I bought a breast pump from Walmart shortly before my daughter was born. She will be 11 weeks old on Monday and I have only used the pump about a dozen times although more frequently lately than I had been. This morning, the milk started coming through the suction hose where there is only supposed to be air.

I took it to Walmart and they said they can't exchange it because it involves "bodily fluids". It's not like I haven't washed the thing. And it's not like I want the money back, I just want a pump that works.

I have tried calling the manufacturer as well and even though it is during business hours, the recording says their office is closed.

It isn't the top of the line pump but it was $80 and I don't have the money to replace it nor do I feel I should have to pay for it again when it is nearly new!

Any suggestions? Do I get grouchy with Walmart or am I just going to make a butt of myself and get no where?

What time did you call and where is the manufacturer located? Depending on the time zone and when you called, they could quite possibly either not be open yet or already closed. I don't think you'll get anywhere with Wal-Mart. I believe the same would be true with any retailer. Did the recording say what their business hours were and what time zone they were in? You could try email or wait until Monday and call when they are open. I believe once you get ahold of customer service it shouldn't take very long to get something done.

Most stores have that policy on "bodily fluids" as well I believe. I would continue working with the manufacturer as it should be a warranty issue on the pump and that is not WM's responsibility (OMG...can't believe I'm actually taking WM's side!).

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Proud to say I haven't shopped at a Wal-Mart since Sept 2003

Involving a return of my stockpiled J&J Baby Lotion (They introduced a new scent cucumber melon before my baby was born which I like better than the original pink). Apart of my argumet was that the product was still factory sealed, however my primary arguement was that they honor their written return policy (on the wall at customer service desk) and Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed... (also @ the same spot in the store). Call 1-800- WALMART to complain and request a callback from your stores district manager. I wound up with my exchange satisfied and a $25gc to boot for my trouble and embarrassment! On your particular item, I would try to deal with the OEM, however it's worth a shot with the DM @ Wallyworld.

The recording (and the brochure) says the hours are 8-5 M-F central time. I'm in the pacific time zone but I've been calling since noon my time so they should still be open.

I understand Walmart not wanting to exchange for health concerns but Ugh it's gonna be a long weekend without that thing.

I don't know if yours was the same, but I know when I bought my breast pump, it was stickered closed with a sticker that stated that once the seal was broken, the pump could NOT be returned because of the bodily fluids issue. I would keep trying with the manufacturer...have you tried their website (maybe they have live help).