Freemie Cups are made from food-safe medical grade plastic, and are durable. Since the cups are worn, it's very important that they not leak. Damaged parts are the most common reason for leaking.

Follow care instructions to ensure the life and performance of Freemie Standard Cups. For care instructions click here or refer to the User Manual. Always inspect parts after each use, and replace any parts that are damaged or worn. Replacement parts can be found here.



Leaking with New Standard Cups

If you experience leaking when you first begin using your cups, this could be due to not boiling. Boiling the hard cup parts makes them airtight. Be sure to stir the parts consistently while boiling, if parts rest against the pot they can become warped and/or damaged, and will not perform correctly. Soft parts (valves, barriers, tubing) should never be boiled.



BOIL
DO NOT BOIL


Boiling
Carefully drop 3 hard cup parts (flange, valve base, cup) into 2 large uncovered boiling pots of water. Set timer for 10 minutes. Stir constantly and make sure parts do not touch sides of pot. Remove with a non-metal spoon and let cool.


Leaking After Time

A defect will show up immediately upon use, so if your cups leak after some time at least one part is damaged and needs to be replaced. The cup parts are durable and are intended to last for a year of normal use. However, they can also get damaged and can then leak. Dropping parts or washing with other dishes may cause a scratch on the plastic parts. A small gouge or scratch can cause a leak.



Bra Check

Check first that your bra is holding the cups securely enough to create a seal between your tissue and the device. If not, milk can seep out. Be sure your bra holds the cups like your hands would and does not allow any gaps when you move. 



Leak Test

If you believe your bra is doing a good job, test the cups with water for a leak. Assemble the cups and fill them with water. Prop them on their sides for 30 minutes. If they leak then either the cup or breast flange parts are damaged. 


If they leak with only one breast flange size, then it is the flange part that needs to be replaced. If they leak with both flange sizes, then it is likely the cup part that is damaged. 



Re-Boil Fix

Sometimes parts have not been fully boiled for 10 minutes. If cups are leaking always try to re-boil the hard parts to see if it stops the leak. Parts warped from cold or steam may snap back into shape. Boiling will not resolve damage or defect however.



Care Requirements

Our care recommendations are based on ensuring the longevity of your parts, and to prevent malfunction. Improper care can cause damage to the parts and lead to leaking. Avoid use of:


  • Steam sterilization (microwave bag, dishwasher, counter-top sterilizer)
  • Cold storage (fridge or freezer)
  • Extreme heat or cold exposure
  • Abrasive cleaning tools (bottle brushes)
  • UV light


Use or care outside manufacturer's instructions often ends in tears : (


Damage from incorrect cup care is not covered by the limited warranty. Always replace damaged parts for proper functioning of the system. 


If your cups are new and you have followed the care and preparation steps, but are still experiencing leaking, please visit our Customer Support page and fill out a Contact Form so that we can assist you.


NOTE: Cup sets are guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 60 days from date of purchase.