Image: MomJunction Design Team
Breastfeeding is the most effective way for mothers to feed their newborns. However, it might not be a viable option for many mothers. Some may need to use the best portable breast pump to feed their little ones. Breastfeeding a baby can be challenging, especially when you are traveling. Thus, in such instances, you need tried-and-tested and comfortable pumps that are easy to clean and use. Here is our review of some top breast pumps trusted by moms that you can consider buying depending on your requirements and your child’s needs.
Top Picks
11 Best Portable Breast Pumps
1. Best Double Electric: Medela Pump In Style With MaxFlow Technology
With performance like a hospital-grade pump, this portable breast pump is incredibly efficient and uses a closed system for pumping to prevent milk backup from entering the motor or tubing. Its innovative motor creates a vacuum and generates micro vibrations so that milk is expressed effectively. PersonalFit Flex breast shields in 2 sizes of 21 mm and 24 mm ensure a better fit and comfort with their oval shape and soft rim. This electric model is clinically proven to increase milk volume by 11.8% in less time, and it expresses milk in two phases and imitates the natural sucking rhythm of a baby. This double electric breast pump from the trusted brand includes an elegant microfiber pump bag, a cooler bag, and a battery pack so that you can pump while on the go. Learn more about this pump with adjustable suction levels in this review video.
Material: Silicone | Item Weight: 1 pounds | Product Dimensions: 13.14 x 6.13 x 9.08 inches.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- No-tangle tubing
- Comfortable pumping
- Fewer parts to assemble
- 10 adjustable vacuum levels
- Comes with four collection bottles of 150ml capacity each
- Designed for pumping several times a day
Cons
- May produce a high level of noise
Quick fact
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 8,383 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
2. Best Hands-Free: Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump
An ultimate convenient solution, this mommy-approved portable breast pump is small and compact enough to be carried anywhere and can fit into your pocket or purse. Up to 11.8% more milk is expressed in less time with its efficient 2 phase expression technology, and it can be used to express milk multiple times a day. It features a closed system design that prevents milk from leaking and flowing into the motor or tubing. Its unique design features backlighting and a convenient digital display. Its rechargeable lithium ion battery can run for up to 2 hours which makes it convenient to use while on the move. It also includes a set of 21 mm and 24 mm oval-shaped and soft-rimmed breast shields for a better fit and comfortable pumping. Learn more about this breast pump with a digital display in this video.
Number of Items: 1 | Item Weight: 2.42 pounds | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required | Product Dimensions: 10.35 x 9.29 x 5.55 inches.
Pros
- Easy-to-clean connectors
- Weighs less than 1 pound
- Touch screen display
- 2 connector sets
- Comes with 4 bottles with lids
- 2 bottle stands
- 1 carry bag and cooler included
- Physician recommended
- Hands-free pumping with bustier
- Features pump setting and battery charge indicators
- Detachable lanyard that loops around wrist
Cons
- Some may find the suction power a bit low
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 1,813 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
3. Best Innovative: Willow Wearable Breast Pump
With a discreet, noiseless, and compact design, this in-bra portable milk pump is very convenient with no dangling tubes, bottles, or cords. It features 7 levels of suction that are comparable to hospital grade pumps, and for added comfort, it even features a sensitivity setting. Its innovative self-sealing, spill-proof storage and collection bag helps you pump while on the move. The hygienic and eco-friendly components are easy to assemble and clean. It increases milk volume as it automatically shifts from stimulation mode to expression mode and adjusts the suction depending on your personal preferences. Its rechargeable battery lasts for 5 pumping sessions and includes a charger. It also includes two compact pumps, two flanges of 27mm, 24 milk bags, and two cleaning brushes. This video will provide you with added insights about the product.
Material: Bpa Free | Product Dimensions: 5.67 x 4.41 x 3.35 inches | Weight: 2.3 Pounds.
