If there is one thing that all breastfeeding mothers know, it is the value of convenience and time-saving. One way to streamline your routine is by using your nursing bra as a pumping bra. This "nursing bra hack" allows you to seamlessly transition between nursing and pumping, making it more manageable and efficient. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the steps of using your nursing bra as a pumping bra, saving you time and hassle (and the need for owning a million different bras).
Why use the nursing bra hack for pumping?
Using a nursing bra as a pumping bra offers several advantages:
Cost Saving: It eliminates the need to purchase a separate pumping bra, saving you money.
Convenience: You can easily switch between nursing and pumping without changing your bra.
Comfort: Nursing bras are designed with comfort in mind, making them suitable for extended wear during pumping sessions.
Privacy: If you prefer to pump discreetly, using your nursing bra allows you to cover up while pumping.
How to make the most of your nursing bra for pumping
Step 1: Choose the Right Nursing Bra
Not all nursing bras are suitable for use as pumping bras. Look for these features when selecting a bra:
Straps that unclip/unclasp in the front: You will need a nursing bra with clasps that unhook for nursing/pumping access, rather than the kind that simply pull to the side.
Stretchy Material: A bra with some stretch allows for a snug and comfortable fit during both nursing and pumping.
Adequate Support: Ensure the bra provides proper support for your breasts, as this will help hold the breast shields in place during pumping.
TIP: You can also use a nursing tank instead of a nursing bra.
Step 2: Find the Right Position
To begin pumping with your nursing bra, you need to position the breast shields correctly. Here's how:
Unhook or open the nursing clips on your bra to expose your breast. Pull the strap located on the outside of your breast around so that it is resting on the inside of your breast (towards the middle of your chest).
Insert the pump flange into your bra, positioning it over your nipple and areola. Reposition the strap which you moved to the inside of your breast so that is resting against the flange .
Make sure the flange is centered and secure within the bra cup, so it covers your breast properly.
Step 3: Secure the Flanges
To prevent the breast shields from shifting during pumping, secure them properly:
Adjust the straps of your nursing bra to ensure a snug but not tight fit.
Double-check the positioning of the flanges, ensuring they remain centered over your nipples.
Fasten the clips or hooks of your nursing bra to hold the flanges in place securely.
Step 4: Start Pumping
With your nursing bra in position, you're ready to start pumping:
Connect your breast pump to the breast shields.
Begin your pumping session according to your usual routine.
Relax and adjust as needed to ensure proper milk flow and comfort.
Step 5: Finish and Transition
Once your pumping session is complete:
Turn off and disconnect the breast pump from the breast shields.
Unhook the fasteners on your bra.
Remove the breast flanges, re-clasp the bra straps, and you're done!
Want to see the nursing bra hack in action?
Check out this helpful YouTube video:
Conclusion
Using your nursing bra as a pumping bra is a clever way to simplify the breastfeeding and pumping process. By choosing the right bra and ensuring proper positioning of breast flanges, you can make nursing and pumping more convenient, comfortable, and efficient. With this nursing bra hack, you'll have one less thing to worry about (and purchase!) as you navigate the demands of motherhood.