The Best Breast Pumps of 2023: Pumping With Ease

You’ve made many choices since finding out you’re expecting a child. A car seat, a stroller, and a changing table are among the items you’ve had to choose from. As a parent, you’ve had to make medical choices, pick a doctor, and arrange child care.

What matters the most is giving your child the best possible gift ever: Breastfeeding. However, as an experienced parent ourselves, we know very much how breastfeeding is hard. The process is not as easy as it seems; it takes patience, effort, consistency, and a lot of love for your little bliss. However, there are breast pumps that could really make it easier for you. Be it a working mom or a stay at home mom, breast pump is an essential kit for your journey of breastfeeding.

If you’ve decided that you need a breast pump, and you’re now faced with the decision of which one to buy, you may feel overwhelmed. Making decisions may be a source of anxiety, particularly as the pregnancy nears its conclusion. We’ve put together a list of 15 of the top breast pumps on the market so that you may take a break and enjoy your glow time.

Breastfeeding is a delicate process, and it’s best to speak with a lactation specialist before purchasing a high-quality breast pump. A discussion of which pumps are worth your cash and time follow. To gain an idea of the most popular models available online, we conducted a poll of parents. Here are some of our and their favorites.

Different Types of Breast Pumps

1. Manual Breast Pump 

There is no external source of electricity for these pumps, so you must press a handle to produce suction or vacuum. In general, manual pumps are small and easy to carry. However, they often express much less milk because of their lower suction capacity.

2. Electric Pump

Electric pumps have a substantially higher suction strength compared to manual pumps. LCD panels, timers, different expression modes, and even a nightlight are common inclusions. Weighing more and costing more are the main drawbacks of electric pumps.

3. Hospital Grade Breast Pumps

Breast pumps for hospitals are generally double electric models with closed systems, lengthy motor lives, and the durability to express milk nine or more sessions a day as needed. Due to their higher price, hospital-grade pumps are often leased. Working parents don’t have to bring anything special to the workplace if their boss rents a hospital-grade breast pump. No milk ever flows back into the pump, making them ideal for use by several people.

The Best Breast Pumps On the Market

Spectra S1 Breast Pumps – Best Electric Pumps

Spectra S2 Breast Pumps – Best Value for Money

Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump – Best Hands-Free Pump

Medela Harmony – Best Manual Breast Pump

Medela Symphony Breast Pump – Best Hospital Grade Breast Pump

1. Spectra S1 Breast Pump

The Spectra S1 Plus is a portable, rechargeable, and whisper-quiet device appealing to parents and healthcare experts alike. The Spectra breast pump has emerged as the most popular among breastfeeding mothers. Many mothers have praised its strength, and there is no need to plug it in very often.

A single or double pump may be used, and the suction level can be adjusted to simulate the sensation of breastfeeding as precisely as possible. For many breastfeeding moms, it’s a great option since it has a closed pumping mechanism that prevents backflow, which means you don’t have to clean the tube every time.

The Spectra S1 Plus is the best breast pump for 2022 if you have the money or can get your health insurance to fund it.

Pros

• Hospital-grade pump
• It works with batteries or a power cord
• No noise while producing milk
• Expresses milk fast and easily
• Closed system for multi-person usage

Cons

• It vibrates while usage

2. Spectra S2 Breast Pumps

In terms of specifications, the S2 Plus is identical to the S1 Plus, except that it lacks wireless connectivity. It’s also less expensive.

Even though the S1 was chosen by most parents if you’re looking to save money and don’t mind pumping while plugged in, the S2 is an excellent option.

Pumps with a closed system guarantee that your milk particles won’t go into the motor itself. When you’re done using your pump, you can lend it or give it away.

Pumps include a let-down mode that causes the milk supply in your breasts to be released. To help with those early-morning feedings, the clock and nightlight are included.

Pros 

• Express milk easily
• Convenient for midnight feedings
• Closed system for sanitary

Cons

• No wireless pumping

3. Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump

One of the most well-known breast pumps is now available in a new and improved form: The Pump In Style Breast Pump.

You may use this double-electric pump on either one or both breasts to simulate the natural sucking rhythm of your baby, which is more difficult than it seems. To start milk flowing, newborns employ a rapid sucking pattern called stimulation, followed by a slower sucking pattern called expressiveness, according to Medela’s study. This pump tries to help you make more milk in a shorter time, which is a major advantage.

