Once you’ve learned the basics and pumping is effective and comfortable, the next step is to optimize your routine. These tips and tricks will help you get the most out of your pump while being both an efficient and confident pumper.

Clean and dry your pumps between sessions

Cleaning your parts completely is critical for performance and safety. We don't recommend storing parts in the fridge between sessions because diaphragms and flanges can slip out of place, and pump performance can degrade over time. 

Make cleaning easier with soap, wipes and spray

Pump wipes and cleaning spray are designed to remove breast milk residue when you’re pumping on the go and don’t have access to soap and clean water. Otherwise, soap is best.

Invest in extra parts

Washing and completely drying after every session isn’t always practical. And storing parts in the fridge can degrade pump performance, so save time by keeping extra sets on hand. Rinse after each use, and then batch clean and dry them once a day.

Think through how you’re pumping your milk 

With Willow, it’s easy! Pump directly into reusable milk containers, then pour the milk into a milk cooler, bottle, or bag. (Willow 360 users also have the option of pumping into self-sealing bags.)

It’s vital to store and transport your milk safely

Bags and bottles are always an option, but you can safely and easily store and transport your milk directly into a cooler, where it’ll remain at a safe temperature for up to 24 hours. (The CDC’s handy guidelines advise how long it’s safe to store breast milk at different temperatures.) You can also consider a breast milk freezer tray, which makes it easy to store your milk in smaller portion sizes.

Keep your freezer stash truly cold to extend longevity

Label serving-size milk bags by date and volume, and store them flat, in chronological order, and away from your freezer’s high-traffic areas. And if for some reason bags thaw (like during a power outage), use them or lose them.

Create a pumping schedule that works for you

Just as there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to your pump, there’s no one way to fit pumping into your life. There are a few handy rules of thumbs, but the best routine is the one that suits your schedule, goals, and personality.

Troubleshoot any issues as soon as they arise

Some solutions might be simple, like massaging engorged breasts or getting regular help washing your pump parts. Other times, you might need to talk to a pro. Just try to get whatever support you need, because you shouldn’t have to suffer.

Keep your pump, breast milk, and gel packs together

Setting up a simple system helps you access and track it all. Also, the Food and Drug Administration deems breast pumps medical devices, so if you're flying, your pump bag won’t count as a carry-on.

You’re legally protected to pump in public 

And if you’re back at work, your pump breaks are also protected. Use this as time to relax and focus on yourself and your baby if you can. Comfy clothes, including a good pumping bra, can really make a difference as you return to work.

Your pump is an investment, so protect it. Some situations warrant more protection than others, like a case with a hard outer shell that fits into your pumping bag.

Replace parts every 90 days to get the most out of your pump

For Willow Go pumpers, replacing the diaphragm and duckbill is most critical for optimal performance. And for Willow 360 pumpers, you’ll want to replace the flextubes and container.

Replace parts every 90 days to get the most out of your pump

For Willow Go pumpers, replacing the diaphragm and duckbill is most critical for optimal performance. And for Willow 360 pumpers, you’ll want to replace the flextubes and container.

Get peace of mind with our product protection plan

It covers accidental damage, as well as mechanical and electrical breakdowns, for a full two years.