The Ultimate Guide to Breast Pumps: Finding the Right Fit for You
Choosing the right breast pump can feel overwhelming—especially with so many options available. Each one has benefits and drawbacks. Want to learn which one is best for you?
Start with- Do I need a pump?
Do I need to go back to work before I want to stop breastfeeding?
Do I need to have other people feed the baby via bottle?
Do I want to build a freezer supply to offer breastmilk after breastfeeding ends?
If yes, then you’ll want to start pumping. Pumping should be done in addition or in place of breastfeeding sessions. If baby takes a bottle instead of breastfeeding, you still need to pump during this time. Doing so will help protect your milk supply
Here’s a breakdown of the most common breast pump types (plus milk collection devices!) and how to decide what’s right for you.
Silicone Milk Collection Devices (Haakaa-Style)
These soft silicone pumps attach to one breast through gentle suction and collect milk—no power or hands required.
Best For:
Catching letdown from the non-nursing breast
Occasional milk collection
Early postpartum engorgement relief
Pros:
Affordable, portable, silent
No electricity required
Great for building a small freezer stash
Cons:
Limited milk removal compared to a pump
Not ideal for maintaining supply
Manual Breast Pumps
Manual pumps use a hand-operated lever to create suction.
Best For:
Occasional pumping
Travel or backup pump
Parents who don’t need to pump often
Pros:
Lightweight and quiet
Budget-friendly
No need for batteries or outlets
Cons:
Requires hand strength and more time
Less efficient than electric pumps
Electric Breast Pumps
Single Electric Pump
Pumps one breast at a time.
Best For: Part-time pumping or occasional use
Pros: Affordable, easy to set up
Cons: Slower and less efficient than double pumping
Double Electric Pump
Pumps both breasts at the same time, cutting pumping time in half.
Best For: Regular or exclusive pumping, back-to-work parents
Pros: Efficient, strong suction, good for supply maintenance
Cons: Larger and more expensive, may require a power source
Wearable Pumps
These hands-free pumps fit inside your bra and allow you to pump discreetly while you move around.
Best For:
Pumping at work or on the go
Multitasking during pumping sessions
Pros:
Discreet and portable
Truly hands-free
Cons:
Pricey
May have slightly less suction power
Limited milk capacity in some models
Hospital-Grade Pumps
These are the most powerful pumps, designed for multiple users (when used with your own personal kit).
Best For:
Building or maintaining supply
NICU parents
Exclusive pumpers
Pros:
Strong, effective suction
Reliable for establishing supply
Cons:
Expensive to purchase (often rented)
Bulky and less portable
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right breast pump depends on your lifestyle, goals, and budget. A parent who pumps once a week might be happy with a manual pump or silicone collector, while someone returning to work full-time will benefit from a reliable double electric or wearable pump. If you are looking for a side by side comparison please visit my instagram post about this topic- https://www.instagram.com/p/DM5g-cJxzk_/?img_index=1
If you’re not sure which pump is right for you—or you’re having trouble with pumping comfort, output, or supply—reach out! As a lactation consultant, I can help you find the right fit and troubleshoot any issues.