Breastfeeding is one of the most viable options for mothers to feed their newborns. However, you should realize that it might not be a viable option for many mothers. Some will use the best portable breast pump to feed their little ones. Breastfeeding a baby can be challenging, especially when you are traveling. In such instances, a breast pump will be useful. They are portable, lightweight, and fit into places, including your pocket or nursing bra. By using a breast pump, you can use it to pump milk when you have a busy routine. Thanks to understanding the needs and wants of such mothers, many options are available to buy. To help you with that, here is our review of some breast pumps that you can consider.
11 Best Portable Breast Pumps
1. Best Double Electric: Medela Pump In Style With MaxFlow Technology
With performance like a hospital-grade pump, this portable breast pump is incredibly efficient and uses a closed system for pumping to prevent milk backup from entering the motor or tubing. Its innovative motor creates a vacuum and generates micro vibrations so that milk is expressed effectively. PersonalFit Flex breast shields in 2 sizes of 21 mm and 24 mm ensure a better fit and comfort with their oval shape and soft rim. With a 11.8% increase in milk volume, the pump expresses milk in 2 phases and imitates the natural sucking rhythm of a baby. This double electric breast pump includes an elegant microfiber pump bag, a cooler bag, and a battery pack so that you can pump while on the go. Know more about this product in this video. Pros
Easy to use Easy to clean No-tangle tubing Comfortable pumping Fewer parts to assemble 10 adjustable vacuum levels Comes with 4 bottles 150ml capacity each Designed for pumping several times a day
Cons
May produce a high level of noise
2. Best Hands-Free: Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump
An ultimate convenient solution, this portable breast pump is small and compact enough to be carried anywhere and can fit into your pocket or purse. Up to 11.8% more milk is expressed in less time with its efficient 2 phase expression technology, and it can be used to express milk multiple times a day. It features a closed system design that prevents milk from entering the tubing or motor. Its unique design features backlighting and a convenient digital display. Its rechargeable lithium ion battery can run for up to 2 hours which makes it convenient to use while on the move. It also includes a set of 21 mm and 24 mm oval-shaped and soft-rimmed breast shields for a better fit and comfortable pumping. Learn more about this product in this video. Pros
Easy-to-clean connectors Weighs less than 1 pound Touch screen display 2 connector sets Comes with 4 bottles with lids 2 bottle stands 1 carry bag and cooler included Physician recommended Hands-free pumping with bustier Features pump setting and battery charge indicators Detachable lanyard that loops around wrist
Cons
Some may find the suction power a bit low
3. Best Innovative: Willow Wearable Breast Pump
With a discreet, noiseless, and compact design, this in-bra portable milk pump is very convenient with no dangling tubes, bottles, or cords. It features 7 levels of suction that are comparable to hospital grade pumps, and for added comfort, it even features a sensitivity setting. Its innovative self-sealing, spill-proof storage and collection bag helps you pump while on the move. The hygienic and eco-friendly components are easy to assemble and clean. It increases milk volume as it automatically shifts from stimulation to expression mode and adjusts the suction depending on your personal preferences. Its rechargeable battery lasts for 5 pumping sessions and includes a charger. It also includes 2 pumps, 2 flanges of 27 mm, 24 milk bags, and 2 cleaning brushes. This video will provide you with added insights about the product. Pros
BPA-free Hygienic storage bags Dishwasher safe Very quiet 360° mobility while pumping Completely hands-free and wireless
Cons
Comes with only 1 charger for 2 pumps
4. Best Skin-Friendly: Momcozy Double Electric Breast Pump
Crafted with food-grade silicone, this extremely safe and portable breast pump has a closed system with a valve that prevents the backflow of milk into the tubes. It’s rechargeable battery holds charge for 1.5 hours which enables 3 to 6 pumping sessions. It features a massage and pumping mode— the massage mode reduces discomfort in the breasts by pushing the milk out and the pumping mode features 9 suction levels to enable you to find your comfort level. Silicone shields attach comfortably to the breasts, and this pack includes 2 bottles and silicone pacifiers so that your baby can be fed directly after pumping. The breast milk goes directly into the storage bag which features 2 extra long bag clips to stop the milk from overflowing. Pros
BPA-free Skin-friendly Non-toxic Easy to clean Durable physical keys Memory and timer function for pumping Lightweight and portable Less than 50 decibels of sound USB cable for charging included
Cons
Some may find it a bit noisy.
