Quick Reference

Field Guide

Do/Don't · Troubleshooting · Daily Timing

Do These
  • Pump 8+ times/day for the first 14 days — this sets your baseline
  • Label every bottle and bag with date, time, and volume immediately
  • Use FIFO — always feed oldest milk first
  • Drink 2–3 liters of water daily
  • Apply warm compress before pumping to trigger letdown faster
  • Use hands-on pumping (massage toward nipple) during expression phase
  • Keep pump parts clean — wash after every use
  • Set an alarm for the 2–4 AM pump session
  • Freeze milk in single-feed portions (60–90 ml)
  • Check flange size — most women use 24mm or 27mm, not the default 21mm
Never Do These
  • Never microwave breast milk — destroys immune factors and creates hot spots
  • Never refreeze thawed milk
  • Never shake breast milk — swirl gently
  • Don't skip night pumping sessions in the first 6 weeks
  • Don't combine warm fresh milk directly with cold stored milk
  • Don't use storage bags more than once
  • Don't leave milk at room temperature for more than 4 hours
  • Don't pump on maximum vacuum — comfort is the correct setting
  • Don't ignore pumping pain — it signals a fit or technique problem
  • Don't compare your output to others — ranges are wide and individual