We get the question all the time, "Why should I get a dedicated breast pump bag instead of a regular tote?" We asked a couple of our pumping mama Brand Ambassadors for their thoughts on the topic. Read on to see what they had to say!
Q: For mamas who are wondering if they really need a dedicated breast pump bag versus just using a regular handbag or tote bag for their pump - What do you see as the benefits of having a breast pump bag?
A: Sierra, Meagan and Mayra answer below.
Sierra -
If you’re wondering if you need a specific bag, my short answer is YES!
I use a lot of bags, and even have a side hobby of selling a popular brand of totes and bags. I would still recommend a Sarah Wells Bag for pumping.
These bags are specifically designed for the job, with the right amount of pockets for your pump and accessories, and the thermal pockets are a must, especially if you’re a commuter.
If you were to use a regular handbag or tote, chances are you would need more than one… a bag for your pump, a bag for used parts, a bag for clean parts, a thermal for the milk, etc.
You get the idea! As a bonus, many Breast Pump Bags are not only beautiful, but also well made and can be reused in the future.
Meagan -
I was previously using a tote bag for my pumping accessories and it was a black hole of a mess. Absolutely nothing was organized. I couldn't find any one specific thing I was looking for without unloading half of the bag - it was just a messy disaster.
Since receiving my Sarah Wells bag, I have actually been able to combine my purse, pump tote, and diaper bag all into one incrediblely organized and attractive package! Sarah Wells Bags are clearly designed with mom in mind.
In my opinion, the Breast Pump Bags are designed to help keep things organized, visible, and easy to access. It makes all the difference when it comes to a time crunch as well.
Most moms who return to work find themselves pumping on an extremely tight schedule with no time to waste fumbling around searching for the supplies they need. And personally, I have delayed let downs when I am feeling stressed and pressed for time.
These pump bags make it possible to quickly get what you need set up with just a few zips of the bag; allowing more time to pump and focus on what's important - like breathing, haha!
Mayra -
When going to work and pumping, you deal with carrying extra things and you find yourself having to pause your workload in order to pump.
Now with my Claire, I no longer have to carry all these extra things such as the cooler for the milk I pump, storage for the actual pump, zip lock bags for the dirty parts, bottles and/or storage bags, and not to mention the pumping parts.
The Claire is definitely a game changer for me. I can store everything in just one bag. It has also saved me time, so I don't worry about taking out the pump from the other bag or taking out the cooler.
Carrying my pump and all the accessories has become a part of my every day life and the Claire has made things a lot easier.
This video shows a glimpse of everything I can fit into my Claire Breast Pump Bag.
We want to hear from YOU!
Why do you (or would you) find a dedicated breast pump bag helpful in your pumping journey?
Comment on this blog and we'll automatically enter you to win your color choice of a Claire breast pump bag! Contest closes 12/25/17 at 11:59pm ET. Open to all countries.
167 comments
I couldn’t justify the cost with our first and used a reusable grocery bag. It was far from a perfect situation, but I made it work. I’m hoping with #2 on the way and Christmas coming that I will find something way more functional under the tree!
I can say that having a pump bag has made my journey a little easier! On baby #2 with my Kelly bag and it has been a lifesaver. I got it for the purpose of not having to carry multiple bags to work but it has proven to help with so much more. I’ve changed titles since baby #1 so would love the more professional look of the Claire bag! SWPB makes my pumping experience better!???
Pumping bag is a must have!! Especially for a working momma. I work long days and it is wonderful to have everything that I will need for the day all in one bag instead of lugging around 2 awkward bags and digging through them to find what you need to pump! Love it!
I would love a dedicated pump bag. I currently use an old reusable grocery tote. I struggle to keep things clean and organized. I would love to have a dedicated bag that also demonstrates how committed I am to pumping for my son. It is a struggle to pump at work and I’ve even received nasty comments from the CEO. I would love a bag that shows that I’m proud of what I’m doing and that I’m serious about women’s rights and ability to pump in the workplace!
Having a bag like this would be a game changer for a full time working mom like myself. its already hard enough leaving the home to work 10 hr days but to be well organized and prepared would be a load of my shoulders to have everything nicely in one place and a SUPER noticeable bag that everyone at my workplace knows what I am doing.