Breast pumps could be a blessing for new mothers who struggle to keep up with the breastfeeding routine. The best Medela breast pumps are designed to resemble the baby’s sucking mechanism and rhythm, that lets you comfortably pump your breasts and keep your breast milk ready for your little one while you are away. These pumps offer several benefits, such as helping you track the pumping through an app, strong suction pumping using different mechanisms, hands-free operation, and portability. So, explore the different types of pumps to find one that suits your requirements to smooth out your breastfeeding journey.
Top Picks
6 Best Medela Breast Pumps
1. Best Portable:Medela Manual Breast Pump
The easy-to-carry manual breast pump from Medela is made from silicone and has Flex technology with a 105-degree angle and an oval-shaped 24mm breast shield with soft rims. This breast shield can be rotated 360 degrees for maximum comfort while pumping and enhanced pumping output. This handheld pump uses a two-phase technology to replicate a baby’s sucking mechanism for effective pumping. It has an electric power source, and the package includes a breast pump, a PersonalFit Flex breast shield, a five-ounce breast milk bottle, a lid, a stand, a harmony connector, a valve, and a membrane. Watch this video to learn the usage instructions of this compact pump.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Lightweight and compact
- Increases milk supply and aids relactation
- Easy to grip
Cons
- Might be tedious to clean
- Might seem smaller than expected
Quick tip2. Best For High Output:Medela Swing Single Electric Breast Pump
One of the best Medela breast pumps, Medela Swing Single electric breast pump features a research-based technology and patented design that allows you to pump more milk in less time. The comfortable pump resembles a baby’s natural breastfeeding pattern for efficient pumping and comfort. This Medela electric breast pump has a 24mm PersonalFit breast shield and different vacuum controls to adjust the pumping setting. Made from plastic and designed to operate on an AC power adapter or four AA batteries, this portable pump kit comes with a motor unit, a 24mm breast shield, a connector, a valve, two membranes, one tubing, two five-ounce bottles with lids, a bottle stand, a shoulder strap, an AC adapter, and a drawstring bag.
Pros
- Lightweight, portable, and compact
- Adjustable suction settings
- Easy to use
- Offers flexibility
- BPA-free and safe materials
Cons
- Milk might return to the tubing and into the motor
- Might be louder than expected
3. Best Hands-Free:Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump
The Medela wearable breast pump gives you the comfort of pumping anytime and anywhere with its pocket-sized rechargeable design. This lightweight pump comes with wearable collection cups to keep you hands-free while pumping. Each wearable cup weighs 2.7 ounces and can hold up to five ounces of breastmilk. Its design resembles the shape of a lactating breast. With a two-phase expression technology, the breast pump imitates the baby’s natural sucking rhythm to stimulate breast milk flow. The cup design restricts localized compression and has a broader lower half to offer added support to the underside of the breast. Check out this video to learn how to use this wearable pump.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to clean
- Fits most nursing bras
- Soft rim
- Transparent design for easy viewing
Cons
- Membrane might tear easily
- Milk might get into the machine through the wire
4. Best Low-Noise Operation:Medela Sonata Smart Breast Pump
With a powerful suction strength, the Medela double-electric breast pump offers a high capacity and fast breast milk pumping. The comfortable pump has a built-in rechargeable battery that offers 1.5 hours of battery life and weighs 40 ounces. This Medela pump uses a two-phase expression technology to mimic a baby’s natural breastfeeding rhythm and pump more milk in less time. It connects to the Medela Family app and offers a closed system to restrict the milk from flowing back into the tubing and motor.
The package includes a Sonata double breast pump with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, a breast pump bag, a double pumping kit with breast shield connectors, two valves, two connector caps, two silicone membranes, two breast shields of 21mm and 24mm, one tubing set, four five-ounce bottles with lids, one cooler and contoured ice pack, two bottle stands, and one power adapter. Here’s a video to help you learn how to use this closed-system pump.
Pros
- Comfortable and wireless
- Easy to clean
- Does not hurt during pumping
- Built-in handle
- Silent motor
Cons
- Might have a lot of parts
- Might seem bulky to some
5. Best With A Closed System:Medela Swing Maxi Breast Pump
The rechargeable battery-powered breast pump from Medela claims to offer 18% more milk through its two-phase expression technology that mimics the baby’s natural sucking rhythm. It has a closed system designed to restrict overflow and prevent breast milk from entering the tube or motor. Once recharged, this parenting product can be used for 1.5 hours at a stretch, and the PersonalFit Flex breast shield offers a comfortable fit for pumping. It is designed with a 105-degree opening angle, a soft rim, and an oval shape to control the pressure on the milk ducts. The pumping could be tracked through a Medela Family app, and this breast pump has nine pre-programmed settings to operate with four buttons.
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Portable design
- Includes a USB Type-C connector
- Quiet operation
- Breast shield molds to your shape
Cons
- May not pump evenly on both sides
- Included bag may be smaller than expected
Remember6. Best Stimulating:Medela Symphony Plus Breast Pump
Medela’s hospital-grade breast pump allows single or double electric pumping and is designed to stimulate the flow for powerful pumping. Its Initiate and Maintain breast pump technology helps enhance breast milk supply through a combination of stimulation, expression, and pause phases. For new mothers with latching difficulties, this powerful electric model could be easily switched from single to double pumping. This Medela pump set comes with a breast pump, a container stand, and a cord protector.
