Private Pumping Space Setup Checklist
Legal Requirements (FLSA Compliance)
Your employer is required to provide the following under the Fair Labor Standards Act:
✅ Private Space Requirements:
- Space is NOT a bathroom
- Space is shielded from view (door with lock or privacy screen)
- Space is free from intrusion by coworkers and the public
- Space is available when you need to express milk
- Space is functional (doesn't need to be permanent, but must be available when needed)
✅ Break Time Requirements:
- Reasonable break time is provided each time you need to express milk
- Breaks are provided for up to one year after your baby's birth
- You've discussed your pumping schedule with your manager/HR
Note: If you're an exempt employee (salaried), breaks don't need to be paid. If you're non-exempt (hourly), unpaid breaks are acceptable if you're completely relieved of duties.
Essential Space Setup Checklist
Furniture & Comfort:
- Comfortable chair with back support
- Small table or surface for pump and supplies
- Electrical outlet within reach (for electric pumps)
- Door lock or "occupied" sign for privacy
- Good lighting (bring a small lamp if needed)
- Temperature control (space heater or fan if needed)
Pumping Essentials to Keep in Your Space:
- Breast pump (or confirm you'll bring it daily)
- Hands-free pumping bra
- Extra pump parts (flanges, valves, bottles, membranes)
- Power cord/charger for pump
- Extension cord (if outlet isn't convenient)
- Cleaning supplies (dish soap, bottle brush, or wipes)
- Paper towels or clean towels
- Hand sanitizer
Storage & Organization:
- Small bin or basket for pump parts
- Insulated cooler bag with ice packs
- Labels and permanent marker for milk storage
- Plastic bags for storing used pump parts (if using fridge hack)
- Access to refrigerator for milk storage (or personal cooler)
Comfort Items:
- Pillow or cushion for back support
- Blanket or shawl (if space gets cold)
- Water bottle (stay hydrated!)
- Healthy snacks (pumping makes you hungry)
- Phone charger
- Photos of your baby (helps with letdown)
- Headphones for music or white noise
Optional But Helpful:
- Small mirror (to check flange positioning)
- Nursing pads (in case of leaks)
- Extra shirt (just in case)
- Stress ball or fidget toy
- Reading material or tablet
- Small plant or personal touches to make space feel welcoming
Before Your First Day Back: Action Items
2-4 Weeks Before:
- Contact HR or your manager about pumping accommodations
- Request a tour of the designated pumping space
- Confirm the space meets legal requirements
- Discuss your anticipated pumping schedule
- Ask about refrigerator access for milk storage
- Inquire about any existing lactation support or resources
1 Week Before:
- Visit your pumping space and test the setup
- Bring supplies to set up your space
- Practice your pumping routine at home
- Block pumping times on your work calendar
- Prepare your daily pumping bag
First Day Back:
- Arrive early to set up your space
- Do a test pump to ensure everything works
- Introduce yourself to anyone sharing the space
- Confirm your schedule with your team
Daily Pumping Routine Checklist
What to Bring Each Day:
- Breast pump (if not stored at work)
- Hands-free pumping bra
- Clean pump parts
- Cooler bag with fresh ice packs
- Water bottle (filled)
- Snacks
- Phone (for photos/videos of baby)
- Any comfort items you need
After Each Pumping Session:
- Label milk with date and time
- Store milk in refrigerator or cooler immediately
- Rinse pump parts or store in fridge until end of day
- Wipe down surfaces
- Restock any supplies you used
End of Day:
- Thoroughly wash all pump parts
- Pack milk in cooler for transport home
- Restock your pumping bag for tomorrow
- Check that space is clean and ready for next use
What to Do If Your Workplace Isn't Compliant
If your employer doesn't provide adequate space or break time:
- Document everything: Keep records of requests and responses
- Put requests in writing: Email HR or your manager formally
- Reference the law: Mention the FLSA Break Time for Nursing Mothers provision
- Escalate if needed: Contact your company's compliance officer or legal department
- Know your resources: The U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division handles complaints
Resources:
- U.S. Department of Labor: 1-866-487-9243
- DOL Fact Sheet on Break Time for Nursing Mothers
Sample Email to HR/Manager
Subject: Lactation Accommodation Request
Hi [Name],
I'm returning to work on [date] and will need to express breast milk during the workday to maintain my milk supply for my baby. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, I'm requesting the following accommodations:
- A private space (not a bathroom) where I can pump, shielded from view and free from intrusion
- Reasonable break time to pump approximately [2-3] times per day for about [15-20] minutes each session
- Access to a refrigerator to store expressed milk, or permission to use a personal cooler
I'd appreciate the opportunity to discuss the designated pumping space and schedule before my return date. Please let me know a good time to connect.
Thank you for your support.
Best, [Your Name]
Quick Reference: Your Legal Rights
✅ You have the right to:
- Pump at work for up to 1 year after birth
- A private, non-bathroom space
- Reasonable break time when needed
- Freedom from retaliation or discrimination
❌ Your employer cannot:
- Force you to pump in a bathroom
- Deny you reasonable break time
- Retaliate against you for requesting accommodations
- Fire or discriminate against you for pumping
You've got this, mama! Setting up a comfortable, compliant pumping space is an investment in your breastfeeding journey and your baby's health. Don't hesitate to advocate for what you need—you deserve it.
Need hands-free pumping bras or nursing-friendly work clothes? Check out our pumping essentials collection designed for working moms like you.
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