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10 Best Breast Pumps for Mums in 2024

last updated Nov 04, 2019

If you are considering or already breastfeeding then you have probably thought about the idea of a breast pump. It is a great way to be able to give your family members a chance to feed the baby and also get some of that great bonding time. Plus, let’s face it. It would be nice to take a warm shower and relax. They also help regulate supply, give you an opportunity to stock up on some milk for other times, and give your body a break. It can seem scary, but pumping breastmilk is pretty easy these days. There are great pumps on the market that make it really simple. We have created this list of Best Breast Pumps to break down the features and making it easier for you.

This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:

icon
Spectra Baby USA S2 Plus Premier
92/100 our score
Design
90
Ease of Use
91
Effectiveness
95
Spectra Baby USA S2 Plus Premier
Why is it better?

Contains a backflow filter that protects the integrity of expressed milk

The product includes 2 bottles, 2 breast shields, and 2 suction tubes

Flanges have a silicone insert

Convenient for working moms who need to pump multiple times during the workday

Registered nurse owned and operated the company

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Spectra Baby USA S2 Plus Premier
Test Winner: Spectra Baby USA S2 Plus Premier
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
24
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
45
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
18
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Angeline Mirenda:

We’ve used this update to replace two products that are no longer trending in the market. We’ve also revisited our “Value” summary under “Other Factors to Consider” and edited a “Parents, Did You Know?” blurb to reflect better grammar.

Sorting Options
Design Ease of Use Effectiveness By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
Design
99 %
Ease of Use
97 %
Effectiveness
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Design
90 %
Ease of Use
91 %
Effectiveness
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
$152.68
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.7
Design
95 %
Ease of Use
90 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
$157.60
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.7
Design
89 %
Ease of Use
87 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.7
Design
88 %
Ease of Use
84 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
84
Design
88 %
Ease of Use
79 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.7
Design
78 %
Ease of Use
88 %
Effectiveness
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
$24.97
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
79
Design
79 %
Ease of Use
76 %
Effectiveness
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
$195.99
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
77
Design
81 %
Ease of Use
72 %
Effectiveness
78 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
74.7
Design
71 %
Ease of Use
79 %
Effectiveness
74 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (12.10.24)
Amazon Link
$23.49

10 Best Breast Pumps Reviewed

1. Bumblebee Manual Gift Box

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
bumblebee manual gift box breast pump for mums pack
bumblebee manual gift box breast pump for mums pack features
bumblebee manual gift box breast pump for mums pack close up
Amazon Link
Design
99
Ease of Use
97
Effectiveness
93
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Constructed from food grade silicone

Great for collecting breast milk leaks when nursing or relieving engorgements

Soft silicone is safe to use and shaped like lotus flower

Manual design allows pumping anywhere

Easy to use with hands free design

Suction cup design on bottom is not strong enough

Top piece of the pump can come loose

Manual breast pump is easy to use and is an all in one design. You don’t have to worry about needing to charge a battery, worry about needing batteries, or struggling to find an outlet to pump. The suction cup design is simple to use and draws the milk right out. It is great for pumping at work or even to use when you a breast feeding your baby. Often when feeding the other breast will have a letdown, this device will keep you from losing that milk. On the bottom of the device it features a suction cup and allows you to safely place the device down without worrying about it spilling over.

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Design

The convenient size and the simple design make this an ideal breast pump for nursing moms on the go or even right at home. It is super comfortable with the soft silicone design. Featuring a leak proof design that allows nursing moms to keep the milk safe at all times and never losing a single drop.

Ease of Use

Simple design makes this manual breast pump very easy to use. After making sure that the device is clean and has been sanitized after every use all that you need to do is place it on the breast and give a gentle squeeze once it is aligned with the breast. The suction will begin to allow the milk to flow and before you know it you will have a cup full.

Effectiveness

An innovative design features an all in one device that does not have any cords, batteries, or assembly. It is simply one device that suctions right to the breast and collects the milk from the natural suction. It does all the work for you. It is dishwasher and microwave safe making it easy to clean and sanitize for the next use.

