Last updated on February 2nd, 2024 at 11:41 am
Pumping for twins takes a lot of work and dedication. Like all aspects of newborn twins, there are certain things you can have on hand to make it easier. Essential accessories and planning ahead for pumping will help you make the most of your time. Here are our must-have pumping accessories to help you make the most of your time pumping.
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Must Have Pumping Accessories
A pumping station
You will be pumping frequently so be sure to figure out your favorite spot to pump and make it comfortable for you. Fill a basket with all of your pumping essentials, add your personal favorites (ie: lip balm, chocolate, a journal) and you’ll have the perfect pumping station.
Hands-free pumping bra
This is essential for moms of multiples! Without a hands-free bra, you’ll have to hold the flanges up to your breasts while you pump. A hands-free bra will allow you to do things like eat, fold laundry, or make a phone call while you pump. If you are exclusively pumping, a hands-free pumping bra will even allow you to feed your twins while you pump. We recommend the Simple Wishes Hands-Free Breast Pump Bra.
Nipple cream
It soothes, moisturizes, and protects cracked and sore nipples to ease breastfeeding and pumping. Be sure to have a stash of your favorite before you need it, such as Motherlove Nipple Cream or Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream.
A pump travel bag
If you are on the go with a pump and twins in tow a good bag to hold the pump and its parts is important. Find one that fits your personal needs and is easy to carry. Check out the Mommore Breast Pump Bag.
Extra pump parts
Whether at home or on the go, two sets of pump parts such as valves, tubing, and flanges are helpful so you always have a clean set ready to use. Not having to constantly clean the parts for the next pump makes things easier on you.
TWINIVERSITY TIP: You don’t need to wash your pump parts after every use! You can rinse them with water after use and keep everything in a zip-top bag in the fridge. Then wash everything with soap and water once a day.
Extra bottles and storage bags
If you fill up your bottles or storage bag while pumping or have “overflow” milk to pump you might need an extra bottle/bag or two. Be sure to keep stashes in your pumping bag and in your pumping station basket at home.
A manual pump
Sometimes you just can’t get in a full pumping session. Sometimes you’re out and can’t bring your electric pump with you. A handheld/manual pump is essential for relieving engorgement or pumping discretely. Check out the Dr. Brown’s Silicone Breast Pump.
A snack and drink
Make sure you have something to eat and drink within arms’ reach while you’re pumping so you don’t need to stop to get yourself a snack. Staying well hydrated and fed is so important to produce the most milk possible.
Pictures or a video of your babies
Sometimes it can be hard for your body to let down milk when your babies are not present. Looking at a picture or video of them can help this process along if you are not with them when you need to pump.
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A cooler with an ice pack
When you are pumping away from home store the milk in a cooler to make sure it does not spoil. A simple cooler with an ice pack works, or better yet, combine your cooler with your pumping bag to save space. Check out the Momigo Breast Pump and Cooler Bag.
A pump with a rechargeable battery or car adaptor
Pump anywhere, anytime without worrying about being near an outlet. Research your pump and pick up a car adapter that will work with it and you can even pump in the car.
Something to keep you entertained
Cell phone, TV remote, a good book, Kindle, or iPad. Sitting for a long period of time (typically 15-20 minutes) can be boring, so why not stay entertained during that time? Also, don’t forget your charger for your phone if the battery dies quickly.
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The Twin Survival Guide From Pregnancy Through the First Year”
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Prepare and pump away
Whether you’re exclusively pumping, getting ready to head back to work, or just can’t nurse all the time, pumping is a big part of breastfeeding twins. Knowing that you have all your essentials and are fully prepared to pump when necessary will make your pumping experience a lot more pleasurable.
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Need some twin parent friends? Get the support you need with a Twiniversity Membership. Benefits include a monthly twin parent club meeting on Zoom, access to a private Facebook group just for twin parents, and a video library of twin parenting lessons. Visit Twiniversity.com/membership to join today!
