Our writers test and research products independently. When you buy through a link on our site we may earn a commission, but we’ll only ever publish an honest review. Find out more.
Best wearable breast pumps 2026: mum-approved, hands-free pumps
Wearable breast pumps are revolutionising the way mums express milk, offering hands-free convenience and flexibility. In this guide, we’ve tested the best wearable breast pumps of 2025 with real UK mums to bring you the top hands-free options. We've also consulted a lactation consultant and midwife for the latest advice on choosing and using the best wearable breast pump for you.
By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated Dec 30, 2025
The latest thing in breast pump technology, more and more breastfeeding mums are opting for hands-free, wearable breast pumps to make their breast pumping journey that little bit easier.
The best wearable breast pump deals⚡
Was £499, now £374
Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump
Quietest hands-free pump
Was £300, now £232
Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Double Breast Pump
Best smart wearable pump
Momcozy V2 Hands-Free Breast Pump
Most user-friendly
Although many still love the more traditional breast pumps, from manual to handheld electric pumps, more and more breastfeeding mums are opting for the convenience of innovative, hands-free pumps - enter the wearable breast pump. The ultimate breastfeeding multitasker, the best wearable breast pump will offer the wearer the convenience of being able to get on with day to day tasks while they pump, which makes them a particularly popular choice for mothers with older toddlers and/or children.
The best wearable breast pumps: our top 10
Best wearable breast pump overall: Lansinoh Wearable Electric Breast Pump | Single: £80 | Double: £150
Most comfortable wearable breast pump: MAM Move Wearable Breast Pump | £250
Best wearable breast pump budget buy: Pippeta LED Wearable Hands-free Breast Pump | £50
Most powerful wearable breast pump: Elvie Stride 2 Wearable Breast Pump | Single: £169 | Double: £299
Best wearable breast pump for portability: Momcozy M5 Hands Free Breast Pump |
£180£162 (-10%)
Quietest wearable breast pump: Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump |
£499£374 (-25%)
Best wearable breast pump for output: Fraupow Wearable Breast Pump | £90
Most user-friendly wearable breast pump: Momcozy V2 Hands-Free Breast Pump |
£199£159 (-20%)
Best smart wearable breast pump: Medela Freestyle Double Electric Breast Pump |
£300£232 (-23%)Best wearable breast pump for suction range: Momcozy M6 Hands-free Breast Pump | Single: £130 | Double: £230
Designed with convenience, comfort and discretion in mind, the best wearable breast pump is intuitively designed to fit snugly in your nursing bra, giving you the freedom to pump discreetly wherever you please - from your desk to the school run, and can be conveniently carried around in your changing bag. Who doesn’t need that?
How we chose the best wearable breast pumps
We’ve zoned in on the best wearable breast pumps from leading brands including Medela, Elvie and Momcozy and combed through the Mumsnet forums to see which wearable pumps are rated by the UK's number one parenting community. With around 8 million unique monthly users, Mumsnet reaches a whopping 70% of UK mothers with babies aged one and under, and as a resource is second to none in verifying which parenting products really do make those early years that much easier.
We put several of the best wearable breast pumps through their paces with our team of scrupulous breastfeeding mothers, who tested and reviewed them thoroughly on a variety of factors including ease of use, comfort, discretion, value for money and efficiency in filling those baby bottles in the shortest time possible. We also spoke to lactation consultant and practicing midwife Milly Godwin to find out the latest expert advice on using breast pumps, including the latest wearable pumps, and the best ways to ensure your pump is the right one for you.
From the best portable wearable breast pump to the best option for breast size inclusivity, here is our complete list of the best wearable breast pumps 2026
Best wearable breast pump overall
Lansinoh Wearable Electric Breast Pump
Extremely easy to set up and use
Efficient
Comfortable to use
Not too bulky
Only comes with one choice of flange size
Key specs
Price on writing: £80 (single), £150 (double) | Single or double pump: Both available | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: Four levels of stimulation/pumping, nine levels of suction | Closed system: Yes | BPA-free: Yes
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Lansinoh Wearable Breast Pump review
A new release from breastfeeding experts Lansinoh (makers of everyone's favourite Lanolin nipple cream), this wearable electric double pump features all the convenience of hands-free pumping in a relatively inexpensive packaged compared with the likes of Elvie, Momcozy and Medela.
