Best Electric Breast Pump: Top Brands Reviewed For Every Use and Budget

Breastfeeding is an integral part of motherhood and the most essential form of nutrition for a newborn. Breast milk contains white blood cells, antibodies and other vital nutrients that are needed for your baby’s growth and development. But frequent pumping and breastfeeding on-demand throughout the day can be quite stressful.

And if you’re a working mum, it can take a toll on your health. This is where an electric breast pump comes into play.

They are real saviours for all modern mums. Electric breast pumps not only let you empty your breast to support the production of more milk but also help you store breast milk in a bottle for on-demand feeding.

Quick and convenient for frequent use, they’re highly suitable for mums in today’s fast-paced world.

But when you’ve to choose from a host of electric breast pumps, how do you know which breast pump is best?

Top 6 Electric Breast Pumps In Singapore

Here’s a list of the best breast pumps in Singapore that mums love the most and our breast pump reviews: 

Elvie Hands-Free Electric Breast Pump Review

Best Overall

Welcome to the future of breast pumping, where wires and bulky machinery are a thing of the past! The Elvie Hands-Free Electric Breast Pump is here to revolutionize your pumping experience. But does it live up to the hype?

The Elvie Pump is designed to fit snugly into your bra, making it the ultimate hands-free device. No more being tethered to a wall or dealing with cumbersome tubes. It’s so discreet, you might just forget you’re wearing it — until you hear that satisfying click of milk being collected.

Plus, with three different breast shield sizes, you’re bound to find a fit that feels just right.

Highlights:  

• Single or double pump option, 3 breast shield sizes, add-on accessories like bra adjusters, and carry bags for easy portability and maximum comfort. soft silicone. 
• Micro-USB rechargeable, super lightweight (225g).
• Revolutionary quiet technology.
• An intelligent app allowing you to play/pause the pump while being hands-free, change mode and intensity, and set a pumping timer.
• 2 modes, 7 intensity settings.
• Closed system for maximum hygiene. 

Medela Breast Pump Electric Swing Maxi Flex 2-Phase Double Review

Best Medela Breast Pump for Working Mothers

Medela Breast Pump Double Electric helps to save time compared to single pumping. It adjusts its breast shield according to each mother’s breasts, making pumping a more personalised experience for each mother.

It also prides itself in its 2 Phase Expression technology, mimicking the baby’s natural sucking rhythm which maintains lactation for mothers, especially those who are concerned about not having enough milk.

Medela Breast Pump provides mothers with the optimal mix of comfort and efficacy.

Highlights:

• Personalised breast shield Medela Breast Pump. 
• 2-phase expression technology. 
• Double Pumping function, producing more milk in lesser time.
• Light and compact.
• Easy to use Medela Breast Pump. 

Mama’s Choice Wearable Breast Pump Review

Best Lightweight and Portable Option

The Mama’s Choice Wearable Breast Pump is best for busy mums looking for comfort and portability. With two expression modes and nine adjustable suction levels, this wearable breast pump guarantees a personalized pumping experience every time.

Moreover, this portable pump allows mums to work, drive, travel, cook, and more while expressing breast milk for their little ones. 

The pump’s Anti-Backflow feature also makes it a hygienic and efficient option. Additionally, it is wireless and rechargeable, with a 2-hour charge time and 80 minutes of battery life.

Its quiet operation, at only 35dB, ensures discreet pumping, and its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry anywhere. 

 Highlights:

• Two intelligent modes with nine intensity levels: Massage Mode to help stimulate milk flow and Express Mode which mimics breastfeeding
• Ant-Backflow feature
• Quiet as a whisper at 35dB
• Gentle suction for pain-free pumping
• BPA-free, food-grade soft silicone material
• Available in two sizes
• 80 minutes battery life

Philips Avent Breast Pump Electric SCF398/11 Review

Best Philips Avent Breast Pump for Sensitive Nipples

The Philips Avent Breast Pump comes with 8 stimulation and 16 expression levels for your own personalised and comfortable experience.

Philips Avent Breast Pump uses natural motion technology to encourage quick milk flow, which means a lesser time is required for you to express milk.

Efficient, convenient and comfortable, this Philips Avent Breast Pump is designed to intuitively apply just enough nipple stimulation and suction to express milk, while you lay back and relax.

Philips Avent Breast Pump’s low sound and rechargeable battery lets you pump milk on the go or at night, without causing any disturbance.

