First aid for pumping: which breast pump should you choose?

Help, which breast pump should I choose? We hear you say it during your search for a pump. The choice is huge and that is why you may lose track a bit. Don't panic, we list all the differences and advantages (ok, maybe a few disadvantages too) for you. Thank us later.

Let's first look at the biggest difference between the types of breast pumps, and it's an important one, namely: the way of pumping. For example, you can choose between a manual pump, an electric pump or, and here it comes, a double electric pump.

The manual pump This is a handy model for on the go, for emergency pumping cases, for in between or to pump a little extra after feeding. Such a manual pump is light, budget-proof and easy to carry in your mom bag. Disadvantage: you have to pump by hand. That's not a big deal, but your hand can start to hurt and then you might have just managed to catch a few milliliters of liquid gold. The manual pump is therefore especially handy when you have to pump occasionally.

The single electric pump This variant is connected to your breast and the rest happens automatically. Because the pump is electric (both electricity and battery), the breast milk is sucked from your breast, almost like a real baby does. In terms of price, the electric pump is more expensive than its manual sister. A disadvantage is that you can only pump one breast, so it takes a bit longer.

The double electric pump This friend pumps two breasts at the same time, electrically! You only have to place the pump on your breasts and connect it, and then milk flows abundantly into it. Most double electric pumps work on electricity and batteries. 

Which variant you choose depends a bit on your wishes and situation. If you pump occasionally, the manual pump is your best friend. And also super handy to take with you in your bag, so that you can pump in case of emergency without having to be near a power outlet.

If you want to pump more regularly, you can choose the single electric breast pump with which you can pump one breast at a time. If you want to pump daily, for example to build up a large supply, then a double electric breast pump is ideal, because it does a lot of work for you in one go!

Fine manual breast pumps Both the Medela Harmony manual breast pump and the Philips Avent are fine breast pumps for on the go. They are light, fit easily in your bag and make little noise. Real lifesavers in an emergency and budget-proof.

Our own experience with electric breast pumps After 3 children, a number of breast pumps have been tested at home. With our first child, I mainly pumped with the Medela Swing breast pump . This worked fine, but is a bit awkward because of the bottles that hang on your breast. Now with our third child, the breast pump has evolved considerably and there are fantastic wireless breast pumps available. My personal favorite is the breast pump from WOWMOM . A very nice breast pump that is easy to use, has good power, many different settings for optimal results, a spacious storage for milk and a very handy pouring opening. I made a video about it on my Instagram page .