Pumping, as rewarding as it is, is a LOT of work! It doesn’t have to be hard work, but there’s certainly a lot of effort and preparation that goes into it. The blurry-eyed 3 am wakeup calls, triple-checking that your parts are dry, making sure everything is sterilized—it becomes a routine.
Your breast pump basically becomes an extension of your body during your breastfeeding journey. However, like all good things, the pumping phase eventually comes to an end. So, what do you do with your old pump once you’re done?
From pump donations to recycling programs, you can do a lot with your retired pump. That’s why today, I’m here to help you figure out your next steps! Whether you’re hoping to pass it on to another parent or looking for a responsible way to let it go, there’s a thoughtful option available.
What To Do With Your Old Breast Pump
Donate It
If your pump is still in good enough condition to share, like a hospital-grade or closed-system pump, consider donating it. Many nonprofit organizations, hospitals, or women’s shelters will happily accept donations. Before you donate your pump, double check what type it is and ensure it’s properly clean and sterilized. Contact your local groups to see if they accept donations or can put you in touch with families in need. One mom’s old pump can help keep another mom pumping. How cool is that?
If you or another mama is looking for a new sterilizer, grab the Momcozy KleanPal and use discount code MOWTP10D!
Sell It
Selling your used breast pump is a good idea if it’s in good shape. Many moms on a budget will be on the lookout for a second pump for main use, travel, or as a backup. Just ensure that you clean it well, replace any single-use pump parts, and pop all important details in your listing.
Recycle It
If your pump is past its prime, don’t fear! You can recycle IT instead of throwing it in the trash. Many pump manufacturers actually offer pump recycling programs—check their website or contact customer service to discuss your recycling options. Or you can contact your local electronic recycling programs to ask if they’ll take the motor. If you want to recycle your pump, these options make it extremely easy and convenient.
Keep Parts
Not ready to part with it all? Definitely understandable. Keep any extra bottles, tubing, or flanges if you want to. They make handy backup parts for travel, emergencies, or even storage for snacks and craft supplies! Because if there’s one thing your breastfeeding (pumping or nursing) journey teaches you, it’s that you can never have too many backups.
Pass It On
Even if you can’t donate your pump, you can still share unused or lightly used parts. Many local mom groups and online communities accept donations of spare bottles, valves, or unopened flanges. Contact your mom friends or post in local groups to pass it on. Remember: one family’s “extra stuff” can be another’s lifesaver.
Can You Donate Old Breast Pumps?
Great questions! The answer is: sometimes—not every pump is donation-friendly. Most pumps sold for home use are “single user” designs. This means that they’re meant for just one person because the milk can’t backflow into the motor. Open-system pumps (or ones that don’t fully prevent milk from reaching the pump motor) are a bit trickier. They can’t safely be passed on due to contamination risks.
Before you look to donate your breast pump, check your pump manufacturer guidelines. If it’s a multi-user or hospital-grade breast pump, you might be able to donate it. On the other hand, if it’s a single user or open-system, you may be better off looking at pump recycling programs.
Where To Donate Old Breast Pumps
If your pump is good to donate, here are some great places to consider:
- Local Hospitals and Maternity Wards: Some hospitals accept closed-system pumps for moms in need. Just call first to check their policy.
- Breastfeeding Support Nonprofits: Groups like La Leche League may pass out pumps to families who can’t afford one.
- Milk Banks and Human Milk Sharing Networks: Some milk banks loan pumps to moms donating milk. Reach out and ask if they’ll accept used ones.
- Women’s Shelters and Crisis Centers: Shelters often need pumps for new moms escaping crisis situations.
- Churches and Community Centers: Many churches and community centers run family support programs and can match your pump with someone who needs it.
- Postpartum Doula Groups: Doulas may know clients who could really use an extra pump.
- Online Mom Groups: Local parenting pages are perfect for gifting your pump directly to another mom.
- Parenting Resource Centers: Family resource centers may accept pumps for families in crisis or low-income parents.
- Community Health Clinics: Nonprofits and clinics sometimes lend out pumps to parents who can’t buy one.
- International Aid Organizations: Some charities ship baby gear overseas where safe pumping options are limited. Just make sure you check the donation rules first.
Tip: Always make sure you clean your pump thoroughly, include all parts if you can, and confirm your pump type is accepted before donating.
Don’t throw out your old breast pump, make your donation count.
Your breast pump worked hard, just like you did while pumping. Whether you choose to donate, sell, or recycle your breast pumps, you’ve got options to make sure it doesn’t gather dust in the back of a closet.
You did an amazing job showing up for your baby and yourself–now it’s time to send your pump off to its next adventure. And hey, don’t forget that breastfeeding grief is very real when you reach the end of your pumping or nursing journey. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support if you need it.
Still on your pumping journey and wondering if your pump is even the right fit? Check out my post on how to choose the right breast pump–because finding your pump is half the battle. For additional support, reach out to one of our friendly lactation consultants, or head to the One With The Pump blog for more learning opportunities!