Pros
- BPA-free
- Hygienic storage bags
- Dishwasher safe
- Very quiet
- 360° mobility while pumping
- Hands-free and wireless pump
Cons
- Comes with only 1 charger for 2 pumps
Medela Pump In Style With MaxFlow Technology Best Double Electric | Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump Best Hands-Free | Willow Wearable Breast Pump Best Innovative | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 8,383 | 1,813 | 293 |
| Price | $194.99 | $299.99 | $499.99 |
4. Best Wireless: Bellababy Double Breast Pumps
Trusted by moms, the lightweight, wireless double pumps by Bellababy are portable and feature four sucking modes and nine suction levels, allowing you to set the pumps as per your need and comfort. It has a touch-sensitive LED display that lets you monitor and adjust the settings with precision and ease. The lightweight pumps come with 24mm flanges and ultra-soft silicone cushions to ensure a comfortable experience. To make your life easier, the package includes ten milk bags for convenient storage. The best part is that the traditional pumps churn out the milk directly into the bags, saving you time and effort. Furthermore, the wireless pumps can be used separately, enabling you to breastfeed one child while pumping milk from the other breast. These silent and portable breast pumps are user-friendly and easy to clean.
Pros
- Low noise
- USB-rechargeable
- BPA-free
- Large capacity battery
Cons
- Higher intensity levels might be uncomfortable for some
- May not include all flange sizes
Do remember5. Best Compact: Elvie Curve Manual Wearable Breast Pump
This innovative breast pump uses natural suction to express milk gently when you feel the need to express, or while you are pumping or feeding your baby on the other breast. It fits the curve of your breast perfectly and you can increase the suction by pressing on the silicone pouch. Likewise, you can use the control valve to decrease suction. This manual pump is wearable and goes within your bra, so it keeps your hands free and you don’t have to worry about it getting displaced while your baby is feeding. It expresses about 120 ml milk at a time with minimal effort, is very discreet, and convenient for mothers on the go. Moreover, this hands-free pump is a safe and effective option made of quality materials.
Pros
- Small and compact pump
- Dishwasher-safe
- BPA-free
- Made with food-grade silicone
- Suitable for microwave or water sterilization
Cons
- May not offer a proper fit in some cases.
6. Best Freestyle Mode: Ikare Double Electric Breast Pump
This extremely convenient portable breast pump features an in-built rechargeable battery that holds its charge for about three hours, which coupled with its lightweight and compact design, makes the pumping of milk even more effortless. Comparable to a hospital grade pump, the electric model features five modes which can be preset with six levels of suction. There is also a special freestyle mode which features 20 cycles and 6 levels of suction so that you are at your most comfortable. The battery powered pump takes less time to express milk, and its sound level is less than 35 decibels, which makes it very discreet and doesn’t disturb your sleeping baby. This pump features a closed system for pumping so that milk cannot enter the tubing and motor because of its overflow protection feature.
Product Dimensions: 11.02 x 6.3 x 4.72 inches | Weight: 3.02 Pounds.
Pros
- Backlit touchscreen
- Portable and closed system breast pump
- Removable cooler bag for 2 bottles
- Includes a contoured ice pack
- Backlit touchscreen for night time pumping
- Includes 21, 24, and 27 mm flanges
Cons
- It may take some time to get used to the settings.
7. Best Washable: Outera Portable Breast Pump
This expert-approved, highly-efficient, portable, and powerful pump can save around 50% of your time while expressing milk, making it a trusted choice of breastfeeding moms. Made from soft silicon, it makes pumping milk a comfortable experience while the cushioned pads fit well to your body, adding to the efficiency. It features an LED touchscreen with 3 modes to stimulate, massage, and express milk, and each mode features 9 different suction levels to suit your personal preference and comfort level. Its rechargeable lithium battery holds charge between 1.5 to 2 hours and includes USB cables so that you can charge it anywhere. Its anti-backflow feature ensures the milk flows only downwards to prevent secondary pollution. Its noise level is less than 50 dB, making it very discreet.
Material: Silicone
Pros
- Crafted with food-grade silicone
- BPA-free
- Washable in dishwasher
- Easy to operate
- Comes with memory function
- FDA-approved
- Breast pump with backflow protection
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons
- Some may find the flanges too big.
