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10 Best Medela Breast Pumps Reviewed in 2024

last updated Aug 30, 2019

One of the biggest questions you may have had so far with your pregnancy is whether or not to breastfeed. While many formula options exist today, decades of research and doctor recommendations still say that breastmilk is the best option for your child during their first six to twelve months of life. Nursing your baby creates an emotional bond between mother and child, plus provides the infant with essential antibodies that boost their immune system. Breastmilk is, quite literally, liquid gold. It is filled with all of the nutrients and immune-boosting minerals that your child needs during their first formative year. In this informative buying guide, you will discover the best-rated and the most-reviewed Medela breast pumps. Buyers have judged them as excellent and are recommending them to others. we hope that you will find the perfect one for yourself or to give as a gift on this beneficial list.

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

icon
 Sonata Smart
86.5/100 our score
Ease of Use
88
Portability
89
Design
84
Value
85
Sonata Smart
Why is it better?

Hospital grade performance breast pump for home use

Features two phases pumping technology to maximize the flow and production

Clinically tested and designed

Includes smart technology allowing a personalized experience with connecting app

Whisper technology for more discreet and low volume pumping

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
 Sonata Smart
Test Winner: Sonata Smart
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
16
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
36
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
25
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Jessica Mentzer:

Creating a great experience breast pumping experience starts with the pump that you are using. To be able to effective pump breastmilk and be comfortable is very important. We have created this list to connect you to the best breast pumps on the market. Recently the list was updated and features two new items.

Sorting Options
Ease of Use Portability Design Value 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
Ease of Use
97 %
Portability
96 %
Design
95 %
Value
97 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.3
Ease of Use
94 %
Portability
93 %
Design
92 %
Value
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.5
Ease of Use
93 %
Portability
95 %
Design
90 %
Value
92 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
$199.99
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.8
Ease of Use
91 %
Portability
94 %
Design
89 %
Value
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.3
Ease of Use
91 %
Portability
92 %
Design
88 %
Value
86 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.8
Ease of Use
89 %
Portability
91 %
Design
86 %
Value
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.5
Ease of Use
88 %
Portability
89 %
Design
84 %
Value
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
$1,960.31
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Ease of Use
86 %
Portability
87 %
Design
84 %
Value
83 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
$1,960.31
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.5
Ease of Use
85 %
Portability
85 %
Design
83 %
Value
81 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81.3
Ease of Use
83 %
Portability
80 %
Design
82 %
Value
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (19.03.24)
Amazon Link

10 Best Medela Breast Pumps Reviewed

1. Harmony 2-Phase Expression

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
medela harmony 2-phase expression breast pump set
medela harmony 2-phase expression breast pump
medela harmony 2-phase expression breast pump package
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
97
Portability
96
Design
95
Value
97
best offer for today
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Has a compact and portable size

Is very quiet to not disturb others

Easy to clean and maintain

Id discreet when others are near

Includes an ergonomic handle

You can only pump one side at a time

Does not have a motor

The excellent Medela Harmony pump is handheld and easy to slip into your bag for a quick trip away from your baby. It comes with everything you need to get started to use it today. Need to take a quick flight to a business meeting? Bring a blanket along and discreetly pump right on the plane! Are you taking a long road trip and your baby is sleeping through regular feedings? You can now pump discreetly in the passenger seat of your car. This breast pump is perfect for the mom on the go. Medela has included all of the items you need to get started pumping right away. This breast pump is also great to keep around the house for a stay at home exclusive breastfeeding mother. It can be used to relieve engorgement or help with removing clogged ducts.

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Ease of use

This super quiet hand-held pump is the pinnacle of discretion. The Harmony is super easy to assemble and can be stored fully assembled. It has fewer parts than a full-size electric pump, so it is much easier to clean.

Portability

This little hand-held pump is for a mom on the move. It is easy to clean and takes up a small amount of space in your bag. Discreetly pumping almost anywhere is possible with this tiny breast pump.

Design

It comes equipped with necessary bottles and a bottle stand so you can start pumping as soon as you sterilize your new pump. This is a go-anywhere kind of breast pump.

