While most parents I polled picked the S1 over the S2, the S1 is a good pick if you want to save some cash and don't mind being tethered to an outlet while you pump. Pump type: Manual pumpWeight: 9.6 ouncesDimensions: 6.56 x 2.76 x 7.87 inches. 2022Everyday Health, Inc, All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals.

The innovativeWillow Pump has no tubes, no wires and no hanging bottles. This pick is light, quiet and discreet, so you can easily tuck it away in your bag and pump wherever you are, whenever you need. Weve been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. So you can lay down or bend over to pick up your baby while you pump without the worry of spilling any breast milk. The double set is pricey, with a list price of around $550. A lot of new moms dont realize how much time (and physical effort) breastfeeding and/or pumping takes, she says. The double-electric, closed-system design has a digital display that lights up so you can easily set the speed and rhythm. What the AirPods did for headphones, the Willow is aiming to do for breast pumps: Make the experience entirely hands- and cord-free (and no dangling bottles!). Kathleen Felton, What to Expect's Executive Editor, used both the Spectra S2 and the Elvie during her nine-month nursing journey with her son, Henry. Just squeeze a little bit, and the suction allows the natural letdown process to flow. While the Spectra S1 Plus allows you to pump anywhere you have privacy, the Elvie wearable pump lets you pump anywhere, period. She loved the included timer on the unit, which made it easy to keep track of how long she'd been pumping, as well as the A-plus suction and portability. The closed system makes keeping things sanitary nice and easy, too. Not only does it help you express more milk in less time, but it has an ultra quiet motor that makes pumping peaceful and relaxing. So worth it!, Both the Pump in Style Advanced and Freestyle are great, but I love the portability of the Freestyle and not having to plug it in or find batteries for the battery pack. They are usually lighter, smaller, quieter and easier to clean, and dont require a power outlet or batteries to use. Luckily, theElvie Pump is one of the quietest on the market. The double electric pump uses two-phase expression technology to mimic your little one's natural breast feeding patterns, so it gets milk flowing more quickly and easily and takes less time for more output. But then youre getting into some trial and error, which can cost time and money. It does a great job of capturing milk at an affordable price point, and our experts love how convenient it is to pack in any bag and use while out and about.

There's a guide on the company's website to help you figure out what size you need. By working in the same way, this pump aims to help you produce more milk in less time, which is a huge plus. "At the beginning of every feed, my daughter would cough and almost seem to be choking on my milk," she explains. As you start shopping, you'll want to find a breast pump that meets your specific needs what works for one mom might not be the right choice for you. Its awesome for travel, pumping on the go! I surveyed the working parents at CNET for their recommendations, which also happen to be some of the most popular models sold at Target, Buy Buy Baby and Babylist. We may earn commissions from shopping links. Pump type: Electric pumpWeight: 3.3 poundsDimensions: 7.9 x 7.9 x 6.7 inches. That said, our experts like the powerful Medela Symphony hospital-grade pump. She has worked with big-name celebrities and as an on-location consultant. When it's time to clean your pump, make sure to do so thoroughly so that it does not grow bacteria. One of the many benefits of a wearable breast pump is that you can pump just about anywhere, but the gig is up if your pump makes a telltale whooshing noise. I just charge my Freestyle every few days and throw it in the bag and go! The educational health content on What To Expect is reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts to be up-to-date and in line with the latest evidence-based medical information and accepted health guidelines, including the medically reviewed What to Expect books by Heidi Murkoff. ", The lightweight, one-pieceHaakaa Silicone Pump is perfect for moms who need help starting a milk flow. CNET Senior Writer Laura Hautala liked the Elvie because "its flange shape is much less conical than a standard pump, which helps it fit more gently, but it also means the seal breaks more easily if breast compressions are needed (yes this is a thing).". After that first on-the-go pump, I started venturing out a lot more frequently, and always brought my Medela with me.". "I wanted my body to adjust my milk supply accordingly, so didn't want to do a full pump with my Spectra or Medela Freestyle Flex. 2022 CNET, a Red Ventures company. It's small, easy to carry and a great price for all budgets. So, how do you choose?

