sister is using my pump - do we need replacement parts?

[DeerMother]

My sister is using my old pump, medela pump in style. I think I read somewhere that tubing/valves etc needs to be replaced every 3-6 months. I used the pump for 21 months and never replaced anything. Does she need to buy new shields, valves, tubing or can she get by with just swapping out tubing? Tubes are about $7, replacement of all spare parts is $45+.

[Katie T]

If it works fine I wouldn't even buy new tubing. You can steam it in those steam bags. You might want to check the thin white membrane (it has a name that I am drawing a blank on) cause over time (IME) it can break and then the pump won't be as effective. They are super cheap.

Otherwise I would just wash/throw through dishwasher/or sterilize it and call it good. I know my sister doesn't have any issues so I wouldn't think anything about it.

[justKate]

Your sister? I'd just sterilize everything and replace the membranes (you lose suction if they get too old).

[DeerMother]

We weren't really worried about germs. We boiled all removeable parts. It was more wanting to make sure it was working to its fullest capacity. Seems to be fine, I'll have her check the valves closely. Thanks!