Rent or buy a lactation room? Benefits of a mobile breastfeeding cabin

You know that as an employer, you are legally required to provide a smoking area. The question is: will you opt for a fixed, built-in smoking area — or do you prefer a flexible mobile smoking cabin? And is renting actually an option? In this article, we compare both choices so that you, as an HR manager or facility manager, can make an informed decision.

Fixed smoking area vs. mobile smoking cabin: the key differences

Before deciding, it’s helpful to understand what each option entails.

A dedicated office space is a permanently arranged room in your office building. You convert an existing room with all the necessary facilities: a lock, chair, desk, power outlet, and fridge. The investment goes into the renovation, furnishing, and clearing of floor space.

A mobile lactation pod is a freestanding, fully equipped unit that can be placed without renovation. The pod features its own lock, built-in lighting, power outlet, ventilation, and space for a fridge. You place it in an existing open area — and can relocate or move it to a new location later.

When do you opt for a permanent bowling space?

A fixed lactation room is the best choice if:

• You have a space that is permanently available and does not need to be multifunctional
• You want to serve multiple employees at once (larger space)
• You're looking for a long-term solution that is integrated into your office design
• You see it as part of a broader Employer Branding strategy with a focus on interior design

When would you choose a mobile lactation pod?

A mobile lactation pod is ideal if:

• You cannot free up a fixed room (rental properties, open offices, flexible workspaces)
• You need a compliant solution quickly — before returning from maternity leave
• You want to scale: multiple cabins across floors or locations
• You want flexibility in case of a potential move
• You want a stylish solution that fits seamlessly into your office interior

The mobile lactation pods from Offyce fully comply with all legal requirements for a lactation room: lockable, hygienic, equipped with an electrical outlet and fridge connection.

Renting a smoking cabin: is that possible?

Yes, Offyce also offers rental options for lactation pods. Renting is ideal if:

• You need a temporary solution (e.g., during renovations or a transitional period)
• You want to spread the investment
• You want to test which model works best for your office

If renting, you are not responsible for maintenance or repairs — Offyce handles that. After the rental period, you can return, exchange, or purchase the cabin.

Buying a lactation pod: long-term advantages

Buying is more cost-effective in the long term. When purchasing a lactation pod from Offyce:

• Pay once and enjoy a ready-made solution for years
• Can the cabin be customized to match your company style (color, upholstery, branding)
• Benefit from residual value when reselling or exchanging
• Can you take the cabin with you during an office move

Which lactation pods does Offyce offer?

Offyce offers multiple models, each designed with an eye for comfort, privacy, and aesthetics:

Cosy S & Cosy L
Compact and stylish lactation pods for offices with limited space. The Cosy S is ideal for one person and takes up minimal floor space. The Cosy L offers slightly more mobility and comfort.

Havn
A premium lactation pod with a warm, Scandinavian feel. Featuring high-quality finishes and modular construction. Ideal for businesses looking to make a bold statement.

Earth
A robust, sustainable pumping cabin with organic design. The Earth cabin is crafted with biophilic design principles in mind — nature and tranquility as the foundation for the pumping experience.

All models are fully equipped with lighting, ventilation, power outlets, and the option to install a refrigerator.

📄 Browse all lactation room models in our brochure
Dimensions, prices, options, and configurations — all in one place.
Download the lactation room brochure →

Comparison: Renting vs. Buying at a Glance

Want to see the numbers with exact costs? In what does a lactation room cost, we compare price ranges per solution and calculate renting vs. buying over five years.

How quickly can a smoking cabin be installed?

Offyce arranges the delivery and installation of a mobile bowling cabin usually within 2 to 4 weeks after ordering. Has an employee already indicated that she wants to breastfeed after her leave? Please contact us promptly so we can deliver in time.

We also assist in determining the optimal location within your office, ensuring the cabin fits seamlessly into the existing space. Browse our realizations for inspiration from real projects.

Once the unit is in place, the setup determines whether it will actually be used. The checklist for this is in organizing the storage space.

Frequently asked questions about renting or buying a smoking room

Can I rent a shower cabin temporarily and then buy it?
Yes. Offyce offers a rent-to-own option. Let us know when you apply, and we’ll discuss the possibilities.

Does a mobile lactation pod take up much space?
The compact Cosy S pod measures approximately 1.1 x 1.5 meters externally. Even in a small office space, there’s almost always a suitable spot to place it.

Is a mobile lactation pod acoustically insulated?
Yes. The pods are equipped with sound-absorbing materials, ensuring privacy for the user and reducing external noise.

Can we customize the cabin to match our company style?
Yes. Offyce offers customization options for color, upholstery, and branding — perfect for a consistent office interior.

What does a lactation pod cost?
Pricing varies by model and configuration. Request a quote via offyce.nl/contact/ or download the brochure for a price indication.

Want to read more? Check out:

• Is a lactation room mandatory? Everything employers need to know
• Smoking room requirements 2026: which standards must a smoking room meet?
• Designing a Bowling Space: Tips and Examples for a Comfortable Area

Last updated on 24 October 2026 by Stijn Belmans