How To Use Bellababy Breast Pump W40

ByAllison Banfield

If you’ve recently purchased the Bellababy W40 wearable breast pump, then my comprehensive guide on how to use Bellababy breast pump W40 is a must-read to help you get started with ease!

Here, you’ll discover simple instructions for assembling your Bellababy pump, along with helpful tips for using its various settings, so you can confidently and smoothly operate your new device.

  • If you prefer to watch your how to guides, there’s a video how to guide right below. Then, you can skim the written guide for more details.
  • If you prefer to read your how to guides, scroll past the video, and you’ll find my written guide.

Editor’s note: Pumping Milk is reader-supported, meaning, at no cost to you, I may earn a commission if you buy after clicking an affiliate link. Learn More.

Bellababy W40 Inclusions

When you first unpack your Bellababy W40 breast pump, the first step you’ll need to take is familiarize yourself with the contents.

This will help you confirm all the essential parts are there, so you can set up and begin using your Bellababy breast pump.

how to use bellababy w40 breast pump

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

When you purchase a Bellababy breast pump, included in your kit is:

Single Wearable Pump Kit

Double Wearable Pump Kit

I strongly recommend taking a moment to double check that all the components are included in your package. If anything is missing or damaged, don’t hesitate to contact Bellababy’s customer support for assistance.

If you’re using a pre-owned pump, be sure that all the essential parts are in good condition. I also like to replace items like valves and flanges to ensure that you are not going to have any issues with hygiene, spills, or suction loss.

If your pump motor is loose whilst in place, you may also need to replace the sealing ring, which is the thin, circular silicone ring that attaches to the base of the pump motor. It’s job is to help hold the pump motor in place.

It’s also important to note that these parts also need to be replaced regularly in line with Bellababy’s maintenance guidelines.

While buying new valve membranes, valves, flanges, and sealing rings might add a bit to your cost, it’s essential for keeping your pump clean and ensuring it works smoothly every time.

And don’t forget to make sure you have the right flange size for your nipple size. You may need to purchase flange inserts separately if you have smaller nipples.

bellababy w40 components

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Bellababy W40 Components

Before you begin using your Bellababy W40 breast pump, it’s important to familiarize yourself with its components and controls.

Here’s a detailed guide:

Breast Pump Motor: The central unit of the Bellababy W40, housing the motor and power source. This is the core of the pump, responsible for generating the suction needed to express milk.

Milk Collection Cup: These cups collect the breast milk as it’s expressed.

Flange: The flange is the funnel-shaped part that sits against your breasts and accommodates your nipple. Available in different sizes, a properly fitting flange is key to both comfort and efficient milk expression. On the W40, the flange is a soft silicone for comfort. Additionally, flange inserts are available to reduce the size of the flange tunnel if needed.

Diaphragm: This silicone membrane is an essential part of the valve system, helping to maintain the pump’s suction.

Valve: The valve creates a one-way system, controlling the milk flow from your breast into the collection cup.

USB Cable: Used to recharge your breast pump, the USB cable connects the pump motor to a power source.

Power Button: This button turns your breast pump on and off.

LCD Screen: The LCD screen provides important information like suction level, pumping mode, and battery status.

Suction and Mode Control Buttons: These buttons let you adjust the suction level and pumping mode to match your comfort and milk flow.

Bellababy W40 Assembly

Proper assembly of the Bellababy wearable breast pump is crucial for optimal performance.

One great feature is that your pump arrives pre-assembled in the box, which I find really helpful in understanding how everything fits together.

However, before your first use, it’s important to disassemble the pump and sterilize all the parts.

Maintaining proper hygiene while setting up your Bellababy W40 is essential for both you and your baby. Here are some hygiene tips:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before handling any pump components.
  • Disassemble the parts that come into contact with breast milk including the flanges, valves, membranes, and collection cups after each use. Wash them with warm, soapy water, rinse, and let them air dry or use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
  • Sterilize these components regularly, especially if you use the pump multiple times a day. You can do this by boiling the parts for a few minutes or using a steam sterilizer. Just make sure the breast pump motor unit stays dry and free of moisture or milk residue.
  • Store your breast pump and its components in a clean, dry place when not in use to prevent contamination.

Once your breast pump has been cleaned and sterilized, you’re ready to reassemble it for your first pumping session.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you reassemble your Bellababy W40 pump:

Step 1

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling any components.

Step 2

Put the silicone diaphragm into the linker. Ensure you push down for a good seal.

bellababy w40 assembly step 2

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Step 3

Connect the silicone valve to the end of the linker, again making sure it has a sufficient seal.

bellababy w40 assembly step 3

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Step 4

Attach the assembled linker part to the milk collector cup and align the ‘ear’ notch of the linker with the inner groove of the milk collector cup. It should click into place, but always check to ensure a secure fit.

bellababy w40 assembly step 4

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Step 5

Connect the flange with the main body of the collection cup.