2. Spectra Baby USA S2 Plus Premier

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
spectra baby USA S2 plus premier breast pump for mums
spectra baby USA S2 plus premier breast pump for mums protector
spectra baby USA S2 plus premier breast pump for mums bottles
Amazon Link
Design
90
Ease of Use
91
Effectiveness
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$152.68

Contains a backflow filter that protects the integrity of expressed milk

The product includes 2 bottles, 2 breast shields, and 2 suction tubes

Flanges have a silicone insert

Convenient for working moms who need to pump multiple times during the workday

Registered nurse owned and operated the company

Bottles have a hard time staying attached

The charger can malfunction in some models

One of the most talked about nursing devices in internet forums is the Spectra S2. This hospital-grade breast pump provides the power that modern moms need to supply their babies with only the highest quality of expressed breast milk but at a fraction of the cost of real hospital-grade equipment. It was primarily designed to rival the Symphony from Medela but does so well in even surpassing it in some areas. The Spectra S2 is a truly closed system helping ensure that the expressed breast milk will not get contaminated by the moving parts of the machine.

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Design

The S2 is very easy to use. It has a full LED display to notify you that it has initiated the “massage mode” at the touch of a button. This helps stimulate the mammary ducts and glands to start contracting. Within a few moments, just as the letdown reflex has been fully initiated, the Spectra S2 automatically switches to its “expression mode” where you can also easily control the level of milk expression. Normally, it produces slow but deep suction to mimic the way your baby nurses. You can actually program the rhythm and speed of the Spectra S2’s expression according to your personal preferences. It also comes with a night light so you can continue expressing milk even during the night without having to switch the lights on. It also has a timer feature so that your breasts won’t also get sore.

Ease of Use

The most important part of this product is how much it protects the integrity of the breast milk that is expressed! Thereby, enabling moms to keep their baby healthy. The closed system makes cleaning the tubing unnecessary. It stays dry and prevents air flow between the milk and the tubes. Not only are the settings customizable to the body of each mom expressing, the company has the credibility of being owned by Registered Nurses and Certified Lactation Consultants. -- experienced moms that also happen to be top professionals!

Effectiveness

The Spectra S2 is one of the best breast pump we have in our list. We have seen a lot of parents who have tried using Mendela parts and accessories like flanges and tubing on the Spectra S2. While we don’t really recommend doing so, if you have a variety of Mendela products, it is comforting to know that you can use these on the S2 as well. What really impressed us about the S2 is its closed system design and its unique massage and expression modes. This helps ensure maximum supply of nutritious milk every time, all the time.

3. Motif Luna

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.7
Motif Luna breast pump for mums
Motif Luna breast pump for mums interface
Motif Luna breast pump for mums bottles
Amazon Link
Design
95
Ease of Use
90
Effectiveness
90
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$157.60

Quiet

Single or double pump option

Pressure/suction settings

Automatic shut-off after 30 minutes

Compact and lightweight

Must be plugged in for use; does not hold a charge

The makers of the Motif Luna pride themselves on three basic principles: quality, affordability, and convenience. This electronic double breast pump is a sophisticated system for the modern mother. It’s quiet, it’s easy to use (even in the dark!) and each set includes two breast shields, two bottles, two silicone valves, two bottle caps, two covers, two discs, two nipples, and the necessary tubing to get started straight away.

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Design

This kit is compact and extremely convenient. The included milk bottles feature measurements printed along the back so you’ll know exactly how much milk you’re producing and how much Baby is consuming with each feeding session. Backflow protectors keep the tubing from getting contaminated and you can choose whether you want to use one or two pumps simultaneously.

Ease of Use

The backlit screen and nightlight feature make it easy to pump in the middle of the night and since it’s quiet, you can even do it with a sleeping infant in the room. The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. An automatic shut-off feature turns the machine off automatically after 30 minutes so you don’t have to keep track of time.

Effectiveness

The Motif Luna promises to get more results in less time. You can adjust the amount of pressure being utilized in your pumping sessions. Even on the highest level, this machine is quiet and comfortable with a quick let-down.

