7 Important Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Breast Pump

Choosing the right type of breast pump is very important, but it is often confusing to know which one to buy. There are so many brands of breast pumps available on the market. Take a look at some of the important things to consider before buying a breast pump.

Hygiene:

One of the most important features for you to look for when purchasing your breast pump is the ability for you to clean it and have it stay clean. All breast pumps come with either an open or a closed system and it is important for you to know the difference. There are different brands of best breast pumps available but always check which system they are using.

With a closed system, there is a barrier between your breast milk and the tubing. This will prevent milk from entering your pump. There will be low chances of contamination.
While with an open system there is a direct opening between where the milk is passing into the bottle and the tubing of the pump. In an open system there is a risk of bacterial mold or viruses growing within the tube, breast milk can either splash or get sucked into the tubing and even into the pump itself. It cannot be fully cleaned out and could contaminate your breast milk.

Cost:

Electric pumps are more expensive than manual pumps but more cost-effective than formula. You can extract more milk with the least amount of time and effort with an electric pump. A manual pump requires a lot of work and a lot of time. Hospital-grade electric pumps are generally rented because they come at a high price, according to the Drugs Bank.

Available Flange Sizes:

A very important feature for you to look for in a breast pump is one that will give you the option for multiple breast flange sizes. The flanges are the cups that go over your breast and that comes in direct contact with your body. These cups have different size holes and different sizes are important in order to correctly fit your nipple properly. Everyone has different sized breasts and nipples and not one size will fit every mom even for the same mom. She may require several size flanges throughout her pumping year as her breasts change size and shape. If the flange size is not the proper fit you may have difficulty expressing your milk and you may feel discomfort while pumping. So purchase a breast pump that gives you multiple flange size options, so you can ensure the proper fit when choosing your breast pump.

Setting and Controls:

Look for a pump that has two separate controls, one for suction and one for speed and the individual capability to control speed and suction will give you the most customized experience. While pumping which will help you to maximize your breast milk production using the least amount of time a pump with 32 settings will be easier to use and more efficient than a pump with only 5 or even 15 settings. Having control over both the speed and suction strength will allow you to be in control and make the whole experience easier, more efficient and much more enjoyable for you.

Check if it makes Noise or not?

The next recommendation is how quiet is the pump? So if you’re going back to work that maybe something you want to consider is a quieter pump that’s on the market.

Portability: Are you going back to work or are you staying home? If you’re going back to work, you will choose a pump that may be lighter and more portable. Also, consider the power source. So, are you going to need a rechargeable battery or a battery pack?

Accessories: Another recommendation would be the accessories. What accessories might come with a pump that you’re looking for like a cooler pack, extra bottles, a bag, adaptor, cleaning accessories, and breastfeeding information, etc.?