So simple, yet so efficient! This is a great way to collect *free* milk while breastfeeding. Despite having the word "pump" in its name, keep in mind that it does NOT count as a pumping session if you're needing to replace a feed with a pump.

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Shockingly mighty! No tubing to get tangled, no motor to require a power source or run out of batteries... it fits in your purse and DOES count as a true pumping session.

Extra space has never been easy to find in the homes we've had since having the girls, but my back and shoulders demanded I had a supportive place to nurse (AKA not a couch or bed).

This item really should be higher up in the list, but there is no actual system behind the order here! As many of you have found out, the flanges that come with your pump (usually 24mm and 28mm) are not representative of all bodies! Thankfully, some brilliant soul developed inserts that fit into those generic 24/28s to truly benefit everyone. With the correct size insert/flange, you should see improved comfort AND increased milk output... win-win!

These are not necessarily a must-have for every pump session, but they are an amazing tool when needed! My supply started to dip partway through my pumping journey and these helped in two ways: 1. the heat really does help get the milk flowing and 2. the vibration acted as a nice distractor - to get my mind to stop obsessing over whether or not I was feeling a letdown. Similar to the Buzzy Bee used in some pediatric clinics for shots, sometimes our brains just need a little distraction!

A minimalist jackpot! Supportive enough to replace wearing a separate bra (less laundry!), comfortably snug on postpartum bellies without being constricting, and allows for the "double shirt" method while nursing (tank top keeps your stomach covered, wear any shirt on top to pull up and latch babe).

While not a necessity, pumping spray can reduce friction and make things more comfortable. Personally, I used it in an "off-label" way: in the days leading up to Charlie's tongue tie revision, her shallow latch did a number on me and applying nipple balm was excruciating (but so was having my breast pad stick to my skin) - I figured I'd try SPRAYING on some needed moisture, and success!

Here me out on this one - while giving your baby a manicure isn't exactly lactation related (though I've had my fair share of scratches to my chest and face from baby talons!), using an electric file is so gentle that I've been able to do my girls' nails WHILE they nursed or after they had fallen asleep during a feed.

Everything seems to get messy once you have kids, and baby wipes are a pretty crucial piece to keeping things relatively clean... I've tried most brands, prioritizing ones that were most affordable (the wipes are literally going to be covered in goo and then thrown away!). These have become the clear winner in our house - soft, strong, fragrance-free, 18 don't come out at once, and are still affordable!