Sample Pumping and Feeding Schedules to Increase Milk Supply

Whether you're exclusively pumping, combining pumping with nursing, or just trying to build up a freezer stash—one thing stays the same: milk supply thrives on consistent, frequent removal . That means finding a rhythm that works for your body, your baby, and your real life.

In this blog, you’ll find sample pumping and breastfeeding schedules designed to support and increase milk supply. These are flexible frameworks , not rigid rules. Every body and baby is different—but if a stronger milk supply is your goal, keeping the breasts regularly emptied is one of the most powerful things you can do.

When it comes to increasing milk supply, how often and how effectively you remove milk is the single most important factor.

If milk sits in the breasts for long stretches without being removed, it signals to your body that less milk is needed—and production may drop. This can happen if you're:

• Nursing infrequently
  
  

• Supplementing with formula without pumping
  
  

• Using the wrong flange size

• Dealing with a shallow latch or poor suction
  
  

On the flip side, frequent and effective removal of milk , especially in the early weeks postpartum, stimulates your milk-making glands to produce more. That’s why many lactation consultants recommend:

• Nursing on demand (at least 8–12 times/day)
  
  

• Using a well-fitting flange when pumping
  
  

• Practicing skin-to-skin contact
  
  

• Adding extra pump sessions during dips in supply
  
  

• Power pumping to mimic cluster feeding and increase stimulation

Here are three sample feeding and pumping schedules tailored to different situations. Use them as a jumping-off point and adjust based on your energy levels, baby’s feeding cues, and what feels sustainable.

If you’re exclusively pumping for a newborn, your goal should be to pump 8–10 times per 24 hours , roughly every 2–3 hours around the clock. This frequency mimics a newborn’s feeding pattern and ensures adequate stimulation for milk production.

Sample Exclusive Pumping Schedule:

• 7:00 a.m. – Pump
  
  

• 9:00 a.m. – Pump
  
  

• 11:00 a.m. – Pump
  
  

• 1:00 p.m. – Pump
  
  

• 3:00 p.m. – Pump
  
  

• 5:00 p.m. – Pump
  
  

• 7:00 p.m. – Pump
  
  

• 10:00 p.m. – Pump
  
  

• 1:00 a.m. – Pump
  
  

• 4:00 a.m. – Pump
  
  

Each session should last about 15–20 minutes , or until milk stops flowing. Make sure to double-pump (both breasts at once) when possible—it’s more efficient and supports higher prolactin levels.

💡 Pro Tip: Aim to pump at least once between midnight and 5 a.m. This is when your prolactin levels are at their peak , which can have a major impact on milk production.

You may start to see results, such as increased total daily output, after about a week of consistent pumping . You can also try adding one “power pumping” session per day to give your body an extra boost.

If you’re nursing but want to increase milk supply (or stash extra milk), adding targeted pumping sessions to your day can help. This is especially helpful if your baby isn’t nursing very frequently, you’ve had a dip in supply, or you’re preparing to return to work.

Strategy: Nurse on demand and add short pump sessions at strategic times.

Ideal Pumping Times:

• After the morning feed: Milk supply tends to be highest in the morning. Pumping after the first feed of the day often yields extra ounces.
  
  

• During longer naps or breaks: If your baby takes a long nap or is content for a while in the afternoon or evening, it’s a good window to fit in a session.
  
  

• Before bed: A session after baby goes down for the night can help top off your supply.
  
  

• Overnight (optional but beneficial): If your baby sleeps through the night, consider pumping once between 2–3 a.m.
  
  

Sample Combination Schedule:

• 7:00 a.m. – Nurse
  
  

• 7:30 a.m. – Pump
  
  

• 10:00 a.m. – Nurse
  
  

• 1:00 p.m. – Nurse
  
  

• 4:00 p.m. – Nurse
  
  

• 4:30 p.m. – Pump
  
  

• 7:00 p.m. – Nurse
  
  

• 10:00 p.m. – Pump
  
  

• 2:00 a.m. – Nurse or Pump
  
  

This pattern provides about 10+ removals in 24 hours (some direct feeds, some pumps), giving your body consistent cues to keep milk production up.

🍼 Bonus: Some moms find that the morning and bedtime pumps give the most “extra” milk without interfering with baby’s feedings.

Power pumping is a technique that simulates cluster feeding to “trick” your body into making more milk . It’s great during supply dips or when you want to jumpstart production.

Try one session per day for 3–7 days in a row , usually during a time of day when baby is content or napping.

Power Pumping Sample Schedule (1-Hour Session):

• Pump for 20 minutes
  
  

• Rest for 10 minutes
  
  

• Pump for 10 minutes
  
  

• Rest for 10 minutes
  
  

• Pump for 10 minutes
  
  

This can feel intense, but many moms report noticeable improvements within a week. It’s not recommended to power pump more than once a day—it’s more effective (and less exhausting) as a once-daily addition.

How do I know if my schedule is working?
Track your daily milk output and observe how baby is feeding. If you’re seeing an increase in ounces and baby seems more satisfied, that’s a great sign.

How much milk should I be producing?
Every baby and body is different. Exclusively pumping moms typically aim for 24–32 oz in 24 hours by 4–6 weeks postpartum. But some babies thrive on less, and oversupply isn't always the goal.

Do I need to pump at night?
Night pumping isn’t forever, but it can be crucial in the early weeks. If you’re trying to build or restore supply, aim for at least one overnight session between 12–5 a.m.

What if I miss a session?
It’s okay—life happens. Just try to get back on track with your next removal. Consistency over time is what really matters.

Breastfeeding and pumping schedules aren’t static—they’ll evolve as your baby grows , your routine shifts , and your body adjusts . What works now might not work in two weeks, and that’s okay.

The most important thing? Consistency and sustainability. If you're feeling burned out or unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A lactation consultant (IBCLC) can work with you to personalize a schedule, troubleshoot pumping issues, and keep you feeling confident in your feeding journey.

Legendairy Milk is here to support you through every stage of your breastfeeding journey—with evidence-based tips, clean supplements, and zero shame. Whether you’re building supply drop by drop or overflowing with ounces, you’ve got this. 

• How to Increase Your Milk Supply – La Leche League
  
  

• Exclusively Expressing Breastmilk for Your Baby – La Leche League
  
  

• Exclusive Breast Pumping Guide – Healthline
  
  

• Children’s Health: How to Increase Milk Supply When Pumping
  
  

• Power Pumping Schedule & Tips – Huckleberry