Pumping milk for your baby can be time-consuming and stressful, but having the right equipment can make a huge difference. We have compiled a list of pumping must-haves including links of where to find these items:

Breast Pump

A good quality breast pump is essential for working moms who want to continue breastfeeding. There are a few different types of breast pump and it is important to know which one is best suited to you. It is likely if you are returning to work that you will choose an electric or battery charged pump, although a hand pump may also be suitable. Electric pumps are usually faster and more efficient while the battery operated portable and wearable pumps are great for on the go. Spend time working out which one will be better suited to you and purchase from a credible supplier.

For portable electric pumps, we recommend: Moxi or Twain Portable Pumps

For wearable pumps, we recommend: Pump-A-Wear 

Breast Milk Storage Bags

Milk storage bags are the easiest and most convenient way to store your pumped milk at work. They can be dated, sealed and popped into the fridge or the freezer, ready to be transported home. You can purchase milk storage bags at the supermarket or online.

We recommend: Evelyn Milk Storage Bags 

Cooler Bag

Once you have your milk safely stored in your milk storage bags you will need a cooler bag to transport it in. A cooler bag is essential for transporting your breast milk from work to home but also essential to store the milk at work if you are not fortunate to have a fridge to store it in. Make sure to choose a bag that’s insulated and has enough room for your breast milk storage bags and ice packs or ice bags. Ice packs and bags are also things which we would recommend grabbing if it is not something you have at home.

We recommend: Roxwell Cooler Bag and Jamie Flexible Ice Bags

Pump/Work Bag

Having one bag that stores all of your work and pumping essentials is key. This saves you having to carry too many bags to and from work and means you have everything in one place. There are lots of bags out there on the market, over the shoulder, backpack or clutch being the most popular. It is important to shop around and make sure you find the bag that ticks off all the boxes for you. As the bag will be WELL used, ensure it also comes with a lengthy warranty.

Click here to see a wide range of pumping bags to suit your needs and pump.

Hands-Free Pump Bra

A hands-free pumping bra is great to wear at work because it allows you to pump while working or doing other activities. Holding the breast pump in place can be tiring and restrictive, especially if you need to pump for an extended period of time. Hands-free pumping bras are often more comfortable than traditional bras, as they are designed to provide support and compression to the breasts while pumping. This can help prevent discomfort or pain that may be associated with traditional bras.

We recommend: The Do Anything Bra

Cleaning Supplies

You’ll need to clean your breast pump and accessories after each use. If you have somewhere at work where you can keep your supplies, then we recommend labelling them and storing them in the work kitchen or other amenities. If you do not have somewhere at work to store these, then we suggest purchasing a wet bag which can store all the wet pump parts until you are able to get home and clean them properly. 

For cleaning, we recommend: Oxo Tot Travel Brush and Rack

For wet bag, we recommend: Robin Wet Bag

Nursing Pads or Milk Catchers

Leaking is common when breastfeeding, especially in the early months. To prevent leaking at work, we suggest using either a nursing pad. If you want to save every last drop, then using a milk collector shell would also be ideal. 

For nursing pads, we recommend: Nazar Bamboo Pads

For milk collectors, we recommend: Milk-A-Save Collection Shells

Water Bottle and Snack Pots

We all know that breastfeeding can make you hungry and drinking plenty of fluids is vital for your supply. If your workplace does not have a canteen or somewhere you can purchase food easily, then consider grabbing a large water bottle (32oz is recommended) and some pots for handy snacks.

Having these pumping must-haves on hand can make the breastfeeding journey as a working mom a lot easier. Remember, every mom’s journey is different, so choose what works best for you and your baby.