How to Build a Feeding and Pumping Routine That Works for You

Every feeding journey looks a little different, and finding a rhythm that suits you and your baby can take time. Whether you're breastfeeding, pumping or doing a bit of both, a simple routine can make your days feel more manageable. Here are some practical ideas to help you build one that works for your family.

Quick summary

• Feeding on cue and offering both sides are easy habits to build into your day.
• Skin-to-skin time is a lovely way to settle into a feed.
• Pumping between feeds lets you build a stash of expressed milk for later.
• Looking after yourself is part of the routine, not an extra.

Feed often and follow your baby's cues

In the early weeks, newborns feed often, frequently 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Rather than sticking to a strict clock, watch for your baby's early hunger cues, like rooting or sucking on their hands, and offer a feed then. Over time you'll start to notice a natural pattern, and that pattern becomes the backbone of your routine.

Evening and night feeds are a normal part of life with a newborn. Keeping what you need close by (water, a snack, a burp cloth and a soft light) makes those feeds easier on both of you.

Make time for skin-to-skin

Skin-to-skin contact is one of the simplest and most special parts of the day. Holding your baby against your bare chest helps you both feel calm and close, and many mums find it a relaxed way to start a feed. Try it after a bath, during a slow morning, or any time you both need a cuddle.

Offer both sides

Let your baby feed on the first side until they slow down or come off on their own, then offer the other side. Switching which side you start on each time is an easy habit to keep track of, and some mums use a hair tie on their wrist or a note on their phone as a reminder.

Look after yourself

It's easy to put everyone else first, but your routine works best when you're looked after too.

• Keep a water bottle within reach. Feeding and pumping can make you thirsty.
• Eat regular, balanced meals and snacks. Our guide to easy snacks for breastfeeding mums has plenty of simple ideas.
• Rest when you can, even if it's a short nap while your baby sleeps.
• Hand over jobs where possible, and take a few minutes for something that helps you unwind, like a walk, some stretching or a favourite podcast.

Pump between feeds

Adding a pumping session after a feed, or while your baby naps, lets you build a stash of expressed milk for later. It also means a partner or family member can help with a bottle feed, which gives you a break. Store your milk in the fridge or freezer, and see our guide on reheating breast milk for when it's time to use it.

A wearable breast pump sits in your bra, so you can pump hands-free while you get on with your day. To make your pumping sessions comfortable and easy:

• Start with a gentle breast massage to help you relax into the session.
• Use the suction level that feels comfortable for you. Stronger isn't always better.
• Check your flange size. A good fit makes pumping much more comfortable.
• Most sessions run around 15 to 20 minutes. Stop when the flow slows and it feels right for you.
• Keep your parts clean between sessions with our flange cleaning guide.

If you'd like to try a structured pumping pattern, our power pumping guide explains how to fit a session into your day.

Related articles:

When Does Breastfeeding Get Easier?

Ask for support

You don't have to work it all out on your own. If something doesn't feel right, talk to your midwife, GP or a lactation consultant. They can help you find a routine that suits you and your baby.

Find the rhythm that suits you

There's no single right way to feed your baby, and your routine will change as your little one grows. Be patient with yourself, keep what works and let go of what doesn't.

Mumilk's hands-free wearable breast pumps are made to fit into real life, so you can pump while you work, cook or care for your other children. Explore the range to find the one that suits your routine.