If you’ve decided to breastfeed your baby, you’re likely considering supplementing with a breast pump. As with many modern goods, breast pump options can be super overwhelming, and you may be wondering where to begin. We’re here to cut through the confusion, mama, and to answer all your questions. Follow our guide below to find the best pump for you and your lifestyle.
Do I Really Need a Breast Pump?
A breast pump will be essential if you plan to bank some of your milk supply. While it is not strictly necessary if you’re exclusively breastfeeding (especially in the beginning), having a pump still might be a good idea for those times when you need help managing your flow or when you have to be away from your precious baby. In short, if you’re going to be breastfeeding, having at least a simple manual pump available is probably a good idea.
What Factors Do I Need to Consider?
Even though there are a lot of options out there, your choice will become much clearer when you begin to ask a few simple questions.
- How are you going to use the pump?
- When? How often?
- Will you be at home, at work, or on the go?
- Is it more important that your pump is portable, powerful, or within your budget?
Once you’ve asked yourself those questions, here’s how to break it all down:
Do I Need a Single or a Double?
No, we’re not talking about your morning decaf latte, mama! A single pump will only pump from one breast, while a double pump can do both. A single pump can be useful when you’re pumping on one side and nursing on the other or when you simply don’t want to carry around a double pump. However, a double pump can usually be used as a single pump⸺so unless you plan to only do very light pumping, a double pump is recommended.
Should I Get a Manual Pump or an Electric One?
A manual pump is just one you use your hand to operate, unlike something that requires electricity. If you decide to exclusively breastfeed and don’t plan to pump regularly, you might get away with just a manual pump. Alternatively, moms who are committed to stocking up on breast milk will likely want to invest in a good electric pump. But if you’re in the latter group, the truth is, it’s kind of nice to have both. A simple manual pump can be very handy (no pun intended) to get your supply flowing and conserve extra milk from the end of a feeding session or when the power goes out. And manual pumps are generally inexpensive, so there’s no harm in purchasing one or two as a backup.
What Kind of Power is Best?
If you’re going the electric route, you can choose a rechargeable pump, a battery-powered pump, or a “wall pump” (a pump that must be plugged into the wall to operate). A battery-powered pump might take rechargeable batteries, disposable ones, or both. (Many battery-powered pumps also have a plug-in option.) While rechargeable and battery-powered only pumps can be convenient, they may not offer as much power as a wall pump. If you’re planning to do a lot of pumping, make sure you choose a pump that can handle the workload, even if it means finding an outlet most of the time.
Should I Consider a Wearable Pump?
Wearable pumps like this one are a relatively new option that can offer amazing convenience for moms who are heading back to work or simply want to be able to pump and do other things at the same time. On the other hand, they may not offer as much suction power, keeping them charged can be a hassle, and they can also be expensive.
Do I Need a Hospital-Grade Pump?
A hospital-grade pump usually refers to an ultra-powerful pump, sometimes with special features, that is designed for mamas and babies who are struggling with breastfeeding or have other serious medical conditions. If you truly need to consider a hospital-grade pump, you’ll likely hear that from your doctor or lactation consultant. Unfortunately, the term “hospital grade” isn’t regulated by the Food & Drug Administration, so it can mean different things to different companies. If your healthcare professional suggests a hospital-grade pump might be the way to go, be sure to find out what they mean and get their help in finding the right fit.
Can I Get a Good Pump if I Am on a Budget?
The cost of a pump can be anywhere from the $20 range up to hundreds of dollars and more. But don’t worry mama: it is totally doable to find a quality pump no matter your budget. And don’t forget that most health insurances will cover a breast pump, so be sure to look into your policy and, if you’re buying more than one pump, use it on your most expensive choice.
What other details do I need to consider?
Once you’ve got the big choices out of the way, there are a few more things to consider:
- Smart features: Some modern pumps can sync with an app on your phone, so you can track your supply, session details, and other data.
- Noise level: We don’t mean to suggest that any mama would want a loud breast pump, but some of them are known for being quiet! If you’re going to be pumping while your baby is sleeping, it’s worth checking reviews on this factor.
- Size: A larger wall pump may be more powerful for intensive use, but a smaller pump will be better for on-the-go pumping.
- Brand & Comfort: Think of shopping for a breast pump like shopping for the right bra: all breasts are different, and different brands are going to work better for each person. If you have bigger breasts especially, be sure to look into brands that will provide a comfortable fit and experience.
Once you have figured out your priorities in choosing a breast pump, the rest of the process will be that much smoother. And no matter how much you plan to pump, Bébé Bru can make feeding your baby simple, safe, and convenient by transforming your breast milk into an easy-to-use, freeze-dried powder. Find out more about our innovative process at thebebebru.com.
