If you’re pumping or breastfeeding and noticing one side making more milk than the other… welcome to the club. So many moms experience what’s commonly called a “slacker boob” which is when one breast just doesn’t seem to keep up.
First things first: this is incredibly common and usually not a problem. It doesn’t mean your body is failing or that you won’t be able to meet your baby’s needs.
Let’s break down what’s going on and what can actually help:
Why one breast makes more milk than the other
Milk production works on a simple rule: the more milk that’s removed, the more milk your body makes. So, if one side gets emptied more often or more effectively, it usually becomes the “overachiever.”
A few everyday reasons this happens:
- Baby prefers one side (very common!)
- One breast has a slightly better latch or positioning
- You naturally start feeds on the same side
- One breast just has more milk-making tissue
None of this is unusual, and none of it means you’re doing anything wrong.
Can You “Fix” a Slacker Boob?
Sometimes supply evens out on its own. Sometimes it doesn’t, and that’s okay too.
But if you want to encourage more milk on the lower-producing side, here’s what can help:
Start with the slacker side
Babies (and pumps) tend to be most effective at the beginning of a session. Offering the slacker side first gives it the strongest signal to make more milk.
Add a little extra stimulation
Milk supply responds to frequent, gentle stimulation, not marathon sessions. Short, consistent pumping sessions can make a real difference over time.
This is where the Zomee W1 Mother’s Nature Warming Wearable Breast Pump fits beautifully. Bio-Boost mode is designed to mimic a baby’s natural cluster-feeding rhythm, which helps signal your body to increase production without exhausting you.
Make sure your flange fit is right
If milk isn’t being removed efficiently, your body won’t get the memo to make more.
The W1 includes a nipple ruler inside the box to help you find your best fit, plus five different sizing options – the most of any wearable pump! But if you’re unsure, our Perfect Fit Promise™ has you covered. A small size change can lead to noticeably better output and comfort.
Use Warmth + Compression
A warm compress and gentle breast compressions before and during feeding or pumping can help milk flow more easily, especially on the slower side. Zomee’s Warming + Cooling Lactation Massager was designed to make this step simple and comfortable, combining soothing warmth to encourage let-downs with gentle vibration to support milk flow. It’s an easy way to add extra support during pumping or feeding without adding more to your routine.
A Gentle Reminder
Having one breast that produces less milk is not a failure and it doesn’t need to be “fixed” for you to have a successful feeding journey.
Many parents:
- Feed primarily from one side
- Pump different amounts on each side
What matters most is that your baby is growing and you feel supported.
If you ever notice concerns with baby’s weight gain, diaper output, or persistent discomfort, a lactation professional can help tailor a plan just for you.
You Are Doing Great
Bodies aren’t symmetrical and feeding journeys aren’t linear. At Zomee, we design pumps like the W1 to support real life - uneven supply, busy days, cluster-feeding seasons, and all. Because feeding your baby shouldn’t feel like another thing you’re getting graded on.
