5 Ways To Make Exclusively Pumping Easier

5 Ways To Make Exclusively Pumping Easier (That Have Nothing to Do With Making More Milk)

Pumping is hard enough.

Between remembering pump parts, planning your day around pump sessions, washing bottles (again), and wondering if you're doing everything "right," it's easy to feel like pumping has taken over your life.

While everyone talks about increasing milk supply, sometimes the biggest improvements come from making your pumping journey more enjoyable, more comfortable, and more sustainable.

Here are five simple things I recommend to almost every pumping mom.

1. Use Pumping as a Break

One of the biggest mindset shifts you can make is stopping seeing pumping as an interruption... and starting to see it as permission to pause.

I know - that's easier said than done.

It can feel like everyone else is living life while you're slipping away to pump for the third or fourth time that day. It's completely normal to experience a little FOMO.

But what if that time became something you actually looked forward to?

Save your favorite TV show for pump sessions.

Start an audiobook you've been wanting to read.

Catch up on your favorite podcast.

Drink your coffee while it's still hot (a rare postpartum luxury!).

Those 20–30 minutes don't have to feel like another chore on your to-do list. They can become a small pocket of time that's just for you.

Tamari's Tip: I know it's tempting to scroll social media during every pump session, but I actually recommend saving something you genuinely enjoy just for pumping. Having a "pump-only" show or podcast gives you something to look forward to each session.

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2. Invest in a Good Pumping Bra

If you're still holding your flanges every time you pump...

Friend, it's time.

A hands-free pumping bra is one of the best investments you can make if you're pumping regularly.

Instead of sitting hunched over trying not to move, you can actually use your hands.

Eat breakfast.

Answer a few texts.

Hold your baby if you need to.

Read a book.

Or simply relax.

Not all pumping bras are created equal, though.

Two of my personal favorites are:

The Larken X Bra – If you're looking for something comfortable enough to wear all day, this is one of my absolute favorites. It's supportive without feeling restrictive, and it's incredibly easy to use for pumping.

The Bodily Do Anything Bra – Another favorite because it's unbelievably soft and versatile. It's one of those bras you'll find yourself reaching for whether you're pumping, nursing, or simply getting through another busy day with baby.

👉 Not sure what to look for in a pumping bra?
Check out my video on how to choose the right pumping bra before you buy.

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3. Set Yourself Up with the Right Equipment

You don't need every pumping gadget on the internet.

But having the right tools can make your day so much easier.

I usually recommend starting with the essentials and building from there.

Here are a few things I love:

A primary breast pump

Your primary pump is the workhorse of your pumping journey.

If you're still deciding which one is right for you, I've put together a blog, comparing the different types of pumps, to help make your choice a little bit easier.

👉 Read: Choosing The Right Breast Pump: What You Need to Know

A wearable pump (if it's in your budget)

Wearables aren't meant to replace your primary pump.

But they can be incredible for busy days, running errands, traveling, or simply having a little more flexibility.

Sometimes being able to pump while watching your toddler at the park or walking through Costco makes all the difference.

A double cooler

If you're pumping away from home often, a double cooler has been a game changer.

One of my favorites is the BAGSMART Double Cooler, which gives you space for both your pump parts and your milk without trying to cram everything into one tiny lunch bag.

A breastmilk chiller

If you're frequently pumping on the go, a breastmilk chiller can give you so much peace of mind.

My favorite is the Willow Breastmilk Chiller because it's simple, reliable, and makes transporting milk throughout the day so much easier.

👉 Read my full chiller comparison here

💛 Don't forget to grab my free Pumping Mom's Checklist before you head back to work or start pumping on the go. It's a great way to make sure you never forget the essentials before walking out the door.

4. Fit Pumping Into Your Life—Not the Other Way Around

One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that pumping means your life has to stop.

It doesn't.

You can still go to the concert.

Meet your friends for coffee.

Take the road trip.

Spend the afternoon at the amusement park.

Go to the family BBQ.

Sometimes it's simply a matter of pumping a little earlier before you leave.

Maybe you pump in the car before heading inside.

Maybe you bring your wearable pump.

Maybe you plan one extra session around your day.

Pumping should fit into your life—not become your life.

The more flexible you become, the more sustainable your journey often feels.

5. Get Educated From an Expert, Not Google

Not by spending hours piecing together advice from TikTok.

Not by reading 47 different Facebook comments.

Not by Googling the same question five different ways.

The internet has an incredible amount of information.

But information isn't the same as personalized support.

One article might tell you to power pump.

Another says you need supplements.

Another tells you to replace your flanges.

The truth?

The right answer depends on your body, your pump, your baby, and your goals.

That's why working with someone who can look at your unique situation is so valuable.

Whether you're trying to increase your milk supply, troubleshoot pumping pain, find the right flange size, prepare to return to work, or simply feel more confident, having expert guidance can save you weeks—or even months—of frustration.

You don't have to become your own lactation consultant.

That's what we're here for.

You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone

Pumping is hard.

But it shouldn't feel like you're reinventing the wheel every single day.

A few small changes can make pumping more comfortable, more sustainable, and a lot less overwhelming.

And if you've been feeling stuck...

Know this:

You don't have to keep guessing.

At One With The Pump, we've helped more than 3,000 moms navigate low milk supply, pumping challenges, returning to work, flange sizing, and everything in between.

Whether you're looking for expert guidance, a supportive community, or simply someone to answer your questions, we're here to help.

👉 Book a Consultation

👉 Browse our favorite pumping products and free resources

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