With four stimulation modes and nine levels of suction, the Lansinoh wearable pump features an LED display at the top which is easy to use and enables you to time your feeding sessions. Our parent-tester Tamsin used the pump extensively from the first days of her son's life to help with feeding during the newborn weeks and was particularly impressed with the pump's ease of use, comfort and efficiency.
We like that this pump comes with 25 breastmilk storage bags as well as a Lansinoh 160ml baby bottle and the easy-pour spout on the two 180ml collection cups is a nice touch.
Most comfortable wearable breast pump
Very comfortable
Has a silent mode for extra discretion
Tester reported practically no leakage in use
Lots of useful pieces of kit comes with it, including a baby bottle and carry bag
Auto pumping time is 30 minutes - our tester said she would have preferred this to be 20 minutes with the option of adding time (in accordance with pumping guidelines)
Our tester said she would have liked an LED countdown function
Key specs
Price on writing: £150 | Single or double pump: Both, we tested the double | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 3 modes and 5 intensity settings | Capacity: Up to 150ml bottle capacity | Noise level: Up to 50 dB | Closed system: Yes
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth MAM Move Breast Pump review
Discreet, compact, size-inclusive and very comfortable (even when used in the earliest days of breastfeeding) there is a lot to be said for the MAM Move Breast Pump. Our tester was particularly impressed by all the different pieces of kit which came included with the pump, from the useful travel bag to the award-winning MAM bottle.
Thanks to its silent mode, you can use the MAM Move out and about with minimal noise disruption, though our tested also pointed out that the standard mode wasn't particularly loud, either. It's fairly pricey, with a single pump setting you back around £200, but if you're looking for a wearable pump which is quite, efficient and comfortable, we think this is a great option.
Best wearable breast pump budget buy
As powerful as the premium brands in terms of suction
Not too noisy, under 45dB
Good value for money
Comes with an impressive range of spare parts
Can slip if bending forward
Doesn't come with a travel bag or flange cover to keep clean while transporting
Key specs
Price on writing: £50 for single, £90 for double | Single or double pump: Both| Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 4 modes and 12 suction levels | Closed system: Yes
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our full Pippeta LED Wearable Breast Pump review
With 12 suction levels and four modes, the Pippeta LED Wearable Breast Pump is small but mighty, packing in an impressive 280 mmhg of suction power without becoming uncomfortable. Our tester tried it out during the earliest weeks of breastfeeding her newborn and found it to be easy to use, simple to clean, comfortable and good value for money.
The Pippeta features a light-up LED display (great for those middle-of-the-night pumping sessions), automatic turn-off feature after 20 minutes, and a massage setting. The battery takes around 2.5 hours to charge and offers an impressive 100 minutes of usage.
Sure, it's not quite as discreet as the likes of the slimline Elvie Stride, but it delivers on what it needs to in terms of hands-free convenience, includes a good range of spare parts for added reassurance, and is easy to get to grips with for first-time pumpers.
Related: Soothe sore nipples with our fully-reviewed guide to the best nipple cream
Most powerful wearable breast pump
Elvie Stride 2 Double Wearable Electric Breast Pump
Hospital-grade suction
Wearable, worn in your bra
Can be controlled using the Elvie app
Choice of size different nipple insert options which Elvie claims fits up to 99% of nipple sizes
Expensive
While it's extremely quiet, it's still quite bulky to wear and our tester said she wouldn't feel comfortable using it in an office environment
Key specs
Price on writing: £299 double, £135 single | Single or double pump: Both options available | Power source: Rechargeable | Number of settings: 10 | Closed system: Yes | BPA-free: Yes
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Elvie Stride 2 review
Older version tried, tested and reviewed by Mumsnet editor Laura Westerman: Read our in-depth Elvie Stride Wearable Breast Pump review
Whether you’re a mum of multiples or simply planning on pumping more frequently, then a heavy-duty wearable breast pump like the Elvie Stride 2 is a good option. Built for durability, it can handle extensive use without losing suction power or performance, which is why it’s a popular choice amongst Mumsnetters - despite the hefty price tag! It also stands out as being one of the quietest and most discreet breast pumps on our list thanks to the lightweight, compact design.
