If you're already pumping your breast milk or are planning on starting, you're probably at least curious about wearable breast pumps. They've become increasingly popular over the past few years, with more and more pumps becoming available as the years go by. They offer parents who are breastfeeding more freedom than traditional pumps because they're self-contained and worn inside of the bra, where the milk is collected in reservoirs.
Best Wearable Breast Pumps
What to Consider
There are several wearable breast pumps on the market, so I spoke with a lactation consultant to find out what you might want to consider before you buy a wearable breast pump. Krystyn Parks, M.S., R.D., IBCLC of Feeding Made Easy tells Best Products, "Wearable breast pumps have come a long way in the past few years. There are a few main brands that are true wearable pumps, along with portable pumps and different adaptors (like Freemie Cups) that make non-wearable pumps more mobile."
Parks also notes that there's a learning curve to wearable pumps, because spilling and overfilling can be a problem.
The major things you need to consider are your supply, the cost, and where you plan to pump. Most importantly, it should be noted that all materials that come in contact with the milk should be BPA-free and food-safe. All of the pumps on this list fit those parameters.
Why Your Supply Matters
“There is a maximum volume, which is usually adequate for most people, but it may not be enough for those with an oversupply,” says Parks. If you’re pumping regularly, this might be less of an issue, but when you’re going a long time between pumps (or are just blessed with abundance), these pumps might not be right for you.
Cost
The cost can be pretty high for these pumps, which is why if you don't use one as much, Parks suggests that you consider a cost-benefit analysis to see if buying a pump is a worthwhile spend. Also, some of the pumps require special bags, which can get quite pricey in the long run.
Where and How You'll Use It
Wearable breast pumps are more discreet than regular pumps, but make no mistake: People can usually tell that you're pumping. After all, these pumps stick out on the chest under your shirt. They're less noticeable under loose clothing like hoodies or sweaters, but those aren't always an option.
Mechanism
These pumps all basically work in the same way — think multiple levels of suction powered by a rechargeable battery, and the milk drains into a bag or reservoir. The differences are primarily in the style of the pump: Models like the Willow and Elvie are smooth all over and mimic the shape of the breast, making them the least conspicuous. Less expensive models tend to have the mechanics at the top of the pump, and they don't fit seamlessly into your bra. If you're pumping either at home or privately in your office and are just looking for something hands-free, these options are actually pretty great.
Here are the seven best wearable breast pumps on the market right now that'll suit pretty much any mom.
1
Most Leak-Proof
Wearable Breast Pump
Key Specs
- BPA-Free plastic containers
- Double pump
- Holds 4 ounces of milk per side
- Seven levels of suction
- Two collecting methods
- Connects to app
For many, the Willow pump is considered the best wearable breast pump on the market. The Willow pumps are sleek and easy to use, and you can either collect and pour your milk directly from the pump or keep it in convenient storage bags. It's the most leak-free model on this list, and there are multiple shield sizes available to get just the right fit for your nipples.
The pump has seven levels of suction with modes for stimulation to let down, and you can even control the suction mid-pump if you wish. Also, you can connect directly to their app to note times pumped and ounces, as well as get helpful tips. The pump takes 2 full hours to charge to its maximum, and lasts through approximately five sessions.
However, note that the Willow is very expensive, putting it out of the budget of many people who breast or chest feed.
Read more: The Best Maternity Underwear All Pregnant People Need
2
Best Adaptor
Closed System Collection Cup Set
Key Specs
- Polypropylene containers
- Double pump
- Holds 8 ounces of milk per side
- Wearable adapter
- Accommodates multiple pumps
So, you already have a pump, and still want to live that hands-free life? This is the Freemie adapter that Parks was talking about: It takes your pump and adapts it to fit right in your bra. The Freemie collection cup works with the Motif, Spectra, Ameda, Evenflo, Philips, Ardo, Lucina, or Freemie breast pump.
The levels and modes of suction depend on your base model, and you will have to have tubes attached. However, it's a very comfortable, less-expensive option.
3
Popular Affordable Model
Double Wearable Breast Pumps
Key Specs:
- Food-grade silicone
- Double pump
- Holds 6 ounces of milk per side
- Five levels of suction
- One collection method
When I started to research for this article, a bevvy of breastfeeding moms told me that I shouldn't overlook the Momcozy. It's one of the most affordable options out there, and people genuinely seem to love it.
It has two modes and five levels of adjustment for comfortable pumping. The entire unit is made of medical-grade silicone, and there are no bags to worry about.
At full charge, it can be used for 80 minutes, three to six times.
4
Quietest Pump
Double Electric Breast Pump
Key Specs:
- Polypropylene containers
- Double pump
- Holds 5 ounces of milk per side
- 14 levels of suction
The Elvie rivals the Willow pump in terms of convenience and stealthy style. While it's a bit more prone to leaks than the Willow, it has a whopping 14 levels of suction as opposed to the Willow's seven. The pump comes with two sizes of shields, but a third is also available.
This pump is quieter than the Willow, and the app is far more intuitive. However, it takes 2.5 hours to get to full charge, and that charge lasts about the same length of time, depending upon usage and modes used.
Note that there are no bags with Elvie, either: It’s a pump-and-pour model.
5
Strongest Suction
Liberty II Deluxe Hands-Free Wearable Breast Pump
Key Specs
- BPA-free plastic containers
- Double pump
- Holds 8 ounces per side
- 11 levels of suction
A cross between a traditional breast pump and a wearable option, this pump by Freemie has the tubes you'd expect from a pump, but the cups are that of a wearable model.
The motor of the pump is clipped to the waist of your pants, and while this might seem like a pain, what this model lacks in stealth, it makes up for in power. This is the strongest suction on our list!
This pump also has a sleep timer, which is a real game changer for night pumping, and each cup holds up to 8 ounces of milk. It's a pump-and-pour model just like the Elvie, and also like the Elvie, it comes with two sizes of shields for a great fit.
Note that the charge time isn't the best, though: It takes around 2 hours, and the pumping power decreases after two to three sessions.
6
Less Leaky Affordable Model
Double Wearable Breast Pump
Key Specs
- Food-grade silicone containers
- Double pump
- Holds 6 ounces of milk per side
- Nine levels of suction
This is another one of those random Amazon brands that everyone seems to love! This very affordable model is lauded for being fairly leak-proof and comfortable. It does have the highest profile and is the loudest of any pump on this list, but since it's so inexpensive, it might just be worth the trade-off. It has nine levels of suction, and holds a charge for three full sessions after about 3 hours of charging.
It's a pump-and-pour model, but they do include storage bags for the freezer. It comes with two shield sizes and two bra clips.
7
Great Adaptor for a Covered Pump
CaraCups Wearable Milk Collection
Key Specs
- BPA-free plastic and silicone
- Double pump
- Adaptor for Spectra pumps
An adaptor made specifically for the popular Spectra pumps, this option gives you all the pumping power and affordability of the Spectra pumps, with the convenience of a wearable pump.
The big win with this option is — because Spectra pumps are so powerful — you can get your pumping done in a hurry, and you can do so without sacrificing the use of your hands or opening up your shirt. And since Spectra breast pumps are frequently covered by insurance, this might be a good union of the two choices.
Cat Bowen
Parenting Editor
Cat Bowen is the parenting editor at BestProducts.com where she researches all of the best products for families from pre-conception through their teen years, focusing on matching scientific evidence with real-life needs.
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