How to Use the Spectra S1 Plus: A Complete Beginner's Guide

Just unboxed your Spectra S1 Plus? This step-by-step guide walks you through assembly, settings, your first session, and cleaning — everything a first-time user needs.

Spectra Baby Canada · 8 min read

Congratulations on your Spectra S1 Plus. If this is your first time using a hospital-grade pump, the number of parts can feel a little overwhelming at first — but once you've done it once or twice, it becomes second nature. Here's everything you need to know to get started with confidence.

Before your first use: clean everything

Before the very first session, wash all parts that will touch your milk — the flanges, valves, backflow protectors, and bottles — in warm soapy water, then sterilize them. You do not need to wash the tubing, because the closed-system backflow protector keeps milk out of it.

Step 1: Assemble the parts

1. Attach the backflow protector to the flange — this is the piece that protects your pump from moisture.
2. Insert the valve into the bottom of the flange.
3. Screw a bottle onto the flange assembly.
4. Connect the tubing from the backflow protector to the pump's air port.
5. Repeat for the second side if you're double pumping.

Step 2: Get positioned and centered

Place the flange over your breast so your nipple is centered in the tunnel. It should move freely without rubbing the sides. If it feels tight, pinched, or your nipple rubs the tunnel walls, you may need a different flange size — this matters enormously for comfort and output.

Step 3: Understand the two modes

The Spectra uses two-phase expression that mimics how a baby naturally feeds:

• Massage mode — fast, gentle cycles that stimulate your letdown (the release of milk). Start here.
• Expression mode — slower, deeper cycles that efficiently extract milk once it's flowing. Switch to this once your milk lets down.

Step 4: Start your session

1. Turn on the pump and begin in massage mode.
2. When you feel or see your milk let down (usually 1–3 minutes), switch to expression mode.
3. Adjust the suction strength to the highest level that still feels comfortable — more suction is not always better. Comfort produces more milk than pain.
4. Pump until your milk flow slows to a trickle, typically 15–20 minutes total.

Step 5: Using the battery

One of the best features of the S1 Plus is the built-in rechargeable battery. Charge it fully before first use, and you'll be able to pump anywhere without an outlet. A full charge typically lasts for several sessions.

Step 6: Clean after each session

After pumping, take apart the flanges, valves, backflow protectors, and bottles, and wash them in warm soapy water. Let them air dry on a clean towel or drying rack. Again — the tubing stays clean thanks to the closed system, so you don't need to wash it routinely.

Common first-timer questions

How long should I pump?

Most sessions are 15–20 minutes, or a few minutes past when your milk stops flowing.

It's not comfortable — what's wrong?

Usually it's flange size or suction set too high. Try a more comfortable suction level first, then consider your flange fit.

How much milk should I expect?

This varies enormously between people and times of day, and it changes as your body adjusts. Don't judge your supply by your first few sessions.

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every breastfeeding journey is different. Please consult your doctor, midwife, or a licensed lactation consultant for guidance specific to you and your baby.