An upgrade on the original Elvie Stride, the Stride 2 includes all the best features of the Stride including hospital-grade suction and ultra-quiet pumping, as well as several new features including a greater range of nipple size options and clearer cups to see milk volume more easily.
Our parent-tester Catherine praised the Stride 2's high performance, saying it yielded more breastmilk than her other wearable pump and was far more quiet, compact and one of the most comfortable.
If you’re a tech fan who likes to know a little more about your milk supply, then you’ll enjoy the convenience and intuitiveness of the Elvie Stride app companion which includes customisable settings, real-time tracking, guided pump sessions (and reminders), plus pumping history which can help you monitor milk supply and identify patterns.
Related: Feed in comfort with the help of one of the best breastfeeding pillows and nursing chairs
Best wearable breast pump for portability
Momcozy M5 Hands Free Breast Pump
Quiet and discreet
Small - you could wear it out and about
Efficient pumping
Pricey
Key specs
Price on writing: £180 | Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 3 modes and 9 suction levels | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 12 months for the unit
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Poppy O'Neill: Read our in-depth Momcozy M5 Hands Free Breast Pump review
Need to express on the go, at your desk or in public? Then, the MomcozyM5 will be your perfect breast pumping companion. A little pricey, we know, but this double wearable has earned its title as “The best portable wearable breast pump” as it’s an all-in-one unit that doesn’t require fancy tech or cables, plus it has an extended battery life, with one charge lasting for up to 120 minutes or 4-5 sessions before needing a quick recharge.
This simple, yet efficient unit also comes with a new double-sealed flange that snugly fits your breasts, allowing for more efficient pumping and less chance of spillage, plus it has a built-in automatic shut-off function in case you fall asleep or get distracted. We also like the newly upgraded 3-mode functionality which now includes Stimulation – to get your milk flowing, Expression – to improve milk flow and Mixed which is both fast and deep.
Related: Feed in comfort with the best nursing chairs
Quietest wearable breast pump
Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump
Ultra-quiet
Small and discreet
Comes with a smart app that controls the pump and monitors milk flow
Pricey
Key specs
Price on writing: £215 single, £440 double | Single or double pump: Both available | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 2 modes and 14 intensity settings | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 2-year warranty on the pump and 90-day warranty on washable components
What Mumsnet users say
Tried and tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Elvie Breast Pump review
There’s no doubt that Elvie’s breast pumps are a firm favourite amongst Mumsnetters and their wearable version is proving just as popular – for good reason. This single unit is by far the quietest and most discreet wearable on our list, with some mums even able to do the grocery shop with it tucked away in a nursing bra (as explained above).
It’s also simple to use and clean with no cords or tubes and only five parts to clean. Another standout feature is the intuitiveness of the unit - as it automatically switches from Stimulation into Expression mode when it detects letdown and will pause when the bottle is full, so no chance of overfilling, leaks, or spillage. You have the option to store the milk you've just pumped in the refrigerator using the provided lids, eliminating the need to transfer it to a different container.
Elvie manufacturers have made sure not to miss the finer details like brightness control settings on the hub, a side selector function which allows you to track which breast you're pumping from and default intensity settings so you can save your preferred pumping settings. It’s also worth mentioning that this breast pump comes with a carry bag, two bottles and two sets of breast shields (24mm and 28mm).
Best wearable breast pump for output
Not too fiddly
Lightweight and discreet
Achieves great output
Midwife calls included with purchase
Not as efficient as a hospital-grade pump
Key specs
Price on writing: £76 (for single) | Single or double pump: Both available | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 4 modes and 12 different intensity levels | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 12 months for the unit and a 90-day warranty for the parts.
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our Fraupow Wearable Breast Pump review
Weighing in at just 218 grams, the award-winning Fraupow wearable breast pump is lightweight, discreet and super-comfortable to use, according to Mumsnetters. But what’s given this wearable breast pump our “best overall” title for 2026 is that it offers most of the same features as other top-notch wearables on the market – like air pressure pulse technology, anti-leak design, and a full LED touchscreen display, but at a fraction of the price at under £100. Founder and mum Sunita Boyes has also gone the extra mile for mums, offering three 20-minute support calls from a midwife included with purchase.
