Category: Pumping
February 28, 2025
Last updated on March 4, 2025
How many pumps are too many? Is one enough? First, we need to start with a common, and often frustrating, answer to these questions above – it depends. Everyone has different pumping journeys and what works best varies based on individual preferences, needs, and lifestyle.
When choosing a breast pump, we often make a decision based on functionality and convenience. But sometimes, one pump doesn’t check all the boxes. For example, you may prefer a wearable pump for work or travel to be more discreet and hands-free, but then also need a stronger, more customizable tabletop pump at home.
Understanding the Different Types of Breast Pumps
Before deciding whether you need a second pump, it helps to understand the three main categories of double electric breast pumps:
Primary Breast Pumps: Designed for daily use, primary pumps typically have more setting options and stronger motors, helping you maintain your milk supply and pump more efficiently.
Examples: Cimilre S6, Spectra S2
Portable Breast Pumps: A great on-the-go option or back-up to your primary pump, portable pumps are lightweight and compact, making pumping easier and more flexible when you are away from home.
Examples: Zomee Z2, Cimilre P1
Wearable Breast Pumps: Wearable and hands-free pumps that fit inside your bra, allowing you to pump totally hands free and discreetly while multitasking.
Examples: Lansinoh DiscreetDuo, Willow Go
How to Choose a Second Pump
If you’re considering a second pump, your decision will likely depend on your current pump and your specific needs on where and how you’ll use it:
If you already have a primary pump:
- You may benefit from a second pump that’s more portable or wearable if you feel it could ease pumping on-the-go or make life easier (e.g. juggling busy schedules or multiple kids).
- If you want general portability, but don’t need a hands-free option, a portable pump is a good choice.
- If you prefer to be totally hands-free and discreet, a wearable pump would be ideal.
If you already have a portable pump:
- If you need to rely on a pump for daily use, opting for a primary pump with more control and settings could improve your efficiency and maintain your supply.
- If you’re simply looking for occasional use, increased flexibility, and more discreet pumping, then a wearable pump may be a better fit.
If you already have a wearable pump:
- Since all wearable pumps are considered portable, adding a primary pump as a second choice could be beneficial. Primary pumps generally offer increased suction, stronger motors, and greater customization (e.g. think cycle speed control!), which can have a positive effect on supporting your milk supply and helping you pump more efficiently.
When to Consider a Second Pump
A second pump isn’t always necessary, but certain situations may make it beneficial.
- If your current pump effectively meets all your needs, purchasing a second pump may not be necessary.
- Even before birth, you may anticipate needing two pumps based on your work schedule, travel needs, or lifestyle.
- Big transitions, like returning to work or school, increased travel, or a change in your daily routine, may justify the need for a second pump.
Tips for Ordering a Second Pump
If you decide a second pump is right for you, consider these options:
- Use our pump comparison grid and our Pump Exploration Webinar to help you find the features that matter most to you
- Watch our Breast Pump Unboxing Series for real breakdowns of top pumps to see which one fits your needs
- Use available FSA/HSA funds to help offset the cost
- Add a second pump to your baby registry
- Purchase your secondary pump through the DME (Durable Medical Equipment) supplier where you received your insurance covered breast pump – retail discounts may be available!
Reason Not to Get a Second Pump
Because someone else told you to! Your pumping journey is unique to you and what works for someone else may not always work for you.
Every breastfeeding and pumping experience is different. Some parents find that one pump is all they need, while others benefit from the flexibility of having two. The answer comes down to evaluating your lifestyle, changes in your daily routine, and pumping goals to determine what will work best for you.
At Acelleron, we’re here to help you navigate your options—whether you need just one pump or are considering more than one. If you’re still figuring out what’s best, we’ve got plenty of educational resources to help.
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong number of pumps—just what works best for you. Whether one pump fits your needs, or you find that a second gives you more flexibility, the choice is yours.
Please note- Not everyone needs more than one pump. Options for breast pumps differ based on insurance. This blog and the definitions within are the opinion of, and based on breast pump options available through, Acelleron and may not be applicable outside of Acelleron.