Compare the best breast pumps

Breastfeeding is one way to provide the nutrition your newest arrival needs to grow and thrive. But life can sometimes interfere with unfettered feedings. That’s when a quality breast pump can be helpful.

A pump allows you to provide for baby while away from home, introduce family participation in feedings and maintain your milk supply. Consider the type, size and features of some of the most popular breast pumps available to help you find the best fit for your growing family.

Compare top breast pumps

Name	Average price	Type	Weight	What’s included	Purchase
Medela Harmony Breast Pump	$25	Manual	13.4 oz	Pump, two 5-oz bottles, bottle stand, nipple with collar, cap, 2 membranes	Buy now
Spectra Baby USA – S1	$199	Electric	3.3 lbs	Pump, tubing, power adapter, detachable power cord prongs, 2 bottles, 2 Spectra backflow protectors, 2 Spectra duckbill valves, 4 flanges	Buy now
Medela Pump in Style Advanced	$197	Electric	4 lbs	Tote bag, pump, tubing, portable battery pack, AC adapter, 1 removable cooler bag, 1 contoured ice pack, four 5-oz. bottles, 1 set of breast shields and connectors	Buy now
NUK Simply Natural	$60	Wearable	Not available	Pump connection kit, two 8-oz collection cups	Buy now
Lansinoh Smartpump	$130	Electric	4.7 lbs	Pump, two sizes of flanges, cooler bag with ice pack, 4 bottles, 2 bottle stands, carrying tote	Buy now
Willow 2.0	$500	Wearable	Not available	2 Willow pumps, 2 flanges, 2 Flextubes, charger, 24 4-oz milk bags, 2 cleaning brushes, 2 carrying bags	Shop now

Types of breast pumps

You’ll find four main categories of breast pumps on the market, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

How to compare breast pumps

When shopping around for the right pump for you, consider your lifestyle, circumstances and how long you plan to breastfeed:

• Price. Breast pumps range from $10 for a small manual pump to $1,000 or more for a hospital-grade model. Many midrange electric pumps fall between $100 and $500. Call your health insurance company to learn whether your policy covers all or part of the cost.
• Type. Select a pump type that best suits your needs and budget. If you plan to breastfeed for a short period, consider a less expensive model.
• Suction settings. Some pumps come with preset suction settings, while others allow you to customize your preferences. Newer models claim their high-tech settings more closely mimic the natural sucking rhythms of your baby.
• Bottles. Weigh how many bottles come standard with your pump, as well as their size, whether they’re insulated and whether they’re free of BPAs.
• Batteries. Many electric pumps come with adapters or batteries for travel. Think about whether you’ll have access to an outlet while pumping.
• Weight. If you plan to carry your pump with you to work or while traveling, look for the convenience of a lighter model.
• Display and memory. More advanced pumps come with an LCD display and memory function that saves your preferred speed and rhythm settings.
• Extra features. A carrying case, insulated storage compartments and double-pumping options might be important to you.

How to use a breast pump

Not all pumps are created equal. Follow the instructions that come with your specific pump, using these basic steps as a guide to get started:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water.
2. Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit.
3. Place the flanges on your breasts, centering your nipple over the opening.
4. Turn on the pump and select your settings, if you’re using an electric model.
5. Start out at a slow speed with low suction.
6. Once your milk begins flowing, adjust the settings based on your needs and comfort.
7. Massage your breasts before, during or after pumping to help increase your output.

Breast pump safety considerations

Keep these basic considerations in mind to help ensure baby’s safety:

• Rinse each piece of your breast pump in hot, soapy water after each use.
• If you plan to use a preowned pump, rent or buy compatible pump parts to prevent cross-contamination.
• Clearly label breast milk you plan to store with the date on which it was pumped.
• Avoid storing breast milk in the refrigerator door, where temperatures can fluctuate with door use.
• Avoid thawing or heating breast milk in the microwave.
• Throw away unused breast milk after you’ve thawed it.

Bottom line

Choosing a breast pump that fits you, your baby and your needs depends on how frequently you plan to use it, your day-to-day schedule and your personal preferences. Weigh costs, types and extras to find the best fit for feeding your little one.

Ready to buy? Compare top breast pumps

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Frequently asked questions

• Does health insurance cover the cost of a breast pump?

  Yes. Under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance providers are required to cover breastfeeding support, including the cost of a breast pump. Call your insurance company to learn what your policy covers and when.

• When can I start using a breast pump?

  Most health care professionals recommend trying to establish a breastfeeding pattern in the first few weeks after the arrival of your baby before introducing pumping. If you need help with nursing, you can start using a breast pump soon after giving birth.

• Can I warm breast milk that's been pumped?

  Yes. Place the bottle of milk in a bowl of warm water for 15 minutes or less. Then shake the bottle to ensure an even temperature throughout.