Value

The cost versus value of this little dynamo is well-balanced. It is at the lower end of the price list, and this little pump will not disappoint! The ability to pump quietly and in a location without direct access to electricity make this pump well worth the price you will pay.

2. Pump-in-Style Advanced

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.3
medela pump-in-style advanced breast pump set
medela pump-in-style advanced breast pump features
medela pump-in-style advanced breast pump
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
94
Portability
93
Design
92
Value
94
best offer for today
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Pump from both sides at the same time

Bag has space for all accessories

Includes a cooler and ice pack

Intended for daily use

Comes with a battery pack

Not as discreet as smaller pumps

The wonderful Pump-in-Style product is perfect for a working mom, or any mom that needs to pump several times a day. It is also terrific for exclusive pumping after your milk supply has been established. As a double electric pump that can be used anywhere, this amazing item does not have to have direct access to electricity. It will help relieve your engorged breasts so you can spend time away from your baby without discomfort. It comes with everything necessary to pump all of the milk your little one will need. The tote and backpack can be used after you are done pumping by just removing the pump insert. This is a great breast pump that will easily meet your basic pumping needs.

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Ease of use

The two-phase expression mimics the infant’s suckle to allow you to pump even more milk than a pump without this feature. This pump comes with a battery back-up pack so you can pump anywhere.

Portability

Included is a carrying case to hold all necessary accessories. It also has space for a small make-up kit and wallet if you want to nix your purse. You will get everything you need to pump and store your precious milk with this superb item.

Design

You may choose a roomy backpack or tote to transport your pump and accessories in style. This pump comes with four bottles, a cooler, and an ice pack for easy breastmilk storage.

Value

The cost of this product falls into the middle range. Breast pumps are an invaluable tool to have available during the time you are nursing your baby. Check with your medical insurance company and you may have little to no out of pocket cost.

3. Swing Single Electric

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.5
medela swing single electric breast pump
medela swing single electric breast pump easy to use
medela swing single electric breast pump easy to clean
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
93
Portability
95
Design
90
Value
92
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$199.99

Compact and portable

Vacuum controls for comfort

Use with AC adapter or batteries

2-phase expression technology

Easy to clean and assemble

Pumps only one breast at a time

Small and discreet just like the Harmony model, the Medela Swing Breast Pump is electric so you can be hands-free while pumping. It is a single electric pump, so, unfortunately, it only pumps one breast at a time. The marvelous swing pump is fantastic for quick pump breaks at work or when you are away from home. It is also great if you're trying to get rid of a plugged duct or want to pump on one side while you are nursing the baby on the other side. This breast pump is super compact and will fit right into your purse or a small tote bag. The Swing pump has 2-phase expression technology to mimic your baby’s suckling at the breast.

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Ease of use

You can adjust the suction to be the most comfortable for you, plus you can also readjust it during your pumping session as needed. This is one of the simpler models that we feature.

Portability

It is super easy to clean because it has minimal parts. This breast pump is also very simple to put together, so you can make the most of your pump breaks at work or where ever you pump.

Design

The best aspect of this breast pump is the vacuum controls that allow you to be in charge of the suction every step of the way. This increases your comfort tenfold and allows you to get more milk.

Value

Priced lower than the majority of pumps on our list, this unique product is an invaluable tool to have available during the time you are nursing your baby.

4. Style Advanced with Backpack

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.8
medela style advanced with backpack breast pump set
medela style advanced with backpack breast pump specs
medela style advanced with backpack breast pump easy to use
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
91
Portability
94
Design
89
Value
89
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Features a breast pump in a backpack designed to be portable and discreet

Design is patented with an advanced expression system, producing more milk, less time

Includes everything that is needed to start pumping right away

Pump includes easy using simple knobs and pumping settings

Protection from overflowing bottles with preventing milk from entering system

Breast pump does make a loud sound

Backpack cannot be closed when pumping

When you have a little one and especially a new to the family little one time is precious. The last thing that you want consuming your time is a long period of breast pumping session. The technology used in this breast pump is able to produce more milk than the standard pump in far less time. Constructed for advanced pumping technology the design is researched based.