This Fraupow is made from durable, BPA-free silicone materials and its ergonomic silhouette promises to fit a wide range of breast sizes. It comes standard with a 24mm flange, but more sizes and inserts can be bought separately. It has four modes including massage, pump, lactation and auto as well as 12 different intensity levels with a 20-minute automatic shut-off function. The only downsides? The Fraupow is a single breast pump, and some say the battery life is limited, only offering 90-100 minutes at full power before needing a recharge.
Related: The best sterilisers, tried and tested by Mumsnetters
Most user-friendly wearable breast pump
Extremely easy and intuitive to assemble
Very comfortable to use
Quiet enough for use in an office setting
Hands-free and easily portable
Not as discreet as other hands-free pumps, particularly if you have larger breasts
Quite pricey
Key specs
Price on writing: £199 | Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Mains and rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 3 modes, 9 vacuum levels | Closed system: Yes | BPA-free: Yes
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Momcozy V2 breast pump review
For an efficient, wearable breast pump which is comfortable, portable and quiet enough to use in an office setting, the Momcozy V2 has it all. Our tester put the pump through its paces over a period of several months, including a tricky time where she had to exclusively pump for her newborn during a hospital stay.
While the Momcozy V2 isn't quite as discreet as other pumps - our tester felt it was a bit too bulky for her to be completely comfortable wearing out and about - its noise level is less than 48dB and it has an impressive number of flange size options.
Related: Find more new-mum essentials with our guides to the best nappy bins, nappies and wipes
Best smart wearable breast pump
Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Double Electric Wearable Breast Pump
Super lightweight
Transparent design for easy nipple alignment
Easy cleaning – with only three parts (dishwasher safe)
Pricey
Noisy
Key specs
Price on writing: £225 (was £300) | Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Rechargeable battery and power adapter | Number of settings: 4 modes and 9 suction settings | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 1 year for the unit and 90 days for the parts
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet baby & child editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Medela Freestyle Hands-free Breast Pump review.
As leaders in breast pump innovation, Medela certainly know a thing or two about what mums need from a high-quality breast pump, and the Medela Freestyle is their latest wearable model. Unlike most other wearables on our list, where the motor (or main unit) is attached to the cup, this pocket-sized pump is a separate unit, allowing the lightweight collection cups, which weigh only 76g each, to fit discreetly inside your bra. The cups are designed to maximise milk flow, with a broader lower half to support the underside of the breast and can be worn vertically or slightly tilted outwards for better visibility of the nipple and milk flow. Mumsnetters also agree that the suction is strong, but smooth and not painful.
This wearable uses a closed system design, where the tubing connects the breast shields to the motor unit, ensuring that milk, moisture and air can’t flow into the tubing. Plus, the unit itself is simple to use with both stimulation and expression phases, where you have full control to adjust your maximum comfort vacuum. Medela users also gain access to the award-winning Medela app - built for ease of use. It offers a breastfeeding tracker, personalised content, community support and more.
Related: Best sippy cups for weaning and beyond
Best wearable breast pump for suction range
Remarkably strong suction for a wearable pump (reaches up to 295 mmHg), nearly matching the Elvie Stride 2 (300 mmHg) and Spectra S1 (320 mmHg)
Generous bottle size for higher milk storage capacity
Extended battery performance - delivers 5 to 6 pumping sessions per charge, outlasting the M5's 4 to 5 sessions
Operates quietly, producing less than 48dB of sound
Pricey
Not fully discreet: noticeable when worn ("extra bulge – think Dolly Parton!")
Key specs
Price on writing: £130 single, £195 double (was £230) | Single or double pump?: Both available, we tested the double | Suction range: 0 - 295 mmHG | Power source: Battery | Number of settings: 3 speeds, 9 vacuum levels | Closed system?: Yes | BPA-free?: Yes
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet baby & child editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Momcozy M6 Breast Pump review
The Momcozy M6 is a great option for mums searching for the best wearable breast pump that blends hands-free convenience with an impressive range of suction. As an upgraded version of the M5, the M6 features a more powerful motor, an expanded 180ml milk container, and longer battery life - offering up to 5–6 sessions per charge. Despite these improvements, the M5 continues to rank slightly higher overall due to better performance in testing.
