Breast pumps have come a long way since inventor Orwell Needham created the first mechanical, glass pump in 1854. Over the decades, companies have refined designs and evolved breast pumps from loud, awkward, painful objects into subtle, elegant devices.

Now, your next pumping session can be a total breeze — if you have the right breast pump.

Whether you're browsing for an electric, a wearable, a double electric, or a manual breast pump, you and your newborn will marvel at the level of sophistication current breast pumps offer.

But the search for the best breast pump can feel daunting and overwhelming, with so many modern options available. That’s why we rounded up five of our favorites below.

Summary of Top Five Breast Pumps Online

1. Overall Best Breast Pump: Momcozy S12 Wearable Electric Breast Pump

2. Best Double Electric Pump: Momcozy Double All-In-One Wearable Breast Pump

3. Quietest Breast Pump: Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump

4. Most Comfortable Breast Pump: Pure Enrichment PureBaby Double Electric Breast Pump

5. Best Budget Breast Pump: Crane Rechargeable Breast Pump

When we were looking for the best breast pump, we considered a few key factors, including power source, ease of use, weight, portability, and battery life.

These — among other things — are important to think about when trying to find the breast pump that’s right for you.

1. Overall Best Breast Pump: Momcozy S12 Wearable Electric Breast Pump

What we love

Enjoy pumping sessions like never before when you wear the Momcozy S12 Wearable Electric Breast Pump.

This hands-free pump will empower you to take on life's busiest days, whether you’re wearing it at home, during work, or on the go. With a slim design and a maximum sound of 50 dB, this breast pump won't attract unwanted attention and will never wake your baby.

Not only is it hassle-free, but it's also easy to clean. Since the Momcozy S12 only has five pieces, taking apart and sanitizing this breast pump takes no time at all.

These are some of the best breast pumps on the market because they have an impressive battery life — these electric breast pumps can last 70 to 90 minutes before needing a charge.

Even though this breast pump has physical buttons, the design is still sleek and exciting. And those buttons contribute to its extended battery and service life, because a touch screen would use more power. Meanwhile, a helpful LCD display informs users of the breast pump status.

Overall, the Momcozy S12 Wearable Electric Breast Pump is a dependable, mobile option for those with busy days and even busier lives, making it one of the best breast pumps around.

W​hat customers love

Parents love how strong the suction on this model is, and they especially appreciate the minimal leakage. Other customers praise its high milk output and how this breast pump does not require an app. People also love how long the battery lasts.

P​ros

• Fast breast milk output
• Marked container for easy use
• Easy to insert inside of a nursing bra 

C​ons

• Suction may can feel rougher than competitor pumps

S​pecs

• Flange size: 24 mm (other sizes sold separately)
• Weight: 15.2 ounces (per pump)
• Power source: Rechargeable battery
• Bottle capacity: >120 mL/bottle

Learn more about Momcozy S12 Wearable Electric Breast Pump today

2. Best Double Electric Pump: Momcozy Double All-In-One Wearable Breast Pump

What we love

P​ump in style with the Momcozy Double All-in-One Wearable Breast Pump. This BPA-free, safe pump has a powerful suction range for fast, comfortable suctioning and milk supply delivery.

This breast pump has three suction modes and nine different intensities, to ensure that everyone can have the most comfortable pumping session possible.

B​ut the Momcozy Double electric breast pump is not only convenient to use — it's also easy to clean. Every part of this double electric pump is detachable so new mothers can thoroughly clean the device. This is also a closed system pump, which means its motor is completely isolated from the milk, which promotes better health, cleanliness, and safety.

Like their other electric pumps, the Momcozy Double All-In-One Wearable Breast Pump has a maximum sound output of 50 dB to keep your baby sleeping all night long — even if you’re pumping right beside them.

W​hat customers love

N​ew parents love how this double electric pump allows them to tackle household chores or run errands even while they’re pumping. Other customers report that this breast pump is very easy to wear and also a breeze to clean and sanitize.

P​ros

• Made with food-grade silicone 
• Several modes and suction levels
• Auto shut-off feature 

C​ons

• May be difficult to line up your nipple properly 

S​pecs

• Flange size: 21 mm, 24 mm, 27 mm
• Weight: 2.03 pounds (per set)
• Power source: Rechargeable battery
• Bottle capacity: 150 mL/bottle

L​earn more about Momcozy Double All-In-One Wearable Breast Pump today

3. Quietest Breast Pump: Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump

What we love

Elvie Pump is the pump for the modern woman as it is the first silent wearable breast pump. This breast pump has made a name for itself as a top electric breast pump because it has no tubes, wires, noise, or mess.

And if the silent suction didn’t give it away, this Elvie breast pump is all about convenience. It has a feature that will automatically stop pumping once it has filled the bottle. It will also switch from Stimulation to Expression mode when you’re done pumping. 

The Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump connects to a free app that offers even more valuable features. It monitors milk volume and presents a detailed pumping history for each breast, so you can make sure you’re getting the most out of each session.

But if you don’t want to deal with another app on your phone, you don’t have to. This wearable breast pump can be operated with or without the app, so you can do whatever’s most convenient for you.

W​hat customers love

Busy parents love how convenient these electric pumps are and how they can easily fit into a nursing bra. Other people love how discreet and quiet this breast pump is, because they can use it when their baby sleeps. Lastly, nursing parents praise how the Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump allows them to align the flange before snapping it into the pump, which makes for a much easier setup.

P​ros

• Comes with strap extenders for a guaranteed fit
• Can be used with free app for remote control and session tracking 
• Has large base to prevent overflow

C​ons

• Some users might find the app confusing

S​pecs

• Flange size: 24 mm, 28 mm
• Weight: 7.4 ounces (per pump)
• Power source: Rechargeable battery
• Bottle capacity: 150 mL/bottle

L​earn more about the Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump today

4. Most Comfortable Breast Pump: Pure Enrichment PureBaby Double Electric Breast Pump

What we love

The Pure Enrichment PureBaby Double Electric Breast Pumps come with five stimulation modes and nine expression modes for ultimate customization and comfort. This easy-to-use electric breast pump can adjust to fit your body's needs perfectly.

I​f you're a new parent and are sick of big messes, this breast pump captures every drop of milk. This not only eliminates spills and puddles but also prevents backflow.

The Pure Enrichment PureBaby double electric pumps have an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface with a touchscreen LCD display. Meanwhile, the silicone cushions for the nipple flanges ensure a comfortable fit, even for those long pumping sessions.

This rechargeable electric breast pump is designed with a quiet motor and comes with a five-year warranty.

W​hat customers love

New parents love how this electric breast pump comes with simple instructions to ensure that you have an easy, stress-free pumping experience. People also praise this pump for being small and compact, so it’s easy to travel with.

P​ros

• Five stimulation modes and nine expression modes 
• Single and dual capabilities
• Lightweight and easy to transport
• 5-year warranty

C​ons

• Suction may not be as strong as other double electric pumps

S​pecs

• Flange size: Not specified
• Weight: 1.65 pounds
• Power source: Rechargeable battery
• Bottle capacity: 147 mL/bottle

L​earn more about the Pure Enrichment PureBaby Double Electric Breast Pump today

5. Best Budget Breast Pump: Crane Rechargeable Breast Pump

What we love

The Crane Rechargeable Breast Pump uses a dual-mode design that contains nine stimulation levels and nine expression levels so you can cater the experience to your needs.

Meanwhile, this electric breast pump is one of the most comfortable on the market. Thick, plush silicone breast shields make longer pumping sessions a breeze.

This is one of the best breast pumps we’ve come across because it uses 3D pumping technology to boost milk supply and makes the process as efficient and speedy as possible.

If you're worried about safety and sanitization, don't be. This breast pump operates on a closed system design that stops breast milk from remaining in the tubing. That keeps your milk safe and sanitary. Additionally, Crane provides parents with BPA-free Tritan Bottles, offering parents better peace of mind.

This breast pump is one of the more affordable options we’ve found that doesn’t compromise quality, so it’s great for parents on a budget.

W​hat customers love

Parents praise this pump for being easy to use, comfortable, and strengthening their milk flow. Other people say it's easy to assemble and disassemble, and that it’s a great breast pump for this price point.

Pros

• Intuitive touch controls provide an easy experience
• BPA-free bottles
• Nine stimulation levels and nine expression levels

Cons

• May occasionally turn off while in use

S​pecs

• Flange size: Not specified
• Weight: 3.3 pounds
• Power source: Rechargeable battery
• Bottle capacity: 150 mL/bottle

Learn more about the Crane Rechargeable Breast Pump today

H​ow We Picked the Best Breast Pumps

Choosing the best breast pump for you and your family can be daunting. That’s why we put a ton of effort into researching the highest quality products on the market. Before selecting each breast pump, we won’t through a rigorous process:

Consulted experts

Our industry experts are well-versed in breast pumps, and we only work with those who possess extensive knowledge of breast pumping to source this list.

Examined customer reviews

In the age of misinformation, real reviews are hard to come by. That's why our industry professionals are trained to cut through the noise to find trusted reviews by vetted customers who share honest feedback about the breast pump they bought.

Reviewed specs and product descriptions

By understanding the mechanics on how these breast pumps work, our experts use description analysis to deduce what products are the best breast pumps out there.

Firsthand Product Testing

Finally, we test the breast pumps during a rigorous in-house testing trial to make sure we're recommending only the best breast pump to you.