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Ease of Use

The pump is easy to set up and use. It features a double pump that allows mothers to maximize the time spent pumping to get the most milk the most efficiently. With only one single knob on the machine to adjust the speed and a knob for creating let downs, the technology has been simplified to create a great user experience.

Portability

This model has been designed with portability in mind. The complete system comes in a backpack. It was designed to create a discreet look which in turn also creates a super portable design that is easy to take anywhere. The backpack is also very durable making it something that will hold everything that you need for pumping just about anywhere. Inside the bag, there have also been ice packs included helping keep those pumped bottles of breast milk as fresh as possible.

Design

Included in the design is a patented based technology that has been completely research-based to provide pumping mothers with a 2 phase expression system. The technology has been designed with the pump to have mothers be able to pump quickly and effectively. It maximizes the flow without ever hurting the breast. The pump itself with the simple knobs and easy to use features make this breast pump an effective way to maintain a healthy supply when you need it most.

Value

Based on the other breast pumps on the list this pump comes in at the average price range for the quality that you are receiving. The value has also been based on the system as a whole. It comes with the durable and discreet backpack, pump, bottles, ice packs, pumping accessories and more.

5. Sonata Smart

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.3
medela sonata smart breast pump set
medela sonata smart breast pump
medela sonata smart breast pump features
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
91
Portability
92
Design
88
Value
86
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Has a touchscreen display

Hospital grade performance

Quiet and discreet operation

Connects to MyMedela App

Choose from multiple pumping rhythms

Battery only lasts for a few pumping sessions

Connectable directly to the MyMedela app, the Sonata Smart Pump is a smart device that comes with everything that you need plus a few spare parts. The pumping rhythms are flexible to meet your personal comfort level and milk production needs. Discreetly quiet, it even has a convenient carry-all bag, so you will not be fumbling around for parts as you head out for the day. This fantastic pump tracks your progress via the MyMedela app for convenient monitoring of the time and amount of milk pumped plus the battery life of the product. You can even set it up to send notifications to your phone so that you never miss a valuable pumping session.

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Ease of use

With the aid of the app, you can precisely keep up with your pumping schedule much better than doing it alone. Simply look at it for how much you do each day and when you should pump again with ease.

Portability

You get a convenient carrying bag with this wonderful item to help you during your busy day. Because it is discreet, you can use it when others are around, even if you are not at home.

Design

This pump is Medela's newest and it comes with a multitude of benefits. Two clinically-proven pumping rhythms are available for your increased comfort and production.

Value

This breast pump comes in at the middle point of our price range. It is highly valued for its smart ability to work in coordination with the company’s app to aid with monitoring your pumping schedule.

6. Freestyle

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.8
medela freestyle breast pump set
medela freestyle breast pump features
medela freestyle breast pump simple to use
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
89
Portability
91
Design
86
Value
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Has a digital display

Comes with a rechargeable battery

Double pumping is possible

Two-phase expression of milk

One touch let-down button

Suction can sometimes be inconsistent

The Medela Freestyle is a small and portable double pump that is great for a mom on the go. It is perfect for quick use in a hurry or away from home with its discreet form. If you need to have a pumping session at work, this is the product for that. Medela created the Freestyle Pump to be exactly that, freestyle, so it meets the needs of busy moms. Choose to pump one breast or two, use it to relieve engorgement, or pump multiple ounces for freezing and using later. It comes equipped with a rechargeable battery, so you don't have to be tethered to the wall while pumping.

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Ease of use

A great characteristic of this amazing pump is the fact that it has a one-touch letdown button to mimic the baby nursing. It will help you to produce more milk at each pumping session.

Portability

The compact size of this item is its greatest benefit, as it is small enough to fit in any bag or purse. It comes with a convenient carrying tote that will hold it and all of the needed accessories.

Design

The digital display and timer are easy to read and convenient if you have limited pumping time or want to know how many ounces you pump on average in fifteen or thirty minutes.

Value

Priced at the higher to mid-range of listed items, the Freestyle product is great to have available for any family that is breastfeeding and bottle feeding breast milk interchangeably.

