Setting Up a Pumping Station With Must-Have Supplies
Breastfeeding is great for your baby’s health, but sometimes it can be challenging. If you’re having trouble getting started or have run into some bumps, setting up a pumping station can help make it easier to keep going.
Two Steps to Set The Pumping Station
Setting up a pumping station for breastfeeding is a great way to ensure you can breastfeed your child anytime, anywhere.
- Find a comfortable place – This could be in your home, office, or anywhere else convenient. Make sure it has a table or desk to set up your pump and plug it into an outlet. You’ll also need to make sure that there’s room for your baby to sit comfortably in their carrier or bouncy seat nearby (or, if they’re too young for that, on your lap).
- Make sure you’ve got everything you need handy so that nobody has to leave the room while they’re pumping.
Must-Have Breast Pumping Station Supplies
With a pumping station, you can pump in comfort and style. While the supplies you’ll need will vary depending on your needs and preferences, here are some essentials that every pumping mom should have.
A breast pump, accessories, and storage bag are the bare essentials for your pumping station. You can get these items at any big-box store or online:
- Breast pumps – Various pumps are available on the market, so it’s essential to research which is best suited for you and your needs. It’s recommended that moms buy an extra set of flanges if they plan on using their pump regularly because they will wear out after a while.
- Storage bag – A large bag or backpack will work well as a storage container during travel or when returning home after work.
- Storage container – Choose one that holds all of your pumping essentials (pump, bottles, etc.) along with their accessories such as adapters and lids; this ensures everything stays clean while traveling between locations (workplace/home).
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There are a few more things for your station.
- A comfortable chair – Choose a chair with a backrest that can be adjusted to your preferred height. A footrest is also recommended for additional comfort.
- A clock – Having a clock nearby will help you keep track of time while pumping because it’s easy to lose track when engrossed in something else (e.g., working on projects).
- A table or other surface to place your electric pump will make it easier to use and help prevent injury if you accidentally bump your hand against the breast shield while pumping.
- Breastmilk cooler bag – This is a must-have for moms who plan on pumping away from home. If you want to pump at work, it’s essential to make sure your employer has a space where you can do so. If not, consider purchasing one of these bags for carrying breastmilk.
- Water bottle/drink of choice – Keep yourself hydrated! You’ll want to ensure you have plenty of water (and whatever else you prefer) on hand.
- Snacks/food if needed – If you’re pumping at work, it’s a good idea to bring some snacks along with you. If you want to pump at home, remember that your body will need extra calories and nutrients after pumping, so don’t forget to eat!
- Lanolin cream (if applicable) – Lanolin cream is the best way to help soothe sore nipples if you’re having trouble with them. If you’re having issues with your milk letdown, try using lanolin cream on your breasts before pumping.
- Pump parts and bottles – If you’re using an electric pump, bring along all the parts that came with your pump. For manual pumps, be sure to bring along bottles as well.
- Sanitary wipes – Pumping can be messy, so make sure to bring along some sanitary wipes. This is especially important if you’re pumping at work and don’t want milk on your desk.
- Any medications prescribed by a doctor – Bring those along if you’ve been prescribed medications while breastfeeding. You don’t want to be without them when you need them most!
- Phone charger cord if using an electric pump – If you’re using an electric pump, bring a phone charger cord. This will allow you to charge your phone while you pump.
- Extra batteries if using a battery-operated pump – If you’re using a battery-operated pump, make sure to bring extra batteries so you don’t have to stop mid-pump. You can purchase these at any drugstore.
- Sanitary pads in case of leakage from breast milk onto clothing/skin – It’s always good to have sanitary pads in your bag in case you leak breast milk onto your clothing or skin. This is especially important if you’re not wearing nursing pads with your bra.
- Towels, if needed, for cleaning up spills from spilled milk or leaking breasts (they don’t have to be fancy—just throwaway rags will do).
Where do you set up a pumping station?
One of the most important things you can do when setting up a pumping station is to find the most comfortable and convenient location. A good location can make all the difference in how much your baby uses the pump and how easily she gets used to it!
- You can set up a pumping station wherever you want. At home, work, or school; in your bedroom, living room, or kitchen; in your car (if needed). The possibilities are endless!
The main thing is to ensure you have a comfortable place to sit, with good lighting and privacy. You can try setting up your pumping station in different places around the house until you find one that feels right for you!
How do you build a pumping stash?
- Stock up on breastmilk storage bags: The most straightforward way to store your pumped breast milk is in a storage bag, which you can buy online or at any drugstore.
- Stock up on breastmilk storage containers: If you prefer to keep your pumped milk chilled but not frozen, you’ll need some containers that can be used with a standard refrigerator. This might be something like a plastic container with an airtight lid or something more specialized, like a travel-friendly ice pack that sits inside the bottle/jar and chills it as needed.
- Stock up on breastmilk storage bottles: Freezer-safe glass bottles are another option for keeping freshly pumped milk from spoiling. If you’re good about shaking them before each use (or if they come with one built-in), these containers will prevent separation between the fat globules and watery parts of your milk mixture over time. Again, these are readily available at grocery stores or pharmacies; ensure they’re labeled safe for freezing!
- Stock up on breastmilk storage lids: Speaking of labeling… you’ll also want plenty of lids for whatever type(s) of container(s) you choose to store your milk in so people don’t accidentally drink some when they think it’s water or other beverages (and vice versa). Use adhesive labels if possible so names won’t get smudged off when washed thoroughly after each use; otherwise, stickier ones may peel off during washing cycles, defeating the purpose here. 🙂
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Setting Up a Pumping Station – Conclusion
Creating a pumping station is not just about having all the necessary equipment. It’s also about ensuring you have a suitable space for your pumping needs and can keep those supplies organized.
By following these steps, you can create an effective and efficient space for yourself when it comes time to pump at work or home!