Anything that makes life easier as a new parent is a win. And for many mums, being able to pump milk quickly and comfortably is a must. Pumping allows new mums to boost their milk supply and can help with breastfeeding issues, especially in the early days. What's more, it can mean others - like dad or grandparents - can feed the baby too, which can be a godsend for getting more sleep at night. There are plenty of pumps out there to play with, but which are the best? I've put some of the newest models to the test. Here's what I found...
Best for: output
Lansinoh 2-in-1 Double Electric Breast Pump, £165
You can’t move around in this double breast pump, but it works quickly and efficiently to produce milk… so you won’t be sat still for long. It can be used as a single or double pump, and is quiet when in use. There's none of the honking that came with breast pumps of yore here. A choice of four cushions mean a customisable and comfortable fit. An LED display means it's easy to use in a dark or dimly lit room - surprisingly useful with a newborn.
Best for: budget single pump
Pippeta Compact LED Hands Free Breast Pump, £98.99
Coming in at less than £100 for a single pump, the Pippeta wins the prize for the most economical electric pump. It’s also beautifully compact, easily fitting into both your bra and your bag to carry around with you. 12 suction levels and four modes, including a massage stimulation mode, mean it’s incredibly customisable, allowing you to work out which levels feel most comfortable and work best where milk production is concerned. Theres a 20 minute shut off function too, which is good for the forgetful among us (hello baby brain).
Best for: milk storage
Lola & Lykke Smart Electric Single Breast Pump, £145
If you’re not fussed about pumping on the go/in public/at work, and simply want a dependable, easy-to-use pump - this one is for you. Yes it’s wireless, and little, but you do need to hold it on your boob while it pumps. You can attach a milk storage bag to the pump too, and collect milk straight from boob to bag ready to store in the fridge or freezer - a genius idea. There are two modes, stimulation and expression, and it executes both well. It’s easy to clean too, a must when it needs doing after each use.
Best for: budget double
Medela Swing Maxi Hands Free Double Electric Breast Pump, £179
With two pumps and a central circular control unit, on first glance I wondered how portable this would be. But with just one wire connecting the lot it does indeed sit under your clothes well. At £200, popping a “budget” title on it might seem a stretch, but you get two pumps at £100 each, making it the cheapest option here.
Best for: customisation
MAM Move Wearable Double Breast Pump, £350
I was impressed by the number of modes available to try on this pump - three modes, five intensity levels and a very good super silent mode for those times you want to be discreet. The soft funnels, into which you pop your nipples, come in an impressive four different sizes too, which ensures a comfortable fit for all boobs. To look at the pumps are very aesthetically pleasing, white and mint green in colour and ergonomically shaped to the breast. A downside, if I had to pick one, is the cost - at £350 for two pumps it’s the priciest of the bunch.
Best for: discreet
Momcozy Mobile Flow Hands Free Breast Pump, from £159.99
The fact that this pump is controlled from an app on your phone means you can switch it on and off without touching it and fiddling inside your bra - game changer for those mamas who want a little more privacy to their pumping. With a choice of two muted colours, red and grey, it’s also pretty stylish to look at, neat and streamlined. Lightweight, the pump sits inside the cup of your bra comfortably. There are three sizes of nipple covers to choose from too. The fact that there are several modes to play with, with different speeds and suction strengths, including one to boost your milk production is a strength - I found this particularly useful at the start of my breast feeding journey. You can double up and get two pumps for £269.99.