There are two production modes: one for increasing milk flow and one for after you’ve begun expressing milk, as well as merely an up or down button to manage speed and strength. According to mothers, The Medela is simple and intuitive, making it a breeze to get started. Other parents claim that this pump weighs less than a pound and comes with a convenient battery pack while you’re on the road.

With this latest release of the Pump in Style, there is a significant upgrade: It is simpler to clean since there is a barrier between milk and pump components.

If you’re attempting to express discreetly, you may be bothered by the pumping sound that some mothers say hasn’t improved.

Pros 

• Portable battery pack
• Carrying case 
• Easy to use

Cons 

• A bit noisy

4. Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump

There are several manual breast pumps that you may use while you’re on the go. Compared to a large motor, carrying a manual pump is far more compact.

The Medela Harmony pump is small, lightweight, and portable. It is ideal for traveling or as a backup pump to your primary electric pump. The breast shield is included in the product to improve milk flow and lessen stress on the breasts.

It’s affordable, quick to use, and comes with a six-piece set that’s also simple to clean. Other components include a bottle, a connection, and other items.

The pump is just one step beyond actually using your hands to express milk. Still, it’s really convenient to take about and utilize in an emergency. This Medela pump may be used on a plane or a vehicle journey, and it can be carried about with you at all times. In the meantime, this Medela pump might serve as a temporary substitute for a more private and comfortable spot to pump.

Pros

• Includes six pieces
• Lightweight and portable
• Easy to clean 
• budget-friendly 

Cons

• Only one nipple size is available

5. Medela Symphony Breast Pump

This pump is designed for heavy usage, and you may be better off looking for a less costly pump unless you intend to put a lot of stress on it.

The hospital frequently offers this pump for rent. Getting your milk flow-ing freely takes advantage of 2-phase expression technology.

This pump is specifically intended to express milk quickly, and you may want to give it a try if your conventional pump is taking too long. Even though purchasing it would be a huge financial commitment, renting it could be a better option for you. A hospital-grade pump will offer your breasts the additional suction they need if you’re attempting to start or enhance your breast milk production. In the case of an adopted child, it may be an excellent option.

Using this pump, you’ll be able to stimulate your baby’s natural feeding process. Hospitals are ready to allow numerous breastfeeding ladies to use the same pump since it has a well-sealed closed system. In addition, it’s a quiet pump, something that many parents prefer.

A single breast may be expressed with this pump, or both breasts can be expressed simultaneously. It has a closed system, and no milk will leak back into the tube or motor. As a result, your infant is less likely to consume breast milk contaminated with mold or other harmful microorganisms.

Pros 

• Mimics the natural process of breastfeeding
• Very quiet
• Control knob to regulate the sucking

Cons

• Very pricey

6. Willow Wearable Breast Pump

Using the Willow breast pump, you may pump while making supper, attending a meeting, or spending time with friends.

The pump fits inside your bra, and you can use it with just about everything. Using a pump, breast milk is pumped into sealed, mess-free bags that may be removed and kept cool. In addition, Willow sells $50 reusable containers.

While pumping away from home, you won’t have to sit in an empty room as you can basically pump anywhere.

Different nipple sizes are accommodated by Willow’s several sizes. A sizing guide is available on the company site if you’re unsure. Up to a size H in the bust is easily accommodated.

The Willow is also a little on the pricey side, but it is definitely worth it. If your insurance supports it, Willow can assist you in purchasing the pump, which is only available in a pair of two.

Pros 

• It reestablishes the milk supply
• Two containers for the day and a bag for the night
• Gentle suction process

Cons

• A little noisy

7. Bellababy Double Electric Breast Pump

Go no further than this model for those searching for a low-cost, non-manual pump. An enclosed pump with nine suction adjustments and four settings, including massage to stimulate the breast for lactate flow, is included.

The display and set settings on this pump are user-friendly and intuitive. It may be powered by batteries, or a wire is a big plus for many users. When it comes to pumping straight into storage bags, this pump has two adapters that make the process a snap.

Pros 

• Budget-Friendly
• Extra beneficial features to stimulate the milk flow
• Lightweight 
• Compact design

Cons 

• Only two bottles included

8. Elvie Double Electric Wearable Smart Breast Pump

If you’re a fan of cutting-edge technology, this wireless pump is for you. Simply line up your nipple with the pump and push start with this bra pump.

Downloading an app may make it much easier to operate the pumps from your phone and provide you the ability to log your pumping times, outputs, and more.