Still, the M6 delivers impressive suction power for a wearable design, reaching up to 295 mmHg - a level comparable to more traditional electric pumps. Our mum-tester, Ally, appreciated how quiet and comfortable it was, noting that it stayed leak-free and allowed her to express milk while multitasking throughout the day.
Retailing at £230 for the double pump, the Momcozy M6 offers solid value for mums looking for advanced features without compromising portability. Although the pump isn’t the most discreet under clothing due to its slightly bulky profile, it’s ideal for private pumping at home or in a work setting.
If you're on the hunt for the best wearable breast pump that combines strong performance with ease of use, the Momcozy M6 is definitely worth considering.
Best wearable breast pump for travel
Momcozy M9 Mobile Flow Hands Free Breast Pump
The milk collectors can be sealed and used to store milk hygienically, making it a great option for on-the-go pumping sessions
Easy to set up and use
Comfortable and relatively quiet
Controlled by the Momcozy app which is packed with intuitive features
Pricey
Not quite as powerful or efficient as the Elvie or Medela Freestyle when compared in testing
Our tester Alex found the app to be a bit glitchy, particularly the volume recording feature
Key specs
Price on writing: Single £160, Double £248 | Type of pump: Wearable | Single or double: Both available, our tester tried the double | Power source: Rechargeable | Number of settings: Two specialist pumping patterns: Milk Boost and Milk Relief, Three Regular Pumping Modes: Stimulation, Expression and Mixed (combining stimulation and expression) | Closed System: Yes
What Mumsnet users say
Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Jenny Wonnacott: Read our in-depth Momcozy M9 Breast Pump review
Another entry for US-brand Momcozy, the M9 breast pump offers all the convenience of hands-free pumping which can all be controlled directly via the Momcozy app. While our tester didn't find it to be quite as powerful as the Elvie or Medela hands-free pumps she'd used before, she liked the robust feel of the Momcozy and praised its appearance and portability.
While the app might have a few kinks to iron out, it's the practicality of the M9 which earns it a place on our shortlist. Unlike other Momcozy pumps, its milk collectors can be sealed and used to store milk directly and hygienically without having to pour into bottles, which is very handy if you're pumping at work... or anywhere out of the house for that matter! Along with the neat carry case with a designated space for every pump part, the M9 is an ideal option for mums pumping on the go.
Best manual wearable breast pump
Minimalist design (cord-free)
Drop resistant
Easy to clean
Not technically a breast pump - more of a milk collector
Key specs
Price: £16 | Single or double pump: Single | Power source: NA/manual | Number of settings: NA | Closed system: No | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 90 days
What Mumsnet users say
Tried and tested by Mumsnet: Read our in-depth Haakaa review
While the Haakaa isn’t a true wearable breast pump (you’ll need a good nursing bra that’s compatible with the Haakaa like this one), this nifty little manual pump still deserves a spot on our list, because according to Mumsnetters – it’s non-invasive, easy to use and works well to extract milk. The soft silicone flange attaches easily to the breast and stays put while you apply gentle pressure to stimulate let down. Another bonus is that it’s a one size fits all and beyond pumping, it’s a great milk collector when breastfeeding on the opposite side. Mums love how simple it is to clean and maintain too as there’s no wires or accessories to faff about with.
For stronger suction, manufacturers suggest folding back the flange and squeezing the bottom whilst attaching the pump to your nipple. The only downside? The pump only has 100ml capacity, so may not be suitable if you need to pump a lot of milk at one time and it can pop off if the suction isn’t secure enough.
What is a wearable breast pump?
A wearable breast pump is similar to other types of breast pump in how it extracts milk, but this nifty device lets you pump milk hands-free while you're out and about or doing chores around the house. Most models fit right into your bra without any cords or attachments getting in the way. So, you can go about your day and still take care of your milk supply effortlessly. Plus, many wearable breast pumps come with adjustable settings, allowing you to find your perfect pumping rhythm and comfort level.
"For some parents a convenient and portable pump is important. These hands-free pumps are usually not so powerful, but could mean that you don’t have to sit on the sofa while pumping and can get on with other things!" - Milly Godwin, lactaction consultant and midwife, founder of Milky Starts
How do I choose the best type of breast pump for me?