4. Medela Harmony Manual 2-Phase Expression

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.7
medela harmony manual 2-phase expression breast pump for mums
medela harmony manual 2-phase expression breast pump for mums features
medela harmony manual 2-phase expression breast pump for mums box
Amazon Link
Design
89
Ease of Use
87
Effectiveness
90
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Opens to an array of other compatible Medela accessories

Can interchangeably use bottles and shields from other product lines

Low and discreet quiet suction for privacy

A less expensive option for an electric pump

Expresses double the milk in less time with 2-phase technology

Might come with a faulty rubber O-ring that loses suction after a short period

Suction can be too hard and become uncomfortable

We can understand the apprehension of some mothers about using electronic devices in the expression of their breastmilk. As such, many still consider manual nursing devices to be a lot more sensible, not to mention more practical considering you are only going to use it for a few months. When it comes to manual breastmilk expression, Medela’s Harmony is a true best-seller. It’s lightweight and very portable that you can literally put it inside your bag for those once-a-week travel with a baby.

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Design

The Harmony features a unique and patented 2-phase breastmilk expression technology. The 1st phase is almost similar to the Massage Mode of the Spectra S2 wherein the breast is stimulated into initiating the milk letdown reflex. The 2nd phase is the actual expression or ejection of the milk from the mammary glands. The breast shield measures about 24 mm and we have seen some parents recommending using another breast shield of the same size. The breastmilk bottle also comes with both lids and a unique bottle stand so there’s no worry about the bottle tumbling. The suction is delivered through an ergonomic swivel handle, the forward part is for the 1st phase while the rear part is for the expression phase. Oh, we forgot to mention that it is BPA-free.

Ease of Use

A great complement to an extensive line of Medela accessories! It can be used in conjunction with the double electric breast pump and compatible with PersonalFit breast shields! It’s very portable for on the go and expressed more milk in less time with 2-phase technology. This manual pump has been consistently rated a 9 out 10 by moms who’ve used it!

Effectiveness

If cost matters to you (not that it’s expensive as the Harmony is a fraction of the cost of electric nursing devices) and you have a flexible spending account, you can actually reimburse your expenses incurred on buying this product. Now, won’t that be great? The 2-phase expression technology is what really is amazing for a manual device like this. Cleanup is a breeze as well.

5. Philips Avent

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.7
philips avent manual breast pump for moms
philips avent manual breast pump for moms features
philips avent manual breast pump for moms nursing
Amazon Link
Design
88
Ease of Use
84
Effectiveness
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Compact, lightweight, great for on-the-go moms

Massaging petals mimic baby’s suckling for more milk letdown

Easy to assemble, disassemble, and clean

Compatible with other Philips Avent product

Can be squeaky/noisy

Painful if you don’t have the right flange size

If you’re interested in a manual pump, the Philips Avent comes in a simple, classic design that’s easy to use and small and lightweight enough to fit easily in diaper bags, or even in a mid-sized purse! The SCF330 is designed to stimulate milk flow and it’s compatible with other Philips Avent products (such as their baby bottle line) to make transferring between tools easy on parents.

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Design

The angle of this design means that you don’t have to spend thirty minutes leaning forward to get optimal milk flow. A cushion surrounding the pump helps to massage your breasts and keep them comfortable. Since this is a manual pump, you’ll have to squeeze it yourself but you won’t be dealing with any plugs or battery life issues.

Ease of Use

This is one of the top-rated options for moms on the go due to its slim, simple design. If you don’t want to lug a machine around while you run errands, this is a quick fix that can easily fit in your bag and weighs next to nothing. There are only a few parts so it’s easy to assemble and equally hassle-free to disassemble and clean.

Effectiveness

Milk flow tends to be best when moms are relaxed. The Philips Avent allows for a calm, intuitive pumping process. The massaging petals are designed to mimic the effect of your baby suckling, helping to stimulate flow. This kit comes with the Philips Avent natural bottle so when you’re finished, you can just attach the nipple to the top and it’s ready to go when Baby is hungry.

6. Medela Advanced 2-Phase Expression

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
84
medela advanced 2-phase expression breast pump for mums
medela advanced 2-phase expression breast pump for mums pieces
medela advanced 2-phase expression breast pump for mums inside
Amazon Link
Design
88
Ease of Use
79
Effectiveness
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Cooler bag can hold up to 4 handy milk bottles

Side pocket could snugly fit an I-Phone or other accessories

Built-in bottles with air-tight lids that prevent unnecessary spills or contamination

A suitable pump for working moms that need to express several times a day

Protective front flap can act as a placemat while expressing

The product can incur air leaks that weaken suction

The freezer bag is small and the pump motor can wear out after moderate use

Many nursing units in hospitals have Medela units as a means of expressing breastmilk from their nursing patients. Now, you can have your very own Medela unit complete with a convenient carry-all tote bag that has been designed primarily to store and serve as a functional nursing unit. The Pump in Style Advanced with On the Go Tote is something that modern nursing mums should definitely have. The powerful pump is already built into the On the Go Tote bag so there’s no need to carry a separate case just for the pump alone. It also has built-in bottle holders so you don’t have to fret about the milk bottles ever tumbling or spilling.

