Returning to work after maternity leave is a major life transition for parents. While you may feel excited at the thought of putting on a real pair of pants and getting back to the job you love, the reality of balancing the demands of a career with breastfeeding and pumping can feel overwhelming. However, with a little preparation and planning, you can reduce some of the stress associated with this transition. By packing the right supplies and setting yourself up for success, you’ll feel more confident and in control.
Here’s a checklist of essential items every breastfeeding parent should consider when packing your bags before returning to work:
Pumping checklist for the first day back at work:
- YOUR PERSONAL BREAST PUMP: If your workplace doesn’t provide a multi-user breast pump, don’t forget to pack your personal one. Charge it the night before so it’s ready to go.
- BREAST PUMP KIT: Pack all the necessary components: tubing, flanges, and bottles. Keep everything in a washable bag or basket for easy transport and cleanliness. If there’s space in the mothers' room, consider keeping a designated set of supplies at work to minimize the need to bring everything back and forth each day.
- BOTTLES: Pack your preferred bottles and caps for collecting pumped milk. Some moms have specific brand or size preferences, so make sure to bring the ones that work best for you. Bring extra if this is going to be the primary method to storing your milk.
- BOX OF MILK STORAGE BAGS: Milk storage bags are an excellent option for safely storing and freezing your milk. Having a box on hand lets you transfer milk from bottles to bags after each session, making it easier to store or transport.
- COOLER BAG OR BOTTLE: If you plan to store your pumped milk at work or have a long commute to get home a cooler bag is a must-have. Choose one that’s insulated to keep your milk and cooling elements chilled and can hold your bottles comfortably.
- COOLING ELEMENTS: To keep your milk at the right temperature, pack cooling elements like ice packs or gel packs. These should fit inside your cooler bag and maintain the right temperature until you can get home.
- 3-4 FREEZER BAGS (JUST IN CASE): Life happens—sometimes you forget essential items at home. Keep a few extra freezer bags in your bag as a backup, just in case you forget your cooler bag or ice packs and need to bring ice home from work.
- BOTTLE BRUSH: A bottle brush is handy for cleaning your pumping equipment between sessions. Wash your parts then shake off excess water and line a few paper towels in the bottom of a storage bin for adequate air drying.
- PREFERRED DISH SOAP: While some offices provide basic dish soap, You may prefer a specific brand of dish soap for cleaning your pump parts. A travel-sized bottle is perfect for this.
- HANDS-FREE PUMPING BRA OR ATTACHMENT: These devices let you pump while doing other tasks like checking emails or eating lunch. Practice with these at home first to get comfortable before relying on them for the first time at work.
- SWEATER OR JACKET: Office temperatures can be unpredictable, and you might feel chilly during your pumping sessions. A cozy sweater or zip-up jacket can help keep you warm and comfortable throughout your session(s).
- EXTRA SHIRT AND BRA (IN CASE OF SPILLS): Keep an extra shirt and bra in your desk drawer or closet in case of an unexpected letdown or spill.
- SNACKS AND WATER: Your body is working hard to keep up with family and work demands. Bring healthy snacks and a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated and fueled throughout the day.
Pro tips for returning to work after maternity leave
For a smoother transition, contact your leave of absence coordinator well in advance of your first day back at work. You don’t want to start your first day juggling tasks like arranging access to the mothers’ room or scheduling your pumping sessions. Instead, take the time to sort out the logistics of using your office’s lactation room(s). Find out if you need a key or code for access, whether there’s a scheduling system in place, and what amenities the room offers. Be sure to check what’s provided on-site and what you’ll need to bring with you each day. This will help you feel more prepared and minimize delays in pumping.
If your company partners with us, we can assist with coordinating these details for you.
Returning to work after maternity leave is no small feat, but with the right preparation, you can help ease the transition. With these essentials in your bag, you’ll be able to have peace of mind while bringing milk home to your baby. You’ve got this!