5. Best Compact: Elvie Curve Manual Wearable Breast Pump
This innovative breast pump uses natural suction to express milk gently when you feel the need to express, or while you are pumping or feeding your baby on the other breast. It fits the curve of your breast perfectly and you can increase the suction by pressing on the silicone pouch. Likewise, you can use the control valve to decrease suction. This pump is wearable and goes within your bra so it keeps your hands free and you don’t have to worry about it getting displaced while your baby is feeding. It expresses about 120 ml milk at a time with minimal effort, is very discreet, and convenient for mothers on the go. Pros
Small and compact Dishwasher-safe BPA-free Made with food-grade silicone Suitable for microwave or water sterilization
Cons
May not offer a proper fit in some cases.
6. Best Freestyle Mode: Ikare Double Electric Breast Pump
This extremely convenient portable breast pump features an in-built rechargeable battery which holds its charge for about 3 hours which, coupled with its lightweight and compact design, makes the pumping of milk even more effortless. Comparable to a hospital grade pump, it features 5 modes which can be preset with 6 levels of suction. There is also a special freestyle mode which features 20 cycles and 6 levels of suction so that you are at your most comfortable. It takes less time to express milk, and its sound level is less than 35 decibels which makes it very discreet and doesn’t disturb your sleeping baby. It features a closed system for pumping so that milk cannot enter the tubing and motor because of its overflow protection feature. Pros
Backlit touchscreen Removable cooler bag for 2 bottles Includes a contoured ice pack Backlit touchscreen for night time pumping Includes 21, 24, and 27 mm flanges
Cons
It may take some time to get used to the settings.
7. Best Washable: Outera Portable Breast Pump
This highly-efficient portable breast pump can save around 50% of your time while expressing adequate milk. Made from soft silicon, it makes pumping milk a comfortable experience while the cushioned pads fit well to your body, adding to the efficiency. It features an LED touchscreen with 3 modes to stimulate, massage, and express milk, and each mode features 9 different suction levels to suit your personal preference and comfort level. Its rechargeable lithium battery holds charge between 1.5 to 2 hours and includes USB cables so that you can charge it anywhere. Its anti-backflow design ensures that milk only flows downwards to prevent secondary pollution. Its noise level is less than 50 dB, making it very discreet. Pros
Food-grade silicone material BPA-free Washable in dishwasher Easy to operate Comes with memory function FDA-approved Easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons
Some may find the flanges too big.
8. Best For Comfort: Carer Spark Hand-Free Wearable Breast Pump
This wearable pump frees your hands and you don’t have to deal with the hassle of tubes, wires, or feeding bottles. With a sound less than 50 dB, it’s very discreet and all you need to do is wear it and go about your work. It features a massage and pumping mode that relieves discomfort and expresses the milk by imitating the baby’s sucking. It has 5 suction levels depending on your comfort and expresses around 180 ml of milk at a time, painlessly. For charging, it can be connected to a power outlet, computer, or power bank, and a full charge can be used between 3 to 5 times. It reduces sucking time by 50% and increases milk production by 30%. It also includes a bra adjustment buckle, a silicone shield, and diaphragm. Pros
BPA-fṛeė silicone Contains no ḣạrmful substances Easy to clean Includes 4 nursing pads Includes a storage bag Portable and convenient to carry Automatically turns off after 20 minutes
Cons
Some may find the pauses between suctions a bit uncomfortable.
