Categories: Breastfeeding, Pumping, Working Mamas
December 7, 2021
Pumping hands free is a game changer. Combine that with the possibility of having a pump that is “completely silent” or “doing yoga while pumping” sounds like a pumping mom’s dream. No wonder there is so much buzz around wearable breast pumps. So, how do you figure out which one to choose? Here, we’ll go over the top wearable pumps, their features, and things to consider to help make your decision a little easier.
Silent Breast Pump
Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump
Elvie is a global leader in the wearable breast pump game. Their focus has been on taking women’s tech out of the dark ages. The Elvie Pump does just that. Choose from 14 intensity settings in 2 modes, learn pumping behaviors from insights, and control the lights on your pump – all through the app on your phone. No noise, no tubes, no wires. It is a favorite among our moms.
Top features:
- Completely silent
- Ability to control pump through the Elvie app
- Comes with 4 durable, reusable collection bottles
Why we love it: Dubbed the “World’s first silent wearable breast pump,” it truly is silent. So much so, that in our independent testing, we were unable to find any discernible noise level while the pump was in use. The sealable collection bottles that Elvie Pump comes with are an added bonus that most wearable pumps don’t have.
Additional specs:
- Weight | 1 lb combined
- Settings | 2 modes, 14 intensity settings
- Included | Two 24mm breast shields (1 set) and two 28mm breast shields (1 set)
Spill Proof Breast Pump
Willow Generation 3 Wearable Double Hands-Free Electric Breast Pump
The Willow Wearable Pump offers a completely spill-proof system, with 360-degree mobility. Choose how you collect milk by pumping into self-sealing bags (included) or reusable containers (sold separately). Willow’s app allows you to track milk production in real-time and offers pumping tips.
Top features:
- Leak-proof
- Only two parts to clean
- Comes with self-sealing, spill-proof storage bags
Why we love it: Most pumps require you to be in a seated, upright position. This unique pump allows you the freedom to pump while you are doing pretty much anything with Willow’s patented continuous suction technology that defies gravity. With a small number of parts to clean, two to be exact, it is especially convenient for busy moms and parents.
Additional specs:
- Weight | 1 lb combined
- Settings | 7 suction settings
- Included | Two breast shields (1 set), sizing depends on what you order
Exclusively Available Through Insurance
Elvie Stride
In attempts to make their breast pumps accessible to more women, Elvie launched the Stride, which is fully or partially covered by many insurance plans. Worn under clothes, the Elvie Stride collects milk in-bra, freeing up your hands. The freedom, coupled with the noise reduction technology, means you can pump and still get on with whatever your day brings you. Only available through insurance, you’ll need to see what you qualify for by contacting one of their Durable Medical Equipment partners, like Acelleron.
Top features:
- A lower price point than other wearable pumps
- Ability to control pump through the Elvie app
- Ultra-quiet
Why we love it: The tubing for the Stride fits nicely under clothing. The hub comes with a silicone clip that easily and comfortably hooks on to any clothing. Find the most comfortable intensity level and program the Stride to always start at your preferred settings. This is also a more affordable option for wearable pumps, which can often be pretty pricey. See what you qualify for here.
Additional specs:
- Weight | 1 lb combined
- Settings | 2 modes, 20 intensity settings
- Included | 24mm breast shields (1 set)
Make Your Pump Hands-Free
Not sure you want to make the investment in a wearable pump? Good news! There are ways to make your current pump hands-free too!
Spectra CaraCups
Compatible with all Spectra breast pumps, CaraCups make hands-free pumping easy and convenient. Simply attach the CaraCup tubing to the pump, place the collection cups in your bra, and you are well on your way to multi-tasking while you pump. Since there are no hanging bottles, pumping can be more discrete with CaraCups. After you are done, simply pour the milk into your storage container of choice.
Simple Wishes
Pump hands-free with just about any pump using the Simple Wishes Hands-Free Pumping Bra. Available in multiple sizes, each bra has a large, adjustable Velcro panel on the back and a removeable insert in the front so you can find the sizing that is just right for you. Simply put the flange or breast shield through the opening, attach to your breast, and pump away. The highly adjustable fit means the collection kit stays in place, leaving your hands available to do what they need to.
Want to see how these wearable pumps stack up against other pumps too? Take a look at our Breast Pump Comparison Chart.