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Design

The Pump in Style also features a storage pocket specially designed for the flexible tubing and which also allows for a more systematic organization of all the expressed breastmilk (EBM) essentials. The double pumping kit comes with patented PersonalFit breast shields. Inside the bag is a removable cooler bag complete with a contoured ice pack to keep your EBM fresh and free from spoilage. The whole system also comes with 4 milk bottles complete with air-tight lids. Like the Harmony, the Pump in Style Advanced also comes with the very useful 2-phase breastmilk expression technology. Phase 1 is initiated with a single touch of a button while Phase 2 requires adjusting a control knob for managing the speed or rate of the pumping action as well as the force of the vacuum or suction. The unit is powered by a 9-volt AC adaptor and when you don’t have any electrical outlets around, you can also use the accompanying battery pack attachment which you must fill with 8 pieces of AA-sized batteries. The On the Go Tote is made of microfiber and has been designed to be as fashionable as it is functional. You may be strutting your style to the office and no one will ever think that you are carrying a nursing unit slung on your shoulders.

Ease of Use

The convenience that comes out of this is not having to do a lot of set-ups! It’s hospital grade, but it’s probably fairly likely that most of the moms using this have little-to-no experience being a hospital tech! All you have to do is open the case and -- Voila! The dashboard is ready with the attachable pumps! Unassuming and stylish enough for the unassuming mom; and the side pocket could even be used as a temporary holder for your I-Phone!

Effectiveness

It’s easy to see why moms prefer the Medela over other brands, especially with the Pump in Style Advanced. You can now have a piece of hospital-grade equipment you can carry anywhere.

7. Haakaa Suction Base 100% Food Grade

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.7
haakaa suction base 100% food grade breast pump for mums
haakaa suction base 100% food grade breast pump for mums close up
haakaa suction base 100% food grade breast pump for mums milk
Amazon Link
Design
78
Ease of Use
88
Effectiveness
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$24.97

Created by award-winning brand, easy to use a manual breast pump

Constructed from 100% safe food grade silicone

Lightweight and easy to use on the go

Manual pump or use suction to release milk

Suction cup bottom, no more spilling the milk

Suction cup base makes it hard to squeeze to manually extract milk

Measurements are not accurate

Just a simple design for the green-friendly family. This breast pump has been designed using soft and comfortable silicone. The silicone is 100% safe and has been constructed with food grade materials. The silicone is also BPA, PVC, and Phthalate free materials ensuring that it is not only safe for mom but safe for baby as well. The pump is easy to use and is a suction-based system. No batteries, no cords, no cables, but hand powered pumping.

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Design

It is easy to use and requires no assembly. The design is super lightweight and portable. Just suction the pump to the breast and let the suction do all the work. It draws out the milk for you or you can pump to produce a letdown. It is perfect for pumping at night, when traveling, or anywhere that you can’t plug something in. From an environmentally friendly and award-winning company, this breast pump is one of the bestselling hand pumps on the material. The design, the size, and the suction cup bottom make a tough job easier with this silicone breast pump.

Ease of Use

Constructed from 100% safe materials the design of this breast pump is very unique. It has been constructed from materials that are of the highest quality and food grade materials. Every mom wants to make sure that their baby has the best and this breast pump is safe and FDA approved.

Effectiveness

The design is so simple and it is so easy to use. It is easy to place in your bag and no your way you go. No cords, charging, power outlets or anything. Just need the pump and you are all set.

