There are no standards for an acceptable breast pumping area. ("Not a bathroom" doesn't exactly create aspirational criteria.) So the American Institute of Architects (AIA) has created these best practices to help inform businesses and organizations of what breast pumping mothers need. Crystal chandeliers and aromatherapy candles not mandatory...but certainly not a bad idea.
- Minimum footprint of 7 by 7 feet.
- Good location: a safe and private space, centrally located, accessible to all.
- Cozy chair: With seat/back/height adjustments. Casters for freedom of movement. A “task chair” suitable for a workstation.
- Small table or shelf: 20” by 30” as a work surface and to set the breast pump on.
- Electrical outlet: Located above counter at the work area.
- A door that can be locked from the inside.
- A sink and faucet: deep enough to wash bottles and pump parts. Goose neck or kitchen type.
- A refrigerator located near the pumping space.
- Lighting and HVAC: Over the sink and work area. Overhead lighting for the work area.
- Thermostat to control temperature year around.
- Midsize refrigerator for milk storage.
- Accessories! Trash can, paper towel dispenser, coat rack, full-length mirror, magazine rack, bulletin board, scheduling board outside.