Choosing the Right Breast Pump: Handy Guide for Parents

Breast pumping can be a real game changer: you build up a supply, help your baby if he or she is less effective at the breast, and keep flexibility when you go back to work. But which pump suits your situation? That depends on how often you want to pump, your comfort (think breast shield sizes) and what you practically need. In this guide, you get a clear step-by-step plan for choosing the right breast pump, plus tips for more comfort.

1) Which breast pump suits you? (choice guide)

The key question is: are you pumping occasionally or daily (e.g. for work or medical reasons)? The answer determines whether you’re better off choosing a manual pump or an electric system.

Manual pump or electric pump

Manual pump:

• Ideal if you only pump occasionally or as a backup in your diaper bag.

• Quiet, compact, budget-friendly.

• Less suitable for multiple sessions a day (manual use can be tiring).

Electric pump (and so: electric pumps):

• Great if you pump frequently or want to be done quickly.

• Often more efficient for keeping your milk supply going on a tight routine.

• Pay attention to settings and fit: a good choice feels powerful but not painful.

If you’re unsure: choosing an electric pump is usually the more logical option once you’re pumping regularly (work, low supply, or replacing several feeds).

Single or double pump?

A double pump lets you pump both breasts at the same time (also called double pumping). That often saves time and may support the hormonal response.

Benefits of a double pump:

• Done faster (handy during short breaks).

• May help with pump output (for some parents).

• Practical if you’re engorged or want to increase supply.

Do you pump very often? Then a double electric set is often the most realistic option.

Hands-free: useful or hype?

Hands-free pumping can be super practical: you keep your hands free for emailing, eating, or your baby. Note: “hands-free” usually refers to how it’s worn, not to “requiring no attention at all.”

A hands-free pump is interesting if:

• you have a strict pump schedule, e.g. for working mothers;

• you want to pump during your commute or between tasks;

• you quickly get discomfort from sitting still.

Choose carefully: fit, leak protection, and cleaning determine whether it works in real life.

Tip: Don’t let marketing mislead you. Like with electric driving: an electric car is convenient, but you still have to “charge” and plan. The same goes for a pump: convenience is in the details (fit, cleaning, battery, parts).

2) Breast shields and nipple size: prevent pain and loss

Many pumping problems come from the wrong flange. Breast shield sizes are crucial, because a shield that’s too big or too small can cause pain and reduce your output.

Measuring flange nipple size (step by step)

To measure flange nipple size:

1. Measure the diameter of your nipple (without the areola) after a feed or 5 minutes after stimulation.

2. Usually add 1–3 mm of margin (depending on brand/advice).

3. Test: nipple moves freely in the tunnel, areola is not pulled in too much

Signs your size isn’t right:

• sharp pain or a white/purple nipple after pumping;

• a lot of areola being pulled in;

• low output despite good technique.

3) Settings and technique: suction without damage

A modern electric pump has multiple settings. Suction settings in short:

• Stimulation mode - fast and light: use this mode at the start of a pumping session. The pump makes short, quick suction movements that mimic a baby’s fast sucking at the start of a feed. Use this mode for about 1 to 3 minutes, or until the milk starts flowing and the let-down reflex kicks in.
• Expression or pumping mode - slower and deeper: once the milk starts flowing well, switch to expression mode. The suction movements become slower and stronger to pump the milk out efficiently.

Rule of thumb: set the suction as high as is comfortable - “strong” is not automatically “better.” Tips for pumping without pain:

• Start low and build up gradually.

• Relax your shoulders/jaw, breathe calmly.

• A warm compress or shower beforehand can help.

• Gently massage the breast while pumping (hands-on pumping).

4) How often should you pump per day? (practical guidelines)

How often you pump per day depends on the goal:

• Building a supply: 1× per day extra (e.g. in the morning) can already help.

• Replacing feeds (work): often 2–3 pumping sessions during a workday, depending on rhythm and your baby’s age.

• Increasing supply: temporarily more often, in consultation with your midwife/lactation consultant.

A basic idea for a pump schedule for working mothers:

• Pump around the times your baby would normally feed at the breast.

• Aim for consistency; your body responds to regularity.

Note: every parent-baby combination is different; it depends on your supply, rest, and how efficiently your baby feeds.

5) Specific situations (engorgement, premature baby, starting up)

Pump for engorgement

With engorgement, you mainly want to relieve it, not “empty” the breast (that can trigger extra production). Pump for engorgement:

• Pump briefly (just to comfort), or hand express a little.

• Combine with cold compresses after the feed.

• Make sure you have a good fit to avoid irritation.

Pump for premature baby

For a preterm baby, frequent stimulation is often important, especially if your baby is not yet (fully) effectively feeding at the breast.

• Discuss a plan early with neonatology/lactation consultant.

• Consider a (double) electric pump to save time and make regular pumping manageable.

• Focus on comfort and rhythm: your goal is sustainable supply, not exhaustion.

6) Storage, cleaning and sterilising (safe and manageable)

Storing breast milk after pumping:

• Use clean bottles/bags and label with date/time.

• Cool quickly and store in portions you use often.

• Transport in a cool bag with ice packs.

Always follow the guidelines of Child and Family or your hospital for exact storage times.

Cleaning and sterilising pump accessories

• Rinse parts immediately with cold water (milk residue).

• Wash with warm water and dish soap or in the dishwasher (if allowed).

• Sterilise according to advice (especially for young or vulnerable babies).

• Let everything air-dry completely to reduce bacterial growth.

8) Pump device - brand comparison & “best breastfeeding pump”

Many parents search for the “best breastfeeding pump”. In practice, there isn’t one winner for everyone. Base your choice on:

• fit options (many breast shield sizes available?);

• comfort and noise level;

• battery/portability (especially for hands-free pumping);

• double set possible (for both breasts);

• availability of parts and service.

Conclusion: how to make the right choice

The right breast pump is the one that fits your life: how often you pump, whether you want to work hands-free, and whether you need a double pump to save time. Start with comfort and practicality - then output and routine usually follow naturally. Unsure because of pain, low supply, or a medical situation? Ask your midwife or lactation consultant for advice; a small adjustment can make all the difference.