How to Stock Your Office Lactation Room: The Ultimate Checklist for Happy, Productive Moms

Bethany
31 Jul, 2025
- Postpartum ,
- Lactation and breastfeeding

Why the Mother’s Room Matters

I’ve seen my fair share of pumping rooms, and have heard horror stories from other moms. The quickest way to tank morale is to make new moms pump in a supply closet. Recently, I had the pleasure to pump in one that really blew my socks off in the best way, which prompted this blog post. A well‑stocked, private space isn’t just warm and fuzzy—it’s smart business:

Companies that offer solid breastfeeding support boast a 94% post‑maternity retention rate, compared with a 59 % national average [1].
Employers that provide lactation programs see lower health‑care costs and absenteeism, which translates to real cash savings [2].
It’s also the law—under the Fair Labor Standards Act, most workplaces must provide break time and a private, non‑bathroom space for pumping, for up to a year after birth [3].

Translation: invest in the room and you keep talent, cut costs, and stay compliant. Win‑win‑win.

1. The Must-have Essentials (a.k.a. Don’t Skip These)

Lockable door: Prevents awkward walk‑ins and coworker “squatters.”
Comfy armchair: Bonus points for a wipeable upholstery which helps keep the room feeling sanitary.
Table space: Room for pump, laptop, and snacks—because multitasking.
Mini‑fridge: Moms just feel better when their milk is separated. Communal fridges tend to fill up, get cleaned out, and smell of leftover tuna sandwiches. The fridge isn’t just used for pumped milk but for storing pump parts in between sessions.
Paper towels & disinfecting wipes: For inevitable spills and quick wipe‑downs.
Easily reachable outlet or extension cord: Required for pumps and laptops.
Trashcan: Dispose of wipes, bags, random snack wrappers.
Hand sanitizer: Quick clean when the sink is MIA.

2. Nice‑to‑Haves (Level Up)

Backup supplies – nursing pads, milk storage bags, Sharpie, pump wipes. Most moms will bring their own but it’s nice to know they’re covered if they forget.
Disposable lap towels – clutch for putting on laps for unexpected leaks.
Gallon‑size plastic bags – in case a mom forgot or needs a fresh one for storing pump parts in between sessions (aka the fridge hack).
Full‑length mirror – for resetting outfits because forgetting to button up is a real fear.
Sink – wash hands and pump parts on the spot.
Fan or small heater – depending on the room, you might need temp control when shirts are lifted sky‑high.

3. Going Above and Beyond (Chef’s Kiss)

Bottled water – hydration station.
Healthy snacks – nuts, protein bars, or candy.
Shelves or cubbies – stash personal gear so moms aren’t hauling supplies all day.
Sound machine – white noise beats the hallway chatter.
Clothing hooks – park coats, pump bags, or extra clothing.
Soft lighting – some moms need to relax to get the most out of their pump session.

Final Thoughts

A thoughtful room keeps milk flowing, productivity humming, and top talent on your payroll. Stock it right, shout about it in onboarding, and watch the goodwill (and ROI) roll in.

References

[1]: “The ROI of Investing in Breastfeeding Support” [2]: “The Business Case for Breastfeeding” [3]: “FLSA Protections to Pump at Work”