7. Sonata Smart

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.5
medela sonata smart breast pump set
medela sonata smart breast pump
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
88
Portability
89
Design
84
Value
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$1,960.31

Hospital grade performance breast pump for home use

Features two phases pumping technology to maximize the flow and production

Clinically tested and designed

Includes smart technology allowing a personalized experience with connecting app

Whisper technology for more discreet and low volume pumping

Battery life is not very long, only about 3 to 4 hours

Pumping parts and accessories are heavier than other models

Remember using that fabulous breast pump at the hospital and loving the experience? Well, this pump has been designed with that same technology creating the same experience. It is a hospital grade breast pump that has been created to be used right at home. The performance is the same and the experience is the best.

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Ease of Use

Designed to be easy to use this pumping system features the 2 phase expression system technology that is used at the hospital. It is designed to be able to create the most milk in a shorter period of time. The 2 phases are engineered and designed to provide two tested options for pumping. The options have been tested in the study. The 2 phases create a rhythm and suction that is much like the baby allowing the milk to flow with ease.

Portability

The design of the pump and the accessories are small enough to fit in any diaper bag and making taking it along anywhere easy and convenient. It also features a quiet whisper technology that keeps the pumping at a lower volume allowing you to be able to pump more discreetly anywhere or any time of the day.

Design

One of the neatest features of this pump is the smart connection capabilities. The pump is able to seamlessly connect an app that has been designed to be able to streamline and personalize the pumping experience for everyone. This technology not only allows you to create this personal experience, but it also creates a way to connect to plenty of breast pumping resources.

Value

The technology that is used in this model of breast pump does cause the price to be on the higher range of pumps listed on this page. Price does really reflect the hospital-grade technology and performance that this pump gives the user. Plus smart technology creates an experience that many other models are not able too.

8. Symphony PLUS

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
medela symphony plus breast pump
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
86
Portability
87
Design
84
Value
83
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$1,960.31

Multi-user pumping possible

Has multiple suction patterns

Easy to clean and maintain

Two-phase expression technology

Great for on-the-go moms

Can be on the expensive side for pumps

Perfect for mothers who are unable to initiate breastfeeding right away, the Symphony PLUS comes equipped with multiple suctioning patterns to assist with initial milk production. It is a multi-user pump, so you can hygienically share it safely with other women. This incredible product was created for use in hospitals and other public spaces where a pump might be shared by multiple users. The Symphony PLUS is specifically designed to initiate, build and maintain milk production. You can use it through all phases of breastfeeding and even share it with family or friends if you have babies in the same age range of breastfeeding.

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Ease of use

It is super simple to switch between double and single pumping by just removing the collection kit from your breast. Usable almost anywhere, you will love the freedom this item affords you.

Portability

Because it can be used in public places, this impressive pump is highly portable. Medical facilities, workplaces, and even multiple family users will appreciate the ease with which it can be transported.

Design

Two pumping programs are available for this marvelous pump. They both contain scientifically studied and clinically proven suctioning patterns to help initiate milk supply and maintain it throughout breastfeeding.

Value

At a top-tier price for top-tier convenience and milk production, this terrific item also has great resale value. It is a hospital-grade breast pump in which the milk does not touch any of the internal parts of the pump itself.

9. Single Electric Mini

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.5
medela single electric mini breast pump package
medela single electric mini breast pump battery
medela single electric mini breast pump set
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Ease of Use
85
Portability
85
Design
83
Value
81
best offer for today
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Compact and small

Portable and discreet

No inconvenient tubes

Easy to maintain and clean

Operates on battery

Must purchase a US adapter plug

Exclusively marketed to the British population, the Single Electric Min Breast Pump is an amazingly convenient breast pump. It is battery operated, so you can recharge it before traveling for an easy to use discreet breast pump. Yes, you do have to purchase a U.S. adapter plug, but the convenience of this pump will far outweigh any operating issues. As a handheld unit, it is great for parents who work part-time or are trying to save a bit of milk to freeze for future times away from your baby.

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Ease of use

The Medela Single Electric Mini is a small compact hand-held pump that has a convenient battery-powered electric motor. You can easily pump a bottle a day using this pump.

Portability

You only need a purse or small tote bag to carry this pump with you. It contains no extra tubing, plus the motor is directly connected to the collection kit.

Design

Perfect for a person who only needs to express milk occasionally, this product is small and handheld. Because it is so discreet, you can use it almost anywhere you need to pump.

