The Best Breast Pumps for Every Kind of Mom (PHOTOS)
When it comes to baby gear, there are plenty of things you can skimp on or skip. You don't need a fancy diaper twister, or a bottle warmer, or countless other things they try to sell you, nor do you need the top-of-the line products for every little thing. When it comes to breast pumps, however, if you're going to breastfeed your baby you really do need to choose one with care to best meet your needs.
More from The Stir: 25 Ways You Know You're Such a Mother
Pumping can be a painful process (literally and figuratively), and the right breast pump can be key to your success. After reviewing plenty personally and checking with other moms, here are five of the most highly rated ones out there for every situation to consider in your search.
Best Manual Breast Pump ($29.99; Target)
Moms love the Lansinoh Manual Breast Pump for its lightweight portability and comfort.
Best Breast Pump for Working Moms ($327.43, Amazon)
The Medela Freestyle Breast Pump is a hands-free double pump that's known for being fast and efficient. It's small enough to throw in your purse as it weighs less than one pound. It also has a rechargeable battery, which means you can pump anywhere you need to without finding an electric source.
More from The Stir: If A Military Mom Can Ship Breastmilk From Afghanistan, You Can Pump Too
Most Comfortable Breast Pump ($229.99, Amazon)
Gentle compression technology in this Simplisse Double Electric Breastfeeding Companion reportedly minimizes that painful pinching and tugging. Moms who love it LOVE it.
Best Economic Breast Pump ($107.03, Amazon)
If you're not planning to use one often, this AVENT BPA Free Single Electric Breast Pump is a great one to try without making a huge investment. Moms say they like the fact that you can customize the speed and rhythm.
More from The Stir: I Don't Need Breastfeeding As a Boob-Flashing Excuse
Best Overall Breast Pump ($254.99, Amazon)
When you ask around for recommendations, invariably the Medela Pump in Style will come up. For years it's been the gold standard of breast pumps, and for good reason.
What breast pumps have you used/are you considering?
Image via nerissa's ring/Flickr
Written by Julie Ryan Evans for CafeMom's blog, The Stir.
More from The Stir:
Crying it Out: The Debate (VIDEO)
The First 16 Months of Your Child's Life Don't Matter
Stop Calling My Kid the 'S' Word
6 Toddlers Try Lemons for the First Time & Hilarity Ensues (VIDEOS)