Pros
- Has different pumping intervals
- Quiet motor
- High suction strength
- Closed system
- Includes instructions
Cons
- Might get tedious to hold it while pumping
- May have a beeping sound
How To Choose The Right Medela Breast Pump?
Here are some things to consider before choosing the best Medela breast pump.
1. Pumping mechanism: Comfort is essential while pumping breast milk, and breast pumps replicating the baby’s sucking phenomenon could allow you to pump more milk comfortably and quickly. Consider breast pumps with a two-phase mechanism to achieve this phenomenon.
2. Capacity and frequency of pumping: The container capacity and frequency of pumping are important parameters to consider when choosing a suitable pump. Choose one based on your breast milk production and baby’s feeding frequency.
3. Type: Manual and electric are the two types of breast pumps available. For mothers who have the time to spare and sufficient milk flow but only need assistance for surplus storage, manual breast pumps are ideal. Mothers with lesser milk flow or latching challenges may opt for advanced double-electric breast pumps.
4. Ease of cleaning: Breast pumps require frequent sterilization and washing to maintain hygiene, so consider ones with fewer attachments and easy washability to save time.
5. Additional features: Look for features such as portability, ease of use, easy storage, and more to ensure the pump meets your requirements. Also, look for an option with multiple breast pump accessories.
Safety Tips To Follow When Using Medela Breast Pumps
- Wash your hands thoroughly and clean your breasts before using the breast shield.
- Clean and sanitize all parts of your breast pump each time you use it, using soapy water, a cleaning brush, and hot water. You may also clean them in a dishwasher if the parts are dishwasher-safe, followed by a heated drying cycle for thorough sanitization.
- You could start pumping with a lower suction power and slowly increase the suction as the milk starts flowing.
- Empty your breasts during each session till they feel soft and light with no hard areas.
- Refrigerate your breast milk immediately if it is not to be used right away.
- You should not feel pain while pumping but a natural tugging sensation which may seem unusual but not uncomfortable. Adjust the breast shield correctly and check whether it is the right size for your breast if you feel uncomfortable.
Why Trust Momjunction?
Vibha Navarathna, an experienced writer specializing in baby and parent products, strives to provide the most relevant information to her readers. In this article on the best Medela breast pumps, she has elaborated on the specifications you must look for in a breast pump after researching each product across various platforms. She has also considered the customer reviews and ratings to provide you with the pros and cons of each product. This article also includes a detailed buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the best Medela breast pump for frequent use?
While most Medela breast pumps work well, you may want to use an electric breast pump for frequent use to stimulate milk flow well and allow quick pumping comfortably. Several Medela electric pumps offer double pumps for enhanced milk production and replicate a baby’s sucking mechanism to pump your breast milk quickly and easily. You can consider the Medela Swing Maxi breast pump if your pumping frequency is high.
2. What is the best Medela breast pump for on-the-go pumping?
Several Medela breast pumps are suitable for on-the-go pumping as most breast pumps are compact and portable. The Medela Swing Single breast pump and Medela Freestyle hands-free breast pump could serve well while traveling. However, all Medela breast pumps except hospital-grade ones could work well on the go.
3. Which Medela breast pump is best for occasional use?
You may want to use a breast pump occasionally when you are available frequently for breastfeeding your baby and have a consistent flow of milk. For occasional use, you may consider a manual breast pump to collect and store additional milk for reserve.
4. Are Medela Symphony breast pumps only for hospital use?
While Medela Symphony breast pumps are popularly hospital-grade and used widely in hospitals, they are equally suitable for domestic use.
5. Can I use a Medela breast pump if I have sensitive nipples?
If you have sensitive nipples or experience continued discomfort while pumping, you may want to stop pumping and consult a lactation consultant and breastfeeding specialist for further guidance.
6. Does using a breast pump change the appearance of breasts?
Normally, using breast pumps would not adversely change the appearance of your breasts. Breasts change appearance throughout pregnancy and nursing due to various reasons, such as weight loss, increase in hormones, age, etc. If you are concerned about your breast health, consult your doctor.
7. How often should I use a breast pump?
You may want to use the breast pump as often as your baby needs. Babies usually breastfeed eight to ten times in 24 hours, and depending on your milk production and frequency of breastfeeding, you may decide how often you may use the breast pump. Pumping in a timely manner could alleviate discomfort and breast engorgement.
Breast pumps help keep your little one fed while you are away or busy. The best Medela breast pumps offer a comfortable pumping experience using different pumping mechanisms and features. There are single, double, manual, electric, and hospital-grade pumps to select from. Each of these models caters to certain needs, so analyze the products carefully before selecting. Moreover, you should check if it’s compact and lightweight enough to carry while traveling and has fewer parts for easy cleaning. You can also check the user guidelines and additional features available to determine if it’s the right breast pump for you.
Infographic: How To Use Medela Breast Pumps Properly?
For 60 years, Medela has been dedicated to caring for mothers and babies through innovative healthcare devices. Medela’s range of breast pumps is one such revolutionary product category that aids active mothers in achieving their parenting goals. Check out the following infographic to learn how to use Medela breast pumps properly to maintain hygiene and ensure durability.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
Recommended Links:
- Best Breast Pumps For Working Moms With A Newborn
- Best Baby Bottles For Effortless Feeding
- Best Nipple Creams For Breastfeeding Sans Soreness
- Best Bottle Sterilizers For Baby
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