Value

As one of the more economical choice in the category of breast pumps, this fabulous item sports the convenience of holding it with just one hand and not having to hand pump. This aspect adds massive value for the mom who breastfeeds.

10. Little Hearts

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81.3
medela little hearts breast pump set
medela little hearts breast pump easy to clean
Amazon Link
Ease of Use
83
Portability
80
Design
82
Value
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Adjustable suction

Compact and portable size

Versatile and flexible

Ergonomic design

Easy to maintain and clean

Can be difficult to learn to use properly

The Little Hearts Pump is hand expression only. It is super small so it is very convenient to carry with you wherever you may need to pump. Perfectly usable at your office cubicle, in your car, or at home in bed, his wonderfully compact breast pump features ergonomic pumping. The three levels of milk expression offer you maximum comfort. It will attach to any mainstream bottle type, so you can pump straight into the bottle and not have to worry about moving milk into bags. It is also great for relieving engorgement at home or while on the go.

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Ease of use

You use the palm of your hand to pump with this breast pump. This is the area of the hand with the most muscles, so you will be able to create better suction for optimal milk collection.

Portability

Any type of device that does not operate on electricity or battery is highly portable. The small size of this product is another indication of its superior ability to be used away from home.

Design

Because it does not use batteries or an electric outlet, you have the flexibility to use this incredible little pump anytime you want. The design is one of portability and ingenuity.

Value

Coming in at the low end of the pricing list, this unique pump offers compact convenience to make it a great value. You will love the independence and freedom it gives you to pump anywhere and anytime.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Ease of Use

All of the necessary accessories come with each pump so you will be able to safely and cleanly pump milk for your baby. A breast pump has to be cleaned after each use and sterilized frequently. Many moms will have to pump several times a day if she is not spending the day with her infant. That's why it is important that breast pumps are easy to clean and their parts can take apart easily so that they can be sterilized and then put back again.

Portability

Stay-at-home moms and working moms alike want to be able to move their breast pump around to where it is most convenient for them to pump. This is why portability was a factor in our criteria for breast pumps. You have to make sure that you can carry all of the parts necessary for each pumping session.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you breastfeed your baby for six months to one year and beyond if it is comfortable for both the mother and baby. A breast pump is an invaluable resource for a breastfeeding mom whether she is a work-at-home mom, stay-at-home mom, or a mom who works outside of the house. Breast pumps allow you to provide your baby with valuable breast milk in the times you are not around.

Design

When you purchase a breast pump from Medela, you are not only buying the parts necessary to extract your precious milk for your baby. Medela offers you information for purchasing a breast pump through your insurance company and has a support group specifically for breastfeeding families. You are also buying peace of mind from one of the world's top companies whose primary focus is supporting breastfeeding families. We have gathered a selection of Medela’s best-performing breast pumps to give you the largest variety of choices possible.

Value

Medela has been making breast pumps for over 50 years and is dedicated to making mom’s life easier. They have a variety of breasts pumps available in a wide range of styles. Some are single pumps perfect for expressing one breast at the same time you are breastfeeding. They also have double breast pumps which can express both sides at the same time and drastically cut down on how long it takes you to pump. There are both manual and electric options available as well.

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Parents, Did You Know?

Open system pumps are not recommended for reuse due to their lack of filters which can cause breast milk to enter the inner components of the pump.

Parents, Did You Know?

If you are unsure which pump is the best for you, we recommend purchasing a double pump as it can be used as single when needed.

Other Factors to Consider

Durability

We made sure to choose breast pumps that didn't have complicated directions and provided simple step-by-step instructions. It's easy to put together and take apart. Replacement parts for these breast pumps can be found through the Medela website, at big box stores, and through many online retailers. Breastfeeding is considered the gold standard in baby feeding. Medela breast pumps are the #1 pediatrician-recommended breast pump. The breast pumps on this list will offer you versatility, durability, and a proven track record of success.

