Some light condensation in the tubing can be normal. When pumping warm milk into a sealed container, some condensation or water vapor can be created in the cups or tubing. However, heavy moisture is not normal and may indicate:
- Cups are not assembled correctly
- Parts are damaged
- A compatible pump is not being
- Pump connection is not correct
Moisture can also develop if you are not using dry parts. It is important to start each pump session with clean and dry parts.
Tubing should always be clean and dry. If soiled, you can clean tubing by rinsing with very hot water, but it can take days to dry completely and you would need a back up method for expression.
Tubing that has been cleaned may develop water spots that look like a stain or dried milk. If in doubt as to whether the soiled tubing is clean, replace it. Find spare tubing for Standard Cups here.
Note that tubing does not normally come into contact with breast milk and need not be cleaned after each use.
Review information for milk in tubing.