Spectra Breast Pump Valve

You have two options when it comes to selecting a Spectra breast pump valve. You can choose from either the duck valve or the valve head & membrane set, both of which are interchangeable on your Spectra breastshield. Your Spectra breast pump will come with valves included, however you will need to replace them regularly. Not sure which Spectra breast pump valve to choose? Here's what you need to know about each Spectra breast pump valve.

Spectra duck valve

Your Spectra breast pump will more than likely have shipped with white silicone duck valves. This style of Spectra breast pump valve is becoming more popular as mamas are finding the one-piece duck valve is easier to clean and lasts a bit longer. You can expect your duck valves to last up to 2-3 months. These are becoming more standard in the industry as other breast pump companies are starting to do as Spectra does by including silicone duck valves.

Spectra valve and membrane set

Some mums prefer the Spectra breast pump valve and membrane sets. We continue to sell this older valve style because some mamas find these easier to clean. If you're used to the Medela style breastshield sets, you might prefer the Spectra breast pump valve and membrane set as it is nearly identical. The Spectra Dew 350 still ships with the blue valve and membrane set. If you're pumping frequently you might find this style more sustainable as the blue valve head is made of recyclable plastic, and you can replace just the Spectra silicone valve membrane. You can expect your Spectra breast pump valve and membrane set to last up to 8 weeks of regular use.

When to replace your Spectra breast pump valves

How often you need to replace your Spectra breast pump valves depends on how often you pump. After a while, the elasticity of the silicone parts wear down. If you're using duck valves, plan on replacing them every 6-8 weeks - or every 4 weeks if you're exclusively expressing. If you're using valve head & membrane sets, plan on replacing those every 6-8 weeks - or every 2-4 weeks if you're exclusively expressing. The first sign that your valves need to be replaced is always a reduction in suction. Look for membranes that don't lay flat on valve heads. Always replace valves if you see tears. Most often you will not see your valves need replacing for wear and tear.