Comfort

A breast pump can take a lot of the guesswork out of breastfeeding. It prevents breast engorgement that can make feeding difficult and even painful. It can also help deter you from developing mastitis, a painful condition that can derail breastfeeding attempts. Purchasing a breast pump can give you back some of your independence and freedom as a new mom.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Why do I need a breast pump?

a:

A breast pump is incredibly helpful to have when you are breastfeeding a baby because it allows you the freedom to pump a bottle of milk when you have to be away from your baby. Also, if you are having issues with milk production, a breast pump can help ramp up your supply. If your baby is premature, then you will not be able to hold them skin-to-skin and breastfeed therefore you will have to pump breast milk if that is your choice and feeding method. Breast pumps are a part of any modern mom's baby needs list.

q: Should I choose a manual or an electric breast pump?

a:

An electric breast pump can be incredibly convenient for moms because you do not have to exert energy to get milk out. Electric pumps are best for daily-use pumpers or exclusive pumpers. The manual pumps are great to have on hand for when you want to pump a spare bottle before going out.

q: What's the best way to clean my breast pump?

a:

Your breast pump needs to be cleaned after each use with warm soapy water or a Medela breast pump cleaning wipe. If you use your pump daily, it should be sterilized at least once a day. If you are not using it daily, it should be cleaned before after each use. You may sterilize your breast pump in one of two ways. The first way you can disinfect your pump parts is to put the pieces in boiling water on the stove for three to five minutes. Then allow them to dry completely before storage. The second option is to purchase Madela-brand microwave sanitation bags that will enable you to stick the parts inside a unique container and sanitize in the microwave. As always, you still have to make sure they're completely dry before storage.

q: How often do I need to replace the small parts?

a:

The breast shields, valves, membranes, and tubes that come with your pump should be replaced as needed. There is not a specific replacement schedule provided by Medela because each parent uses their breast pump differently. When these items begin to show wear and tear or you are losing suction with your breast pump, they should be replaced.

q: Can I pump directly into a breast milk storage bag with these pumps?

a:

Many Medela pumps offer the option to pump directly into the Medela breastmilk storage bags. There are also several other breastmilk storage bag solutions that have an adapter that you can connect to your Medela breast pump. Please check with the manufacturers of your breastmilk bags and your breast pump directions to ensure that you can pump directly into a breastmilk storage bag with your specific pump.

q: What is the difference between single and double pumps?

a:

The basic difference between single and double breast pumps is whether the pump is designed to allow for the expression of milk from one breast at a time or both breasts at the same time. Single breast pumps are better suited for women who want to pump occasionally in addition to traditional breastfeeding. Single pumps can be used at the same time you are feeding your baby, keeping your supply up and preventing your unused breast from becoming engorged. Double breast pumps tend to be a bit more expensive and best suited for women who want or need to pump on a consistent basis. Double pumps can essentially cut your pumping time in half because you are able to express from both sides simultaneously.

q: Can I reuse a breast pump for a second or even third child?

a:

The short answer is yes! Breast pumps are not an exclusive item that can only be used for one baby or even once pregnancy, however, properly cleaning and storing your pump between pregnancies is essential if you want to use it again after several months or even years. Storing it in a cool and dry place can prevent the electronic components from corroding over time. Pump accessories such as tubing, nipple shields, bottles, and even milk storage bags can also be reused as long as they have been thoroughly cleaned and dried. It is also recommended that you store your pumping accessories inside of an airtight and food-grade container when not in use. You will want to purchase new valves and or membranes once it is time to break your pump back out.

q: How can I store my milk after I have pumped it?

a:

Many of the breast pumps on our list come with a cooler bag and ice pack to hold the bottles that come with your breast pump for convenient storage. This cooler can be used even if you don't have a refrigerator nearby. You can store individual bottles of milk in a fridge. You can also transfer your milk from a bottle into a breastmilk storage bag that can then be kept in the freezer or refrigerator for later use.

Sources

  1. By Norma Ritter, IBCLC, RLC, How To Choose A Breast Pump, Web Article
  2. American Centers for Disease Control, Proper Handling and Storage of Breastmilk, Web Article
  3. Medela, Will My Insurance Cover my Breast Pump?, Web Form
  4. Medela, 3 Things That Can Impact Breast Milk Taste & Smell, Web Article
  5. Medela, How to Manage Pumping at Work Post-Maternity Leave, Web Article