Many mothers feel a bit overwhelmed at the wide variety of breast pumps on the market. But how do you know which to choose when there are so many options? Consumer and hospital grade breast pumps each have their own advantages, but for the money you will spend it’s important to do some research to determine which type is best for you and your baby.
Hospital grade pumps are the most efficient and heavy duty. A double-collection model—one that pumps both breasts at once—with a rapid suck-and-release cycle will drain your breasts at around the same rate as a nursing baby.
However, double-collection hospital grade pumps can weigh as much as 18 pounds, so they aren’t ideal for bringing back and forth to the workplace. They’re also expensive—a new one will set you back more than $1,000. Fortunately, you can rent hospital grade pumps from a hospital or medical supply store for $1 to $3 a day. You’ll have to provide your own tubing, collection bottles, and flanges (the part of the pump that goes directly on the breast), but that shouldn’t cost more than $60.
Consumer pumps come in several different varieties. There are high-end electric, mid-range electric and battery-operated pumps, and manual pumps.
High-end electric pumps are your best bet as far as consumer pumps. They also have rapid suck-and-release cycles and double-collection models, but they’re lighter than hospital grade pumps, weighing around 8 pounds. They’re also cheaper, ranging from $200 to $350. These are ideal for moms returning to the workforce who need an efficient option that will be used daily. The investment is definitely worth it if you plan to continue exclusive breastfeeding while working out of the home.
Mid-range electric or battery-operated pumps are even lighter and cheaper, weighing in around 2 pounds and costing between $50 and $150. However, they’re not as efficient, and are mostly useful for on-the-go pumping. These are good for moms who want to stock the freezer for date-nights out and trips to the gym while their baby is with a caregiver, or for occasional travel.
Manual pumps are obviously lighter and cheaper than any other option, but they can be very tiring on your hands, and are not always as efficient as the electric pump. But some moms prefer being able to control the rate of suction, and they can be very helping in relieving engorged breasts when your baby is sleeping.
So, whether you need to splurge on a high-end model, or prefer to have something to use “just in case”, purchasing a breast pump is a smart move for any mom who plans to breastfeed.