It weighs less than a pound, so not only can you easily stash it in your bag (or your desk drawer), but it's barely noticeable. Sarah Mitroff is a senior editor for CNET, managing our health, fitness and wellness content. But theres good news if youve committed to breastfeeding for the long haul: There are a few ways to make the process a little less, well, sucky. For each pump we consider comfort, ease of use and additional benefits, including how difficult it is to dissemble and wash, transport and store. Hook the pump up to an outlet to pump while at home, or pack some batteries to take it with you while on the go. Up until a few years ago, there was little innovation in breast pumps, but newer models are wireless and rechargeable and some even fit under your clothes. The battery pack for it is external, which was weird to me. This style has been used for decades, but it requires you to remove your top and bra to pump. Learn more about our, 10 Best Breast Pumps of 2022, Tested By Real Nursing Moms, Rachel Rothman, Good Housekeeping Institute, How to choose the right breast pump for you. There is, however, no FDA-regulated definition for it, so be sure to thoroughly check descriptions of hospital-grade pumps. The device, which fits in the palm of your hand, clearly displays the working mode and suction level. I pump about 4-5 times per day and have to charge every other day. There are a variety of breast pumps to choose from to assist you in breastfeeding, ranging from hand-held manual models to hospital-grade breast pumps you can rent. Choose to use it as a double or single pump, and take advantage of the built-in LED light that's perfect for pumping in a snoozing baby's dark nursery. Second, if your insurance doesn't cover a breast pump, you'll want to figure out your budget. A breast pump is also key for expressing milk while at the office, running errands or when you're otherwise away from home. The customizable settings mimic your little one's natural sucking patterns, and it includes both a massage and expression mode to help improve the comfort and effectiveness of each pumping session. Its gentle and my breasts will actually let down. I bought this breast pump at Target on a whim, and I love it. For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on everything a new parent needs, including breast pumps. Because its battery operated (it takes three AA batteries), its super portable. Learn more about our This double-electric pump cuts out the guesswork by including three different flanges with your original purchase. Worth noting: Although there are various suction levels, even the lowest setting is incredibly strong perhaps even a little too strong, according to some moms who complain of nipple tenderness. Will you be returning to the workplace while you're still pumping? Were all about saving money on baby gear, but sometimes you get less when you spend less. It also comes with a USB charging cable great for using in the car and other places where you might not have access to a regular outlet. The only con? review process. By squeezing the body of the pump, the breast shield uses natural suction to help you express milk easily and silently. You can use this breast pump as your primary pump or as a backup so you dont have to lug one downstairs or to the office every day. Under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance plans must cover breast pumps. Pump type: Electric battery-powered pumpWeight: 2.5 poundsDimensions: 11 x 9.75 x 7.75 inches. This electric pump packs a lot of power in its quiet, compact body. This newer version of the Pump in Style has an important upgrade, too: Its now a closed system, meaning its easier to clean, since theres a barrier between the milk collection and pump parts. While some nursing moms find they don't need a breast pump, others discover that a good breast pump is essential to helping maintain or increase milk supply as needed, and can offer flexibility and instant relief when away from baby. To make our recommendations, we query new moms on our consumer testing panel about their experiences, do rigorous testing in our Lab and at home, and spend hours reading through dozens of five-star reviews online to help surface the best products you can buy. I do already have a Spectra from my first as a backup if I end up not liking this. Rechargeable units grant you much more freedom, so if cost isn't a factor, you're better off with this kind of breast pump. The affordable pump is compact, too, so you can opt to store it in your glove compartment for emergency pumping sessions. Traditional machines have tubes that plug into the machine to create suction to express breast milk. Unlike electric or battery-powered pumps, manual pumps are ones that you use your hands to operate. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're reading. This natural suction manual breast pump is perfect for the on-the-go mom. It includes two breast shield sizes: 24mm and 28mm. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're reading. We dont want moms to sacrifice their breastfeeding goals because their pump does not match their active lifestyle over the duration of their breastfeeding journey.. I get similar amounts out of each when I pump.. Our parenting product experts appreciate that Medela's Harmony manual pump is a virtually silent, cord-free option for pumping on-the-go perfect if you dont express that often or just need a pump for a short period of time. It supports single and double pump and has adjustable suction levels, all intended to mimic the experience of breastfeeding as closely as it can. Sure, you can change the flange on some to better customize your fit. Designed to make shopping easier. I love it and can't wait to use it in public!. The pump itself is nice and sleek, too. