How to Use Reusable Breast Pads with Your Willow Pump for Leak Protection

Quick answer

To use reusable breast pads with your Willow pump, place one pad inside your bra on the opposite side while pumping, and swap pads between sessions to stay dry. For the pumping side, position the pad above or below the flange to catch any overflow. Always start with clean, dry pads to prevent irritation and maximize absorbency.

Leaking while pumping is one of those realities that catches almost every breastfeeding parent off guard. You might be hands-free with your Willow Go®, but that doesn't mean your other breast is on the same schedule. A few drops here and there can quickly turn into a soaked bra and an unexpected outfit change.

Reusable breast pads solve this quietly. They sit inside your bra, catch leaks before they reach your clothes, and wash clean for the next session. When you pair them with a wearable pump like the Willow Go®, you get a setup that keeps you dry, comfortable, and ready to move—whether you're at your desk, in the car, or chasing a toddler.

Why reusable pads work with a wearable pump

Wearable pumps like the Willow Go® are designed to fit inside your bra, which means the space around the flange is limited. A thin, absorbent pad can tuck in without interfering with the pump's seal. The key is choosing a pad that's slim enough to sit comfortably against your skin and against the pump housing.

Reusable pads also handle the unexpected letdown that happens on the side you're not pumping. While the Willow Go® collects milk efficiently on one side, the other breast may leak in response to the stimulation. A pad catches that milk so you don't end up with a wet shirt and wasted liquid gold.

• Keep a spare set of pads in your pump bag so you always have a dry pair ready.
• Look for pads with a waterproof backing to prevent soak-through on heavy-leak days.

How to position pads around the flange

On the pumping side, place the pad above or below the flange, depending on where your breast tissue sits. The goal is to cover the area that might leak without blocking the flange's contact with your skin. If the pad bunches up or shifts, it can break the suction and reduce output.

On the non-pumping side, center the pad over your nipple inside your bra. Make sure it lies flat and covers the full nipple area. If you're using the Willow Go® on one side, you can also tuck a pad into the other cup of your pumping bra for extra security.

• Test the placement at home before you rely on it during a busy day.

Managing leaks during and after pumping

During a pumping session, check the pad on the non-pumping side occasionally. If it feels saturated, swap it out for a fresh one. After you finish pumping, remove the pad and let your skin air-dry briefly before putting on a clean pad. This helps prevent moisture-related irritation.

If you're pumping both sides at once with the Willow Go®, you might not need a pad on either side, but keeping one handy is still smart for the letdown that can happen right after you remove the pumps. A quick pad change can save your bra and your shirt.

• Carry a small wet bag for used pads so you don't have to wrap them in a plastic bag.

Step-by-step: Using reusable breast pads with your Willow pump

1. Start with clean, dry pads: Wash your reusable pads according to the care instructions and make sure they're completely dry before use. Damp pads can harbor bacteria and cause skin irritation. Checkpoint: If a pad feels damp when you take it out of the drawer, don't use it—grab a fresh one.
2. Place the pad on the non-pumping side: Insert the pad inside your bra, centered over your nipple on the breast that isn't being pumped. Smooth it flat so it doesn't bunch or create a lump under your clothing. Checkpoint: Make sure the pad covers the full nipple area and stays in place when you move your arms.
3. Position a pad on the pumping side (optional): If you tend to leak on the side being pumped, tuck a thin pad above or below the flange. Avoid placing it directly under the flange where it could interfere with the seal. Checkpoint: After the pump starts, check that the suction is steady. If you notice a drop in suction, adjust the pad.
4. Monitor and swap as needed: During longer sessions, check the pad on the non-pumping side. If it becomes saturated, replace it with a dry one. After pumping, remove the used pad and let your skin air-dry for a minute. Checkpoint: If you go through more than two pads per session, consider a more absorbent pad or a different placement.
5. Clean and air-dry after each use: Rinse the pads under cold water to remove milk residue, then wash them with mild detergent. Hang them to dry completely before your next use. Checkpoint: Avoid fabric softeners—they can reduce absorbency over time.

Products that help with leak protection

• Reusable Breast Pads: A sustainable solution for managing leaking breasts while breastfeeding, our reusable pads provide discreet coverage while keeping you comfortable and free from stains. They’re washable and reusable and fit easily inside a pumping bra. Available in the Find Your Flow Feeding Kit. These pads are designed to work with a pumping bra, so they stay in place while you use the Willow Go®. The washable design saves money over disposables and reduces waste.
• Willow Go® Wearable Breast Pump: Our best-selling pump, powered by innovative ComfortFlowTM technology for more milk output. Customizable hospital-grade suction, app-controlled, and ranked #1 Wearable Breast Pump by Babylist, this top seller is perfect for multitasking moms. Kit comes with 21, 24mm flanges & 5 oz SplashGuardTM containers. The Willow Go® fits inside your bra, leaving room for a breast pad on the other side. Its hands-free design means you can move around while managing leaks with a pad.

Using reusable breast pads with your Willow Go® is a simple way to stay dry and comfortable while pumping. With the right placement and a spare pad in your bag, you can handle unexpected letdowns without missing a beat. Pair them with a clean pump and fresh parts for a smooth, leak-free session every time.