Pumping is a routine but dreaded part of breastfeeding. Many breastfeeding moms must pump as a regular part of their breastfeeding routine. You may have to pump because your baby doesn’t latch well, but you still want to breastfeed, or because you must go to work or otherwise be away from your baby. You also might pump because you prefer to bottle-feed. Whatever the reason, here are 15 practical pumping tips you can add to your routine to make things go more smoothly.
Practical Tips To Make Pumping Breast Milk Easier
Whether you’re an exclusive pumper or just adding a session at work, these simple strategies can make every session smoother and more efficient.
1. Go Hands-Free
Hands-free pumping helps you multitask comfortably and maintain steady suction for better milk output.
First and foremost, a good pumping bra will help you hold the flanges in place while you pump, allowing you to keep your hands free. This hands-free pumping and nursing bra is a great option, especially for those who pump and nurse. It makes it very easy to do both without having to change your bra.
2. Try This Nursing Bra Hack
A simple DIY trick that turns your nursing bra into a pumping bra for convenience and comfort anywhere.
If you can’t or don’t want to get a pumping bra, that is okay, too. This hack can turn your nursing bra into a pumping bra. It requires a little more finesse than sticking the flanges into a pumping bra, but it works all the same. This is a must-know tip if you want to pump hands-free. A pumping bra features a hole directly over your nipple, allowing the flange to fit snugly in your bra without requiring you to hold it while pumping. This hack utilizes the clips and straps on your nursing bra or tank to secure the pumps in place without needing to use your hands.
3. Use the Right Flange Size
A proper flange fit prevents nipple pain and ensures efficient milk removal during pumping.
Make sure your flanges are the right size for your nipples. An IBCLC in your area can help measure you to ensure you have the correct size. Here is a nipple ruler you can use if you prefer to do it yourself. Having the right size flange for your body will ensure you express milk efficiently.
4. Look for Flange Comfort
Lubrication or nipple balm can help prevent irritation and make pumping sessions more comfortable.
Nipples are like any other body part; they can get dry and chapped from overuse. You might want to get a pumping spray like this one or lubricate your nipples before pumping with a coconut oil-based nipple ointment like this one.
5. Give This Breast Pump Fridge Hack a Try
Properly storing pump parts between sessions saves time and keeps your setup clean and safe.
If they cannot thoroughly wash pumping parts between sessions, some women store their pump parts in a plastic bag in the fridge, which can slow the growth of bacteria. The CDC states, “If you choose to refrigerate pump parts between pumping sessions, rinse the parts first to remove milk residue, if possible, and then keep the parts in a sealed bag to prevent contamination. If rinsing is not possible, wipe milk residue off the parts with a clean, disposable paper towel.” Make sure to wash your pump parts at least once a day if you use this hack.1
6. Freeze Bags Flat
Flat freezing saves space and makes it easier to store, stack, and thaw your milk later.
You may find yourself with extra breast milk that needs to be stored in the freezer.2 Remember, when you bag up your milk to put in the freezer, make sure you freeze your bags flat so you can use your freezer space more efficiently.
Related: How to Create a Breast Milk Freezer Stash
7. Keep Your Pumping Bag Stocked
A ready-to-go bag ensures you never skip a session and helps you stay organized on the move.
Ensure you have a fully stocked pumping bag. I recommend having the following in your bag: snacks, extra (clean) pump parts, a portable brush set for washing parts and a small bottle of dish soap or pump cleaning wipes, and additional milk storage bags.
8. Get Portable
Portable pumps make it easier to stick to your schedule and maintain supply wherever you are.
Even if you have a pumping bra, most standard pumps that come with insurance require you to be plugged into a wall for power. There are many portable pump options available in various sizes. My favorite is the Elvie, two separate pumps that tuck inside your bra. Thanks to this pump, I have pumped discreetly at my desk at work, among other places. If you can swing an insurance upgrade or purchase a second pump, I recommend one with a portable option. Some alternatives are the Spectra S1, Spectra S9, or the Willow.
9. Massage Your Breasts
Gentle massage during pumping improves milk flow and helps you express more efficiently.
I find it helpful to massage my breasts with my hands while pumping. It can increase the fat content in your milk and help you pump and empty your breasts more efficiently, signaling your body to produce more milk. A great video from Stanford will give you more information on how to massage your breasts while pumping effectively.
Related: How to Produce More Breast Milk: 22 Ways to Boost Your Supply
10. Avoid Clogs
Using supplements like sunflower lecithin can help keep milk ducts clear and prevent blockages.
As a breast pump is not as efficient at emptying milk from your breast as an infant’s latch, sometimes we need to add something extra to keep the milk flowing properly. Sunflower lecithin is a supplement that can be taken daily to help prevent clogged milk ducts.3
11. Apply Heat
Applying gentle warmth can boost milk flow and make pumping faster and more comfortable.
Another tip to help keep your milk flowing efficiently and to make your pumping sessions go faster is to apply heat to your breasts while pumping. Using heat before pumping can help dilate your ducts, making it easier to remove milk.4
12. Have the Right Tools
Lactation massagers or warm compresses can support milk flow and ease discomfort from clogs.
It is helpful to have a lactation massager handy in case you experience a clog. This one is powerful and efficient. It uses heat to help break up the clog, or you can apply this curved lactation massager on your breast with the heat on to help keep the milk flowing.
13. Look at Photos or Videos of Your Baby
Seeing or hearing your baby can stimulate letdown by triggering oxytocin release.
Being with your baby helps stimulate milk production. A mom often pumps because she cannot be with her baby. If you must pump away from your baby — while at work, for example — there’s a trick you can use to make your body think you are with your baby. Looking at photos or videos of your baby can stimulate oxytocin, which may contribute to a letdown while pumping.5
14. Hand Expression
Hand expressing after pumping helps empty your breasts fully and signals your body to produce more.
A pump is not as efficient at removing milk from your breasts as a suckling baby. A way to maintain a consistent milk supply while pumping is to hand express after each pumping session. This will help get that last bit of milk out, signaling your body that your breasts are ready to make more milk.
15. Know Your Number
Understanding your “magic number” helps you find the ideal pumping frequency to maintain supply.
Whether you pump, nurse, or both, knowing your “magic number” will help you set the proper schedule for you and your baby. The magic number is the number of milk removals required for your body to maintain, increase, or decrease supply. Thanks to this knowledge, I only had to pump once a day at work to maintain my supply. You can also add extra pumping sessions to boost the supply. It is also helpful when weaning.6
Pumping may never be your favorite part of motherhood, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right tools, fit, and mindset, you can make every session easier — and celebrate every ounce of progress along the way.