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, 10 Best Dog Carriers of 2022 For the Dog On The Go, 9 Best Cooling Mattresses for Hot Sleepers, 13 Best Workout Shoes for At-Home and Gym Fitness, These Are the Most Comfortable Shoes You Can Buy, Weve been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. "With the way the parts attach, it is a little finicky to get everything together to start pumping," she says. "I liked that it came with a carrying case and that the controls were so simple two expression modes (one for stimulating milk flow, and then one for once you've started expressing milk), as well as just an up or down button for speed/strength," she says. It's quiet, easy to clean and can be tucked away in a purse or diaper bag of any size. The compact design of the pump is great for carrying around to pump in different rooms, and the rechargeable battery lasts for over two hours so you can rest assured that your pump won't shut off while out and about. This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. Love this pump.. Robin Hilmantel, What to Expect's Director of Special Projects, used the older (but very similar) model of the Medela Pump In Style when she nursed her son, Marlow. Thismanual pump is extremely affordable, plus small and lightweight, which makes it easy to pick up as a backup for times when you might need to relieve just a little bit of engorgement or if you only tend to pump a few ounces every once in a while. ", Once you get used to it and get the hang of how to put it on etc., the convenience is amazing! ", I have a Lansinoh manual pump and really like it. For most moms, the best time to start pumping is a few weeks after you've given birth. Never had any issues. It's also a great way to feed if you've got a baby who can't or won't latch, and the strong, even suction can prevent clogged ducts. Former CNET Senior Video Producer Ashley Esqueda said that she "hated pumping and it was only bearable when I shelled out $550 for an Elvie." This is also why our experts discourage buying breast pumps secondhand, since open systems and even closed systems leave room for contamination. I didnt think the suction was as good as my spectra pump and its kind of annoying to clean! This Spectra pump is a double electric pump, and the breast pump parts that come into contact with breastmilk are made with BPA free materials. Size. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Super convenient for quick feedings, plus you cant argue the benefit of less dishwashing to do. According to Medelas research, babies breastfeed in two steps: stimulation, which involves a faster sucking rhythm to get milk flowing, and expression, which uses a slower sucking rhythm for feeding. This all-in-one pump slips into a bra, sits against the breast and pumps discreetly -- the milk collects in 5-ounce washable bottles that snap into the bottom. After talking to many parents who breastfed, the Spectra breast pump stands out as a clear favorite. I have an electric Medela pump and think it's a lot harder to clean. Lansinoh bottles were the only type my daughter would take, so using this pump was a no-brainer. Like the Elvie, the Willow breast pump allows you to pump while cooking dinner, in a work meeting or hanging out with friends without anyone knowing. We handpick the products and services we write about. You can change the settings with a tap on your phone. Just like the Elvie, using the Willow means no more sitting in a windowless room or a bathroom stall to pump while you're not home. As for how it differs? If you have the money, or can get your insurance to cover it, the Spectra S1 Plus is the top pick for breast pumps in 2022. Pump type: Battery-powered electric pumpWeight: 2.6 poundsDimensions: 14.02 x 10.24 x 4.13 inches, This portable pump makes expressing milk on the go a breeze. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives. The term "hospital grade" often refers to a pump that can be used by more than one person (with separate accessories) thanks to additional hygienic precautions built into the design. "I exclusively breastfed for the first few months of my daughter's life, and the first time I finally went out for dinner without her, I was so worried about having to pump in public," she says. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Think of it as the best of both worlds. I got the one with the battery pack. Which leads us to figuring out which breast pumps are worth your money and time. I liked that it was hospital grade but I still had the opportunity to carry it around with me when Im at home so Im not just stuck. The included cooler bag is also great for portable storage. Christine tried both the Medela Freestyle Flex and the Medela Pump In Style. Whats the best way to clean a breast pump? First, consider your lifestyle -- do you plan to stay home a lot after the baby is born, or do you plan to travel and go out a lot? Good Housekeeping Institute's Chief Technologist Rachel Rothman personally used this pump for all three of her children and loves how relatively quiet it is while still providing great output. Moms who pump in the middle of the night will also appreciate the easy-to-read LCD screen and the low-hum motor. Still, she noted that often the amount the app showed was higher than the actual amount of breast milk in the bottle. Electric pumps are available as either plug-in or rechargeable units, using a vacuum to mimic a baby's suckling to collect breast milk. This time, Im planning on getting another Evenflo.. Featuring a few dishwasher safe parts, it's easier to clean than many other pumping options, which is great for tired moms. Another advantage is that its also bag-free you pump right into it, then transfer the milk straight into a bottle. Whether you're paying out of pocket or not, you'll still need to pick out a model that works for your needs. Breast pumps fall into two categories: manual and electric. Before you shop, check with your insurance provider. It's breast-shaped, so you can insert it into your bra and wear it under your shirt to pump and it provides a feeling of discretion you dont necessarily get with other electric pumps. Other moms say they love that this pump clocks in at just more than one pound and that it has a portable battery pack that's handy when youre on the go. Newer in-bra pumps, such as the Willow and Elvie, don't use tubes at all -- instead the milk flows directly into a bag or bottle in the unit. Its quiet and efficient pumping makes it great for those early morning or late-night sessions, and it can conveniently be used as either single or double expression. and fewer parts to clean. Pump type: Electric pumpWeight: 6.72 poundsDimensions: 10.25 x 8.25 x 12.5 inches. With four modes and nine levels of suction, it helps stimulate milk expression to help you achieve a greater output in less time. Its two-phase technology manually mimicks your little one's feeding, and the breast shield features a soft, flexible rim that can be rotated 360 to eliminate excess pressure on the breast. They can also be closed or open system, but all of the picks on this list are closed system pumps, since our parenting product experts note that a closed system pump includes a small barrier that an open system lacks which prevents any overflowing milk from leaking into the system and makes it easier to clean. (If you dont think youll need the battery pack, you can get the pink S2 and save yourself a few bucks).