9. Best Lightweight: Hansilk Multifunctional Double Wearable Breast Pump
For hassle-free milk pumping, try this lightweight, wearable, hands-free portable breast pump that you can wear in your bra while you carry on with the rest of your work. It features 2 modes of massaging and pumping which relieves discomfort, stimulates milk flow, and helps the milk to be expressed quickly and painlessly. The milk gets pumped directly into the milk collector without any leaking, thanks to its anti-reflux technology. It features 9 levels of suction power depending on your comfort level, and its LCD screen with keys makes it easier to choose the functions. Milk cannot enter the motor or tubing because of its closed system design. Its rechargeable 1200mAH lithium battery holds charge for 100 minutes and closes down automatically after 30 minutes of use. Pros
Easy to clean Made of food-grade silicone Memory and timer function USB cable included Includes 2 silicone shields and diaphragms Comes with a bra adjustment buckle Includes 2 milk storage bags and 2 milk collectors
CONS
Doesn’t come with a pant clip
10. Best Painless: NCVI Portable Breast Pumps
This pump offers painless and convenient expression of milk with its 4 modes and 9 levels of suction power especially designed for your comfort. Its medical grade suction is more stable with 2 valve ports. More milk can be expressed in less time with the double pumps that are portable and travel-friendly. Its 2200 mAh lithium battery holds its charge for 2 to 3 cycles of pumping, and it can be charged via a power bank, computer, or car adapter. The rim of the flange is made of TRP silicone which is soft and prevents the milk from leaking out. The anti-backflow feature with the silicone diaphragm prevents milk from leaking and flowing into the motor. This pump is easy to assemble and disassemble and has 4 flanges in different sizes for individual fits. Pros
BPA-free Increases milk flow Mirror touchscreen LED display Includes 10 milk storage bags Noise level is below 40 dB
Cons
Some may find the suction power not as strong.
11. Best LCD: Feisike Wearable Electric Breast Pump
This portable breast pump does its work discreetly, all you need to do is attach it inside your bra and you can go on with your work. It features a massage mode and levels of suction power to make the expressing of milk as comfortable as possible. The container and 24 mm nipple shield are made of safe PP and silicone material, and the accessories are easy to clean. The flange size is suitable for most women with a nipple diameter of 19 to 21 mm. It features a rechargeable mAh battery that holds its charge enough to express milk 2 to 4 times. It prevents backflow of milk with the duckbill valve in its closed system so that milk cannot enter the tubings or motor. Pros
BPA-free Phthalate-free PVC-free LCD display Detachable accessories Weighs only 15 ounces Comes with bra adjustment buckle USB charger included
Cons
Some may find the noise too loud.
Now that you have been through our review of the 11 best portable breast pumps, let us give you a few tips on what to keep in mind while choosing one for yourself so that it’s the most comfortable and convenient for you.
How To Choose The Best Portable Breast Pump
Size and weight
The idea of a portable breast pump is that it should be as compact, small in size, and as light as possible. Some come equipped with a belt clip or lanyard for increased portability and to make pumping even more convenient when on the go.
Battery life
If you are likely to be out and on the move through the day, you may not get the chance to charge your portable breast pump at all. It’s a good idea to opt for a portable breast pump with a good battery life that holds charge for the whole day. You could also get one with USB charging that you can connect to your power bank when you are on the move.
Suction preference
This is completely a personal choice and depends on the suction power that you are comfortable with. Some women are okay with a strong suction power while others would prefer a gentler suction.
Flexible setting
Some breast pumps, especially those which are hospital grade, allow you to set the speed of the cycle on your own. If that’s what you are used to, you should go for a portable breast pump that has similar features and offers cycle speed control, though it will definitely be limited as compared to a hospital grade model.
Automatic pumping
Most women want a breast pump that’s convenient and works automatically, without having to adjust settings and pressing buttons to get the required vacuum levels. Some breast pumps enable you to record different pumping programs and memorize your pump settings. All you have to do is turn it on, choose your pre-recorded program, and you are good to go.
Noise level
Many women prefer a silent breast pump that is discreet and doesn’t attract attention or disturb your sleeping baby. Silent models of portable breast pumps that just vibrate while doing the job are definitely available, you just have to check the specifications and read through reviews to double check.
Pump parts
Many women use a portable breast pump as a supplement to their main heavy-duty pump, and thus may already have the parts from the first pump. It is possible to use the same pump parts for the portable breast pump as well, in case you don’t want to use Freemie cups, but that’s again a personal choice.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna is adept at writing articles related to pregnancy, nursing, and electronic objects. She has compiled this list of the best portable breast pumps after conducting detailed research and going through several product reviews online. She has also provided a buying guide to help you make an informed choice. The breast pumps featured on this list are easy to maintain and safe for your baby.