What to Look For in a Quality Breast Pump

While we’re confident we’ve rounded up the best breast pumps on the market, you should always do your own research to determine which product is right for you. To find the perfect breast pump, here are some things you should consider:

Safety features

In the past, bottles were made with harmful BPA lining and plastic. While most reputable companies have since discarded this practice, double-check to find pumps that specifically have BPA-free.

You may also want to prioritize pumps that operate on closed systems because they prevent backflow and keep your milk sanitary and safe.

Noise level

Loud hums can easily wake up sleeping babies and call unwanted attention to you when you're pumping. Most quality breast pumps have a noise level of 50 dB or lower. While you can get away with a breast pump that’s a bit louder, it's best to move on and find a different option if the loudness exceeds 60 dB.

Part compatibility

If you plan to pump often, you should also look for a pump that is compatible with common parts so that if you do need to replace some tubing or valves, you can do so easily and without spending too much money.

Different Types of Breast Pumps

T​here are four primary types of breast pumps; electric, manual, hospital-grade, and wearable. Ultimately, the first step to choosing the best breast pump for you is to figure out the difference between the types of breast pumps and what best suits you, your baby, and your lifestyle.

Electric Breast Pump

An electric pump is exactly what it sounds like: a breast pump that extracts the milk out for you instead of having to do so by hand.

As you might imagine, more and more people are opting for electric breast pumps because they are much more convenient and allow you to multitask while pumping.

Not only are electric pumps more suitable for busy lifestyles, but they are also easier to clean and sanitize. 

There are other reasons to choose an electric pump other than the extra time it provides. For example, if you're a recent mother of twins, use an electric pump, as it can reduce some of the exhaustion that comes with breastfeeding two mouths instead of one.

You can also choose between single electric breast pumps or a double electric breast pump. Opting for a single electric pump may be ideal for parents on a budget or prefer to pump one breast at a time. A double electric breast pump may be suitable for people who want to speed up the pumping process as much as possible.

Still, there are downsides to using electric pumps. Sometimes electric pumps can be difficult to transport. If you want to pump while on the go, you may want to try a different option, like a portable or manual pump.

Manual Breast Pump

Manual pumps present new parents with some exciting features. Since they have fewer mechanisms than electric ones, manual breast pumps are much lighter and easier to transport. And they're hand-operated, which means they don't require charging or any intensive prep work. Also, a manual pump tends to be much less expensive and is easier to clean.

However, manual pumps do have their drawbacks. For example, they are a more intensive, hands-on experience as you need both hands to output milk. Additionally, you can only milk one breast at a time, which means manual pumps take longer than electric ones.

These may seem like limitations for some parents, but if you typically nurse more than you pump, manual pumps could be ideal. Or if you’re on the go and don’t have the space to travel with a hefty double electric breast pump and all its accessories, then a manual pump may be your best bet.

Hospital-Grade Breast Pump

A hospital-grade pump is one that health providers use in the hospital, but you can also rent them for personal at-home use.

Hospital-grade pumps use a closed system design, which means there are features in the device that prevents milk, spit, and other fluids from entering the motor. Because of these preventative measures, a hospital-grade breast pump is much less likely to have contaminated milk and is great for those worried about bacteria.

T​here are many reasons new parents would choose to use a hospital-grade closed system pump. Primarily, a hospital-grade pump is more powerful than other pumps and produces a better milk supply. And because they have such strong suction, hospital-grade pumps fully empty the breast of milk, which promotes healthy milk production.

The biggest downfall of hospital-grade pumps is how bulky and heavy they are, which makes them difficult (or even impossible) to transport during the day. They’re also not as accessible as other options. It’s so easy to buy an electric or manual pump at the store, but you must contact a health provider to rent a hospital-grade pump.

Wearable Breast Pump

Recently, a new breast pump has hit the scene: the wearable pump. If you're prioritizing convenience, wearable pumps are the way to go. All you have to do is tuck the pump inside your nursing bra, and it will produce your milk supply for you as you continue your day. In fact, many parents use wearable breast pumps while shopping, running errands, or commuting to work.

As you might imagine, mobility is the biggest perk of using a wearable pump. They’re are also incredibly discreet, quiet, and often easy to clean.

Because there are no cords, you’ll still have to charge even the best wearable breast pump. To combat this, charge at night, so you're fully ready the next day. Thankfully, most wearable pumps take only a few hours to charge completely.

The strength of the suction lands somewhere in the middle. While the suction strength can be greater than a manual pump, even the best wearable breast pump isn’t quite as strong as hospital-grade pumps.

So, parents usually produce less milk per session when they use a wearable pump. However, remember that every body is different: some people have better flow when they use a gentler suction, as it is more similar to the experience of having a baby nurse directly from the breast.

