When I first started pumping, I imagined it would be simple: pump, feed, clean, repeat. But soon, I realised that pumping has its own rhythm—one that can feel all-consuming, emotional, and physically draining.
This is a real look at what a day of exclusive pumping is like, with practical tips and tools to help make the journey a little smoother.
What does a day of exclusive pumping really look like for a newborn?
6:00 AM – The First Pump of the Day
The alarm goes off earlier than I’d like, and I can already feel my boobs full and leaking like overfilled water balloons. I grab a set of nursing pads to save my shirt and shuffle half-awake to my pumping station, hoping the baby doesn’t stir just yet.
Time spent: 20–30 minutes pumping, plus 5–10 minutes cleaning parts.
Emotions: Exhausted but determined.
Tip: Keep your pump set up on a dedicated station so it’s ready to go in the morning.
9:00 AM – Pumping, Feeding, and Cleaning Loop
A baby will feed every 2-3 hours as a newborn, so I try to pump at the same time to keep up my supply. After pumping, I clean and sterilise the parts. At first, I was boiling everything, but switching to a UV steriliser has been a game-changer—it saves me time and keeps everything hygienic without adding extra moisture.
Time spent: Another 20–30 minutes pumping, 10–15 minutes cleaning and sterilising.
Emotions: Feeling a little more perky after finishing my first coffee for the day.
12:00 PM – Midday Pump & Juggle
The baby is finally down for a nap (finally!). I sneak in another pump. This is usually the point in the day when I feel the weight of it all—the noise of the pump, the endless setup and clean-up, and lunch sitting in the fridge calling my name—it can feel like I’m tethered to the machine.
Time spent: 20 minutes pumping, 5 minutes storing milk.
Emotions: A little overwhelmed, craving a break (and some lunch).
Tip: Hands-free pumps and a pumping bra make multitasking easier.
For me, the 3pm pump is one of the hardest parts of the day because it often clashes with daycare and school pickups (I’m guessing this is when the idea of wearable pumps came about). I know I’m providing milk for my baby, but this routine is exhausting at times. Having multiple pump sets has been a huge help—it means I’m not constantly washing parts after every session.
Time spent: 25 minutes pumping, 5–10 minutes cleaning.
Emotions: Overwhelmed.
6:00 PM – Dinner Time Pump
Evening pumping is pure chaos. The baby is fussy, my toddler wants my attention, and dinner is getting cold. Staying consistent during this time is tricky, but I remind myself that skipping a session could impact my supply (and leave me painfully engorged). Sometimes I set the baby up in a bouncer and give my toddler a snack to buy myself a few minutes.
Time spent: 20–25 minutes pumping, 10 minutes cleaning.
Emotions: Pulled in all directions, ready to crash but pushing through.
9:30 PM – The Last Pump Before Bed
One last pump before trying to get a block of sleep. My partner helps clean the pump parts while I pop my milk into the milk storage bags. This is my final pump before bedtime and I couldn't be prouder for committing to another day of pumping.
Time spent: 20–25 minutes pumping, 10 minutes cleaning/sterilising.
Emotions: Emotional and drained, but proud of what I’ve stored for tomorrow.
Tip: Ask your partner to take over the first night feed so you can get a solid block of sleep and recharge for the next day.
12:30 AM – Midnight Multitask
Who doesn’t love a midnight multitask? This is when I pump and feed the baby at the same time. The baby has blessed me with a small block of sleep beforehand, but now we’re both awake and bleary-eyed. It’s not glamorous—balancing the baby on a feeding pillow while my breast pump whirs away—but it gets the job done.
Time spent: 20–25 minutes pumping and feeding, 10 minutes cleaning.
Emotions: Sleepy, emotional, and hanging on with a mix of determination and exhaustion.
3:00 AM – The Sleepy Survival Pump
This one feels like the hardest. The house is still, but my body knows it’s time. I waddle to my pumping station, trying not to wake anyone, and start the routine. To stay awake, I text my mum friends who are in the same situation (you'd be surprised how quickly they reply).
Time spent: 20 minutes pumping, 5 minutes cleaning.
Emotions: Drained, emotional, but proud to have made it this far.
By the time the sun comes up again, I feel like I’ve already lived an entire day. Pumping around the clock is no small feat—it takes grit, patience, and a whole lot of love. If you’re here too, know that every ounce you pump is worth it, and you’re doing an incredible job.
Best hacks for setting up a pumping station at home?
You’ll spend a lot of hours here, so why not make it work for you? These little tweaks help me save time, sanity, and spills.
- Invest in the right gear: A reliable breast pump, a UV Steriliser to cut down cleaning time, and plenty of nursing pads for leaks. New Beginnings also has an incredible Breastfeeding Essential Kit.
- Create a pumping station: Keep everything you need in one place—pump parts, water bottle, snacks, and phone charger.
- Ask for help: Let your partner or support person clean parts or store milk to lighten your load.
- Be kind to yourself: Pumping is a full-time job. Take breaks when you can.
Related read: How to Prepare for Breastfeeding
