Raising a child isn’t easy for any parent, and shopping shouldn’t make the process any more difficult than it needs to be.
Traveling to stores like Walmart sometimes can’t be avoided, so you may be wondering; can I breastfeed my baby in Walmart? Here is what I discovered!
Can You Breastfeed In Walmart?
Parents can breastfeed or pump in Walmart. Walmart has partnered with Mamava, a company that offers lactation suites for users to breastfeed in privacy and comfort. These are available to use for both employees and customers alike.
To learn more about breastfeeding in Walmart, the Mamava pods, and more, keep on reading!
Where Can I Breastfeed In Walmart?
Walmart has approximately 90 locations that have Mamava pods available to use, with plans to install up to 100 in stores across the country.
These pods offer privacy and comfort for those breastfeeding or needing to pump, and are free to use for those who have the Mamava app.
All Mamava pods include two benches, as well as a fold-down table and mirror. Additionally, all pods include dual outlets and USB ports so you can either use the electricity for your pump or recharge your phone while you breastfeed.
Lighting is also only activated upon entry so there’s less energy consumption, making it great for the environment as well.
The pods can also be controlled remotely by using the Mamava app once you’re inside, offering comfort controls such as lighting options and airflow control.
How To Use Mamava Pods
Mamava pods can only be accessed by using the Mamava app, which is available on both Google Play and the Apple store.
This app can direct users to local pods, indicate whether the pod is occupied (and for how long) and can offer vacancy alerts for local pods.
Pod access can be unlocked at the touch of a button (should the pod be vacant), and the app can also offer control of the pod easily.
Comfort controls include dimming the lights, reducing or increasing the airflow (to a limit), and listening to sounds for let-downs, provided by Mamava exclusively.
Mamava pods are also available in places other than Walmart, such as airports, office spaces, or military & government buildings.
The Mamava app will be able to guide you to over 1,600 pods available across the country and is free to use for your convenience.
What Stores Allow Breastfeeding?
A number of stores across the country allow breastfeeding, including Target, Nordstrom, and Macy’s.
Many shopping malls also feature specific family lounges that have areas for breastfeeding and pumping, so check ahead of your shop to see what’s available.
Another useful app for breastfeeding moms is Moms Pump Here, a breastfeeding room locator which shows the user rooms in which they can breastfeed or pump either nearby or at specific locations.
Where Can’t I Breastfeed?
It is legal to breastfeed in public in all 50 states across America, however, some establishments may try to stop you from breastfeeding due to their organization’s policies.
A public place is stated to mean an indoor or outdoor area (whether privately or publicly owned) to which the public has access by right, or by invitation (expressed or implied) whether by payment of money or not.
It is not a place used exclusively by one or more individuals for a private gathering or personal purpose.
This means public places can include grocery stores, restaurants, and amusement parks.
If you are a new mother, you may also be interested in our related guides on the Walmart baby registry, the Walmart car seat return policy, and the Walmart baby formula return policy.
Conclusion
Walmart allows breastfeeding and pumping in stores via their Mamava lactation suites, which are accessed via the Mamava app. Walmart has installed approximately 90 – 100 Mamava pods in stores across the country, offering a private and comfortable location for mothers to breastfeed or pump during their shopping visit.