Motherhood is a journey filled with love, but it’s also full of challenges, especially for single mums. Without someone to share night feeds, help with household chores, or watch the baby while you run errands, everything falls on your shoulders.
But don’t worry, you’re not alone. In these circumstances, a breast pump, especially an electric one, can be a true lifesaver. It helps you save time and maintain your precious milk supply for your little angel. With the right gear, like a compact breast pump, an insulated cooler bag, and safe storage bottles, you can take greater control of your breastfeeding journey, even on the go. Let’s explore some smart pumping tips that make life easier, even when you’re constantly on the move!
Choosing the Right Breast Pump
Choosing the right breast pump is the most important factor to “ease the burden” for busy mothers. Currently, there are 3 different types of breast pumps on the market, including.
Manual breast pump: easy to use, suitable for mothers who pump a little milk and in a short time.
Electric breast pump: has a higher speed and efficiency, suitable for regular and long-term pumping.
Hospital-standard breast pump: often used in medical cases when mothers need to pump a lot of milk.
Electric breast pumps are a popular choice among mums thanks to their convenience, compact design, and efficient milk expression.
For busy mothers, you should choose a cordless electric breast pump, compact and easy to clean. With a modern, convenient, and smooth design, it will help mothers to pump milk anywhere, whether at work, in the car, or when traveling. Electric breast pumps will help you save time and be more flexible in providing precious breast milk for your baby.
Breast Pump Tips for Busy Mums On the Go
Pumping breast milk properly and intelligently will help single mothers not to be “dizzy” while taking care of their baby. If you have found the right breast pump, then now is the time to save the following useful tips to make the process of pumping breast milk easier.
1. Create a flexible pumping schedule
The first tip is to create a pumping schedule that works for you. You don’t have to force yourself to follow a set pumping schedule, but be flexible in incorporating pumping sessions into your daily routine. Creating a pumping schedule that fits your daily routine will help you maintain a steady milk supply without causing stress.
A pumping schedule also helps you manage your time better, especially for busy single moms or when returning to work. You can break up pumping sessions into sleeping baby time, post-feedings, or lunchtime. The key is to be consistent but flexible. If you are going on vacation, do not be afraid to modify your pumping schedule to suit the duration of the vacation.
2. Choose a travel-friendly breast pump
A cordless, lightweight, and easy-to-charge breast pump is ideal for mums on the go. You can choose from a compact electric breast pump or a wearable breast pump. Certain breast pump models also have a bottle to pump milk directly into the bottle, save time, and maximize the pumping experience.
Consider portability, battery life, simplicity, quietness, and your pumping routine when selecting a breast pump. You can look up the best breast pumps UK list to determine the model that best suits your budget and needs.
3. Pack smart for pumping on the move
The next tip is to prepare a separate bag for pumping on the go, including a pump, milk storage bottles/bags, sterilized tissues, and spare batteries. With an electric breast pump, you need to make sure you have all the necessary parts for the pump to work.
In addition, don’t forget to prepare additional hygiene items such as breast pads or spare bras. Having everything ready will help you be proactive and not be “distracted” when you need to pump milk in the middle of a busy schedule.
4. Store your breast milk safely anywhere
Storage is very important after pumping. If you want to store breast milk for as long as possible, you should store it in the fridge for up to 4 days and in an insulated cooler for up to 24 hours. You have to refrigerate the milk immediately after pumping it into the refrigerator to preserve the nutritional content of the milk.
But busy mothers cannot carry the whole refrigerator with them. So you can use special milk bags and store breastmilk in a cooler bag so that the milk quality does not get affected.
5. Locate comfortable, pump-friendly spots
Whether you are in a shopping mall, office, or rest stop, look around for a private, clean, and comfortable place to sit. The mother’s state of mind when pumping also directly affects the quality of her milk. Therefore, you should choose a quiet, warm environment to relax and feel more comfortable when pumping. A nursing jacket or cover will help you feel more private and confident.
For new mothers who have to return to work, you can request to use a private space and rest to pump at work under the ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service). You should discuss with your company to have a comfortable space for pumping.
6. Use sterilizing wipes to sanitize baby bottles
You may not always have the opportunity to clean your bottles or electric breast pump accessories immediately, especially for mothers who travel frequently. Therefore, sterilizing wipes are a necessity to allow you to keep your tools clean when you are in transit. Have additional sterilizing wipes ahead of time to be able to wash your breast pump tools as and when convenient, even while traveling by car.
7. Don’t be afraid to ask for support
Finally, remember that being a single parent doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. Don’t be afraid to ask friends, family, or single-parent groups for support when you need it. If you feel overwhelmed or need help caring for your baby, ask a family member, friend, or co-worker. Just a little help at the right time can make a big difference.
Pumping On the Go Essentials
You can also keep this list of essential items handy to make pumping easier on the go.
A compact electric breast pump: Prioritize the type with a lightweight, cordless design that is easy to carry in your bag. And prepare all the parts for the machine to work well.
Breast milk storage bags or bottles: Choose a bag made from BPA-free material that can be sealed tightly to preserve milk better.
A reliable cooler bag: Used to store breast milk at a safe temperature until you can store it in the refrigerator.
Sterilizing wipes: Useful when you don’t have the conditions to clean the bottle or breast pump on the spot.
A hands-free pumping bra: Helps you pump while doing other things, saving time effectively.
Nursing cover (optional): Create privacy if you pump in public.
Power bank or spare batteries: Make sure the breast pump always has a power source, especially when you are traveling for many hours.
Snacks and drinks: Pumping can leave you hungry and dehydrated, so have some snacks and drinks on hand to stay energized and maintain your milk supply.
Final Words
Being a single mom is inspiring but tough. With these tips and the right electric breast pump and equipment, expressing on the go is more efficient and convenient. You do not have to give up breastfeeding due to your busy lifestyle. And being a solo mom does not mean you have to do everything on your own. Ask for help when you need it, plan boldly, and take care of yourself so you can provide your best care to your baby wherever you are. Wishing you a lovely journey with your baby!