If you're a busy or working pumping mom, I know your time is precious so I won't bore you with the fluff and the basics.
But for a bit of a background, when I first had my baby, we were still learning how to latch and breastfeed. In the meantime, I was exclusively pumping around the clock for the first 5 and a half months. I tried 3 different pumps, a ton of nursing & pumping bras, and I found the set up that was perfect for me.
Below you'll learn about 2 different pumping set ups as well as recommended bras to go with them, that are perfect for busy and working moms, and will allow you to be hands-free while pumping efficiently!
*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.
The best hands-free pumping set up
Okay mama, so this set up in my opinion is the BEST and most efficient pumping set up while still remaining hands-free.
You will need:
This super cute pumping bag from Mimi and Pal!
A pumping bra (recommendation below)
I saw this set up on Instagram, and after following Mimiandpal for a few months, I decided to invest in both the pump and the bag, and it did NOT disappoint!
Pros:
You get great suction from the Medela Freestyle Pump
You're hands free
You're not tied to an outlet, so that means you can multi task!
Your battery pack is kept safe in the bag
You get a cute fanny pack to wear even when you're not pumping
The pumping bag supports a small business - yay!
It's extremely portable, great for working moms
Long battery life
You can pump even while charging
Cons:
It's a little pricey
For the price that I paid for this set up, I do believe it was completely worth it to be able to move freely while pumping, without compromising on the efficiency of the pump.
Best Pumping Bra
Whether you're pumping with the set up above or using a different pump, I recommend getting a few pumping bras that you can wear all day long, to save time so you don't have to change in and out of a pumping bra.
My favorite pumping bras are the Simply Sublime, Pumping & Nursing Bras from Kindred Bravely.
These award-winning bras are the best quality that I've tried. I love that it functions as both a pumping and nursing bra, that means no changing just to pump! And they're comfortable enough to wear around the clock. And that's exactly what I did. That's why I recommend getting a few of these so you never have to go without. These were such a life saver for me.
Pros:
One bra to pump or nurse, no need to change!
Great quality, and lasts long
Secures standard pump flanges (works fine for the Medela pumps)
Super comfy and soft, great for wearing all day and night
Several styles & colors to choose from
May be eligible for FSA/HSA reimbursement
Great for working moms
Cons:
A bit pricey compared to other bras
Not as cute as some other nursing or pumping bras
Back-up Breast Pump
Alternatively, if you're looking for an affordable set of breast pumps to be used as a back up pump or if you're not exclusively pumping, these hands-free in-bra electric pumps may work for you.
These in-bra breast pumps are very convenient and affordable. especially if you plan on taking your pumps to work or on the go. With these, you don't need a special pumping bra, they come with bra strap extenders that you can use with a nursing bra (my recommendation for a good bra to use with these is below).
I don't recommend these as your primary if you're an exclusive pumper because the motor just isn't quite as efficient. But they can come in handy if you need a back up.
If you're pumping frequently, you definitely would want to get 2 of these since they come as a single pump.
I haven't tried the Elvie or Willow, which are more expensive and have a lot more bells and whistles. But after reading the reviews, they appeared to have the same pros & cons as these ones so I decided not to give them a try.
Pros:
More affordable (even when you buy a pair)
Very portable, great for working moms
Don't need special pumping bras (but you do need a nursing bra, see below)
Hands-free pump
You're not tied to an outlet
Cons:
Suction isn't as powerful
Feels a bit "pinchy" on the nipples, but you get used to it
They don't work when they're charging
Battery holds less than the Medela Flex
Doesn't work while charging
Motor started to lose suction after a few months of exclusively pumping with these
Because of the size of these, they didn't work with all nursing bras (see below for nursing bras that did work)
All in all, these are great if you're an occasional pumper or want the ease of just putting them in your bra.
Best Nursing Bra for the In-Bra Breast Pump
I tried a few other nursing bras and not all of them worked with the in-bra pump I mentioned above. The pumps are a bit bulky so you need a nursing bra that has a bit of extra coverage so they don't fall out.
The bra that worked the best for this is the Simply Sublime Nursing Bra from Kindred Bravely.
It has great coverage in the front so they securely hold the pumps in place, even while you're moving around.
Pros:
Extremely soft & comfy, I wear them 24/7
High quality, lasts long
Great coverage, holds in-bra pumps securely in place
Supportive even though its wireless
Removable padding
Wide range of sizing for the perfect fit
Cons:
A bit pricey
Not as cute as some other nursing bras
If you're going the in-bra pump route, I definitely recommend these as your go to. And they're great if you're also nursing because, no need for a special pumping bra!
So those are my tips for the best pumping set ups for busy and working moms. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions and if this was helpful to you!