  • First line up the gap in the silicone rim with the pouring spout at the top of your collection cup, you’ll need to line them up to prevent any spillage as well as make it possible to pour your breast milk once it has been pumped.
  • Next push the flange into the linker.
  • Then firmly push the flange into place, ensuring that the flange rim is properly connected to the cup.  You should hear a sound as the edges of the rim clip into place.
  • Once in place, I also like to ensure a good seal by pressing my thumbs around the rim.
bellababy w40 assembly step 5

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Step 6

Press in the pump motor to the top of the collection container.

bellababy w40 assembly step 6

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Step 7

Turn on your W40 Bellababy breast pump by pressing the power button. You will see the LCD screen light up.

Now, your breast pump is ready for your first pumping session!

But before your start, let’s go over the pump’s controls, including the suction level and mode settings so you can ensure that you are on the right pump setting and optimizing your pumping session.

bellababy w40 assembly step 7

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Bellababy W40 Buttons and LED Screen

Your Bellababy W40 breast pump is operated using just three buttons, and it features an LED screen that provides helpful information during your pumping sessions.

Here’s a breakdown of the controls:

On/Off/Mode Button: Use the power button to turn your pump on or off and switch between mode.

  • To turn the pump on or off, press and hold the power button for 3 seconds.

Please note that there is no pause option on the Bellababy W40 pump.

Pumping Mode: The W40 offers four pumping modes:

  • Stimulation mode for letdown
  • Expression mode for milk removal
  • Variation mode which is a combination of the stimulation and expression mode
  • Depth mode which is an intense mode that gets stronger suction, then releases, stronger suction, then releases.

The LCD screen indicates the current mode at the bottom of your LED screen:

  • Stimulation mode is a single droplet
  • Expression mode is two droplets
  • Variation mode is a rhythm/heartbeat symbol
  • Depth mode is a single droplet with vibrations coming off it

You can switch between the four modes using the middle power button.

bellababy w40 modes

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Suction Level: The screen shows the current suction level, which you can adjust to your comfort.

  • Press the + button to increase the suction level.
  • Press the – button to decrease the suction level.
  • The current level will be shown as a number on the screen (to the left of the timer).

I highly recommend experimenting with different suction levels to find what feels comfortable and effective for you. Start with a lower suction level and gradually increase it until you find the right balance.

Just keep in mind that the strongest setting may not be the most beneficial for milk extraction as it is also strongly connected to your comfort levels.

Timer: The W40 comes with a built-in timer that starts automatically when you begin your session, making it easy to keep track of your pumping time.

Battery Status: The battery life is shown by three white bars to the centre right of the display (just above the timer). When the battery is low, one bar will blink.

Error Messages: The LCD screen will display error messages if there are any issues, such as a blocked tube or low battery.

Using the Bellababy W40

When you’re ready to start pumping with your Bellababy breast pump, the process is simple and straightforward.

Here are the key steps to follow:

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to ensure proper hygiene.

Step 2: Assemble the Pump

Ensure that your pump is sterilized, assembled, and ready for use.

Step 3: Position the Flange

Place the flange (and flange insert if necessary) over your breast, making sure your nipple is cantered and can move freely within the shield. Gently press the shield against your breast to create a secure seal.

bellababy w40 how to use with flange insert

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Step 4: Secure Your Pumping Bra

The Bellababy W40 is a wearable breast pump which means it is designed to fit snugly into your bra without the hassle of cords or tubing. After positioning the pump over your nipple, ensure your bra is securely fitted. A stretchy pumping bra works best, holding the pump comfortably – neither too loose nor too tight.

Step 5: Turn On the Pump

Press the power button on the Bellababy W40 to turn it on. The LCD screen will light up, displaying the current settings.

Step 6: Select Pumping Mode and Adjust Suction Level

Choose the pumping mode that suits your needs:

  • Start with the stimulation mode to stimulate letdown. I suggest beginning with a level 2 or 3 for about 2 minutes. Once your milk begins to flow, switch to expression mode for efficient milk removal.
  • For expression and variations modes, start with a low suction level and gradually increase it until you find a comfortable and effective setting. You should feel a gentle pulling sensation, not pain. Use expression or variation mode for about 15 to 20 minutes.
  • If you are new to pumping you may want to avoid the depth mode as this is designed for experiences pumping moms. However, like the expression and variation modes, if you want to use the depth mode, start with a low suction level and gradually increase it until you find a comfortable and effective setting. Pump using this mode for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 7: Monitor

Keep an eye on your milk flow throughout the session. This will help you identify and address any issues, like low milk output or suction power.

