10 Best Breast Pumps For 2022
There is no “ideal" breast pump for every pregnant woman. Some pumps may work better than others for a given individual, and it is important to find the pump that works best for you. As a result, we've compiled a list of the finest breast pumps on the market...
A breast pump is defined by the FDA as a medical equipment that assists women in maintaining or increasing their milk supply. They may be manual or electrical, and single expression (pumping one breast at a time) or double expression (pumping both breasts at the same time) are possible. The term closed system can also apply to them.
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As you shop for a breast pump, you’ll first want to consider whether you want a closed or open system. “Closed system” and “open system” aren’t formal medical terms, so brands may use them in different ways.
It’s important to make sure you know what a particular brand means by the term if you see it in a product description.
A closed system breast pump is one that has a seal to keep milk from seeping into the pump mechanism. This is accomplished by closing the drain. This helps to keep the entire system sanitary.
Because no vacuum can be fully closed, some air is required to enter and exit for the pump's vacuuming function. However, a true sealed system will approach as close to that as possible.
This barrier is absent in an open system breast pump.
It's conceivable that you'll come across secondhand breast pumps on the market. (After all, according to statistics, most American moms who breastfeed do so as well).
While a fantastic bargain may be alluring, there are some pieces of a breast pump that can't be properly cleaned after being exposed to another woman's breast milk.
Many parents avoid purchasing these systems secondhand since there is a greater danger that someone else's milk has reached the pump in an open system.
Pregnancy is a time of change and uncertainty, which may be stressful. As a result, we've compiled a list of 10 of the finest breast pumps on the market (along with explanations as to why they might be the ideal fit for you).
1. Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump
The Spectra is a single- or double-pumping closed system with a powerful adjustable vacuum pump that most insurance providers will cover.
The S1 is light and compact, with a handle built in. Both power cable and battery options are available on the S1 version, which is really handy while traveling.
It includes a nightlight with two brightness settings and a timer that might come in handy for those late-night pumping sessions.
It's critical to be cautious when connecting the backflow valves in the beginning, since moisture can get inside of the tubing. Because bottles come in different sizes and shapes, not every baby will be able to use them.
It may be necessary to utilize a separate bottle brand because the bottles included aren't suitable for every infant.
Standard Benefits:
- Portable and rechargeable
- Can be used as both single and double pump
- Very easy to clean
- Adjustable suction level
- Backflow protector
2. Haakaa Silicone Manual Breast Pump
This is a cost-effective and portable option. Attach the Haakaa to the other breast when your baby isn't feeding on it to keep milk that is let down at the same time!
It's also great for taking out a specific quantity of milk throughout weaning or lowering breast fullness between feedings.
Because there is no real pump, you won't have to worry about open or closed systems, and it's simple to completely clean. The Haakaa, on the other hand, needs more manual work than an electric pump.
If knocked over, the Haakaa's form may easily cause spilled milk, so it's worth paying for the storage cover.
Standard Benefits:
- Very easy to clean by just boiling inside clean water
- Lightweight, portable and the perfect tool for every baby bag
- Made with super soft silicone that is gentle and comfortable on sensitive skin
- Come in all kind of sizes
- Made of high-quality food grade silicone
3. Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump
The handle, which is a component of all manual breast pumps, is the most distinctive feature of the Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump's swivel handle.
Because you can move the handle to the most comfortable position for each user and change postures as needed, the Harmony provides exceptional comfort and ease for a manual pump.
It's also the lightest and most portable electric model that we've seen. It is also less expensive and more portable than most electric models. Because there is no engine or tubing, the Harmony is simple to clean, as with the Haakaa.
Over time, the O-ring on this pump can become frayed and lose suction. However, finding replacement or repair parts for this pump is simple since there are so many of them.
Furthermore, the low price makes it more accessible to entirely replace this pump if necessary. This may not be the ideal option for those who want to do a lot of pumping because it is a manual pump.
Standard Benefits:
- Easy, portable and convenient to use
- Soft touch ergonomic swivel handle for comfort
4. Willow Wearable Breast Pump
The Willow is a discreet pump that works while you're working or on the go. It's also a great pump for busy women and anyone who travels frequently.