Quick tip8. Best For Comfort: Carer Spark Hand-Free Wearable Breast Pump
This wearable pump frees your hands and you don’t have to deal with the hassle of tubes, wires, or feeding bottles. With a sound less than 50 dB, it’s very discreet and all you need to do is wear it and go about your work. It features a massage and pumping mode that relieves discomfort and expresses the milk by imitating the baby’s sucking. It has 5 suction levels depending on your comfort and expresses around 180 ml of milk at a time, painlessly. For charging, it can be connected to a power outlet, computer, or power bank, and a full charge can be used between 3 to 5 times. It reduces sucking time by 50% and increases milk production by 30%. It also includes a bra adjustment buckle, a silicone diaphragm, and a shield.
Pros
- BPA-fṛeė silicone
- Contains no ḣạrmful substances
- Easy to clean
- Includes 4 nursing pads
- Includes a storage bag
- Portable and convenient to carry
- Automatically turns off after 20 minutes
Cons
- Some may find the pauses between suctions a bit uncomfortable.
9. Best Lightweight: Hansilk Multifunctional Double Wearable Breast Pump
For hassle-free milk pumping, try this lightweight, wearable, hands-free pump that you can wear in your bra while you carry on with your work. It features 2 modes of massaging and pumping which relieves discomfort, stimulates milk flow, and helps the milk to be expressed quickly and painlessly. The milk gets pumped directly into the milk collector without any leaking, thanks to its anti-reflux technology. It features 9 levels of suction power depending on your comfort level, and its LCD screen with keys makes it easier to choose the functions. Its closed system pump design ensures milk doesn’t enter the motor or tubing. Its rechargeable 1200mAH lithium battery holds charge for 100 minutes and closes down automatically after 30 minutes of use.
Number of Items: 1 | Material: Silicone | Item Weight: 1.48 pounds | Batteries: 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Made of food-grade silicone
- Memory and timer function
- USB cable included
- Battery-powered pump
- Includes two silicone shields and diaphragms
- Comes with a bra adjustment buckle
- Includes two milk storage bags and two milk collectors
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a pant clip
10. Best Anti-Leak: MomMed Breast Pumps
MomMed’s breast pumps have a wire- and pipe-free design that allows for inconspicuous wear under your clothes. These pumps eliminate the need for storage bags, as they securely collect and store the milk. The built-in milk collector has a precise and small nozzle opening, making pouring milk into bags or collection bottles easy without any spillage. The dual breast pumps feature an ergonomic design for a snug and comfortable fit, and each pump weighs only 0.55 pounds, making them lightweight and easy to use. With a 24mm flange insert and a 27mm silicone breast shield included with each pump, this powerful pump with customizable options offers maximum comfort. Additionally, being BPA-free, these lightweight breast pumps are safe and effective for both the baby and the mother.
Pros
- Low noise
- Leak-proof mechanism
- Come with a storage bag
- Stays in place
Cons
- May be a bit time-consuming to clean
- May not empty the breasts in one go
11. Best LCD: Feisike Wearable Electric Breast Pump
This portable breast pump does its work discreetly–all you need to do is attach it inside your bra and you can go about your work. The electric portable breast pump features a massage mode and nine levels of suction power to make the expressing of milk as comfortable as possible. The reusable container and 24mm nipple shield are made of baby-friendly PP and silicone material, and the accessories are easy to clean. The flange size of the single pump is suitable for most women with a nipple diameter of 19 to 21mm. This travel-friendly breast pump features a rechargeable mAh battery that offers enough charge to express milk two to four times. It prevents backflow of milk with the duckbill valve in its closed system so that milk cannot enter the tubings or motor.
Pros
- BPA-free
- Phthalate-free
- PVC-free
- LCD display
- Rechargeable breast pump
- Detachable accessories
- Weighs only 15 ounces
- Comes with bra adjustment buckle
- USB charger included
Cons
- Some may find the noise too loud.
How To Choose The Right Portable Breast Pump?
Here are a few pointers you should consider when choosing a portable breast pump.
- Size and weight: The idea of a portable breast pump is that it should be as compact, small in size, and as light as possible. Some come equipped with a belt clip or lanyard for increased portability and to make pumping even more convenient when on the go.
