Here is a convenient list of everything you need to be perfectly pumped. 

I recently came across a blog post I had read and bookmarked last year when I started my breastfeeding journey. Written by The Extreme Pumper, this is a great list of things you need to be a successful pumper. I remember reading about her number one item on the list: A Hands-Free Bra. Interesting to note, in retrospect, that I am not alone in my dissatisfaction with the hands-free bras that existed in the marketplace at that time:

She confides that she originally bought a hands-free bra “intending to use its 'system' (involving its nursing bra and a bunch of complicated hooks and stuff) for hands-free pumping, but I was so tired and out of it when I got home from the hospital that I couldn’t figure it out. (I don’t know about your mommy brain, but mine could not digest eight pages of instructions FOR A BRA. Ahem.)”

She was eventually given a hand-me-down bustier with a front zipper (my pet peeve as it is super tricky to use a front zipper with engorged breasts and is also – for me – dangerously painful. Yikes!). She notes the following, which is exactly the experience I had that led me to create the Hooter Holster by Carey Bradshaw: “(…I don’t really care for having my belly exposed…, because I get cold. You can turn any shirt into a nursing shirt by wearing a tank top underneath it. Pull your shirt up, pull your tank top down, and zip the bustier under your shirt and over the tank top.)”

There has got to be an easier, more fashionable way to stay covered and comfortable while pumping! I am not sure any mom wants her post-partum belly on display after giving birth. I know I sure didn’t. She goes on to say: “Seriously, this is a life-changing purchase. I feel so strongly about it that it is my shower gift to any of my friends that plan to work and breastfeed. It is absolutely worth it if you plan to pump exclusively for any significant period of time.”

I SO agree. Great shower gift for the new mommy-to-be! As a rookie mom, I had no idea what supplies I would need but agree with The Extreme Pumper that a hands-free pumping bra is an essential new-mom item. Other items I found to be essential for pumping success:

1. Breast Pads: I really liked the Bamboobies I received as a gift. Big enough to sop up any leakage yet discreet enough to not look like you are smuggling contraband in your bra. They are also made of soft, organic material that is machine-washable and reusable.

2. Bottles: LOTS of Bottles. I had success with Dr. Browns but you may need to try several types and styles to find out which your baby prefers. Babies can be shockingly picky about this!

3. Bottle Warmer: I received the Brown Bottle Warmer as a shower gift. Soooo useful! Makes thawing frozen breast milk at 3am a breeze.

4. Extra Pump Parts: While not a “must have,” this is certainly a time saver.

5. Breast Milk Freezer Bags: I have no preference on brand but you will definitely want to invest in these if you plan to pump.

6. Water Bottles: I had NO idea how hard it can be to stay hydrated when you are a new, breastfeeding mom. I recommend buying several large water bottles and placing them strategically around the house. Staying hydrated greatly increases your milk supply.

Are there any must have items that you recommend? Please share in the comments – I am always looking for advice from the mama tribe!

We welcome your feedback and would love to know how we can continue to improve our hands-free pumping bra designs and make your "mom life" easier.

Carey Bradshaw, Author (& Nursing Aficionado)