8. Spectra Baby S1 Plus Premier Rechargeable

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
79
spectra baby S1 plus premier rechargeable breast pump for mums
spectra baby S1 plus premier rechargeable breast pump for mums pieces
spectra baby S1 plus premier rechargeable breast pump for mums rechargeable
Amazon Link
Design
79
Ease of Use
76
Effectiveness
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$195.99

Closed system with backflow protector to prevent contamination

The rechargeable battery is built-in to the device for convenience

Suction adjusts at both let-down and expression mode

Pump compatible with other brand name storage bottles

Convenient timer shuts the pump off after 30 minutes of use

12 hour charge time of battery after the initial purchase

Low quality plastic bottles come with the kit

If you are seriously considering buying the Spectra S2 but are put off by its electricity-only power supply, then you might want to get the Spectra S1 instead. This closed system has technically all the same features of the Spectra S2 but with a more powerful suction at 350 mmHg (the Spectra S2 can only manage 300 mmHg; still powerful though) and, of course, the addition of a rechargeable battery pack that runs a full 60 minutes after a full charge.

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Design

The Spectra S1 features the same closed system, the same 2-mode settings equivalent to the 2-phase milk expression system of Medela, the same timer and night light, and the same hospital-grade equipment you will find. Oh, the other difference is that the S1 comes in blue while the S2 is in pink.

Ease of Use

We expect the convenience of an on-the-go option will all of our accessories and gadgets! It’s one of the reasons we now have cell phones instead of landlines! Why not have it be the same with something as essential as a breast pump when it comes to being a nursing mom?! With a cell phone you automatically expect to have a rechargeable battery, so thank goodness Spectra gives the option of a rechargeable system as well! In fact, moms can get at least 3 ½ -4 full EBM sessions on one charge! Also, included is a timer function that wasn’t part of the S2 series.

Effectiveness

It’s the addition of the rechargeable battery that makes the S1 better than the S2. It has a more powerful suction, too. Unfortunately, ramping the suction to higher than what is necessary may not really be a good idea.

9. Portable Electric Dual Use Battery

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
77
portable electric breast pump for mums
portable electric breast pump for mums pieces
portable electric breast pump for mums interface
Amazon Link
Design
81
Ease of Use
72
Effectiveness
78
best offer for today
Amazon Link

2 in 1 design is practical and convenient

Features long battery life, about 6 sessions per charge

Quiet and no beeping or signal sounds

Constructed from food grade feeding materials, BPA free

Battery is USB charged

Heavy design does not work will with hands-free bra

Flange is over size fits all

The breast pump features three modes to select from. To switch between the modes one press and hold of a button and the milking mode goes to the next level. Each one of the modes is compatible with 8 levels that are easy to find which one or ones are best for you. The entire construction of the device has been made from BPA free materials. It is safe for both baby and mommy. Cleaning is just as easy. Simply disassemble the device and clean.

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Design

Featuring an anti-back flow design this device allows just the right amount of milk and air to make sure that you get the best performance without ever jeopardizing the hygiene. There is a large speaker cover that prevents milk from being able to spill and is also a one size fits most design.

Ease of Use

Taking this breast pump along with you anywhere is easy. There is a rechargeable battery that features 900mAh of power. It can be charged from a power bank or other charging devices that are used on the go. This allows you to be able to pump anywhere with ease. No more searching places high and low for a outlet in a corner somewhere.

Effectiveness

The whisper of the breast pump is valued by moms everywhere. In full mode the pump only produces 48 dB, which is like an indoor whisper. Pumping mothers no longer will have to worry about waking their sleeping babies or partner plus when using on the go it is very discreet.

10. Lansinoh Manual Stimulation & Expression

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
74.7
lansinoh manual stimulation & expression breast pump for mums
lansinoh manual stimulation & expression breast pump for mums pieces
lansinoh manual stimulation & expression breast pump for mums naturalwave
Amazon Link
Design
71
Ease of Use
79
Effectiveness
74
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$23.49

Lightweight design with easy to express milk handle

Features two modes of pumping and two flange sizes included

Pump directly into a milk storage bag

Designed by a breastfeeding mom for a breastfeeding mom

Manual design great for pumping anywhere

Manual design does take some time to express the milk

Does not fit any bottles to be able to pump directly into

A great device to give breastfeeding moms everywhere an easy way to express their milk anywhere they go. The ergonomic design features two modes of pumping and comes with two different flange sizes. Also included in the set is a naturalwave nipple, a cap with a collar, with feeding storage bags.

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Design

The design of the breast milk pump is great selection for moms that need to be able to pump occasionally or want a compact designed pump that allows you to be able to express milk when traveling. Many moms also use this pump as a backup option. The compact design is great for being able to place it is a glovebox or in a small compartment to use when you need.

