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 think it absolutely an essential to have your own breastfeeding bag for your supplies and pump! I work full time and I bring a cooler backpack which is nice because the milk cans yay nice and cool while transporting it back home! You need to make sure it has enough pockets so all of your supplies can be with you on the go, plus extras. :)
I absolutely think you need a dedicated pumping back if you are heading back to work after having a baby. It makes everything organized and easy to access!
I think having a dedicated breast pump bag is essential in my opinion it keeps you motivated to pump, it also keeps you organized with everything at reach. And we all know mamas in general can use the extra help in keeping everything organized. I’m excited to start my pumping journey in March when we welcome our second baby girl I will have a 12 mo old and a new born and I know that thanks to Sarah Wells pump bags life will be that much easier and fashionable
Being a breastfeeding momma is hard, especially when going back to work. This is my second go around as a working breastfeeding mom. And while it is doable without a breastpump bag, here is why I’ve chosen to have one this time:
1. I don’t look like the bag lady! Having a bag that can hold my Spectra, its parts, storage containers, and cooler along with my portfolio, laptop, and clutch makes commuting so much easier than carrying two and three bags. .
2. My pump has a designated space. Nothing is worse than ruining a pump or plug in from the condensation of the cooler. Believe me, it happens. Also, who wants to dig around in a bag and pull out a tube?! If someone looked down in my bag, they wouldn’t see my pump.
3. It makes pumping more discreet. There are many designs and styles that helping a working momma maintain her professional style.
4. Time savings. Having everything in one bag, cuts down on the packing time. I leave my Spectra in the bag and plug it in to charge without ever having to remove it.
5. It can be used after breastfeeding. The pockets and extra space are so helpful and would be ideal for flying and traveling for work or with my two little ones.
Summary: you should get one!
Baby #3 was due on Friday. We’re still waiting for his or her arrival. The Claire would be perfect for when I head back to work on March. The fewer bags the better with two drop offs and three kiddos.