It comes with four 5-ounce bottles with caps, four breast covers (in two sizes), two bras adjusts, two charger connections, and two carrying bags, all of which are very quiet and have adjustable suction.

Pros 

• Hands-free breast pump
• App for remote control and tracking
• Quite pumping
• Lightweight 

Cons 

• Very pricey
• Requires a learning curve

9. Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump

Moms love this breast pump because it’s simple to use, comfy, and quite successful in catching milk. It’s composed of silicone, so it can be cleaned in the dishwasher and feels great on the breasts.

The pump may also be used as a milk collector during breastfeeding sessions because of its unique shape.

Transporting it is as simple as throwing it into a handbag or vehicle console, thanks to the device’s ultra-compact and lightweight design. The cup can carry three to 4 ounces of milk and is user-friendly.

Pros 

• Portable and lightweight
• Easy to work with 
• Dishwasher safe

Cons

• Requires some effort to pump

10. Medela Swing Breast Pump

 If you ever find yourself in a situation where you’ll need to pump while on the road, this small pump is here to assist. A single electric breast pump may be powered by an outlet or four AA batteries. Hence, you will pump each breast individually.

As a result of its tiny size, the pump may be attached to a belt and used as you move about. It has a quiet motor and customizable settings for discreet pumping sessions, as well as a let-down button to assist you in obtaining more milk. You get two five-ounce containers with lids and a neck strap for hands-free transportation with the pump. A breast shield is also included.

Pros 

• Option for battery power or electric pumping
• Compact and lightweight 
• Adjustable features

Cons 

• Single pump design 

11. Medela Sonata Smart Double Electric Breast Pump

MyMedela is a smartphone app from this firm that lets you keep tabs on your baby’s development and the output of your pumping sessions.

With its two-phase expression technology, the Sonata double electric breast pump mimics the rapid onset and gradual progression. An alarm will sound to alert you when the lithium-ion battery charger is running low.

As a hospital-grade suction machine, many ladies have discovered that this product dramatically increases their productivity and allows them to pump much more. It also comes with a Medela lactation consultant for a full month of 24/7 assistance, which is a huge perk.

Pros 

• Great for traveling
• Smart and compact design
• App to monitor the feeding pattern
• Extracts high volume

Cons

• Expensive

12. Motif Portable Double Electric Breast Pump

Even if you’re a stay-at-home parent, you’ll need a break now and then. While on the go, you can still keep pumping with the Motif Portable Pump.

The remote control is small and light enough to carry about in your pocket or purse. You may use this when traveling or on the run, and it’s really discreet.

The pump has a memory feature to save your preferred settings. You don’t have to go through the tedious process of customizing the device before you can start pumping.

You may adjust the intensity of the massage and expression on this gadget to suit your needs. To locate a massage setting that mimics your baby’s feeding routines, you should go through the massage options. The expression mode speeds up the process of expressing milk.

Pros 

• Very Quiet for night time pumping
• Compact and lightweight
• Ten expression setting 

Cons 

• The suction lessens with low battery

13. Philips Avent Manual Comfort Breast Pump

Unlike other portable breast pumps, this Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump uses a smaller and wider bottle linked to the pump. This breast pump is also compatible with various Philips Avent containers and milk storage containers, a bonus for mothers.

It’s simple to use with only one hand because of the pump’s modest, compact form. With an angled neck, your milk will flow straight into the milk collecting container, saving your lower back from the pressure of bending forward. This helps gravity work its magic. Additionally, this pump has a gentle massaging cushion to encourage milk flow.

This pump can also be sanitized in the microwave or by putting it in boiling water, which is great news for women who don’t want to merely wash their pump.

Pros 

• Great design to help with long pumping sessions 
• Affordable
• Easy to clean 

Cons

• You have to push it hard against your breast to start vacuuming

14. Freemie Hands-Free Pump

Pumping with the Freemie hands-free pump is the height of discretion. Two connected funnels on this twin electric machine help it perform at its best.

You put it on, relax, and the pump extracts your milk from your bra while you do other things. The pump itself is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, yet it packs a powerful punch. The included tubing is also interchangeable with Spectra pump components.

Each cup carries a full 8 ounces, despite its small size. It frees up your hands so you can focus on your business or spend more time with your kid since you’re not holding anything down.

It’s impossible to find a more discreet solution for working mothers who may not have the time to move away from their workstations every time they need to pump. Alternatively, you may simply use this pump among people without too much disruption and without having to remove any items from your cloths.