Ease of Use

Easy to use. From expressing the milk to cleaning this device it is all easy. The device breaks down into a couple of separate pieces that can be washed and placed back together with ease.

Effectiveness

With two different modes of expression; stimulation/let down mode and expression mode this pump is ideal for moms that need a quiet solution for an affordable price. From pumping daily to occasionally this pump gives moms the freedom that they are searching for.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Design

With the technology we now have on hand, the options are endless! When weighing in all of the research it all boiled down to comfort and convenience. Luckily, this is what we're all about! When it comes to the issue of sore nipples from too much suction to the opposite effect of not expressing enough from very little pressure, the research became far-ranging! Ultimately -- ideally -- we want to mimic the same effects as a baby nursing. The health benefits that result from this range from avoiding a subsequent pregnancy to lowering the risk of breast or reproductive cancers.

Then, there's been the debate between manual pumping vs. electric pumping! There are too many out there to give an exhaustive study; and, most moms have neither the time nor the energy to do a lot of trial and error when it comes to these issues! We did the best we could, based on reviews and company credibility in this area. This is why there is so much variety, especially since every woman's body is different and has different responses! It can be from multiple suction settings to having the right sized pad that conforms to the breast properly.

Ease of Use

We had to factor in the busy lifestyle of a modern-day mom, too, when it came to our selection! Most women these days have opted to balance work and family life, so a breast pump is actually a vital accessory for a family in 2019! Even stay-at-home moms have a tendency to be more on the go than women were 40 or 50 years ago! So, our pumps had to have all the attributes of a product that speaks to timeliness and convenience!

This is why some of the pumps come with timers, to gauge the amount of milk needed per session and what is an adequate amount. This is why some might have an automatic shut-off. As earlier stated, we want no milk to be wasted, since it is a precious nutrient for your baby's health! When your infant is nursing on one breast and you're using the pump on the other, you don't want the noise disturbing -- but you also don't want the suction to be relentless, either!

Effectiveness

First, we had to make sure that the design of the pump is one continuous system. Human breast milk is a very sterile fluid that contains all the right nutrients including maternal antibodies that kids will need to help them ward off infections in the crucial first 6 months of life while they are still in the process of building their immune system. It is very important that the sterility of the breastmilk is maintained from the time it leaves the mammary glands until they reach your baby. This is very important because breast milk contamination is a very serious issue. As such, we had to look for nursing devices that are designed to be a closed system. If there are additional ports, we had to make sure that these do not introduce unnecessary microorganisms or even unwanted substances into the milk. What we want is breastmilk that is as fresh and as sterile as if the baby will be suckling directly from mum’s breasts.

Secondly, we had to look at the different features of the device. Many moms experience the milk letdown reflex while babies are nursing on one breast. This means that one breast is being suckled on the baby while the other breast is dripping with milk. That is why devices have to be ultra-quiet so they don’t disturb baby while he or she is nursing. This helps ensure that no breast milk is ever wasted.

Third, some companies really do provide excellent products. Their reputation is largely at stake. So, we had to make sure that only manufacturers with unparalleled credibility will be included in our list. To help us determine whether a manufacturer is worthy of inclusion, we had to consider the feedback, reports, or reviews of countless customers especially moms who have already tried and used the product. If the company has been recognized for its design, then we’d factor this as well.
We never thought that we’d be able to come up with the 10 best breast pumps for mums. But, with the dedication of our research team, we were able to create a very definitive list of the world’s top 10 breast milk pumps for today’s modern moms.

Most Important Criteria (According to our experts opinion)
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#1
Design
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#2
Ease of Use
Rate This Criteria as Most Important
#3
Effectiveness
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Parents, Did you Know?

When nursing a baby you will spend alot of time holding them while they nurse. It is best to make sure you are in a well supported position and are sitting. Make sure you are very comfortable when you start. The more comfortable you are the better the experience for both you and baby.

Parents, Did you Know?

There are plenty of tips and tricks to enhancing milk flow for pumping session. Your supply will likely naturally vary over days, weeks, and months. The most effective way to coax milk out is with a nursing infant but if you need to up your supply while pumping, consider trying lactation cookies or supplements, applying a warm cloth to your breast before pumping, and pumping after nursing.