When choosing the right wearable breast pump for your lifestyle and needs, there are a few factors to consider before you buy:
The hands-free design: The wearable pump's design should be sleek, yet solid allowing you to move freely and multitask while pumping. Some pumps like the Medela Freestyle Breast Pump have a separate hub or unit that fits seamlessly into your pocket, with just the cups attached to your breast, whilst most others have the hub and cups attached as a single unit that fits into your nursing bra.
Budget: Compare the features and prices of different pumps within your budget. Luckily, we’ve included a variety of wearable breast pumps on our list ranging from £30 to £300.
Suction strength and modes: Look for a wearable pump with adjustable suction levels and modes that suit your comfort and milk expression needs. For instance, some pumps like the Fraupow Wearable Breast Pump has a gentle massage function to stimulate the letdown reflex before pumping.
Flange size options: Opt for pumps that offer different flange sizes to ensure a comfortable fit for your breast shape and size. Some pumps come with more than one flange size, whilst others indicate that you need to buy them separately. Regardless, it’s important to find the right size flange for you, as this will affect your comfort level as well as how much milk you get to extract.
According to feeding experts at Medela, you’ll need to re-evaluate your flange size if you find that one or more of the following are happening while you’re pumping: Discomfort is caused by your nipple rubbing against the sides of the breast shield tunnel; excessive areola is being drawn into the breast shield tunnel; redness appears on or near the nipple during and/or after pumping; nipples or areola turn white during and/or after pumping; or your breasts remain full after pumping.
According to lactation consultant Milly Godwin, flange size is one of the most important factors in choosing a breast pump: "It is essential that you measure your nipples and buy the correct flange size. Most pumps come with a default size 24mm flange which is too big for the majority of women. Measure the diameter of both nipples and that is your flange size – i.e if the diameter is 17mm you are a size 17mm flange. Having the correct size flange can significantly increase milk output and make pumping more comfortable."
Battery life: Consider how long the pump's battery lasts to ensure it can support your typical pumping sessions without frequent recharging, especially if you’re using the pump on the go.
Hygiene features: Look for pumps with closed systems that prevent milk from entering the tubing, ensuring hygiene and ease of cleaning. The good news is that all the pumps on our list have closed systems except for the Haakaa which is a manual wearable pump.
Smart features: if you’re tech savvy and like to stay on top of your pumping schedule, choose a wearable pump that has additional app capabilities for real-time monitoring, history tracking, and personalised settings.
Comfort and fit: If you want to learn more about a pump you have in mind, read more reviews on our Mumsnet Forum for first-hand tips and advice to assess its comfort as well as how well it stays in place.
Noise level: Consider the noise level if you plan to pump discreetly in various settings.
Portability: Check if the pump is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry, especially if you're often out and about.
Return policy: Ensure you understand the return policy in case the pump doesn't meet your expectations.
Do wearable breast pumps actually work?
Yes, wearable breast pumps can be effective tools for expressing milk. They’re designed to provide convenience and flexibility, allowing mums to pump milk hands-free while engaging in other activities. However, the effectiveness of a wearable breast pump depends on factors such as the pump's design, suction strength, fit, and the user's milk supply.
Many women find wearable breast pumps to be helpful in maintaining their milk supply and expressing or pumping milk conveniently, especially when they need to pump on the go or while multitasking. However, individual experiences may vary, and it's important to choose a high-quality pump that suits your needs and comfort.
What to look for when choosing a wearable breast pump
Firstly, it’s important to read reviews like this one so that you have a good idea of the variety of good wearable breast pumps on the market. If you’re considering a particular one, be sure to follow our guidelines above on how to choose the best type of wearable breast pump for you, plus consider the following:
Compatibility: If you plan to use a wearable breast pump with a specific nursing bra, check if the pump is compatible with your preferred bra style.
Support and accessories: Consider what comes with the pump, such as extra flanges, storage bags, bottles or cooler bags. Availability of replacement parts and customer support can be beneficial.
Additional features: While cost is a consideration, prioritise the features that are most important for your needs. Sometimes, investing in a higher-quality pump can offer better performance and longevity.
Can I wear a hands-free breast pump on the go?