Step 8: Turn Off the Pump

When you’re done pumping, press the power button to turn off the pump.

Step 9: Remove the Pump

Gently break the seal between the flange and your breast using your fingers. Lean forward slightly as you remove the pump to avoid spilling any milk.

Step 10: Transfer the Breast Milk

Since you can’t store milk in the collection cups, carefully pour it into a storage container. Start by removing the motor, then pour the milk into your container. The Bellababy’s convenient pouring spout makes this process easy.

This how to store breast milk guide is a fantastic reference for proper breastmilk storage.

Step 11: Clean Your Pump

After each session, wash all the parts that have come into contact with your breast milk to maintain proper hygiene.

Step 12: Check the Battery Levels

When you’re done, check the remaining battery life. If needed, recharge the pump so it’s ready for your next session. The charging port is located on the back of the pump motor.

Step 13: Store

After cleaning, I recommend storing your pumps back in the hard plastic storage case, ready for your next use.

bellababy breast pump in storage container

Photo credit: Pumping Milk

Bellababy W40 Replacement Parts

I think it is important to note that some of your pump parts will require regular replacement to maintain their performance.

If you notice that your pump seems to have lost suction, the first thing you should do is take a look at your pump parts, particularly the valves, and inspect for wear, fraying, or stretching and replace if needed.

It is generally recommend that silicone accessory parts such as your valves and diaphragm are replaced every 1-3 months.

Other accessories are recommended to be replaced according to usage. You can learn more in my guide on how often should you replace breast pump parts!

Here is the full list of Bellababy W40 replacement parts available:

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some tips for troubleshooting common issues you may come across while using your Bellababy W40 pump:

Low Milk Output

  • Check Flange Fit: Make sure your flange size is correct. A poor fit can reduce milk flow and cause discomfort.
  • Hydrate and Relax: Ensure you’re well-hydrated and try to relax before and during pumping. Stress can affect milk production.
  • Use Stimulation Mode: Start with the stimulation mode to stimulate letdown, then switch to expression mode once your milk begins to flow.
  • Pump Frequency: Increase the frequency of your pumping sessions to stimulate more milk production. You may also like my guide on how to power pump to help with low milk output.

Pain or Discomfort

  • Adjust Suction Level: If the suction feels too strong, reduce the intensity until it feels comfortable. Pumping should not be painful.
  • Check Flange Size: An incorrect flange size can cause pain. Make sure your nipple can move freely without rubbing against the sides.
  • Lubrication: Consider applying lanolin-based nipple cream or using a warm compress before pumping.

Suction Issues

  • Inspect Components: Check that all parts are correctly assembled and that there are no cracks or damage in the valves, membranes, or tubing.
  • Check Seal: Ensure the flange creates a proper seal against your breast. If air is escaping, adjust the positioning.
  • Battery Life: Low battery can affect suction power. Make sure your pump is fully charged.

Milk Leakage or Spills:

  • Check for Cracks: Inspect the pump parts for any cracks or damage that might cause leaks.
  • Proper Assembly: Double-check that all components are securely assembled.
  • Lean Forward: When removing the pump, lean slightly forward to prevent milk from spilling out of the flange.

Pump Not Turning On:

  • Check Battery: Ensure your pump is charged. If the battery is dead, connect it to a power source and allow it to charge for a while.
  • Inspect Power Button: Make sure the power button is not stuck or damaged.
  • Reset the Pump: If the pump is unresponsive, try resetting it by holding down the power button for a few seconds.

While troubleshooting can often resolve most issues, there may be times when you need extra assistance.

In these situations, it’s a good idea to consult the Bellababy W40 manual for further guidance.

If you still encounter problems, don’t hesitate to contact Bellababy’s customer support. They can provide expert advice, help with troubleshooting, and offer information on warranty coverage and replacement parts to ensure a smooth and hassle-free pumping experience.

You can contact Bellababy support at service@bellababy-med.com

Final Thoughts on How To Use Bellababy Wearable W40 Breast Pump

The Bellababy W40 wearable breast pump is designed to offer both convenience and efficiency when it comes to your pumping experience.

By following the steps for assembly, operation, and maintenance, you’ll get the most out of your pump and enjoy a smooth, hassle-free pumping routine. Remember to clean and check the pump regularly and tackle any issues as they come up to keep everything running smoothly.

If you run into any persistent problems, don’t hesitate to look at the manual or contact Bellababy’s customer support for extra help.

With a little care and attention, the Bellababy W40 can be a fantastic companion on your breastfeeding journey, making the whole process more comfortable and effective.

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