Looking for the perfect breast pump can be like the Goldilocks story, where you constantly search for the best fit.
The thing is, what works for one person might not work for you. Comfort is key; what feels like a dream for one mom could feel like a nightmare for another. To help you out, we’ve done our homework, explored various pump brands and styles, and sifted through numerous online reviews to bring you our top 15 picks.
Whether you need a hands-free option, a manual pump, one that’s ideal for larger breasts, or a portable pump for easy travel, we’ve got you covered.
Our Top Picks
Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump
The Medela manual pump is incredibly user-friendly and a breeze to clean. It’s designed so that anyone can easily figure out how to use it, and it’s conveniently portable, fitting neatly into purses or bags, making it perfect for on-the-go use.
One of the major advantages of manual pumps like this one is their quiet operation. Since you manually control the pumping process, there’s no noise involved. This makes it ideal for discreetly pumping during your lunch break at work. If you feel uncomfortable about pumping outside of your home, you can rest assured that no one will know what you’re doing behind closed doors.
The pump comes with a 24 mm breast shield, but it’s worth noting that other Medela breast shields can also be used with this unit. This gives you the flexibility to customize your pumping experience for maximum comfort. And the best part is this pump is incredibly affordable, making it a great option even if you’re on a tight budget. Say goodbye to compromise and enjoy the benefits of the Medela manual pump without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly, offering affordability without compromising quality.
- Portable and conveniently portable, allowing for easy transport.
- Quiet operation, ideal for individuals who prioritize discretion.
Cons:
- Suction may diminish gradually over time, affecting the pump’s effectiveness.
- Frequent or prolonged use of the pump may lead to fatigue in the hand muscles.
Spectra S1 & S2 Breast Pumps
You have two fantastic options to choose from with the Spectra Baby USA S1 (blue) and Spectra Baby USA S2 (pink) models. Both models offer exceptional features.
The S1 model is slightly more expensive than the S2, but it allows switching to battery power. This feature is perfect for situations where you can’t or prefer not to use the power cord. Including a rechargeable battery pack can expand your pumping possibilities, especially if you plan exclusively pumping.
Both pumps are built to last and can easily withstand months, or even a year, of regular use. They effortlessly and comfortably aid in expressing milk from your breasts. The best part? These pumps won’t disturb you or anyone nearby; they operate with minimal noise.
Weighing just over 3 pounds, the Spectra S1 and S2 are lightweight and highly portable. You can express milk from one breast at a time or both breasts simultaneously. Unlike other electric pumps that are loud and draw unwanted attention, this pump ensures a quiet and discreet pumping experience.
Pros:
- The S1 model offers the flexibility of being powered by batteries or a power cord, giving you options for different situations.
- Quiet operation ensures a peaceful and relaxed pumping experience.
- Efficient and comfortable milk expression, making the process quicker and more enjoyable.
- The closed system design ensures safety and hygiene, making it suitable for sharing among multiple users.
Cons:
- The tubes tend to detach easily during pumping, requiring replacement or extra care.
- Some users have reported vibration from the pump during usage, which can be a minor inconvenience.
Bellababy Double Electric Breast Pump
One common issue with electric breast pumps is their short power cords, which restrict mobility and force you to stay close to an outlet while pumping. This can be particularly challenging in offices where outlets may not be conveniently located, compromising your privacy.
Fortunately, the Bellababy pump addresses these concerns with its large battery capacity. This feature allows you to easily carry the pump anywhere and find a comfortable spot to pump from without being limited by the availability of power outlets.
This double electric pump boasts a closed system design, offering independent controls for the left and right breasts. You can adjust the suction speed individually for each breast, which is a fascinating feature. It proves beneficial as many women have a dominant breast that produces varying amounts of milk. Customizing the suction allows you to strive for more balanced milk outputs or ensure both breasts are adequately emptied.
In terms of noise, while you can still hear the pump, it operates relatively quietly. This makes it an excellent choice for pumping sessions in the workplace, where discretion is valued. Additionally, the pump is easy to assemble, minimizing the time it takes away from your work responsibilities. You can quickly set it up and get back to your tasks efficiently.
Pros:
- The double electric pump is offered at an affordable price, providing value for money.
- Its lightweight design makes it convenient to use and carry around.
