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
A special dedicated pump bag not only makes it much easier to stay organized and efficient during pump times and prepping for them, but having a Sarah Wells bag that is stylish is an awesome perk! I think having more options for carrying pumps is another step towards normalizing breastfeeding and pumping.
I am giving birth in 5 weeks; from all the Mom blogs and advice from fellow friends. I hear it is a must! Anything to make life a little more organized and fashionable!
I tried using a regular bag instead of getting a pump bag. It was a disorganized chaotic mess! I constantly left an important pump piece at home. It was frustrating and overwhelming. Being a pumping mom at work is hard enough. Having a pump bag makes it so much easier!
I started carrying my pump / work stuff in a standard tote, and while it worked, it was such a hassle to set up my pump I left it in my pump in the conference / pump room, which was awkward. With my Lizzy I am able to keep all my stuff contained, set up, clean up and take down efficiently, and I’m able to hold everything I need in a clean and easy manner. It made traveling that much easier too. It is a nice bonus that it looks great, and even with the pump specific features I will probably use it well outside of my pumping journey. So no it is not something you “need” but if you plan on pumping regularly, a pump bag is worth the investment.
I am anxious to try a Sarah Wells bag. I’m a teacher so I won’t have much time to pump when baby #3 arrives. The more organized, the better!!