Looking for a breast pump to support you on your feeding journey? As modern mothers, we know the importance of having flexibility in feeding options. In this article. we aim to help you navigate the best range of breast pumps available in Australia, highlighting their features, and benefits, and offering valuable tips for choosing the perfect one to suit your needs. We understand that your journey as a mother is unique, and we are here to offer tried and tested suggestions to support you in not only nourishing your baby (however that looks) but offer you the freedom and flexibility you need. Let’s get into the best breast pumps in Australia (2023).
In this article:
Tips for Using a Breast Pump
- Wash your hands before pumping.
- Start your pump on the lowest suction setting and adjust to suit your level of comfort.
- Ensure the flange of your breast pump is the correct size.
- Increase your flow prior to pumping by applying warmth to your breast.
- Ensure you read your breast pumps instructions.
- Know how to correctly clean your pump.
- Avoid purchasing a second hand pump (unless the pump has a closed loop system).
- Relax and get comfortable.
Types of Breast Pumps
Hospital Grade Breast Pumps are efficient and hygienic, often rented rather than purchased as they offer a closed loop system and powerful suction. The Hospital Grade pump is a great option for frequent pumping needs and prolonged use. They are highly customisable depending on your personal comfort and are known for their efficiency (and reduced pumping time).
Electric Breast Pumps are powered by electricity or batteries and use a motor to generate suction. They are known for their convenience and efficiency, offering quick express time for mothers. These pumps usually come in multiple models, including double and single pump options. The suction levels can be personalised depending on individual comfort.
Wearable/Portable Breast Pumps are designed for discreet and convenient use, allowing mothers to express on the go. A wearable/portable pump is often lightweight and compact. These pumps may be electric or battery-operated. A wearable breast pump may conveniently slip into your bra so you can pump while going about your daily routine around the house (or on the go).
Manual Breast Pumps are hand-operated. Typically, they are affordable, easy to use and most importantly, portable. These pumps are best suited for occasional use and offer a practical solution for mothers who exclusively express but want the option for additional milk upon occasion.
Manual or Electric Breast Pump?
The type of pump you choose will depend on your pumping needs. You may be purchasing a pump to exclusively pump, return to work or your baby is unable to breastfeed. In these cases, you will be frequently pumping and may wish to invest in a hospital-grade electric pump. On the other hand, if your pumping needs are occasional, to ensure you have milk on hand, to offer your partner the opportunity to feed the baby and or to provide the much-needed flexibility of modern mothers, then a manual or portable breast pump may be better suited to your needs. We highlight the benefits and features of both manual and electric pumps in our article below.
Do You Need a Breast Pump?
Whether or not you buy a pump will depend on your own personal set of circumstances. If you are planning on exclusively breastfeeding then there may not be any need to purchase an electric breast pump. Hand expressing or items like the Hakka ladybug (designed to catch the natural letdown from the other breast) will be sufficient in the case of wanting to remove a little extra milk. Of course, there are circumstances where you may decide to exclusively breastfeed and end up needing/wanting to purchase a pump.
Some of the reasons women choose to purchase a breast pump include:
- frequent time spent away from baby.
- engorged breasts
- preference to pumping over breastfeedin
- your baby is unable to breastfeed
- you have flat/inverted nipples
- you worry baby is not getting enough milk.
- wanting to share the feeding with a partner.
Top Picks: Best Breast Pumps in Australia
Aiming to exclusively pump, unable to breastfeed or just want the option to offer your baby expressed breast milk? There are some fantastic options of pumps online to suit your needs. From hospital grade to portable options, we cover the best wearable breast pumps, the best electric breast pumps, the best hands free breast pumps and the best manual breast pumps.
In no particular order, here are our top picks for best breast pumps 2023.
1. Spectra S2+ Hospital Grade Double Electric Breast Pump
The Spectra Hospital Grade Double Electric Breast Pump offers the latest advancement in pumping technology. This hospital-grade pump is best suited for frequent pumping needs due to its powerful 320mmHg suction, double pumping capacity and mode for a quick letdown. The Spectra is known for its sleek design, ability to operate silently, hygienic closed loop system, customisable suction settings to suit your comfort and slow flow teat for newborn feeding. An effective option for all your breastfeeding needs.
2. Medela Symphony Double Electric Breast Pump
Medela’s symphony breast pump is created based on extensive research, offering comprehensive support for mothers during their breastfeeding journey. It is suitable for long-term and frequent pumping needs, offering the convenience of continuing to use the hospital-grade pump in the comfort of your home. Described as a lifesaver by mums around Australia, the Symphony pump is known for its multiple settings and quiet operation.