Yes! In fact, one of the primary advantages of wearable breast pumps is their mobility and convenience. These pumps are designed to allow you to pump milk while you're engaged in various activities, such as working, walking or even running errands. However, take note that some manufacturers suggest sitting upright for maximum effect and don’t recommend vigorous activities that require bending down - like vacuuming.
Wearable breast pumps have been cleverly designed to fit discreetly into your bra, allowing you to move freely without being tied down by cords or attachments. This hands-free feature makes it easier to pump in different settings, whether you're at work, travelling, or simply out and about.
Tips for using a wearable breast pump
1. Find the right fit: Ensure the flange size fits your breasts comfortably to avoid discomfort or improper milk expression. Experiment with different sizes if needed. According to Motif Medical:
If you measured up to 17mm you’ll fit in a 21mm flange.
If you measure up to 22mm use size 24mm.
If you measured up to 23mm select size 27mm.
If you measured up to 26mm use 30mm.
If you measured up to 32 mm use size 36 mm.
2. Adjust suction levels: Customise suction levels to mimic your baby's nursing rhythm and your comfort level. Gradually increase or decrease suction to find what works best for you.
3. Position the pump securely in your bra to prevent leaks and ensure efficient milk expression. Make sure it's aligned properly over your nipple and areola.
4. Stay relaxed as this can enhance milk flow. Find a comfortable and quiet space and consider using relaxation techniques or looking at pictures of your baby to encourage letdown.
5. Monitor and empty regularly: Keep track of your pumping sessions using an app or timer to maintain a pumping schedule. Regularly emptying your breasts helps maintain milk supply and prevents discomfort.
When to start using a breast pump
"If breastfeeding is going well and baby is feeding effectively, there's usually no need to pump at all. If your baby isn’t feeding well or there are signs that you have a low supply, you should start pumping regularly (every two - three hours) as soon as possible, in order to protect and increase your supply. If everything is going well but you would like to pump so that someone else can give baby a bottle, I would wait until at least three weeks or until breastfeeding is established and your milk supply has regulated." - Milly Godwin, lactaction consultant and midwife
How we choose our recommendations
Recommendations from real parents
We're firm believers in the power of real-life experience when it comes to product reviews. That's why, before endorsing any new items, we turn to our invaluable community of over 7 million Mumsnet users each month. We trust their candid opinions to provide us with genuine feedback, whether it's praise or constructive criticism.
Expert advice
We consistently ensure that our information aligns with the most current expert recommendations, providing you with reliable insights. Our diligent research process involves thorough examination of each product to ensure it adheres to the latest expert guidance and withstands rigorous scrutiny. Here we also looked at what lactation consultants at Motif Medical had to say about the importance of choosing the correct flange size for comfort and pumping success.
Consumer feedback
Additionally, we thoroughly search the web beyond Mumsnet, reviewing authentic feedback from parents who have personally purchased and shared their thoughts on the products. By considering both positive and negative input, we ensure that every recommended product is backed by a collection of favourable reviews.
Celebrated products
Lastly, we also verify products that have earned industry awards, accolades, or acknowledgments from reputable sources. This information is integrated into our assessment process, assisting us in selecting the best wearable breast pumps on the market.
Why you should trust us
Mumsnet has been helping parents make their lives easier since 2000 and, in those years, we’ve seen, tried and reviewed thousands of products. We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.
Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.
About the author
Jenny Wonnacott is a Content Editor for Mumsnet, specialising in writing, editing and optimising pregnancy, baby care and general parenting-related content. As a parent of three primary school-aged children, Jenny is passionate about making Mumsetters' lives easier through rigorous research of all items recommended in reviews, features buyers' guides.
She regularly reviews a wide range of parenting and lifestyle products for Mumsnet, from breast pumps to kettles, board games and cribs. Jenny is also a sci-fi author (writing as J M Briscoe) and experienced journalist.
About the expert
Milly Godwin is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and registered midwife, based in North London. The IBCLC credential is the highest qualification in breastfeeding expertise and recognised worldwide. She currently works as a community midwife as well as an independent lactation consultant
Milly is the founder of breastfeeding support network Milky Starts which offers practical and compassionate breastfeeding support in North, East and West London as well as video consultation both pre and postnatal.