In recent years, a new kind of breast pump has changed the game for many moms: the wearable breast pump. These pumps are exactly what they sound like — devices you can wear inside your bra without needing long tubes or cords.
Since wearable breast pumps don’t have any wires, moms are free to move around. You can pump milk while driving, working, washing dishes, or caring for your baby.
There are three well-known brands of wearable breast pumps: Elvie, Willow, and Freemie Liberty. However, it’s worth noting that the Freemie Liberty still uses a cord to connect the collection cups to the main pump, so it’s not fully wireless.
Other popular brands like BabyBuddha, Spectra 9 Plus, and Ameda Mya Joy offer portable breast pumps. These let you walk around while pumping, but the main pump unit doesn’t fit inside your bra, so they’re not completely hands-free.
Like any breast pump, wearable ones have their pros and cons. If you’re thinking about getting one, here’s what to consider:
PROS
More Mobility
The top reason many moms love wearable breast pumps is because they allow for more movement. Nobody wants to be stuck next to a wall outlet for hours every day. Some models, like the Willow, let you pump into special bags that are leak-proof. This means you can do just about anything — even lie down, do light yoga, or go for a walk — while pumping.
The Elvie and Freemie Liberty let you pump into reusable containers. These are great for moving around the house, walking, or driving, but they’re not ideal for high activity since the milk might spill if you bend or move too much.
Discreet Pumping
With most pumps, you need to use a hands-free bra and sit somewhere private because the flanges and bottles stick out. But wearable pumps fit inside your bra and under your shirt. This makes it much easier to pump in public settings like the office, car, or grocery store.
Even though the pump might make your chest look larger while wearing it, it’s still less obvious than traditional pumps. For working moms who don’t have time for multiple breaks, this can be a huge help.
Quiet Operation
The Elvie and Willow are among the quietest pumps available. Elvie claims it is almost silent, and Willow says it’s “quiet.” Because of this, you can pump at work, on a video call, or even while on the phone, and others may not notice.
Simple to Clean
Another plus is how easy these pumps are to clean. The Elvie only has five parts (valve, spout, bottle, seal, and breast shield), and the Willow has just two (flange and tube). Both brands allow you to wash the parts by hand or place them on the top rack of your dishwasher, saving you time.
Smartphone App Features
Both Elvie and Willow offer apps for iPhone and Android users. These apps allow you to adjust suction settings, switch between stimulation and expression modes, and track how long you’ve been pumping. You can even check your milk output right on your phone. This makes it easier to manage your breastfeeding routine.
CONS
Cost
The biggest downside of wearable breast pumps is the price. Both the Elvie and Willow are around $499, making them some of the most expensive breast pumps on the market.
However, many insurance plans offer these pumps as part of an upgrade option, which could lower your cost. You may also be able to pay for them using FSA or HSA funds, which helps by using pre-tax dollars.
Keep in mind, if you choose the Willow and use their special bags, those are an added cost. The bags are about $0.50 each, and since you need one for each breast, that’s $1 per pumping session, which can add up quickly over time.
Battery and Charging
Since these pumps are wireless, you’ll need to keep them charged. The Willow only comes with one charger, so you’ll either need to buy another one or take turns charging each side. The Elvie includes two chargers — one for each pump.
The Elvie takes about two hours to fully charge and lasts for about 2.5 hours of use. A fully charged Willow lasts for around five pumping sessions.
Suction Strength
Wearable pumps don’t have the same strong suction as hospital-grade pumps. For example, Elvie’s maximum suction is 220 mmHg, and Willow’s is 245 mmHg. In comparison, the Spectra S1, which is often used in hospitals, can reach up to 270 mmHg.
This means you may get less milk per session when using a wearable pump. However, some moms find that a gentler suction feels better and helps them produce more milk overall. It depends on what works best for your body.
Whether or not a wearable breast pump is right for you comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and comfort. They offer great freedom and convenience, but they may not be the best choice for every mom. If you’re interested, check with your insurance provider to see if part of the cost is covered, and take time to compare your options before deciding.