- Cleaning and assembling the pump are hassle-free, saving you time and effort.
- Operates quietly, ensuring a peaceful and discreet pumping experience.
Cons:
- Unfortunately, the pump does not come with a carrier, which may require you to find an alternative transport method.
Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump
Are you a busy mom who’s constantly on the go, juggling responsibilities like taking care of your other kids, managing dinners, and handling housework? If so, the Medela Freestyle Flex hands-free breast pump is exactly what you need.
This breast pump is specifically designed with the needs of active moms in mind. It’s incredibly practical, thanks to its compact size that easily fits into your bag or even your pocket. With its double pump system, you can extract more milk in less time, making it highly efficient and time-saving.
To enhance your pumping experience, the pump is equipped with a convenient app called My Medela. This app allows you to track your pumping sessions, ensuring you never miss a day’s progress and helping you stay on top of your milk supply.
Featuring the innovative 2-Phase Expression technology, this breast pump mimics the natural sucking rhythms of babies. This not only provides a more comfortable pumping experience but also enhances the effectiveness of milk extraction.
What sets this breast pump apart is its super quiet operation. You can easily use it while multitasking without any disruptive noise. Additionally, it’s gentle enough to use right next to your sleeping partner or baby, ensuring that nobody’s sleep is disturbed.
Stay productive and effortlessly pump milk with the Medela Freestyle Flex, the ideal companion for busy moms like you.
Pros:
- The breast pump offers a hands-free experience, allowing you to multitask while pumping. It is also lightweight, making it easy to carry and use.
- The pump’s ability to mimic the natural sucking rhythm of babies ensures a more comfortable pumping experience for mothers.
- Its double pump system allows you to extract more milk in less time, maximizing efficiency and productivity.
- The pump is user-friendly and simple to clean, saving time and effort in your daily routine.
Cons:
- One drawback is that the pump’s charge only lasts for two hours, which may require recharging multiple times throughout the day.
- Some users have noted that the suction power could be improved, which may affect the efficiency of milk extraction for certain individuals.
Philips Avent Single Electric Breast Pump
The Philips Avent single electric pump offers many benefits moms will appreciate. Firstly, it presents a more affordable option than double electric pumps, making it an excellent choice for those who want to be mindful of their budget. Secondly, it allows you to accomplish breastfeeding and pumping in one session, offering the advantage of saving time and effort by essentially getting two feeds in a single endeavor.
What sets the Avent pump apart is its thoughtful design, specifically aimed at eliminating lower back strain for moms. Unlike many other pumps that require you to lean forward to utilize gravity, this pump’s design eliminates the need for any leaning, providing a more comfortable and relaxed experience.
When using this breast pump, you begin with the stimulation mode, signaling your body that it’s time to release milk. Afterward, you can choose the setting that feels most comfortable for you. Whether you prefer a low, medium, or high setting, the pump allows you to customize the experience to suit your needs and preferences.
Pros:
- Enjoy a comfortable pumping experience with this breast pump, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free process.
- The affordability of this unit makes it an attractive choice for moms looking to save on expenses.
- Its lightweight design adds convenience, allowing for easy portability and use.
- Cleaning this pump is a breeze, saving you time and effort in maintaining hygiene.
Cons:
- It is worth noting that some moms have reported experiencing breakdowns with the unit, which could potentially disrupt its functionality.
- Over time, the pump may experience a loss of suction, which may impact its effectiveness in milk extraction.
Medela Sonata Smart Double Electric Breast Pump
MyMedela is an invaluable tool this company provides to assist you in monitoring your baby’s growth and tracking pumping sessions right from your smartphone. The Sonata model stands out as a robust double electric pump, equipped with innovative 2-phase expression technology that replicates the rapid initial suckling and slower progression of breastfeeding. It closely imitates the natural rhythm of nursing, enhancing comfort and efficiency.
Moreover, the Sonata comes with a reliable lithium-ion rechargeable battery with a handy low-battery alarm. This feature ensures you never miss a pumping session due to a drained battery.
Despite its strength and “hospital grade” suction power, this unit maintains a surprisingly small and lightweight profile. Additionally, it operates quietly, allowing for discreet and peaceful pumping sessions. Many women have experienced significant increases in their milk supply and have been able to extract larger quantities using this product.