 Highlights:

• 8 stimulation modes, 16 expression levels, memory function, start/pause function.
• One size fits all adaptive silicone cushion (fits 99.98% of nipple sizes).
• Natural motion technology for a quick and comfortable experience.
• Express without leaning forward.
• Closed system – no backflow, hygienic expression.
• Quiet motor for a discreet experience.
• The battery of the Philips Avent Breast Pump is rechargeable. 

Cimilre Motif Luna Double Electric Breast Pump Review

Best for Small Nipples

Looking for a breast pump that’s quieter than your baby during nap time? The Cimilre Motif Luna Double Electric Breast Pump is your new BFF. Lightweight, portable, and customizable, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of pumps — minus the noise!

One of the standout features of the Cimilre Motif Luna is its quiet operation, which ensures that you can pump discreetly without disturbing those around you. Whether you’re at work, in a public space, or at home with a sleeping baby, this pump operates with minimal noise, making it a practical choice for any setting.

Additionally, the pump comes with a 2-year local warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance of its durability and quality.

Overall, the Cimilre Motif Luna Double Electric Breast Pump offers a blend of portability, customization, and quiet performance, making it an excellent investment for breastfeeding parents. Its user-friendly design and reliable warranty make it a standout option in the world of electric breast pumps.

Highlights: 

• Expression mode, massage mode (mimics baby’s nursing rhythm), 4 breast shield sizes, adjustable cycles, vacuum level. 
• Hospital-grade suction – more milk in less time.
• Quiet (45dB), night light, light (0.88kg).
• LCD screen displays pumping information. 
• Auto power-off after 30 minutes.

Pigeon Breast Pump Electric Pro Review

Quietest Breast Pump

The Pigeon Breast Pump Electric Pro is like a trusty sidekick for superhero parents, ready to swoop in and save the day—or at least your pumping sessions. With its fully customizable settings, this pump offers four adjustable suction speeds and seven suction levels. Whether you need a gentle nudge or a powerful boost, this pump has got you covered, ensuring a comfortable and efficient experience every time.

Designed with comfort in mind, the Pigeon Pump features a ProperFit Flange and 100% silicone soft cushion that feels like a cozy hug for your breasts. Its sleek and portable design means you can take it anywhere, from the nursery to the office, without breaking a sweat. And thanks to its ultra-quiet operation, you can pump away while your little one is dreaming of sugarplums, without waking them up. Plus, the LED monitor adds a touch of modern flair, making it easy to keep track of your settings even during those bleary-eyed midnight sessions.

This pump is not just about function—it’s about making your life easier. It runs on both power and battery, so you’re never left high and dry. And with a built-in bottle stand to prevent spills, you can say goodbye to those dreaded milk mishaps. The Pigeon Breast Pump Electric Pro is a reliable companion in your breastfeeding journey, offering the perfect blend of power, comfort, and convenience.

So go ahead, pump like a pro!

Highlights of Pigeon Breast Pump: 

• 4 adjustable suction speeds, 7 adjustable suction levels, comfortable ProperFit Flange, powerful pump.
• Ultra-quiet and works on power and battery. 
• Pigeon Breast Pump Electric is a 100% silicone soft cushion and bottle stand for spill prevention. 
• This Pigeon Breast Pump has a LED monitor. 

Mama’s Choice Single and Handy Electric Breast Pump Review

Best Budget Breast Pump

Mama’s Choice is the best breast pump if you’re looking for something affordable, handy and portable. This portable breast pump comes with excellent features like a lightweight design, food-grade parts, and leak-proof pumping. 

This little powerhouse comes with everything you need, including a 24mm flange, silicone diaphragm, protective cover, silicone tube, duckbill valve, teat, engine pump, USB cable, and a 150ml bottle.

Available in chic white or pretty pink, it’s as stylish as it is functional. So, sit back, relax, and let the Mama’s Choice Portable Single Electric Breast Pump do the work while you enjoy some well-deserved me-time.

Highlights: 

• 9 adjustable suction levels, 2 expression modes.
• <50dB sound.
• Leak-proof, food-grade parts, portable.
• USB port for pumping anywhere.

LoveAmme Tailormade Pro Double Breast Pump Review

Experts’ Choice Electric Breast Pump

The LoveAmme Tailormade Pro Double Breast Pump is a breast pump designed to help mothers express milk from their breasts. It is a double breast pump, which means that it has two separate pumping mechanisms, allowing the user to pump milk from both breasts at the same time.

