When you go to a website like Aeroflow, it might be overwhelming when you see the different breast pumps that are available. There are so many options!
I went to the ABC Baby and Kids Expo last year, and holy cow, there were SO many pumps. I didn’t even realize that many different pumps could exist (and of course, they all thought they were the best).
Anyways, I “hang out” in a lot of breastfeeding groups (specifically the Breastfeeding Mama’s Support Tribe I run on Facebook), so I’ve heard a lot of feedback on different breast pumps. So, I thought I’d share the most popular ones so you can decide which one is right for you.
This is, by far, the most highly recommended pump I see from other mothers. Most mothers talk about the Spectra S1 and S2 (though I just noticed there is an S9, which, admittedly, I don’t know much about). The main difference is that the S1 is rechargeable.
Many mothers believe the suction is better than other pumps, and that they are able to pump more milk (and more efficiently). It is also said to be quieter than some breast pumps. It is large, but it’s also very powerful. They both weigh about four pounds.
Another great thing about the Spectra pumps is that they are closed systems. Basically, that means that the milk never crosses the machine, so it can be used by more than one mother. If a pump is an open system, only that mom should really be using it.
There are two electric Medela pumps that may be covered by your insurance – the Pump In Style Advanced (PISA), and the Medela Freestyle.
From what I’ve seen, the PISA is the most likely pump to be available through insurance, but some companies will cover the Freestyle.
Both of these pumps are open systems, though from what I understand, there is better separation between the milk collection chamber and tubings than the with the Freestyle than the PISA, so that is something to keep in mind.
The Freestyle is lighter (by about two pounds), and it is a little more handheld. It also comes with a rechargeable battery
The PISA weighs a little bit less (though they both are quite heavy), however, because it’s a more common pump, it might be easier to find replacement parts for. It is a backpack style pump, which may be a good thing or a bad thing. It has an AC adapter but no rechargeable battery.
If I were given the option, I would definitely go with the Freestyle over the PISA. But both are good pumps. I have heard they are rather loud!
Honorable Mentions
This one isn’t available through Aeroflow, but if your insurance covers it, I highly recommend it. I was sent one of these to review when Oliver was a baby, and I absolutely LOVED it.
It was so easy to use, super comfortable, and I feel like I got more milk pumping with it than I did with the hospital grade Medela I used in the hospital when Oliver has RSV. I feel like this pump doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it should! I loved it.
A while back, I actually reviewed the Motif Duo. It’s a very small pump, and it’s also a closed system. It’s not as common of a pump. It’s very quiet and super easy to travel with. It comes with a rechargeable battery, which is really nice.
Honestly, don’t underestimate a manual breast pump. I used mine quite a bit with Oliver, and I honestly felt like I was able to get the most milk when I used it. I also feel like you are a little more in control of the flow and how much milk is drawn out.
If you aren’t planning to pump very often – or if you need to pump on the go frequently – definitely look into getting one. I had good luck with the Medela Harmony.
Other Pumps Available Through Insurance:
There are countless other pumps that are available through insurance. Here are a couple of brands I often see as an option (keep in mind that some insurances only have one or two options, so don’t get your heart set on one before you find out if you qualify!)
Katie Clark is a Certified Lactation Educator, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, and IBCLC student. She has helped thousands of mothers and families around the globe navigate breastfeeding challenges and questions since 2015. She has a passion for creating research-based, helpful breastfeeding education and helping parents find a way to make breastfeeding work for them. Katie is a mom of three little boys and lives in the great state of Colorado. She also has a degree in Communications with an emphasis in print journalism.
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