Pros 

• A car adapter included
• Adjustable suction levels

Cons 

• The cups may leak easily

15. Lansinoh Signature Pro Double Pump

The Lansinoh pump is a solid mid-range option that you can rely on. An all-inclusive kit with everything you need to get started includes a closed medical system with a stimulating phase as well as a variety of settings for speed and suction.

For some parents, this pump has three pumping styles and can be powered by batteries, or the main cord is a major selling point. Backflow clamps keep the milk from dripping back into the hoses of this double pump. In addition, it comes with a handy travel case.

If you have used pumps that have caused you pain in the past, you may benefit from this one, which is designed for a milder, more massage-like suction. Many first-time mothers had no problems when utilizing this pump for the first time.

Pros 

• Very suitable for first-time moms
• Hygienic with a closed system
• Great quality

Cons 

• Little noisy

What to Look For When Buying a Breast Pump? (Buying Guide)

It’s important to keep in mind that you and your buddy may have quite different needs when it comes to a breast pump before blindly following a tip. Our lives are as unique as our bodies and our children, and so are the ambitions and challenges we face along the way. If you’re in the market for a breast pump, you’ll want to have a look at this list of factors:

Volume of Milk

If your milk flow is a bit Niagara Falls-style, you’ll need a pump that can handle many uses. Pumps may be constructed to handle a single pumping session per day or several pumping sessions throughout the day.

If you’re pumping a lot or have a large supply, manual pumps, for example, might be laborious. Choosing between a manual and a hands-free pump is easier if you know how much you’ll be pumping.

Noise and Portability

A portable pump is vital if you’re going back to work outside the house or if you want to keep up with your pumping routine while you’re on the go. Breastfeeding experts recommend the following questions to ask yourself: Where can I take the pump with me? Is it big and hefty? Is it easy to carry about in a handbag or purse? It’s likely to get crushed in your backpack or throughout your commute if it’s so little.

Where you’re going will impact the sort of portable pump you require. When you require a portable electric pump for work, the silicone Haakaa manual pump is perfect for stowing in your diaper bag while out and about.

To avoid being bothered when pumping at the office or in public, it’s a good idea to conduct your homework and look at user reviews to see how loud a specific pump is. As the pump runs at its highest setting, experts recommend paying close attention to the sounds it makes.

Type

Pumps come in various shapes and sizes, and many of them use a variety of power sources (or none at all). The optimal style for you will be determined solely by how you want to utilize it.

Hospital Grade

The hospital where you give birth is likely to provide a breast pump for you to use while you recuperate. Due to their higher power requirements, hospital-grade pumping systems are often bulkier and more cumbersome to transport. These pumps, which are most typically seen in hospitals, may be purchased or rented by anybody. Because they may be a significant financial investment, many people choose to rent them.

Manual

A manual breast pump is an excellent backup if you ever find yourself unable to use your electric breast pump due to overindulgence or the need to express breast milk urgently. There are a variety of models to choose from, but all need you to operate the pump only by hand. Because most of them are single pumps, you must pump each breast independently.

Electric

To operate the motor, this pump demands electricity, which may come from a rechargeable, a USB port, or a standard wall socket. Most of them are of medical quality, but they’re smaller and lighter to make them more portable and easier to use. Hands-free pumping is possible with certain newer devices that connect to the breast and may be worn.

No Tube, or a Tube?

Breast pumps that can be recharged come in various styles, with or without tubes. Traditional milk-squeezing machines use tubes inserted into the device to generate suction. For suctioning purposes, milk flows from the breast into the bottle, fitted with an adapter to make it fit snugly around the mammary gland. A pumping bra holds the flanged bottle firmly in place while allowing you to use your other hand freely.

You’ll need to drop the top and bras to pumps in this design, which has been around for decades. They don’t utilize tubes at all with new in-bra pumps. Milk instead flows straight into one of the unit’s storage containers, such as a bag or bottle. It makes it possible for them to pump discreetly within your bra without anybody else knowing. However, these breast pumps are more costly than regular electric breast pumps.

Catchers for Milk

These aren’t pumps, but they’re meant to catch your milk during the day, so you don’t waste a drop. If your breasts leak during the day, the milk may be collected and transferred to a container or freezer bag using them instead of breast pads.