A double breast pump allows you to express milk from both breasts at the same time, which can be more efficient and save time compared to using a single breast pump. Time-saving, isn’t it?

The pump is designed to be comfortable and easy to use, with a compact size that makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.

Some features of the LoveAmme Tailormade Pro Double Breast Pump include adjustable suction and speed settings, a built-in memory function that remembers your preferred settings, and a massage mode to help stimulate milk flow.

It is intended to be used by breastfeeding mothers to express milk for their baby, either for later use or to maintain milk production while separated from their child.

Highlights:

• Certified Hospital Grade Breast Pump
• World’s First Personalised Breast Pump
• Personalised Pump Experience: 378 suction combinations
• 3-Phase Expression Technology: For high milk yield

Comparison Table

Note: Each item and price is up to date as of publication. However, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.

Why use a breast pump? How does it work?

Breast pumps mimic the suction of a nursing baby. Your breast pump’s objective is to persuade your body into thinking a baby is trying to nurse when nursing is not possible.

Breast pumps collect milk from the breasts by forming a seal around the nipple and applying and releasing suction to the nipple, which causes milk to be expressed from the breast.

A breast pump is usually held in place by hand or with the help of a nursing bra, a breast pumping bra, or a band. Each suction and release combination is referred to as a cycle.

As a new mum, why do you need to use breast pumps? 

• You cannot produce a sufficient milk supply due to medical/health factors or have adopted a baby. Using a breast pump signals to your body that demand has increased, stimulating milk production by raising hormone levels – namely prolactin and oxytocin. 
• You are overproducing milk. Pumping before nursing can relieve engorged breasts, soften the nipple area, and make it easier for the baby to nurse. 
• You are frequently separated from your baby because of work. Working mums can use a breast pump to express milk and freeze it for emergency use, thereby maintaining supply.
• You don’t feel comfortable breastfeeding due to medical or personal reasons. 
• Your baby is unable to nurse or falls sick. 
• You would like the father to feed his child to foster a closer bond between them.

How to select the best electric breast pump?

There are many features to consider when choosing a breast pump. Here are some factors you should consider when making a purchase: 

Timing and frequency of your breast pumping 

You may yield more milk at night as prolactin hormone levels are the highest at that time.

Hence, if you are struggling with a low milk supply and wish to do breast pumping at night, you may want to opt for electric double breast pumps with low noise levels, minimise sound disruption, and avoid manual effort. 

Frequent or daily pumping will require a single or double electric pump. For occasional pumping, a manual or handheld electric pump may suffice. 

Amount of free time you have for pumping and clean-up time 

If you plan to pump at work or do not have a lot of time to pump, you may want to consider a battery or electrically-powered breast pump.

This allows you to extract more milk in a shorter period of time. Choosing a double pump will cut the amount of time in half.

Some pump parts can be cleaned in the dishwasher while others require handwashing.

If you are short of time, you may want to choose a pump that is quick and easy to clean, such as a breast pump with a closed pumping system.

Expressed breast milk is closed off from the tubes and motor, making the pump much easier to clean and preventing milk contamination. 

The location where you will be pumping 

Will you be at your office desk, at home, or in a corporate lactation room? Is there an electrical outlet?

If you are using electric breast pumps, you may want to plan for emergencies when there is no electricity or extra batteries. It’s best to bring along a manual breast pump too. 

Electric pumps can also be quite heavy and noisy; however, with advancements in technology, electric pumps on the market are lightweight with less noise produced. 

Portability of the breast pump 

Do you need to move around frequently, or are you at home most of the time? If it’s the former, you should find a breast pump that includes a carrying case with pumping supplies and a lightweight design for ease of transportation.

Manual and battery-powered pumps can be easy to transport and use in small spaces. There are also some electric breast pumps with recharging capabilities for when you are on the go. 

Your comfort level and breast pump settings  

Ensure you find a breast pump that is well-fitted to your body to avoid abrasion or discomfort. Some breast pump brands have multiple flange sizes to choose from.

The flange is a funnel-shaped breast shield that fits over the breast and areola during pumping.

Make sure the breast-shield opening is the correct size. You should be able to centre your nipple inside the breast shield comfortably.

