Choosing the Best Breast Pump: Why Hands-Free Isn’t Always the Best Option
If you’re a new or expecting parent researching the best breast pump, you’ve probably come across a variety of options—from traditional electric pumps to the increasingly popular hands-free breast pumps. While hands-free pumps can be convenient, especially for multitasking, they may not be the best choice if you’re relying on pumping to maintain or build your milk supply.
As a Boise IBCLC who has worked with many pumping parents, I’ve seen firsthand how pump choice can impact milk production. Let’s dive into which breast pumps work best, why hands-free pumps can sometimes lead to low milk supply, and how to make sure you’re protecting your breastfeeding journey.
Which Breast Pump Is Best for You?
Choosing the best breast pump depends on your pumping goals. Are you exclusively pumping? Just need a pump for the occasional bottle? Going back to work? The right pump will depend on how often you plan to use it.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options:
1. Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps (Best for Low Supply & Exclusive Pumping)
✔ Best For: Moms with low milk supply, premature babies, or exclusive pumping
✔ Examples: Medela Symphony, Spectra S3
✔ Why It’s Great: These pumps have the strongest suction and most effective stimulation, mimicking a baby’s sucking pattern closely.
If you’re struggling with milk supply, a hospital-grade pump is the best option to help build and maintain production. Many IBCLCs recommend renting one, especially in the early weeks postpartum.
2. Double Electric Breast Pumps (Best for Working Moms & Regular Pumping)
✔ Best For: Moms pumping multiple times a day (work, occasional separation)
✔ Examples: Spectra S1/S2, Motif Luna
✔ Why It’s Great: These pumps allow you to pump both breasts at once efficiently, with adjustable suction and cycle settings to better mimic baby’s natural feeding pattern.
Most working moms find a double electric pump to be the best choice for maintaining supply while away from baby.
3. Hands-Free Breast Pumps (Convenient but Not the Best for Supply)
✔ Best For: Occasional pumping, on-the-go use
✔ Examples: Willow, Elvie, Momcozy
✔ Why It’s NOT Ideal for Exclusive Pumping:
• Weaker suction: These pumps don’t remove milk as efficiently as traditional pumps.
• Decreased stimulation: Lack of strong, rhythmic suction can lead to a drop in milk supply
Feel free to reach out ideally before babe arrives to be flange fitted and help choose which pump would be best for you. You can become a new client by going to our new client page and following all the steps there.