Consider the following questions depending on the kind of pump you purchase: What sort of power supply does the pump require?  Should you plug it in? Yes, you may use a power cable to recharge it. Is there a USB port for charging? Does it need batteries if you reside in a region prone to storms or power failures? Does it have a long battery life, whether it’s rechargeable or uses batteries?

Price

Depending on the model and the manufacturer, a breast pump might be expensive. The excellent thing is that a wide range of solutions is available to suit any budget. In addition, renting rather than buying the more costly alternatives and hospital-grade equipment might be suitable if you don’t intend on using it for a lengthy period.

You can get a breast pump for a fraction of the cost if you have health insurance. According to Healthcare.gov, health insurance should cover the cost of a breast pump. Be aware that your specific plan will stipulate the kind of pump they will support (electric or manual), the duration of a rental, and if the pump comes before or after you have given birth. Talk to your doctor or other healthcare practitioners to be sure you have all you need.

Effortless Operation

Every breast pump should come with instruction manuals, regardless of the model. If you don’t want to spend your time re-reading the directions every time you use it, you should look for something simple enough that you can remember how to use it.

You’ll need more control over the device’s effectiveness if it is an electric pump, so one that just requires pressing a power button may be too simple to operate (and less effective). How many features does the pump have? How much does the pump cost? There are a lot of buttons and bells and whistles. Does it have to be so simple that the parameters can’t be modified to generate let-downs/optimal milk removal?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Is a breast pump necessary in my life?

A breast pump is an essential tool especially for new moms and working moms. It will save you a lot of time and patience, since pumping your first milk isn’t as easy as it may seem. There are several complications that could hinder you from feeding your baby, and ultimately, you might want to give up. That’s when the benefit of a breast pump quicks in. We don’t know how some ladies who solely breastfeed have managed without a pump, but we’re sure they did. Being a working mom and returning to work weeks after the birth of your baby is very challenging. Hence, for these moms, pumping while at work was the only way they will make breastfeeding a reality. 

When is the best time to begin using my electric breast pump?

Breastfeeding objectives and personal journeys dictate when to begin using a breast pump. Pumping as soon as possible after birth is preferable if you want to pump solely or if your baby is in the NICU and unable to feed.

There’s no urgency, though, to start pumping if your objective is to exclusively breastfeed your baby. It’s going well since breastfeeding your baby will be the issue that aids in your milk coming in and boosting your milk production. A lactation consultant can help you choose when to use your pump if you’re experiencing trouble nursing.

How frequently do I need to clean my breast pump? 

All that touches breast milk is a set of removable accessories that you can wash and sanitize simply.  Experts recommend a thorough cleaning of all accessories that come into direct contact with milk, such as flanges, valves, membranes, and milk collecting bottles. The same guideline applies to any area of your body that comes into contact with breast milk when using a conventional breast pump or a wearable pump. Whether the components of your pump cannot be cleaned in a dishwasher, check the instructions that came with your pump to see if you can clean them in warm soapy water.

There is very little cleaning required of the pump itself. This should not be because milk has entered the pump, as experts recommend.  Normally, you do not need to wash the pump itself very frequently other than the odd dusting or wiping with a moist cloth. You should, however, wipe it clean before using it if you share it.

Which pump is best for me based on my needs?

It is crucial to remember that there is no ideal breast pump while making a purchase, as experts advise. As a result, they emphasize the need to pay close attention to how the edges fit together. Incorrectly fitted flanges may cause discomfort and abrasions to the nipple, as well as the risk of low flow.

You can never be sure whether or not a pump is suitable for someone until they’ve used it many times, so there’s no way to tell whether you’ll like it until you try it.

A closed or an open system?

A closed system uses various components to collect and pump milk. For example, it prevents mold or dust from infecting the environment.

There is no such barrier when using an open system pump, allowing milk to accumulate in places where germs may thrive. Open system pump tubes and parts are available for purchase, and you may attempt to sterilize individual components. On the other hand, the engine can never be fully free of microorganisms that may end up in your baby’s milk.

When renting or purchasing a hospital grade pump, ensure a closed system. Usually, you cannot give your pum due to safety reasons. However, Medela offers a recycling service for customers who no longer need their pumps.

Wrapping Up

There is a breast pump to suit every need and circumstance. No matter whether you need a pump on the go every day, something to help you sleep through the night, or a pump meant to assist you to produce milk, these solutions should help you eliminate one more decision from your list of must-do items. Not to worry.You’ll be able to build many more. We’ve rounded up the best breast pumps available on the market to save you the hustle of making another important decision.