You’ve been pumping for almost an hour now. Yet your breastmilk hasn’t even wet the base of the bottle. Sometimes you wish you could be that Instagram mom who could fill two bottles in 15 minutes. And it feels depressing, really. All you want is the best for your baby.
Take a deep breath… Before you blame yourself for not being ‘good enough’, consider this: It’s not you. It’s your breast pump!
Top 9 Breast Pumps of 2018 Reviewed
A pump can be a very useful tool for all breastfeeding moms. It gives you an option to save and store enough milk for your baby, especially when you work during the day and could not nurse her until you get home. And even if you’re a full-time mom, having a breast pump allows you to take a break from breastfeeding. However, the wrong pump can cause so much distress and disappointment.
Well, NO need to further stress yourself looking for the right pump. Here are the best breast pumps of 2018.
1. Manual Breast Pump Silicone Breastmilk – Dobor
If you always fret about your current pump getting out of shape as you press through and through, the Manual Breast Pump Silicone saves the day. It doesn’t go out of shape, so you are able to collect milk more efficiently. This pump also features a soft, warm cushion that aids in stimulation.
2. BTshine Electric Breastmilk Pump
The BTshine Electric Breastmilk Pump can be used in two ways – one as “breast suction” and another as “breast massager”. It has 4 gears to either decrease or increase the suction, allowing you to choose which one is most comfortable for you. Since it’s lightweight, this product is great for moms who are always on the go.
3. Vakey Electric Breast Pump
The Vakey Electric Breast Pump comes with a prolactin mode which allows you to massage your breast for stimulation and features a one-way milk flow design to prevent contamination. Since the bottle comes with a lid and nipple, you can simply give it to your baby once she’s ready to feed.
4. Motif Double Electric Breast Pump
The Motif Double Electric Breast Pump can be adjusted to suit your comfort level. Part of the amazing product features is the twist that comes with two soft silicone breast shield inserts. This provides comfort while pumping. This breast pump is one of the lightest brands in the market – weighing just under 1 lb.
5. Gland Electric Breast Pump with LCD Screen
What’s unique about the Gland Electric Breast Pump is it allows you to record the most comfortable pump setting for your future use. It has four working modes – automatic, massage, stimulation, and expression.
6. Breast Pump Breastfeeding Pump with Large LCD Screen
This pump mimics the baby’s natural sucking and comes with a massage mode as well. It has a large screen, allowing you to see clearly your settings at night. This double breast pump has a closed system design that prevents milk contamination while allowing you to choose the most comfortable posture to express.
7. Nibble Double/Single Electric Breast Pump
In addition to mimicking a baby’s natural sucking pattern, the Nibble Electric Breast Pump features double pumping function, 10-level suction, and expression/stimulation modes. It is fully automatic and has an anti-backflow system.
8. MADENAL Double Electric Breast Pump Travel Set
This brand features 3 function modes and 9 suction levels. It automatically begins with a gentle stimulation mode. Then, you can choose from three expression settings and 9 suction levels to find the setting that’s best for you. The MADENAL Double Electric Breast Pump comes with an attractive tote bag with its own ice bag, providing a functional, safe and convenient way to transport your milk bottles.
9. Philips Avent Double Electric Breast Pump
The Philips Avent Breast Pump features a no ‘lean forward’ design, allowing you to comfortably sit upright while you pump. It has a soft cushion and five massaging petals for stimulation. The package includes a natural feeding bottle for easy transition from nursing to formula milk feeding.
How To Choose The Best Breast Pump For You
Figure out your needs
Here’s the truth – it isn’t always about the price. Not all moms need the most expensive types of breast pumps. It really depends on what you need. For instance, if you decide to pump because you simply like to relieve engorgement and take a break from nursing from time to time, a manual breast pump is a great pick. If you occasionally have to leave your baby at home for regular errands, you might consider buying an electric single breast pump. But if you’re a working mom and couldn’t spend as much time nursing your little one, you may want to go for an electric double breast pump.
Hospital-grade pumps are meant for nursing moms who have difficulties establishing their milk supply. The reason varies. Sometimes, it’s due to some health problems. Other times, the baby could not just latch properly (like in the case of premature babies).
Features
Not all pumps are created equal. Generally, the more features, the better. But these pumps tend to be more costly than the rest. So if you think you will not be needing those added features, consider other brands. If you’re unable to produce a steady supply of milk, you may want to buy a pump that has different suction levels and features a massage mode for better stimulation and expression. Pumps that have more configuration settings are great because you are able to choose and identify which setting is best for you.
Accessories
The best breast pumps would come with essential add-ons, such as breast shields, LCD screen, a storage bottle, power bank or extra batteries (if you’re choosing electric pumps), and many others. Check if the pump you’re buying is compatible with many feeding bottle brands. Some even come with a nice tote for easy transportation.
Quality
Go for the breast pump that is made from high-quality materials free from toxic chemicals like BPA. Modern pumps have a ‘closed system’ design – the milk flows in one direction to avoid contamination.
Check your health policy
See if your insurance covers personal breast pumps. Your plan may have guidelines on what type of pump you can choose – whether manual or electric and when you will receive it.
Everyone – doctors and your fellow moms – would agree. Breast is best. Your milk is the most precious thing you can give to your baby. Having a high-quality breast pump will surely shake all your breastfeeding troubles away. And with the best breast pumps available in the market today, plus the tips outlined here, you will find the perfect one for you too.
