Categories: Breastfeeding, Pregnancy, Pumping
August 19, 2025
Last updated on August 19, 2025
If you’ve decided that holding standard flanges to your chest for about 15 minutes every time you pump just isn’t for you, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about some alternative options: hands-free collection cups and wearable breast pumps.
Wearable pumps and hands-free collection cups, may seem like the same thing, and while the terms are often used interchangeably, they’re not exactly the same. Think of it like this: all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares. Similarly, all wearable pumps are hands-free, but not all hands-free pumps are fully wearable. They have some clear differences and few similarities, so let’s break it all down.
Portability
- Hands-free collection cups
These cups tuck into your bra, but still require the use of tubing and a separate motor. The motor might be clipped to your waistband or placed nearby. - Wearable pumps
Fully wearable options have the pump motor and collection system all in-bra, making them a fully integrated unit. - Both options have a built-in rechargeable battery, but most cannot operate while plugged in for charging – something to keep in mind for busy days or travel.
Discretion
- Hands-free collection cups
Often smaller and lower profile, these cups may be less noticeable inside your bra. However, the tubing must run out of the top or bottom of your shirt to connect to the pump motor, which can make it more visible. - Wearable pumps
Because they house the motor inside the unit, they may be more obvious under clothing, often projecting further out from the chest and possibly taller or wider to accommodate the motor and collection. - Both options typically have very quiet motors.
Control/Bluetooth
The ability to control suction strength, speed, and modes is important when choosing a pump. Many hands-free and wearable options now come with Bluetooth functionality, allowing for more control via smartphone apps. These features may include:
- Tracking pumping sessions (time, duration)
- Controlling pumping sessions (changing modes, suction strength, and more)
- Volume estimates showing how much milk you’ve collected during pumping sessions
- Auto shut-off when the collection container is full
Storage Capacity
When comparing pumps, consider how much milk the collection container holds:
- What is the max fluid capacity for the collection container?
- Are the containers clearly marked with mL and oz?
- The right capacity depends on many factors: singleton vs multiples, age of baby(ies), overall feeding needs, etc.
- The bigger the container, the more it may show when being worn under clothing, with or without tubing.
Examples: Elvie Double Electric Wearable Breast Pump, Lansinoh DiscreetDuo Wearable Pump, Medela Freestyle Hands-free Breast Pump
Cleaning/Parts
How easy a pump is to clean and maintain can make a big difference in your daily routine. Be sure to consider assembly, part availability, and cleaning guidelines before choosing.
- Ease of use: Consider how easy it is to put the pump and parts together, take them apart, clean them, and then reassemble.
- Warranty: What is the warranty and/or lifetime on the pump motor and required pump parts?
- Replacement parts: What is the lifespan of key parts, and can you access replacements easily? Can parts be purchased in stores or online, and/or are they covered through insurance?
- Compatibility: Many pumps that offer hands-free collection kits can also be used with standard flanges, but may require different tubing and/or buying the standard flanges separately.
- Cleaning guidelines: Each manufacturer has specific cleaning guidelines that may differ slightly from the overarching recommendations set out by the CDC. For example, some do not allow certain sterilization methods, like the dishwasher or certain sterilizers (microwave and/or stand-alone options).
Flange Fit and Sizing
Does flange sizing matter for wearable and hands-free options? Absolutely – possibly even more so.
- The shape and material of the flange are just as important as the size itself.
- These flanges are different from standard ones, so be open to different sizing adjustments to ensure comfort and effective milk output.
- Your body may react differently to hard plastic vs. silicone, depending on what the pump uses and what insert sizes are available.
- Some pumps will come with hard flanges, but only offer smaller sizes as silicone inserts rather than full replacement flanges.
- Some wearables use a “continuous latch” design, never fully releasing the nipple.
- These are the most portable of any wearable because even with movement, the nipple stays engaged.
- Using the correct size is extremely important because the nipple is experiencing constant stimulation during every pumping session.
Cost Considerations
- Hands-free and wearable options typically cost more than traditional pump options, with ranges varying from less than $200 to $500+.
- All options require replacing parts over time to ensure the pump functions effectively, and some parts may not be covered by insurance.
- Some wearable pump models come with single-use milk storage bags, requiring additional out-of-pocket costs.
Pro Tip: Any Pump Can be “Hands-free”
With the help of a hands-free pumping bra, almost any pump model can become “hands-free.” The bra holds the flanges in place so you don’t have to – just make sure it fits well to maintain proper alignment and try to remain in a seated position while pumping. Even with most hands-free and wearable options, too much movement can interfere with the flange fit, alignment, and effectiveness, pumping bra or not.
What’s Next
Choosing between hands-free cups and wearable pumps really comes down to your lifestyle, comfort, and priorities. Think about where you’ll be pumping most often, how much mobility you want, and what feels best for your body. The right choice is the one that helps you pump effectively, fits your routine, and supports your feeding goals, whether that’s using one of these options occasionally for convenience or as a backup, or sticking with your primary pump for most sessions.
If you are still unsure which option works best for you, our pump experts can help. Visit our Education and Support page to connect with an IBCLC or CLC, explore our free on-demand Pump Exploration Webinar, or watch our Breast Pump Unboxing Series to see different pumps in action.