This is an extremely popular option for individuals who need to pump in public since it works without the use of cables. This milk jug is good because it doesn't spill milk and people like the customer service.
The Willow's bags are not as large as the ones on other pumps, so they can only hold a fraction of breast milk than before.
It is sometimes necessary for some nursing moms to change storage bags mid-session because of the Willow's size. The Willow has a more complicated construction process and is more difficult to latch at first.
Standard Benefits:
- Quiet, compact, in-bra design that fits into bra
- Bands free breast pump
- All-in-one disposable milk collection and storage bag
- Easy to assemble and clean
5. Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump
The designers of the Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump really did pay attention to comfort while developing it. The Vantage is equipped with a manual pump mode that allows you to operate it in a reclined posture.
The comfortable silicone liner also makes the actual pump more pleasant than those constructed exclusively of plastic! The elements are simple to take apart and clean, like most manual pumps. It's also simple to transport, and it is a lot more affordable.
The Philips Avent Manual is somewhat noisier than other manual pumps because the handle doesn't have a bumper to prevent it from banging against the collection bottle. It's not the most comfortable or practical option for long-term use.
It also puts a strain on your hands because the handle does not swivel and the grip cannot be changed. Despite this, replacement parts are easy to find since this is a more popular pump brand.
Standard Benefits:
- Portable and gentle manual pump
- Combines suction and nipple stimulation for quick milk flow
- Soft silicone cushion adapts to fit both size and shape of the breast
- Compact lightweight design is easy to hold and carry with you wherever you want or need to pump
6. Medela Pump In Style Advanced On-the-Go Tote
This pump is included with a portable bag and can be taken anywhere. The Medela Pump In Style was created with speed pumping in mind, and it consistently produces fast pumping sessions when used.
However, it does not give the same degree of control over suction levels as other pumps. As a closed system pump, it is more hygienic than other options.
This breast pump is not the quietest, but it's easy to find spare parts for it. It's light enough to carry around.
Standard Benefits:
- Produces more milk in less time
- Optimal efficiency and maximized flow
- Easy to use and very portable
- Closed system at the motor, which prevents milk from entering the motor
7. Medela Symphony Double Electric Breast Pump
We're not going to mislead you: This is a significant investment, and your situation isn't likely to necessitate its purchase, but you may rent it. A hospital-grade pump will provide more suction to your breasts if you're trying to start or boost your breast milk supply.
The Medela Symphony is a popular choice among hospitals. If you're trying to establish milk for an adopted infant, it's a wonderful option.
This pump has a great sucking action that replicates the natural nursing pattern of a newborn. It's such a well-sealed closed system pump that hospitals will let multiple lactating women use the same machine. It's also a quieter pump, which many parents value.
This pump is more robust and has a longer lifespan than many of its competitors, but it's also heavier and less portable.
If you live in a city or town with a hospital or birth center that rents out this pump, it may be worth your while to check if they have any availability.
Standard Benefits:
- Designed to closely mimic a baby’s natural nursing rhythms and proven to express 18% more breast milk when double pumping
- Clinically proven to achieve faster milk ejection and flow
- Whisper-quiet operation ensures discretion during late night or early morning pumping
8. Medela Freestyle Flex Double Electric Breast Pump
This is a hands-free way for the mother on the go to enjoy it! The Medela Freestyle is extremely light and can easily be stored in a handbag or diaper bag.
It features a digital display and timer with a memory function to store your favorite suction expression designs. It's also compatible with most popular flat nursing bra brands.
The Medela Freestyle Flex doesn't have as powerful a motor as the hospital-grade, but it does include some additional features. (The suction diminishes considerably when the battery is running low, so it may be necessary to plug in.) The Freestyle Flex is also a noisier pump.