Consider getting a breast pump that allows you to modify cycle speed and vacuum strength if you have a baby sensitive to breastfeeding patterns.

If the power and variability of suction are vital to you, you should look for a breast pump that allows you to adjust suction speeds and levels. A manual pump gives you complete control but may not collect enough milk. 

Baby’s condition 

Use a hospital-grade breast pump for premature, sick infants or multiple births such as twins.

You can rent the pump from the hospital and purchase your accessory kit consisting of tubing, breast flanges, and collection bottles.

If you need to induce lactation to breastfeed an adopted baby, consider getting an electric breast pump. 

Nice to have features and accessories

Some breast pumps come with a nursing bustier that holds the breast shields in place so you can pump hands-free and do other activities such as reading or checking your email.  

Look for pumps with “BPA free" on the packaging. Some plastic ingredients like BPA can leach out of the plastic when washed and then contaminate the breast milk. 

Most pumps use a single membrane and a single valve to separate the pumping mechanism from the breast shield and milk collection bottle.

These membranes and valves are tiny and are easily damaged or misplaced when cleaning. Having extras on hand will be very helpful. 

Remember to check the warranty duration as you want to ensure you are covered for wear and tear for a few years. If you are buying a breast pump online, check the replacement and refund policy. 

Before making a purchase, some cost-effective ways to test a breast pump include renting one from hospitals.

You may also wish to speak with a lactation consultant who can provide specialised advice on breastfeeding and breast pumps. 

What are the different types of breast pumps?

Here is an overview of the different types of breast pumps available: 

Hospital-grade breast pumps 

Hospital-grade breast pumps are the most robust and most durable breast pumps, with powerful motors that provide high suction levels and efficient pumping. They are designed and approved by the FDA to be safe for multiple users.

However, they are less easy to transport than personal pump counterparts as they are larger and heavier. Hospital-grade breast pumps are great for working moms in office lactation rooms. They are recommended for premature/sick infants, twins, or in situations requiring an increase of milk supply or inducement of lactation. 

Consumer-grade manual vs electric pumps 

Manual breast pumps require the user to squeeze a handle or lever to create suction and express milk from the breast. This action generates a vacuum that helps draw out the milk, which is then collected in an attached container.

Some manual pumps employ a tube system, where a small tube is pumped into and out of a larger tube to generate the necessary vacuum for milk expression. These pumps are typically lightweight, portable, and don’t require a power source, making them convenient for on-the-go use.

However, they do require more physical effort and time compared to their electric counterparts.

In contrast, electric breast pumps use a motor powered by batteries or an electrical outlet to provide consistent and efficient suction. These pumps often come with one or more tubes that connect the breast shield to the electric pump, creating a closed system that helps maintain hygiene and efficiency. Electric pumps feature a control panel with dials or switches that allow users to adjust the suction level and speed.

This customization helps mimic a baby’s natural nursing pattern, including phases like let-down, which is a natural reaction that initiates milk release when the nipple area is stimulated.

Single vs double breast pumps 

A single breast pump extracts milk from one breast at a time. Most manual breast pumps are single pumps. On the other hand, you can use a double breast pump to extract milk from both breasts simultaneously.

A separate breast shield is attached to each breast to stimulate both nipples at the same time. Electric breast pumps usually have this option. 

Closed vs open system 

A closed-system breast pump has a barrier between the milk collection kit and the pump mechanism.

The barrier between the collection kit and the pump tubing prevents your breastmilk from being exposed to the outside air. Keeping outside air out of the collection bottle preserves the purity of your breastmilk.

The barrier also prevents milk particles from entering the pump tubing or motor. This eliminates the need to wash the pump tubing and the risk of mould growing in the tubing.

On the other hand, an open system does not have a barrier of any kind. Not having a barrier can cause unwanted problems, including contamination of breast milk. Mould may develop in the tubes, as well as the pump motor.

This puts your expressed breast milk at risk of contamination since it is exposed to mould, even if the tubes are thoroughly cleaned or replaced.

Why buy brand new and not second-hand? Hygiene is vital. Because of the higher risk of someone else’s milk having reached the pump in an open system, many people avoid buying open-system pumps secondhand.

ALSO READ

Breastfeeding Supplements to Increase Breastmilk Supply

Best Baby Milk Bottle in Singapore 2024: Top Brands for Every Need and Budget

Best Bottle Warmer: Top Brands for Breast and Formula Milk