3. ARDO Calypso Double Plus Hospital Grade Breastpump
Ardo Calypso is a powerful yet quiet breast pump that is known for its 64 adjustable settings for cycle and vacuum, offering sensitive adjustments while pumping. It’s ‘Vacuum Seal’ technology ensures a 100% barrier against bacteria, protecting the breastmilk and preventing contamination. Recognised as the quietest breast pump on the market and endorsed by the Australian Breastfeeding Association. Whether looking for double or single expression, the Ardo Calypso provides a comprehensive solution for mums seeking an efficient and personalised expressing experience.
4. Haakaa Silicone Manual Breast Pump
The Haakaa manual breast pump is both convenient and eco-friendly. This Silicone Breast Pump is made from a single piece of 100% silicone and is affordable, compact and easy to use. Ideal for busy mums who are exclusively breastfeeding but would like the occasional additional milk supply. Known as a ‘game changer’ to mums for its ability to both catch your natural letdown and function as a manual breast pump. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the Haakaa.
5. Spectra 9 Plus Portable Electric Breast Pump
Spectra allows you to experience the convenience and time-saving benefits of a double electric breast pump. Designed for busy mums, double pumping allows for efficient expression. Switch effortlessly between single and double pumping using separate nozzles for each milk collection kit. Easily adjustable suction strength and cycle speed with touch button controls. Known for its inbuilt rechargeable battery, providing mums with flexibility and portability. We love that the Spectra offers a closed system ensuring ultimate hygiene by preventing milk from entering the motor.
6. Medela Manual Breast Pump Harmony
Known as a lightweight travel companion, the Medela Harmony offers convenience to the occasional pumping mums. The Harmony manual breast pump is both easy to clean and hygienic (hello closed loop system). An affordable option that is compact and lightweight. We love the flexi-fit nipple shield, designed to be customisable to you for ultimate comfort. Mums online are raving at the effectiveness of expressing without the noise and bulkiness of a typical electric pumps.
7. Tommee Tippee Made for Me™ Wearable Breast Pump
Tommee Tippee Made for Me Wearable Breast Pump provides mums with the ultimate convenience of hands-free, portable, and discreet breast pumping, allowing you to express milk effortlessly while carrying on with your daily activities. The gentle and natural pumping technology is made intelligently to replicate your baby’s sucking sensation. The Made for Me wearable pump comes compatible with the Tommee Tippee closer-to-nature breast-like teats, meaning you can easily switch between pumping to directly feeding your baby. We love their hassle-free charging USB cable with multi-region plug. this pump is easy to assemble, easy to clean and convenient to use. What’s more, you can gain full support via their app.
8. YOUHA Embody Wearable Breast Pump
YOUHA is a hospital-grade breast pump that offers a gentle pumping experience. It closely mimics the breastfeeding experience, assisting to build and maintain milk production and protect your breastfeeding journey. The Youha long-lasting battery means you can experience hospital-grade suction without being stuck beside a charger. Experience the convenience of their LCD controls, timer and adjustable nightlight, making it easier for those who rely on continuous pumping. We love that the Youha offers a range of cycles and pumping strengths that can be tailored to your comfort and needs. Lastly, the Youha comes in three sizes, ensuring you find the best fit.
9. Minibe Hospital Grade Double Breast Pump
Minibe Hospital Grade Breast Pump offers dual motor hospital strength pumping, designed for busy mums to express more in less time. Say goodbye to bulky pumps with this compact pump that is considered to be handbag size, weighing only 610g. The Minibe pump offers the flexibility of pumping on the go thanks to its 2.5-hour battery life and convenient USB charging plug. Like all hospital-grade pumps, the Minibe offers a hygienic closed system, allowing you to express right into your bottle without the worry of transferring your milk. Mums say this pump is everything you need for regular double pumping.
Pregnant? You may also like to read our other recommendation lists:
– Best Nappy Bags
– Best Nappy Caddies
– Best Books to read in Pregnancy
– Best Montessori Baby Toys
Megan
I am a few months past this point in my life but nursing three kids I used a lot of pumps, I loved the haaka!! Being a stay at home mom I could just use that to get a small supply. I also used medela and spectra. I hated the newest medela model but no complaints with he spectra!
Kirsten
Great post!
Carly
Spectra S2 and Haakaa all the way. The Haakaa was the best recommendation I ever got.
Natalie
Thank you for sharing! I wish I had this when I began my journey. I really loved the Haaka and ended up using the electric medela. It worked alright once I got flanges sized correctly!