CNET Senior Editor Carrie Mihalcik recommends the Medela Harmony. Chief Technologist & Executive Technical Director. And if youre only going to be away from your baby for a few hours a week but still want the speed and efficiency of an electric, well, theyre a no-brainer. When researching the best breast pumps, Andrea Tran, a certified lactation consultant, says to consider these important factors: When considering the above, dont forget to think at least six to 12 months out, says Wendy Wright, a certified lactation consultant, since you may well be using your pump for that long.

However, if you're on an older plan, you might not have coverage. Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Air dry the separate pieces on a clean drying rack to avoid spreading bacteria with paper towels or cloth. In addition to its small size, the Motif Duo is pretty quiet and has a battery life of more than two hours, so you can pump even if you're not near an outlet without fear that the device is going to give up on you mid-pumping session. You can use this pump alone to create suction, no tedious hand pumping required. It fit in my tote bag, and was easy to set up in the bathroom. Breast pumps can be manual or electric, and they can be either single or double expression (i.e., pumping one or both breasts at a time). In her role as Parenting & Pets Reviews Analyst, Jamie Spain brings years of journalism experience to the Institute, having reviewed products for Good Housekeeping, as well as BuzzFeed, while also previously working in the parenting and pets sphere at People.Jamie worked closely with lead tester Rachel Rothman, Chief Technologist & Director of Engineering at the GH Institute, to conduct the research for this article. If you truly want to be hands-free while pumping, or need to pump when you return to work but don't want to be stuck in a room every few hours, the Elvie is for you. If you pump often, you might want to pick up a manual pump that you can use when you're away from home. Please whitelist our site to get all the best deals and offers from our partners. CNET's Bridget Carey tried the third-generation Willow at CES 2020 and found it to be life-changing. Rachel is the chief technologist & executive technical director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all labs. It may take a while to get the hang of breastfeeding, but these top picks make the process easier. The pump weighs 3.3 pounds and has a handy little nightlight, so you can pump during those bleary midnight hours without turning on the lights and a screen that shows a digital stopwatch so you can see how long you've been pumping. "Some other pumps I've tried have so many different settings that it can be confusing to know which is best for you. Another plus: Youll also get a convenient carry case and a small cooler with your purchase, so you wont have to worry about toting your pump or your precious milk to and from the office. The Spectra S2 Plus has all of the specs and features that make the S1 Plus great, except that it's not wireless. From manual to electric, our parenting product experts have tested every pump on this list in fact, our lead tester has personally pumped for over 1,000 hours among her three kids in the past five years! Pumping can have a way of making us human mamas feel a little like milk machines. The bags are a little pricey, but freeze well. Positioning can be a bit tricky at first, but youll get the hang of it in no time. Just make sure to keep an eye on the output levels using your app once the collection jar fills up, you risk milk backing up and out of the pump, causing quite a leaky mess. Best Budget-Friendly Double-Electric Breast Pump : Very powerful, efficient, easy to use, closed system, Portable battery pack, carrying case included, very easy to use, Under $100, easy-to-operate, good battery life, compact and lightweight, A bit loud, some moms say suction is too strong, Compact, lightweight, good battery life, easy to use, Closed-system, lightweight, comes with three different flanges, wide range of speed and suction settings, Doesnt work with most standard pumping bras, suction not quite as strong, Easy to assemble, affordable, compact, easy to clean, Single-electric, suction not quite as strong, Lightweight, easy to use, few parts to clean, pump directly into feeding bottle, Sleek design, entirely hands-free, good battery life, pairs with compatible app for tracking, Not as powerful, more expensive than other pumps, Lightweight, compact, quiet, good battery life, Simple to operate, no batteries or charge required, compact and lightweight, affordable, Sleek design, entirely hands-free, quiet, pairs with compatible app for tracking, Occasionally backs up, not as powerful, more expensive than other pumps, our editorial and medical review policies, reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts, Guidance from Tran and Wright on what to look for when deciding which breast pump to buy, Three moms on the What to Expect editorial team, who have five children between them and who've tested most of the pumps on this list, A poll of 1,163 breastfeeding moms in the What to Expect Community.