For many mothers, returning to work after maternity leave is a special moment. It can also be daunting, especially if you want to continue breastfeeding. Fortunately, working and breastfeeding don't have to get in the way. With the right preparation, a good breast pump, and a few smart routines, you can pump comfortably at work, too. In this blog post, we'll give you practical tips and explain what to keep in mind to make pumping during your workday as smooth as possible.
Why pumping at work is important
If you want to continue breastfeeding, it's important to keep pumping during work hours. This way, you maintain your milk supply and prevent engorgement or discomfort. Moreover, you can feed the expressed milk to your baby later, so they still get the benefits of breast milk, even when you're not there.
Good preparation helps you see pumping at work not as a chore, but as a natural part of your day.
1. Arrange a comfortable place to pump
Under the Working Conditions Act, as a mother, you are entitled to a suitable space for expressing milk or breastfeeding. This space must:
- have a door that can be locked,
- be clean and well ventilated,
- be equipped with a chair and table,
- and have access to electricity (for an electric breast pump).
In practice, this is often an empty office, a meeting room, or a dedicated pumping room. Discuss this with your employer beforehand so you know exactly where to go. A pleasant, quiet environment also helps stimulate the let-down reflex and therefore pump more efficiently.
2. Choose the best breast pump for your situation
Not every pump is suitable for use at work. Mothers who pump regularly often benefit from an electric breast pump or a cordless pump .
An electric pump works quickly and efficiently, especially if you choose a double breast pump . This allows you to pump both breasts simultaneously and is done in 10 to 15 minutes. The Youha breast pump is a good example of a modern electric pump that is both powerful and comfortable.
Prefer freedom of movement and no hassle with cords? Then a wireless breast pump is ideal. The Youha pump is completely hands-free, quiet, and discreet—perfect for work. You can stay on your laptop or quickly respond to an email while pumping.
When choosing the best breast pump take note:
- Speed and suction (sufficient power, but gentle on the nipples)
- Noise level (useful if you're in a shared space)
- Ease of use (easy to assemble, clean and charge)
- Wearing comfort (especially with wireless pumps)
With the right pump, pumping at work will not only be more efficient, but also more enjoyable.
3. Create a pumping schedule
Try to schedule your pumping sessions around your baby's feedings. Most mothers pump two to three times a day at work, depending on their work schedule. A helpful routine might include:
- First pumping time: mid-morning
- Second pumping time: after lunch
- Possible third moment: at the end of the working day
Try to stick to regular feeding times; this helps your body adjust and encourages consistent milk production. Consider setting a reminder on your phone to help you remember during busy days.
4. How to transport and store breast milk safely
After pumping, it's best to store the milk immediately in tightly sealed bottles or bags . Place them in a refrigerator (4°C or colder), or use a cooler bag with ice packs if a refrigerator isn't available.
Important guidelines:
- In the refrigerator: keeps for up to 3 days
- In a cool bag with cool packs: 24 hours
- In the freezer: 3 months (or longer at -18°C)
At home, you can gently warm the milk with a bottle warmer before your baby starts feeding. Avoid microwaves, as they heat the milk unevenly.
A handy tip: label each bottle with the date and time of expression, so you always use the oldest milk first.
5. Practical items to take with you
A well-organized pumping bag makes your workday much easier. These are handy items to always have with you:
- Your Youha pump (and possibly a spare battery or charger)
- Clean pumping set (breast shields, valves, diaphragms)
- Cooler bag with cooling elements
- Bottles or breast milk bags
- Cleaning wipes for quick cleaning
- Nursing bra or pumping top , so you can pump hands-free
- Drying rack (such as the Youha drying rack) to let your parts dry after cleaning
By preparing your supplies in the morning, you can start your workday without stress.
6. Make yourself comfortable
Pumping works best when you're relaxed. Take a moment to calm down, breathe deeply, and think about your baby—this helps your milk flow. Some mothers find it helpful to look at a photo or video of their baby while pumping.
Consider using a cordless pump like the Youha breast pump , so you're not tied to cords or an outlet. You can even pump in the car or during a short break if that's more convenient.
A comfortable chair, a warm sweater or a bottle of water within reach can make a big difference.
7. Cleaning and hygiene
Cleanliness is important, especially in the office. Rinse your pump parts with cold water after use, then clean them with warm water and dish soap, and let them air dry.
If you pump multiple times a day, you can temporarily store the used parts in a sealed container in the refrigerator and clean them thoroughly at the end of the day. A drying rack or travel kit can be helpful. How do you best clean your breast pump? We've written a blog post about it!
8. Be proud of yourself
Pumping at work requires planning, discipline, and perseverance. It's not always easy to find your rhythm, but every time you pump, you're giving your baby something special. Whether you use an electric breast pump, a cordless pump, or the best Youha pump , you're investing in your baby's health and in yourself.
So be proud of every drop of breast milk you express. With good preparation, a good pump, and a little self-care, pumping at work will soon become a natural part of your day.
Finally
Pumping at work requires some organization, but with the right tools and mindset, you can effortlessly combine it with your job. The Youha pump and other electric breast pumps make it easier than ever to express milk discreetly, comfortably, and efficiently. Whether you choose a cordless breast pump or a powerful electric pump, the most important thing is that it fits your lifestyle.
Keep listening to your body, give yourself time to adjust, and know: you're doing great.
Love,
Elles - Youha