- Battery life: If you are likely to be out and on the move through the day, you may not get the chance to charge your portable breast pump at all. It’s a good idea to opt for a portable breast pump with a good battery life that holds charge for the whole day. You could also get one with USB charging that you can connect to your power bank when you are on the move.
- Suction: This is completely a personal choice and depends on the suction power that you are comfortable with. Some women are okay with a strong mode for suction strength, while others would prefer a gentler suction.
- Flexible setting: Some breast pumps, especially those which are hospital grade, allow you to set the speed of the cycle on your own. If that’s what you are used to, you should go for a portable breast pump that has similar features and offers cycle speed control, though it will definitely be limited as compared to a hospital grade model.
- Automatic pumping: Most women want a breast pump that’s convenient and works automatically, without having to adjust settings and pressing buttons to get the required vacuum levels. Some comfortable pumps enable you to record different pumping programs and memorize your pump settings. All you have to do is turn it on, choose your pre-recorded program, and you are good to go.
- Noise level: Many women prefer a silent breast pump that is discreet and doesn’t attract attention or disturb your sleeping baby. Silent models of portable breast pumps that just vibrate while doing the job are definitely available. You may check the specifications and read through reviews to double check.
- Pump parts: Many women use a portable breast pump as a supplement to their primary pump, and thus may already have the parts from the first pump. You may use the same pump parts for the portable breast pump as well, in case you don’t want to use Freemie collection cups, but that’s again a personal choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a portable breast pump to increase my milk supply?
A portable breast pump is usually better for maintaining milk supply and not increasing milk supply. If you wish to increase milk supply by pumping more often, a heavy-duty breast pump is a better option.
2. Is a portable breast pump good for exclusive pumping?
Some mothers use a portable breast pump for exclusive pumping as it’s easier to pump on the move or even at home. They usually combine a heavy-duty breast pump for use at home and a portable breast pump for use on the go. It is a good idea to keep a couple of portable breast pumps just in case one stops working.
3. What makes a breast pump portable?
Unlike hospital-grade breast pumps with large motors and flexible speeds, portable breast pumps use a small motor that works with limited speed and suction cycles. The portable, lightweight pumps are easy to carry, and ideal for mothers who travel or for someone who doesn’t rely on breast pumps for milk supply.
4. Is a hands-free breast pump worth it?
A hand-free pump is worth it for someone who is always on the go and doesn’t have enough time to sit near a power outlet. These hand-free options allow you to do simple day-to-day tasks while pumping and are good options if you do not depend solely on breast pumps for milk supply.
5. Is a manual breast pump better than an electric one?
Manual pumps are better for someone who doesn’t rely on a breast pump every day or is not an exclusive pumper and who doesn’t mind the hard work. These traditional pumps are quiet and less expensive than electric ones. However, electric breast pumps are better for someone who relies on a breast pump for milk supply and uses them frequently.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna is a writer and reviewer of articles related to pregnancy, nursing, and babies. She has compiled this list of the best portable breast pumps after conducting detailed research and going through several product reviews on different types of pumps online. She has also provided a buying guide to help you make an informed choice. The breast pumps featured on this list are easy to maintain and safe for your baby.
Breast pumps come in handy when transitioning your baby from breastfeeding to bottle feeding. They help you feed your little ones when traveling or going about your work and give babies the much-needed nutrients in the early stages of their lives. Choosing a breast pump involves factoring in customizable functions such as the suction speed and timer. It is also advisable to check if the pumps are lightweight, portable, and easy to clean. The right breast pumps do not make the mother uncomfortable when pumping breast milk and ensure painless and convenient expression of milk. Moreover, most breast pumps are made of safe materials and come with digital displays and quality rechargeable batteries.
Infographic: How To Sanitize An Electric Breast Pump?
Breast pumps need to be washed and cleaned after each use and require regular sanitization. They should be sanitized before the first use and at least once daily to prevent germ buildup and protect the child’s delicate immunity. Refer to the infographic below for a step-by-step guide on sanitizing an electric breast pump.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Breast Milk Storage and Preparation.
https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breast-milk-preparation-and-storage/handling-breastmilk.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/recommendations/handling_breastmilk.htm - Cleaning a Breast Pump.
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-pumps/cleaning-breast-pump
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