Standard Benefits:
- All in one mobile and portable pumping solution, small enough to take with you anywhere
- Designed for daily use for moms who pump several times a day
- Easy to clean connectors
- Compact, easy to hold, and weighs less than 1 pound
9. Lansinoh Signature Pro Double Electric Breast Pump
This is a premium hospital-grade pump that is reasonably priced. The Lansinoh is lightweight, transportable, and has a backlit LCD display. It uses a power supply or batteries. The three pumping techniques, as well as adjustable suction settings, aid with letdown.
The Lansinoh isn't the quietest of the breast pumps on the market, and it uses up batteries rather quickly, but it's a good value for those wanting a hospital-grade pump.
Standard Benefits:
- ComfortFit Flanges have a soft, flexible rim that's soft on mom's skin
- Has 8 easy to adjust suction levels for an efficient pumping session
- 3 pumping styles to mimic baby's feeding patterns for optimized milk expression
- Electric LCD display, easy to use buttons, portable design, and 3 power options make pumping more convenient and customizable.
10. Bellababy Double Electric Breast Pump
The Bellababy Double Electric has a sensitive touch panel on its display screen. This screen provides all the data a nursing person could desire, as well as a handy one-touch option for operating the pump.
The Bellababy Double Electric has a closed system with excellent suction that works even when the battery is low.
The Bellababy Double Electric is not the most compact option on the market, but it is portable. It also makes more noise than some pumps. Cleaning and sanitizing a lot of parts might be difficult.
Standard Benefits:
- Come with 2 pcs of milk bag adapters and 10 pcs of storage bag
- Closed System,4 modes and 9 levels of suction for choice, massage and stimulate breasts before pumping
- Comfortable and pain free
- Sensitive touch panel
CONCLUSION
There is no “ideal" breast pump for every pregnant woman. Some pumps may work better than others for a given individual, and it is important to find the pump that works best for you.
Factors to consider when choosing a breast pump include: how often you will need to use it, how much milk you hope to produce, whether you will be pumping at home or on the go, and your budget.
Weigh these factors against your own personal needs and preferences to make the best decision for you and your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to use a breast pump?
It is important to make sure your pump has been properly cleaned before use.
Remove all obstacles from the area you will be pumping in. Try to find a space that is quiet, away from distractions and has dim lighting.
Unwrap the kit and put all parts into position (bottles, pump and breast pads). Making sure pumps are clean before using them also minimizes risk of contamination when assembling.
Connect an appropriate sized flange and nipple shield(s) onto your desired size of bottle. Place the flange over one nipple at a time so that they fill with milk while pumping (some flanges are designed specifically for single or double pumping). Make sure not to press hard on the breast, as this can block the milk ducts.
Turn on the pump and adjust the speed and suction to what is most comfortable for you.
When you are finished pumping, disconnect all of the pieces and clean them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. What is the difference between single breast and double breast pumps?
Double breast pumps are more efficient at extracting milk than single breast pumps. They also allow you to pump both breasts at the same time. If you plan to pump frequently, or need to produce a lot of milk, a double breast pump is a good investment.
3. Are all breast pumps reusable?
No. The nipple of a breast pump may need to be replaced from time to time, and replacement parts are necessary for all but the most expensive electric pumps.
And sometimes, nipples need to be changed as you increase your milk supply or if you plan on pumping for two or more children - this is especially true if you are considering switching back and forth between breast pumps a lot.
4. How often should I replace the filter?
We recommend replacing your machine's filter every 60 days or so (usually during a 60-day period). That way, it will always have clean water available to produce milk with no deposits in the tubes which can irritate your skin and damage any accessories we use with our machine that come in contact with the water. Filters play an important role in breast pump hygiene, so it's a good habit to get into.
5. What are some tips when breastfeeding with a baby while using a pump at work or school?
You will want to test the manual breast pump before any emergency arises, so you know how it works and can adjust accordingly. You should also invest in a battery-operated or rechargeable electric breast pump for situations that require it.
A great way to increase supply is by drinking water and getting walks throughout the day. Breastfeeding while using a pump may be uncomfortable at times, but don't let this discourage you! Drinking lots of fluids and taking some breaks every hour or two can really go a long way in increasing your milk production and make feeding time easier on both your mommy brain (because you need breaks too!) as well as on baby who is being distracted.