Tag: returning to work

Must-Have Products, Tips & Tricks

Packing a pumping bag for work

pumpmommapump

Returning to work outside the home as a pumping momma can feel daunting. I’m here to help smooth this transition for you, momma! You’ll find lists for the absolute essentials, for leveling up your pumping game, and for extra items that are great to have on hand.
>> SAVE and SHARE<< with a friend who needs it!
Click HERE or more tips on pumping at work or HERE to read about your legal rights for pumping at work.

(This post was written by Melissa with some help from the mommas over at Pump Momma Pump on Instagram… but if you’d get a kick out of the AI version, check out “Packing a pump bag for work:” Chat GPT version The pictures in that post are hilarious!)

My Number 1 tip? Pack the night before, if possible! Print out a checklist and put it in a page-protector sleeve if you can’t laminate it, then use a dry-erase marker each day, wiping clean each night! If you’d like my list, download my Printable Pump Bag Checklist.
Also, select a pump bag that does double-duty. I like carrying just one bag for my laptop, lunch, pump & accessories, as well as other “mom stuff” in the smallest pockets. (I usually throw in a wristlet with all my essentials like phone, credit cards, and chapstick, instead of carrying a separate purse.) I find that Sarah Wells bags work the best for this, and will be useful for years to come! I still use mine for work, travel, and days out with my young children.

Pumping at Work: The Essentials

Don’t forget the absolute essentials for pumping at work, momma! 

  • Protective Pump Bag- Select a bag that has padding/insulation to protect your investments- your pump and hard-earned liquid gold! Preferred product: Sarah Wells Bags Kelly, Fiona, or Abby, discount code PUMPMOMMAPUMP15
  • Pump & Accessories- It helps to make a list so you don’t forget the fiddly bits!
  • Storage for milk- How will you keep your milk cold at work and during transit?
  • Pumping bra- Some mommas like to wear a pumping bra all day, where others like to strap on one just to pump. Preferred product: Simple Wishes Hands-Free Adjustable discount code PMP15 or Kindred Bravely discount code PMP15
  • Wipes- Keep it clean with regular and/or pumping wipes
  • Ice pack- Have extras in your freezer incase you forget to unpack and freeze one!
  • Washing stuff- If you wash your pump parts at work, bring a travel bottle brush, drying rack, and bottle soap! Yes they all come in travel-friendly sizes!

Pumping at Work- Level Up

Feelin extra? Level up your pumping game with these game-changers! 

  • Designer pump bag- There are many companies offering stylish pump bags- express yourself while you… express yourself! Preferred Product- Mimi & Pal Radley bag discount code PUMPMOMMAPUMP10
  • Portable or Wearable pump- Some mommas appreciate having a portable or wearable pump to offer greater flexibility and freedom Preferred Products- Pumpables Genie Advanced discount code PMP10, Baby Buddha breastpump discount code PUMPMOMMA
  • Milk cooler- Keep that milk cold until you get it safely home Preferred Products- CeresChill OG Chiller discount code PUMPITUP, MomCozy milk cooler
  • Wet bag- Great for storing pump accessories, especially if you do the fridge hack during work
  • Headphones or airpods- For pleasant distraction and a uplifted mood
  • Flange lubrication- Pump in comfort by lubricating your flanges (I suggest coconut oil, personally and professionally) 
  • Entertainment- Get that milk flowing as you take some time for yourself! Catch up on a favorite show, read, listen to music, or scroll instagram

Pumping at Work- Extras

These helpful extras were suggested by the mommas at Pump Momma Pump to help pumping at work go extra smoothly! 

  • Spare pump to keep at work- If you have a spare pump, that’s one less thing to take back and forth every day. A manual pump kept at work is great incase you forget your pump or it runs out of battery. Preferred product: Medela Harmony manual pump
  • Extra parts- Have an extra set of all your pump accessories? Keep them at work in case you ever forget anything!
  • Extra baggies- Always a good idea to keep extra milk baggies at work.
  • Charging cords- A charging cord for your pump and/or phone may come in handy.
  • Spare shirt- Uh oh, spilled milk stains and stinks! Bring along a spare shirt. 
  • Towel or paper towels- To keep your area clean, especially for drips and spills.
  • Snack and hydration- Increasing calories and staying hydrated supports lactation!

I know it’s a lot, momma. The first few days back to work might be a little overwhelming and perhaps a little emotional. I know because I’ve been there myself, twice. Know that you’re capable. You’re a problem-solver. You’re strong and resilient. You got this.

Have a minute? Check out my Perfect Pumping Room post!

Find all my favorites for Back-to-Work HERE on my Amazon idea list!

Be sure to follow Pump Momma Pump on Instagram for education, motivation, and support! (And more great tips like these!)

