Many moms begin thinking about breast pumps when it’s time to return to work, while other nursing moms use pumps as a means to help increase milk supply or to allow their partner to assist with feedings. No matter the circumstance, it’s difficult for new mothers to discover everything there is to learn when looking to buy the best breast pump to suit her breastfeeding needs. We’ve turned to the experts to get their insight and help narrow down the search for that perfect pump. “I make sure to tell moms to review the pros and cons of all of the pumps they may be considering. For those who need maximum output, such as NICU moms or moms with low supply, I prefer hospital grade pumps, even renting one,” suggests Danielle R. Kelly, IBCLC, RNC-OB. “Affordability would be last on my list, as this is an investment in your body’s ability to make food for your precious baby.” Another consideration: “I recommend that moms get a new pump with each baby,” says Barbara Demske, RN, BSN, IBCLC and Founder of The First Latch. “Motors in pumps, just like any other piece of equipment, wear over time, and breast pumps are no exception.” From manual to electric, check out these top picks for the best breast pump options for breastfeeding moms.
Medela Symphony Hospital Grade Breast Pump
Best Breast Pump for Increasing Milk Supply: Medela Symphony Hospital Grade Breast Pump
“If a mom is struggling with low supply, then she should likely use a hospital grade pump to help increase supply along with working with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. A good choice if you have a premature baby, a baby in the NICU or are experiencing low milk supply would be the Medela Symphony Hospital Grade Breast Pump,” suggests Barbara Demske, RN, BSN, IBCLC. “I’ve seen moms keep a hospital grade pump at their place of work and use their personal use pump for home or traveling.” Medela’s Symphony pump features strong suction power to help mom build or establish milk supply and express milk faster. It also switches from single to double pumping. ($2,115; amazon.com)
Spectra Baby USA S2 Plus Premier Electric Breast Pump (Hospital Strength)
Best Breast Pump for Exclusive Pumping: Spectra Baby USA S2 Plus Premier Electric Breast Pump (Hospital Strength)
“For exclusive pumping, I recommend the Spectra Baby S2 Plus Premier Electric Breast Pump. I prefer this model because it allows mom to customize the settings,” says Demske. “You can adjust the cycle speed and suction, and it has a very gentle rhythm that most moms find much more comfortable than some of the other pumps on the market. It also retails at a reasonable price point and they offer great customer service to address customer concerns.” The pump, which can be used for single or double pumping, also features a massage mode to stimulate letdown reflex and a nightlight to help mom navigate in the dark. ($151; amazon.com)
Haakaa Manual Silicone Breast Pump
Best Breast Pump for Busy Moms: Haakaa Manual Silicone Breast Pump
“A great pump to have on hand is the Haakaa Manual Silicone Breast Pump. This is a silicone pump that works by suctioning it onto the breast,” explains Modern Milk Founder Stephanie Nguyen, MSN, WHNP-C, IBCLC. “Many moms will put this on one breast while baby feeds from the other. It can be a great time saver and also a great way to store extra milk each day!” The portable, hand-held pump is also eco-friendly, easy to use and made with 100% medical grade silicone. Perfect for the mom on the go! ($13; amazon.com)
Ameda Purely Yours Double Electric Pump
Best Breast Pump for an Established Milk Supply: Ameda Purely Yours Double Electric Pump
“I love double electric personal pumps for everyday pumping and for the mom who has an established milk supply,” says Nguyen. “She can pump both breasts at the same time, and they are generally pretty efficient. One added note on overall pumping efficiency is that it’s important that mom is using the correct size flange to get the most out of her pumping sessions.” This hands-free Ameda Purely Yours Double Electric Pump can be used as a single or double pump and features adjustable suction power with 32 comfort settings and a closed system that eliminates condensation inside of the tubes, which means fewer replacements and, even better, one less thing for mom to worry about! Comes with an AC adapter, but for battery backup or car use, the pump requires six AA batteries and an auto adapter (each sold separately). ($180; target.com)
Freemie Liberty Hands-Free Double Electric Breast Pump
Best Breast Pump for Working Moms: Freemie Liberty Hands-Free Double Electric Breast Pump
“One thing that I’ve noticed is that ‘popular’ pumps vary depending on what part of the U.S. you are living in,” observes Nguyen. “In Arizona, I have a handful of moms who really like the Freemie Liberty Hands-Free Double Electric Breast Pump, which is a bit more expensive, but it allows mom to pump in certain situations where it may not have been possible.” If stealth pumping is a personal preference, then this super quiet hands-free pump is perfection! The Freemie cup conveniently slides into your bra and attaches to the breast without the need for flanges. Great for working moms who want to pump discreetly at their desk or for multi-tasking moms on the move. Features hospital-grade suction and customizable tubing lengths for convenience. ($300; walmart.com)
Medela Harmony Breast Pump
Best Breast Pump for Your Purse: Medela Harmony Breast Pump
“I love manual pumps for the times when you need to empty your breasts with a little pump but don’t need a full pumping session or for on the go,” adds Nguyen. “Some moms find that they can empty their breasts faster with a manual pump than with an electric pump. They are also great to throw in your purse!” Compact and easy to carry, this handy Medela Harmony Breast Pump features Medela’s patented two-phase expression to simulate baby’s nursing pattern. A manually controlled vacuum allows mom to set suction levels for comfort. ($42; amazon.com)
Medela Freestyle Mobile Double Electric Breast Pump
Best Breast Pump for Traveling: Medela Freestyle Mobile Double Electric Breast Pump
“Moms should look for ease of traveling with a pump, especially for working moms, a double-pumping option, and strength and durability,” suggests Danielle R. Kelly, IBCLC, RNC-OB. “The Medela Freestyle Mobile Double Electric Breast Pump is portable and can be utilized for pumping both breasts at the same time. I am also a fan of portable pumps with a battery adapter option, as you may not always be near a power source or in case of a power outage.” Perfect for toting out and about, this lightweight electric pump not only comes with a carrying case and cooler for storing milk, but also comes with two sizes of PersonalFit Breast Shields for comfort and the best fit. Features nine suction levels and a convenient backlight for late-night pumping. ($291; amazon.com)
Best Hands-Free Breast Pump: Willow Wearable Breast Pump
Best Hands-Free Breast Pump: Willow Wearable Breast Pump
No need to schedule pump breaks with the Willow Wearable Breast Pump. This cordless pump lets mom be mobile and still get the job done! “The Willow brand is a great option for moms to wear inside their bra and pump at their convenience. Most hands-free pumps need to be connected to a source (an actual pump) to work, but the Willow is completely self-sustaining, so to speak,” says Kelly. “It has everything in one piece that sits inside Mom’s bra, including the milk storage bag. It’s a bit bulky, but I love the fact you can work or do things around the house while pumping! It is pricey, but for someone looking for major convenience, this is it.” Moms can also track milk production, pumping history and watch tutorial videos all on the Willow app. ($480; willowpump.com)
