recommend hand washing with hot, soapy water.
If your baby is less than 3 months old, born prematurely or has a weakened immune system, sterilize your Haakaa pump once a day following the instructions above. Daily sanitizing may not be necessary if your Haakaa is carefully cleaned after each use following the instructions above. You can sterilize your Haakaa in a pot of boiling water, a plug-in steam sterilizer, or in a sterilizing bag in the microwave.
How to Clean Your Haakaa Pump in the Dishwasher
It is best to wash your Haakaa by hand with warm soapy water and sterilize if needed. However, if you prefer using the dishwasher because it’s easier for you, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it properly.
- Disassemble the Haakaa pump: Separate the silicone breast pump, including the cap if applicable, from any other components.
- Rinse off milk residue: Before placing the Haakaa pump in the dishwasher, rinse it under warm water to remove any excess milk or debris.
- Load it on the top rack: Place the Haakaa pump, along with any other dishwasher-safe breast pump parts, on the top rack of your dishwasher. This will help protect the silicone material from direct heat.
- Skip the harsh chemicals: Avoid using bleach-based cleaners or harsh chemicals when washing your Haakaa pump in the dishwasher. Stick to using a mild detergent or dishwasher pods specifically designed for silicone products.
- Run a gentle cycle: Select a gentle or delicate cycle on your dishwasher to ensure that the Haakaa pump is not exposed to excessive heat or agitation. Avoid using high heat or drying cycles, as they may damage the silicone material.
- Inspect for cleanliness: After the dishwasher cycle is complete, carefully remove the Haakaa pump from the dishwasher and inspect it for any remaining milk residue or soap residue. If needed, rinse it again under warm water to ensure it is thoroughly clean.
- Air dry or use a clean towel: Allow the Haakaa pump to air dry completely before storing it. Alternatively, you can use a clean towel to gently pat it dry.
Alternative Cleaning Methods for Your Haakaa Pump
Other than washing your Haakaa pump with warm soapy water, the only other alternative cleaning methods the manufacturer suggests are a pot of boiling water, a plug-in steam sterilizer, or a sterilizing bag in the microwave.
Cleaning Your Haakaa Pump by Hand
Washing your Haakaa pump by hand ensures that you have full control over the cleaning process and you can visually inspect the cleanliness of each part.
To clean your Haakaa pump by hand, follow these steps:
- Disassemble the pump: Separate the silicone breast pump, including the Haakaa silicone breast pump cap if it has one, from any other components.
- Rinse off milk residue: Rinse the Haakaa pump under warm water to remove any milk residue or debris.
- Use warm soapy water: Fill a clean container with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the Haakaa pump and any other breast pump parts that are safe for washing.
- Gently scrub and rinse: Use a clean soft brush or cloth to scrub the Haakaa pump, paying attention to any areas with visible milk residue. Rinse the pump thoroughly under running water to remove all soap residue.
- Air dry or use a clean towel: Allow the Haakaa pump to air dry completely on a clean, dry surface, or use a clean towel to pat it dry.
Steam Sterilizer
If you choose to use a steam sterilizer, you will want to buy an electric steam sterilizer specifically designed for baby bottles and breast pump parts (bottle sterilizer). These sterilizers use steam to kill bacteria and can be a convenient option when you want a deeper clean.
I have a bottle steam sterilizer. When I was pumping for my son, I used it often. I also used it to clean my Haakaa pump.
It worked out well for us at the time. Washing it by hand was also easy. I did put my Haakaa pump in the dishwasher from time to time, if it was convenient. It did turn cloudy on the surface from doing this.
UV Sterilizer
A UV sterilizer is not recommended because it may cause the food-grade silicone of the Haakaa to become sticky and unusable over time. Use a steam sterilizer, microwave sterilizer, wash it by hand, or put it in the dishwasher if you need to.
The Importance of Proper Cleaning
The Haakaa pump, made from high-quality silicone material, is designed to be a user-friendly alternative to traditional electric or manual breast pumps. With its one-piece design, cleaning the Haakaa pump is generally a breeze.
When it comes to cleaning any breast pump, including the Haakaa, proper cleaning is vital to maintain hygiene and prevent the growth of bacteria. Silicone is absorbent and can pick up colors and odors.
Avoid using bleach-based cleaners or sterilizing tablets on your Haakaa products as they can cause the Haakaa pump to become cloudy. Even if it becomes cloudy, it’s safe to use and you can sterilize it by boiling or steam sterilizing if desired.
If it loses its suction, even after attaching it correctly by folding the flange back before you release it and squeeze the pump, it may be time for a new one. Reasons this could happen is because it was used often, sterilized too much, or the method of washing it wore out the silicone. Follow the tips above to extend the life of your Haakaa pump or you may be replacing it often.
In a nutshell, when it comes to keeping your Haakaa pump super clean, hand washing it will help it last longer, but you can use a dishwasher.
A hands-on clean with warm soapy water is your best bet to extend the life of your Haakaa pump, but you can also use a dishwasher or a steam sterilizer. The key is to make sure it is washed well and sterilized if needed.
Give your Haakaa pump some regular love and attention, and it’ll reward you with a longer life and liquid gold for your little baby. So, enjoy the simplicity and convenience of your trusty Haakaa pump on your breastfeeding journey. Breastfeed on, super mama!
