The Pumping Survival Kit: What You Need to Make It Work
Breastfeeding is a wild ride, and for a lot of us, pumping becomes part of the journey—whether we love it or just tolerate it. Maybe you’re building a stash, heading back to work, or exclusively pumping (this is what I eventually ended up doing!). Whatever your reason, having the right gear can make things so much easier. So, here’s my list of pumping must-haves, tips to get started, and things you’ll want to add to your baby registry to make life smoother.
Getting Started with Pumping
If you’re new to pumping, it can feel like a whole new world—one filled with flanges, suction levels, and figuring out how to hold a baby while being hooked up to a machine. Here are a few things that helped me:
Start Early but Not Too Early: If breastfeeding is going well, you don’t need to rush into pumping. Around 3-4 weeks postpartum is a good time to start building a stash and getting comfortable with the pump.
Establish a Routine: If you’re exclusively pumping or trying to increase supply, aim to pump every 2-3 hours, similar to a baby's typical feeding schedule. Otherwise, once or twice a day is fine for storing some extra milk.
Continue Taking Your Prenatal Vitamins: Your body is providing your baby with all the nutrients they need to grow and thrive, just like when you were pregnant. It is very important to continue supplying your body with vitamins and supplements.
Relax and Stay Hydrated: Stress can seriously mess with your letdown. Try looking at pictures of your baby, watching a funny show, or listening to music while you pump. And don’t forget to hydrate! Coconut water was my go-to—I swear it made a difference in my supply.
Know Your Storage Guidelines: Pumped milk can stay out at room temp for 4 hours, in the fridge for 4 days, and in the freezer for up to 6 months (or 12 months in a deep freezer).
Pumping Must-Haves (Perfect for Your Baby Registry!)
These are the things that made my pumping life so much easier—if you're making a baby registry, definitely consider adding these:
Breast Pump: My favorite is the Momcozy M5. It’s portable, efficient, and lets me multitask like a pro. Insurance might cover a pump, but having a portable option is a game-changer.
Manual Pump: A great backup or quick relief option when you don’t want to set up the electric one.
Sterilizer: Keeping pump parts and bottles clean is non-negotiable. A good sterilizer saves time and keeps everything germ-free.
Breastmilk Storage Bags: If you’re freezing milk, these are a must. Look for BPA-free options with secure seals—because nothing is worse than spilled liquid gold.
Breast Massager: This little tool is a lifesaver for helping with letdown and preventing clogged ducts.
Lansinoh Nipple Relief Pads: If your nipples are feeling wrecked, these cooling gel pads are amazing.
Nipple Cream: Lanolin-based creams are great for soothing soreness and preventing irritation.
Breast Pads: Unless you enjoy surprise milk leaks, stock up on these.
Pump Bra: Hands-free pumping is a game-changer. Trust me, you’ll want one (or three).
Small Cooler with Ice Packs: Perfect for storing milk on the go or keeping it fresh during long pumping sessions away from home.
Breast Pump Bag: Because carrying pump parts in a plastic grocery bag is not the vibe.
Tech Gear: A timer app or wearable tracker to keep tabs on pump times and milk output (because baby brain is real!)
Portable Power Bank: If you have a portable pump, this will save you from getting stranded without power.
How to Increase Milk Supply
If you feel like your milk supply could use a boost, try these tricks:
Pump Frequently: The more you empty your breasts, the more your body thinks it needs to make.
Power Pumping: Mimics cluster feeding and can help increase supply. Try pumping for 20 minutes, resting for 10, pumping for another 10, resting for 10, and finishing with 10 more minutes of pumping.
Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished: Drink plenty of water, coconut water, or even lactation teas. And snack on lactation-friendly foods like oats, flaxseed, and fenugreek.
Use Heat and Massage: A warm compress and a quick massage before or during pumping can help with letdown and milk flow.
Check Your Pump: If your suction suddenly feels weak, it might be time to replace valves and membranes.
Final Thoughts
Pumping is an experience—sometimes great, sometimes frustrating—but having the right tools can make all the difference. At the end of the day, every drop of milk you pump is a win, whether you’re exclusively pumping, combo feeding, or just doing what works best for you and your baby.
Are you a seasoned pumper? I’d love to hear your must-have items! Drop your recommendations in the comments—I’m always up for discovering new game-changers!
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