What’s The Most Suitable Breast Pump For You?

During your pregnancy, you’ve probably read about all the benefits of breast milk and you’re keen to provide your baby with an ample supply of it. While you might be daunted by the complexities of pumping at first, it isn’t all that complicated once you get the hang of it.

Pumping comes with a whole range of benefits. Some women can actually increase their milk supply through pumping. It gives you control over feeding timings and feedings can also be shared by other family members or caregivers so you can squeeze in a much-needed nap or shower. You can even pump and create a backup stash in your freezer for feedings when you’re away from your little one (such as when you’re returning back to work).

What to look out for in a breast pump

There are a few things to take note of when you are looking to get a breast pump!

Type of breast pump

Most pumps these days have a ‘closed system’. This creates a barrier between the milk and pump motor to avoid mould growth. There are two types available — portable and hospital grade, with the main difference being motor capacity. For both fast and high suction pumping to build and boost milk supply, you can’t go wrong with a hospital grade pump. If you’re looking to pump less frequently or only feeding one baby, a portable or wearable pump works equally well. Scroll on further to read more about these two main types of pumps!

Single or double pump capabilities

Many breast pump models also have single and double pump capabilities. Use the double pump to halve your pumping time, but if you’re breastfeeding the little one on the other side while you pump, then switching to a single pump is great. Shields are also an important part of pumping comfortably and effectively. They can be confusing to figure out at first but just remember that the shield size needs to fit your nipple not your areola or bra cup size. 

When and where you will be pumping

Some factors to consider include frequency and location of pumping — would you need to pump on-the-go or be able to move the pump around often and with ease, and your budget of course, since hospital grade pumps typically come with heftier price tags. Portable breast pumps should be used a max of twice a day, so if you want to pump more or support milk supply and pump mostly at home, a hospital grade pump is a worthwhile investment. Some mummies even have a main hospital grade pump to use at home and a portable pump for convenience.

Smart features

Don’t forget to look out for features that can make your pumping experience easier! Individual program options, cycle speed and vacuum level options are all more important than simply the suction strength. Take advantage of technology and seek out pumps that allow you to store your favourite programs, run them with a single touch or even connect to your phone via Bluetooth so you can run them from your phone. 

Whether you’re pumping and breastfeeding or pumping exclusively, we’ve got you covered with some of the best breast pumps on the market so you can find the one that’s most suitable for you. Happy shopping!

Wearable Breast Pump

Source: Pupsik Studio

The Imani i2+ is a compact, hands-free breast pump that gives you the confidence to discreetly pump anytime, anywhere. You can even wear it under your bra to pump. It has transparent cups made from Tritan, silicone breast flanges and a tip cap to close the pouring hole to prevent milk spillage. The Imani i2+ is comfortable, quiet and convenient with a timer to track pumping and LCD screen to show the mode, intensity level and battery life. Perfect for back-to-work mamas who need to pump at their desk!

Portable Breast Pump

Source: BabyBuddha®

Freedom to move is what makes the BabyBuddha breast pump a game changer and one to consider if you’re looking for the best portable breast pump! It is impressively small and quiet but powerful, and has a rechargeable battery for ultimate portability. BabyBuddha is available in single or double and is intuitive to use, with a trackball to navigate through the 14 modes. Portable, sturdy, hands-free and simple to use makes this breast pump a popular choice among mummies.

Hospital Grade Breast Pump

Source: Spectra Baby Pump 

Hospital grade breast pumps have stronger, more powerful motors. They provide a higher level of suction and thus more efficient pumping. While they’re not as easily transportable, they’re great if you pump exclusively or are feeding more than one baby. The Spectra S1 breast pump is premium hospital grade with powerful, adjustable suction. Despite having one of the strongest suctions, it is whisper-quiet. The night light and in-built rechargeable battery are also unique features on the Spectra S1 that add to it being the best on the market.

How to clean your breast pump

Whichever breast pump you go for, it’s essential to clean your pump after each use to stop germs from multiplying. Wash all the pump parts that came into contact with your breast or breast milk. It’s best to use liquid soap and hot water, scrubbing with a brush and rinsing off under running water.

A handy tip is to have a clean washing basin or tub that is used only for your baby’s feeding equipment. Air dry your breast pump and only put all the parts away when they’re completely dry. If your bub is less than 3 months old or born prematurely, take care to sanitise your breast pump daily as well. 

If your breast pump is dishwasher-safe and you own a dishwasher (yay!), use the top rack and put on a hot water and heated drying cycle. 

Keep up your milk supply while pumping

The rule of breastfeeding is supply and demand. Breast pumping and breastfeeding produces more liquid gold.

Additionally, boost your breast milk supply with deliciously nutritious goodies from Marian’s Lactation Boost. Our good-for-you-and-baby lactation cookies, brownies, muffins, cupcakes and even ice cream are sure to satisfy and get your energised. If you prefer a soothing drink, there’s also lactation tea and cold pressed juice. Consider the 5 Weeks Bundle Deal to enjoy a weekly rotation of treats that really gets your milk supply going — especially great if you’re low on supply or looking to build up a stash. Breast pumping is no small feat, so kudos to you for giving your baby the best you can!