When Should You Start Using A Breast Pump?

While you might be excited and anxious to begin pumping, it is possible to pump too early. Studies warn against pumping during pregnancy as this releases a flood of hormones that can trigger labor.

If your baby is in good health, mothers should wait to use an electric or manual pump until your baby is a minimum of six weeks old. Experts say that this allows your body to get situated and to mature into a proper breastfeeding routine, which is important to maintain a milk supply.

Furthermore, if you plan to return to work at the end of your maternity leave then it's imperative that you begin pumping within three to four weeks before. This is because it gets you in a routine with using the pump and allows you to get a significant milk collection for days when you're running behind or out of time.

How to Use a Breast Pump

Breast pumps are wonderful because they provide extra milk for backup storage, teach your baby how to feed from a bottle, and remove the stress off of new parents as they now have a larger milk collection for supplemental feedings.

Breast pumps can feel intimidating because of all the prepping, pumping, storing, and cleaning. Here are some steps to properly pump milk to keep you and your baby safe:

Before Pumping

Choose the area where you will be pumping carefully. Typically when everything is working smoothly and you've got your routine down, it can still take twenty minutes to pump.

That means allowing yourself ample opportunity when you're still figuring out how the machine works. Find a clean, safe, and quiet place that won't cause too much stress, as excess stress can lead to reduced milk flow.

Make sure to thoroughly wash your hands before you assemble the pump. If you haven't used a breast pump in a long time, if it's the first time using it, or you didn't wash it after the last use, take the time to clean the pump before use.

While Pumping

Position the breast shield over your breast. Your nipple should be right in the middle of the shield. If you don't find the right fit at first don't feel discouraged. Many people say they have to try several different breast shield sizes to find the right one.

When you start to pump, make sure to start at a low level to get your body properly adjusted to the process. As you go longer, you can increase the suction to what feels the best and to the speed that you like. However fast you go, remember to empty both breasts during each session. (You can tell your breast is empty if it feels completely soft.)

If you're having a hard time getting the milk out, you may need to stimulate your body by holding your baby, smelling his clothes, or touching him.

After Pumping

Just because you've taken off the pump and have finished the pumping session doesn't mean the work is over. In fact, what you do with the milk after is perhaps the most important step of the pumping process.

Make sure to store the milk in your fridge immediately after pumping because it’s at its best within the first few hours. So if you are planning to stock up, you should freeze the milk.

Now it's time to clean the pump. Cleaning the pump after each use is vital to keeping your baby safe. If you don't clean it right away, harmful bacteria can back up on the tubes and put your baby in danger. For proper practices, use detergent wash and then rinse and air dry.

Fully dismantle the pump, and wash all parts that came into contact with your breast milk. Instead of wiping it down with that questionable dish towel, let all the pieces air dry to prevent new bacteria from entering the pump and infecting breast milk.

FAQ

How do you know if a breast pump suits you?

Contrary to popular belief, you must fit a breast pump based on the size of your nipple instead of the size of your breast. When shopping, measure the diameter of your nipple to find the correct flange size.

As you measure, it's important to only measure the size of your nipple — if you measure your areola, you'll get an improper fit. In fact, your areola should not be inside the breast pump tunnel at all.

How do you pick a breast pump?

After you measure your nipple and find a breast pump that works in your size, you should consider your lifestyle. If you need the flexibility that an electric pump offers, consider a wearable option for mobility and pumping. If you're concerned about safety, try using a hospital-grade. If you don’t pump all the time or are on a budget, a manual breast pump may be best.

It's also important to consider the brand — make sure to review the manufacturer and product carefully to ensure you’re buying a safe, dependable pump.

What happens if the flanges don't fit?

If the flanges don't fit, your nipples can be sore and start to hurt. In addition to being uncomfortable or painful, incorrectly sized flanges can reduce milk suction. So if you experience pain while you’re pumping, or aren’t getting a lot of milk, you may be wearing the wrong size.

Conclusion

Though choosing a breast pump for you and your new baby can be overwhelming, the key is to listen to your body. The best thing to do is make sure your pump is comfortable and never causes pain, even after long sessions. After that, new parents should consider their lifestyle and budget. 

Each breast pump comes with its own drawbacks and benefits, and you’ll have to consider both to find the best breast pump for you.

Summary

1. Overall Best Breast Pump: Momcozy S12 Wearable Electric Breast Pump

2. Best Double Electric Pump: Momcozy Double All-In-One Wearable Breast Pump

3. Quietest Breast Pump: Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump

4. Most Comfortable Breast Pump: Pure Enrichment PureBaby Double Electric Breast Pump

5. Best Budget Breast Pump: Crane Rechargeable Breast Pump

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