AI generated pump bag
Tips & Tricks

“Packing a Pump Bag for Work” Chat GPT Version

pumpmommapump

I asked Chat GPT (Artificial Intelligence software) to write a blog post with advice and pictures for packing a pump bag. The results weren’t what I expected…

They were pretty great! I didn’t expect that! I expected the most generic list, with robotic language and incorrect information… but I got a compassionate, thoughtful list, complete with very accurate advice for a momma’s return to work! The pictures, however…. *shakes head and laughs* were another story. They cracked me up! I hope you enjoy the results.

*I have included the full results from Chat GTP below, complete with the AI generated images. Any of my own words have been added in parenthesis with PMP- in front. My own version of this blog is coming soon, so keep an eye out!*

*AI generated image* PMP- Apparently all moms returning to work are thin
white women with corporate jobs who take their kids to work?!

Title: Packing a Pumping Bag for Work: A Breastfeeding Mom’s Guide

Going back to work as a breastfeeding mom can be a challenging transition, but being well-prepared with a properly packed pumping bag can make the experience smoother and more manageable. Whether you’re a first-time mom or just need a refresher, this guide will help ensure you have everything you need for a successful pumping session at work. (PMP- Solid start, Chat GPT, let’s see what ya got!)

Essential Items for Your Pumping Bag

  1. Breast Pump and Accessories
    Make sure your pump is fully charged or has a power adapter if it requires an outlet. Don’t forget essential parts such as flanges, tubing, valves, and membranes. (PMP- way to go Chat GPT! Excellent advice and terminology!)
  2. Breast Milk Storage Bags or Bottles
    Bring enough storage containers to accommodate the amount of milk you plan to pump. Labeling them with the date can help with organization and freshness.
  3. A Small Cooler with Ice Packs
    Keeping your milk cold is essential, especially if you don’t have access to a refrigerator at work. An insulated cooler with ice packs will do the job. (PMP- another thumbs up)
  4. Hands-Free Pumping Bra
    A hands-free bra allows you to multitask while pumping, making the process more convenient and comfortable.
  5. Cleaning Supplies
    Bring pump wipes or a small bottle of dish soap and a brush if you need to wash your pump parts at work. Some moms also bring a microwave steam sterilizer bag for quick cleaning. (PMP- So far this is pretty darn close to what I would have written myself!)
  6. Nursing Pads and Extra Clothes
    Leaks happen! Pack extra nursing pads and a backup shirt just in case. (PMP- Many moms on Instagram also suggested bringing an extra shirt and hand towel!)
  7. Snacks and Water
    Pumping can be dehydrating and energy-draining. Keeping a water bottle and some healthy snacks in your bag will help maintain your energy levels. (PMP- Yessssss!)
  8. A Comfortable Cover (Optional)
    If you prefer privacy while pumping, a nursing cover or lightweight scarf can be helpful, especially if you share a space. (PMP- Legally, your work must provide a private space to pump!)
  9. A Notebook or Pumping App
    Keeping track of your pumping schedule, milk output, and reminders for cleaning and storage can be helpful.
*AI generated image* PMP- Dyyyying laughing at this pumping bag. Note the huge haakaa style pump with tube leading to nowhere. Anything else crack you up?
*AI generated image* PMP- The baby on the windowsill! …And yet another thin Caucasian model with an office job.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Pumping Experience

  • Create a Pumping Schedule: Try to pump at the same times each day to maintain your milk supply. (PMP- Again, way to go Chat GPT!)
  • Have a Backup Plan: Keep an extra set of pump parts at work in case you forget something.
  • Stay Relaxed: Listening to music, looking at pictures of your baby, or practicing deep breathing can help with milk letdown. (PMP- Okay I am beginning to think they borrowed some of this from my website at this point.)
  • Advocate for Your Needs: Communicate with your employer about your pumping needs and ensure you have a comfortable, private space to express milk. (PMP- Yesssssss!)
*AI generated image* (PMP- Just… wat. Gotta get me one of those pump/cooler hybrids! LOL)
*AI generated image* PMP- This is what I got when I requested that the mom be “blue collar.” Way to take me literally! (Also, I don’t think this is Osha compliant, LOL)

Packing a well-stocked pumping bag will set you up for a successful return to work while continuing your breastfeeding journey. With the right preparation, you can make pumping at work a seamless part of your daily routine. You’ve got this, mama! (PMP- VERY happy with this blog post, Chat GPT! The photos however…. could use some work. LOL)

*AI generated image* PMP- *shakes head*…. AI is creepy, man.
Also, note the bottle/pump combo… ?!
Shop Pumpables and save with code PMP10

Be sure to follow Pump Momma Pump on Instagram for education, motivation, and support! (And more great tips like these!)