10 Tips for Using Your Wearable Breast Pump

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For many busy moms, wearable breast pumps can feel like a total lifesaver. It gives you the freedom to pump while caring for your baby, doing chores, working, or even relaxing. You don’t have to stop everything just to pump—hands-free pumping makes it easier to fit into your daily routine.

But just like learning to breastfeed, using a wearable pump takes a bit of practice. To help you get the most out of your experience, here are 10 simple and helpful tips that can make pumping more comfortable, more effective, and less stressful.

1. Make Sure the Flange Fits Properly

The flange (the part that goes over your nipple) needs to be the right size for your body. If it’s too tight or too loose, it can cause discomfort and reduce the amount of milk you’re able to pump.

Here’s how to know if the flange fits well:

Your nipple should move freely in the tunnel while pumping.
The area around your nipple should not be red, sore, or pinched.
You should feel gentle pulling—not pain.

Most wearable pumps come with different flange sizes or inserts. Use the sizing guide for your specific pump, or talk to a lactation consultant if you’re not sure. Getting the right fit can make a big difference in how much milk you express and how comfortable you feel.

2. Relax to Help with Milk Flow

Feeling calm can help your body release more milk. Even when you’re busy, try to create a moment of peace during your pump session. Take a few deep breaths, listen to calming music, or look at a photo or video of your baby. A short breast massage before pumping can also help stimulate milk flow.

The more relaxed you are, the better your body responds—and the more milk you may be able to collect.

3. Mix Wearable and Traditional Pumps

While wearable pumps are great for convenience, they might not always be as powerful as a hospital-grade or traditional electric pump. If you notice your supply is going down, consider using your traditional pump once or twice a day to keep your milk flow strong.

Many moms find that using both types of pumps helps them stay flexible while still getting good results.

4. Keep Your Pump Clean

After every use, clean the parts of your pump that come into contact with breast milk. This helps keep your milk safe and prevents bacteria from growing.

Wash parts with warm, soapy water and let them air dry.
If you’re out and can’t wash right away, use pump wipes or a cleaning kit until you get home.

Always follow the cleaning instructions that come with your pump.

5. Watch the Time While Pumping

One of the best things about a wearable pump is being hands-free—but it can also be easy to forget you’re pumping! Try to limit each session to about 15–20 minutes, or stop about 2–3 minutes after milk stops flowing.

Pumping too long can cause discomfort, oversupply, or even clogged ducts. Listen to your body and find a routine that feels good.

6. Center the Pump and Use the Right Bra

For wearable pumps to work well, they need to be placed directly over your nipples. If they’re off-center, you may get less milk—or even leaks.

The type of bra you wear makes a big difference. Look for a supportive, stretchy bra made for pumping. A good pumping bra holds your pump in place and keeps everything secure, whether you’re sitting, standing, or moving around.

Tip: The Kindred Bravely for Lansinoh Wearable Pumping Bra + DiscreetDuo™ Wearable Pump Bundle is made just for this! With soft four-way stretch fabric, this bra adjusts to fit you perfectly with or without a pump. It supports both nursing and hands-free pumping—so you stay comfortable and confident all day long.

7. Adjust the Suction to What Feels Right

Most wearable pumps let you choose your suction level. Start low and slowly increase the strength until you find what feels good and gets your milk flowing.

Too much suction can hurt and may damage your skin. Too little might not be strong enough to express milk. The right setting is the one that’s comfortable and gets results.

Here’s a helpful tip from Kori Motes, Certified Lactation Counselor at Kindred Bravely:

“Start your session in letdown mode—short, quick bursts of low suction to mimic how your baby starts feeding. Once your milk starts flowing, switch to longer, deeper suction to match your baby’s natural suck-and-swallow rhythm.”

8. Be Ready to Store Your Milk

If you’re pumping on the go, make sure to pack:

Milk storage bags or bottles
A cooler bag with ice packs (if needed)
A marker or labels to write the date and time

Proper milk storage helps you keep your milk safe for later use. Always store breast milk in clean containers and follow storage guidelines based on whether you’ll refrigerate or freeze it.

9. Keep Your Pump Charged

Wearable pumps run on batteries, so don’t forget to charge them regularly!

Check the battery before leaving the house.
Charge it after a few sessions.
Keep a charger in your bag or use a portable charging case if your pump comes with one.

Having a full battery means you won’t be caught off guard when it’s time to pump.

10. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s your flange size, suction level, or milk supply—it’s okay to ask for help. A lactation consultant or certified breastfeeding expert (like an IBCLC) can give you tips, answer questions, and make sure you’re on the right track.

You can also contact your pump’s customer service for specific advice or visit online support groups for moms who use the same pump.

Your Comfort Matters

A wearable pump can be a wonderful tool that gives you more freedom and control over your time. But having the right setup—including the right bra—can make all the difference in how easy and comfortable it is.

Kindred Bravely offers a variety of pumping bras designed to work perfectly with wearable pumps. Whether you choose the Kindred Bravely for Lansinoh Wearable Pumping Bra, the soft and cozy Mia Maternity & Nursing Lounge Bra, or the fan-favorite Simply Sublime® Nursing Bra, you’ll be supported through every step of your breastfeeding journey.

With these helpful tips and the right gear, your pumping routine can be smoother, easier, and more enjoyable—giving you more time to focus on what matters most: your little one.