Other Factors to Consider

Compatibility

The inclusion of discreet carrying cases and small on-the-go sizes that can be tossed in a tote was also on our minds! We know women still need to upon as more than just moms hanging out in sweats and forgetting completely what life was like before kids! We know that you're proud of your Little Ones! But there doesn't always have to be the "Hey, look at me, I'm a Mom and I want you to know it!" type of vibe always hanging around like a cloud wherever you go!

Value

The median price point of our guide is $87.18. Due to the difference in technology between electric pumps and manual pumps, you’ll notice a pretty stark gap between some of the prices of our top ten products. Whatever your needs, there is likely a breast pump that can fit your budget. Not all electric pumps will break the bank. Consider your comfort, the effectiveness of the product, and how much it matches the needs of your family (on the go vs. stationary) when evaluating the value of these pumps.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Is it better to buy a manual or an electric pump?

a:

That all depends on your needs and comfort level! A manual pump might be best for on the go! When you just wanna run out the door quickly and you know that you will need to express later because you will become engorged in a public setting! Manual is also good if you don’t want too much pressure that can come with an electric pump. On the downside, a manual may not give you enough pressure to express adequately! An electric pump is probably better to be used for expressing larger quantities of milk that will be stored and used later, hence all of the concern over keeping the milk pure and avoiding contamination. Our advice is to mix and match trying both, depending on the situation!

q: Is pumping better than breastfeeding?

a:

Short answer is, No! That being said, life can get complicated as we all know! There are many factors as to why it’s not convenient to breastfeed. Some women don’t lactate as heavily or as often, and need some help in that regard. Some babies refuse the breast. Some women don’t have time due to work. And some women have had subsequent pregnancies that don’t allow the time or directed attention that a session requires. Of course, directly nursing strengthens the bond between mother and baby. Also, there is less risk of contaminated milk. If possible, it’s best to tag team between EBM bottle feedings and direct nursing for convenience.

q: What should I do if my breasts don’t fit the standard cups?

a:

We believe that a few of these companies offer a smaller sized pad for women who are smaller! A company like Avent -- and, I believe a few others -- have developed an angled neck that allows for most breast sizes to express properly. Often times, it is the angle more than the size of the device. Also, the position you can sit in, which also addressed through this. We’re sure that through Lactation Consultants, there is an option for customizable pads that will conform specifically to your breast, as well. Be sure to maintain adequate pressure on the pump when it is attached to avoid slippage or leaking.

q: Are nine setting really necessary for a breast pump and are they all accurate?

a:

Unfortunately, the jury is out on this one! There are so many mixed reviews, it is often best to be safe than sorry when it comes to the design of a product like this! All women’s bodies are different -- some might need more or less pressure than others to express! Of course, no one is going to be satisfied with all nine settings. One mom might only need one or two. Others may need to try many to get it right, or to express more milk when engorged. Over time, quite a few companies have finessed there settings to give the pressure a more naturalistic feel of real nursing; or, with 2-phase technology that differentiates between let-down and expression.

q: How does the closed system work on electric pumps?

a:

Closed system is the best for avoiding contamination! It literally shoots the milk through a pressurized tube! The force is so great that it leaves behind no liquid or residue. It goes directly from breast to bottle with no in between! Also, it has a backflow filter that prevents jamming or the milk stagnating in a “holding area”. This is important because breastmilk is a very sterile substance that is purely nutrient rich. It’s made to build a healthy immune system. Any bacteria getting into it can lead to any variety of infections.

q: Can any of these pump carrying cases ever double as accessory bags?

a:

For the most part, there isn’t too much room in them for anything else, other than the pump and accessories they come with. Now, this doesn’t mean that you can’t get creative! The Medela go tote comes with a cooler bag. If you want, that bag can be used for other things. For instance, if you know that you will be going someplace where refrigeration is available and you know that you won’t need to bring along your ice pack. The same bag has a handy little side pocket that can be used for storage. You can mix and match with accessories. Or, ultimately, write to the company itself asking for a roomier, more stylish, option

Sources

  1. Susie Hamilton, Manual Pumps vs. Electric Pumps, Informative Article
  2. Steve Morgan, Disadvantages of Manual Breast-pumps, Article
  3. Debjani Arora, Breast pumps — uses, advantages and limitations, Article
  4. WebMD, Breastfeeding Overview, Informative Article
  5. Carole Anderson Lucia, 20 Breastfeeding Benefits for Mom and Baby, Article