To further enhance your experience, the Sonata includes an exceptional offer of one month of 24/7 lactation support from a knowledgeable Medela lactation counselor. This invaluable support ensures you can access professional guidance and assistance throughout your breastfeeding journey.
The combination of MyMedela’s tracking capabilities, the Sonata’s advanced features, and the added lactation support make this breast pump an amazing choice for moms seeking convenience, efficiency, and reliable performance.
Pros:
- The breast pump’s small and compact design makes it highly portable and convenient for travel.
- The accompanying app provides valuable assistance in monitoring and tracking feeding patterns, ensuring you stay informed and organized.
- The double pump functionality efficiently extracts high volumes of milk, saving time and effort.
Cons:
- One drawback is the higher price point, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious individuals.
- Some users have reported frequent breakdowns and difficulties in repairing the unit, indicating a relatively short operating life.
- While the pump’s performance is generally good, its reliability may be a concern due to the reported issues with breakdowns and repairs.
Motif Portable Double Electric Breast Pump
As a mom, it’s important to take a break and enjoy a vacation every now and then. Luckily, the Motif Portable Pump is here to accompany you on your pumping journey while you travel!
This lightweight pump weighs less than half a pound and has a convenient remote that fits perfectly in your hand or bag. Its portability makes it ideal for traveling or pumping on the go, ensuring discretion and convenience.
Once you discover your preferred settings with this pump, you can use its memory function. The device will remember your customized settings, saving time and effort during subsequent pumping sessions.
With 10 expression and massage levels, this pump provides a wide range of options to find the perfect fit for your body. The massage settings closely mimic the natural nursing patterns of babies, allowing you to choose one that closely resembles your own baby’s feeding style. Additionally, the expression mode is designed to efficiently extract the most milk in the shortest amount of time.
The Motif Portable Pump is a reliable companion that offers versatility, comfort, and efficiency, allowing you to enjoy your travel experiences while continuing your breastfeeding journey.
Pros
- Backlit screen and quiet noise for nighttime pumping.
- Super compact and lightweight.
- 10 massage and expression settings.
- The device remembers your preferred settings.
Cons
- Unlike some other pumps, it’s difficult to find replacement parts.
- The suction lessens when the battery is lower.
Willow Wearable Breast Pump
For women seeking a hands-free pumping experience, the Willow breast pump is a fantastic option. This pump is designed to fit discreetly inside your bra, allowing you to continue your daily activities while expressing milk. You won’t have any external components protruding from your bra, such as cords, tubes, or attached bottles, ensuring privacy and convenience.
With the Willow pump, you can choose how you collect your milk. You can pump directly into storage bags, allowing you to conveniently store them in your refrigerator or freezer to build up your milk stash. Alternatively, you can utilize Willow’s innovative no-spill reusable container, which securely captures the milk as you go about your day, eliminating concerns about embarrassing leaks.
The pump is available in two elegant colors, soft white and quiet gray, allowing you to select the one that suits your preference. It features seven suction levels, similar to the double electric or hospital-strength pumps you may have used previously. Additionally, it offers two flange sizes, 24 mm or 27 mm, ensuring a comfortable and personalized fit for your individual needs.
The Willow breast pump empowers women with the freedom to pump discreetly and conveniently, providing a seamless integration into their daily routines. Its versatile features and user-friendly design make it a valuable tool for mothers seeking flexibility and ease in their breastfeeding journey.
rewrite this blog post as human as possible so that it’s not detected as AI content by AI content detectors. Pros It lets you keep your hands free. Willow app for tracking your volume and pumping history. Battery life lasts for as many as five sessions, which will see you through the day. Cons It’s expensive and won’t fit everyone’s budget. It isn’t the most silent pump. Although you only have two parts to clean with this pump, the shape of the milk container makes it harder to clean.
Pros:
- The Willow breast pump allows you to pump while keeping your hands free, enabling you to multitask and complete your daily activities.
- The accompanying Willow app provides valuable features for tracking your pumping volume and history, helping you stay organized and informed.
- With a battery life of up to five pumping sessions, you can rely on the pump to support you throughout the day without the need for frequent recharging.
Cons:
- One drawback is the higher cost of the Willow breast pump, which may not be affordable for everyone’s budget.
