Traditional vs. Wearable Breast Pump: Which Should You Buy?

There is so much to think about when it comes to feeding a newborn, especially if you plan on including breast milk in baby's diet. There's a shocking amount of gear that comes with it, not just the boob! You'll want to feel prepared before baby arrives, and whether your goal is to breastfeed exclusively, pump exclusively, or feed with a combo of breast milk and formula, looking into breast pumps sooner than later can help alleviate stress when the time comes to purchase one. Breast pumps come in a variety of styles, and choosing which pump is right for you can feel daunting. Traditional electric breast pumps are the standard (with good reason) for many pumping moms, but more recently, hands-free wearable pumps have gained popularity and have become more widely available. But which is right for you?

Traditional Double Electric Breast Pumps

Pros

Power and Efficiency: Traditional double electric breast pumps have yet to be surpassed when it comes to sheer pumping power. The electric pump has stronger suction than wearable versions, which means you get more milk in less time. The stronger suction effectively relieves engorgement and empties your breasts more thoroughly as well, which can help your breast milk supply flourish.

Portable: Unlike traditional pumps, the entire mechanism of the wearable pump sits right on your breast – no bulky machine to carry around. They are cordless and battery powered so you can go anywhere with them, you don't have to stop everything you're doing to go sit and pump. Many women feel more comfortable pumping in public with a wearable option as well.

Discreet: Wearable pumps are more discreet than traditional ones – you simply place them in your bra and go about your business while it works. And rather than pumping into collection bottles that stick out, the breast milk is collected in a reservoir that is also in your bra and out of sight. Depending on when and where you need to pump, these can be key factors.

Smart Technology: Wearable pumps are modern, so naturally, many of them can sync to apps on your phone or tablet. This way you can easily control your pump settings right from your phone, track your pumping history and time, and get tips and customer support.

Cons

Mobility and Portability: Usually you're tethered to a power outlet with a traditional wall pump, so you're not going anywhere while it works! Even if it does include a battery option, the traditional pumps need to be carried around. And if you want your hands free while you pump, you'll need to invest in a pumping bra. Otherwise, you have to hold the flanges on your breasts, so you can't hold baby or even your phone!

Lots of Parts: Traditional pumps can include a lot of parts, and everything that comes in contact with breast milk needs to be thoroughly cleaned to prevent bacteria and mold buildup. This is true for wearable pumps as well, but standard pumps include tubing and extra parts that add to cleaning and assembly.

Best for Moms That:

  • Are at home often and have the space and time to dedicate to sitting and pumping
  • Want to maintain and increase their milk supply. The strength and efficiency of standard pumps are best for this.
  • Have engorgement or a high milk supply and need their breasts emptied for effective relief
  • Want to pump a lot of milk at once and build up a freezer stash
  • Exclusively pump

Wearable Breast Pumps

Pros

Convenient: Hands-free pumps have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, almost every pumping mom wants one! They are small (about half a grapefruit), lightweight, comfortable, and sit right in your bra so you can multitask while wearing them. This can be a game changer for busy moms.

Portable: Unlike traditional pumps, the entire mechanism of the wearable pump sits right on your breast – no bulky machine to carry around. They are cordless and battery powered so you can go anywhere with them, you don't have to stop everything you're doing to go sit and pump. Many women feel more comfortable pumping in public with a wearable option as well.

Discreet: Wearable pumps are more discreet than traditional ones – you simply place them in your bra and go about your business while it works. And rather than pumping into collection bottles that stick out, the breast milk is collected in a reservoir that is also in your bra and out of sight. Depending on when and where you need to pump, these can be key factors.

Smart Technology: Wearable pumps are modern, so naturally, many of them can sync to apps on your phone or tablet. This way you can easily control your pump settings right from your phone, track your pumping history and time, and get tips and customer support.

Cons

Suction Power: While wearable pumps can be sufficient for some women, they don't have the same suction strength and efficiency as traditional pumps. The smaller size makes it difficult to include a powerful motor in hands-free pump, and the smaller flange size and movement of mom while she's multi-tasking can make it difficult to create a proper seal around the breast. This is the biggest factor most moms consider when choosing between styles of pump.

Battery Charging: Hands-free pumps are portable, but you have to remember to charge them! And most wearable pumps don't have the option to plug in or charge while you use them. Relying on battery power can be limiting, especially if the battery life is short or you don't have readily available ways to charge.

Size & Milk Storage: The collection reservoirs in hands-free pumps are smaller than pumping directly into a bottle or storage bag, so overproducers may need to stop and empty the pump before they're done. And because you are pumping into a connected reservoir, you need to transfer the milk into storage containers afterwards, risking spilling your liquid gold.

Cost: For now, most wearable pumps are pricier than traditional ones, and are less likely to be fully covered by insurance. However, more and more affordable versions are becoming available, and insurance companies are beginning to cover more wearable pumps.

Letting Yourself Slow Down and Relax: Parents can feel obligated or expected to go go go, but it's okay to take some time to yourself and be in the moment. Having an excuse to sit and stay in one spot for a while can be a good thing. You can use that time to meditate, read, watch a show, or just contemplate your day.

Best for Moms That:

  • Are back at work or need to pump on the go
  • Want to multitask while pumping
  • Are light or occasional pumpers

A lot of moms have both traditional and wearable pumps so they can use them for different situations and needs. That is ideal but may not be possible for everyone. When considering your options, doing thorough research and making a list of pros and cons can be helpful. Make sure to take your lifestyle, pumping needs, and breast milk supply into consideration, and you'll be in the best position to choose the right pump for you!

DISCLAIMER: THIS CONTENT DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information contained is for informational purposes only and is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely solely on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider.