Silicone milking liners and shells are essential components in dairy parlours, playing a critical role in milk collection, hygiene and animal comfort. Much like with dairy tubing, to keep them performing at their best, it’s vital to follow proper daily and periodic cleaning routines; not only to maintain hygiene standards but also to preserve the longevity of your investment.

This guide covers everything you need to know about cleaning silicone milking liners, from daily sanitisation to deep periodic cleaning using washing soda crystals.

Why Proper Cleaning Matters

Silclear silicone liners and shells are designed for long service life but only if they’re cleaned effectively and consistently. Grease, milk fat and general soiling can gradually build up inside the liner or shell, leading to:

• Loss of vacuum efficiency
• Bacterial contamination
• Reduced liner flexibility
• Risk of residues redepositing during wash cycles

Regular cleaning and correct reassembly also prevent twisting or misalignment, which can impede milk flow or reduce milking efficiency.

Daily Cleaning for Milking Liners and Shells

To maintain hygiene between every milking:

• Internal Contact Surfaces – Ensure all milk contact surfaces are thoroughly degreased and sanitised after each use.
• External Surfaces – Wash external areas with hot soapy water to remove splashes or soil, ideally after every milking session.
• Liners and Shells – If residue or oil contamination is visible inside the shell, carry out the periodic cleaning process for that set immediately.

Periodic Cleaning: Every 6–8 Weeks

To maximise product lifespan, perform a deep clean every 6 to 8 weeks. Here’s how:

Step-by-Step (Without Fully Detaching Liners)

1. Slide the shells down to the base of the silicone liners to expose the full barrel.
2. Immerse the liners and partially exposed shells in a strong solution of washing soda crystals (sodium carbonate decahydrate) in hot water at 65–70°C.
3. Agitate gently and clean the inside of the shell using a plastic-tipped bottle brush. Be careful not to scratch or tear the silicone.
4. Remove the components before the solution drops below 50–55°C to prevent redepositing of fat and detergent residues.
5. Rinse thoroughly with hot water and allow to dry fully.
6. Reassemble the liners and shells, ensuring the liners are straight and not twisted.
7. Reattach to milking clawpieces.

Top Tip – Use alignment guides (on clear shells) to confirm the liner sits straight in the shell before each milking.

Full Deep Clean (for Heavy Soiling)

If liners are heavily contaminated with grease or milk fat:

1. Detach the liners and shells from the clawpiece and separate them fully.
2. Boil wash the liners only in a strong washing soda solution (90–100°C). Soak for 10–15 minutes.
3. Clean shells with hot soapy water and a bottle brush. Do not boil polycarbonate shells — high temperatures can cause crazing or blurring.
4. Clean and degrease the clawpiece, especially the spigots and nipples.
5. Once dry, reassemble carefully, using taped pliers to avoid damage, and ensure the liners are fully straight.

Top Tip – Never use caustic soda, always use washing soda crystals only.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

• Clean before temperatures drop below 50°C – below this point, fats and detergent residues redeposit on silicone.
• Avoid twisting during reassembly – twisted liners impact milk flow and wear unevenly.
• Check jetters / wash-through efficiency regularly.
• Call us with any questions or concerns – early advice can prevent long-term issues.

Silclear Silicone Liners: Built to Last, When Treated Right!

When cleaned and fitted correctly, Silclear’s silicone milking liners provide exceptional durability and hygienic performance. By following the recommended cleaning and maintenance routines, you’ll protect your herd, your product quality and your investment.

For further advice or to discuss replacement parts contact Silclear on +44 (0)1425 610700, email info@silclear.com or enquire below.