- While the pump operates at a reasonable noise level, it may not be the most silent option available, which could be a consideration for those seeking a quieter pumping experience.
- Cleaning the pump involves only two parts, but the shape of the milk container can make the cleaning process slightly more challenging compared to other models.
Types Of Breast Pumps
When it comes to breast pumps, there are two main types to consider: single and double pumps. Single pumps are designed to attach to one breast at a time, while double pumps allow simultaneous pumping from both breasts. It’s important to note that double pumps typically yield more milk, but they also come with a higher price tag.
Additionally, breast pumps can be further categorized based on various features and functionalities. These categories include:
Manual Breast Pumps
There is a type of breast pump called a manual pump, which doesn’t require an external power source. Instead, you generate the suction or vacuum by manually squeezing a handle.
Pros:
- Manual pumps are generally lightweight and portable, making them convenient for on-the-go use.
Cons:
- One drawback of manual pumps is that they typically express less milk compared to other types of pumps. This is because their suction power is reduced due to the manual operation.
Personal Electric Pumps
Electric pumps offer a significant advantage over manual pumps regarding suction strength.
Pros:
- Electric pumps often have convenient electronic features, including LCD screens, timers, multiple expression modes, and sometimes even a built-in nightlight. These features can enhance the overall pumping experience.
Cons:
- One downside of electric pumps is their weight, as they tend to be heavier than manual pumps. This can make them less portable and more cumbersome to carry around.
- Another consideration is the higher cost associated with electric pumps, which can be a factor for those on a tighter budget.
Here is everything you need to know about Manual vs Electric Breast Pumps.
Choosing A Breast Pump
Before you make a hasty decision on which breast pump to buy solely based on a friend’s suggestion, it’s essential to remember that everyone has unique needs and preferences. We all have different lifestyles, body types, babies, and goals, which means what works for one person may not work for another.
That being said, it’s helpful to review the following factors when considering the purchase of a top-quality breast pump.
Milk Volume
If you find yourself blessed with a plentiful milk supply that resembles the mighty Niagara Falls, selecting a breast pump that can keep up with your heavy usage is important. Not all pumps are equal when accommodating frequent pumping sessions throughout the day.
Although useful in certain situations, manual pumps may not be ideal if you anticipate pumping frequently or have an abundant milk supply. Understanding your pumping needs and volume expectations can guide you in deciding between manual and electric pumps.
Adjustable Suction
Every woman is unique, and the same suction level won’t suit everyone when it comes to breast pumps. It’s important to find a pump that offers adjustable suction settings. This allows you to personalize the experience and mimic the natural nursing strength of your baby. It’s crucial to avoid selecting a pump with suction that is excessively stronger than what your baby would naturally provide. Finding the right balance ensures a comfortable and effective pumping experience.
Cost
When purchasing a breast pump, it’s important to consider your budget. While it may be tempting to opt for a very cheap pump, it’s worth noting that such pumps may not deliver the performance and reliability you need. Investing in a good quality pump from the start can save you the hassle and frustration of buying another one later.
The price range for most breast pumps on our list is between $30 for manual pumps and $300 for electric pumps. It’s important to remember that even at the higher end of the price range, a breast pump is still more cost-effective than buying formula weekly. Additionally, it’s worth exploring if your health insurance plan covers the cost of a breast pump, which can further reduce the financial burden. Prioritizing a good pump within your budget is a wise choice for both your convenience and savings in the long run.
Breast Pump FAQS
Are manual pumps as effective as electric pumps?
Manual pumps can be effective, but electric pumps offer more efficiency and convenience.
Can I use a breast pump if I have inverted nipples?
Yes, there are pumps specifically designed to accommodate inverted nipples. Look for models with specialized accessories.
How long should I pump during each session?
Pumping sessions typically last 15-20 minutes, but individual pumping needs may vary.
Are breast pumps covered by insurance?
Many health insurance plans cover the cost of a breast pump. Contact your insurance provider to inquire about coverage options.
How can I increase my milk supply while pumping?
Adequate hydration, frequent pumping, and a consistent pumping schedule can help increase milk supply.
Breastfeeding is an incredible journey for you and your baby, and finding the right breast pump can greatly enhance your experience. We understand that researching various models can feel overwhelming, but the effort is worthwhile when considering the benefits of choosing the perfect pump for your needs.