Forget clunky machines and tangled tubes! I’ve spent months sifting through over 30 breast pumps, and the Freemie stands out for its revolutionary design – a completely hands-free one that lets you pump discreetly, anywhere, anytime. But is it all it’s cracked up to be? Let’s dive in and see if the Freemie lives up to the hype.
69
Out Of 100
We score breast pumps based on objective testing data. Our scoring factors are weighted based on pump's efficiency, portability, comfortability, hygiene and designed to showcase the best breast pumps.
Overall Score
Various Performance Tests:
- Efficiency (70%): Here’s the good news! Our testers were impressed by the Freemie’s ability to express milk. One tester reported that the suction power was great, achieving an overall efficiency of around 70% – that means it effectively removes a high percentage of milk from your breasts.
- Portability (68%): The Freemie is definitely portable. It’s comparable to the Spectra and some Medela models regarding ease of carrying around. However, pumps like Elvie and Willow boast a more streamlined design, eliminating the need for tubes and a separate machine to hold them. Compared to the ultimate portability of Elvie, the Freemie scores around 68%.
- Affordability (82%): Let’s talk about affordability. The Freemie falls within the typical price range for electric breast pumps. But compared to higher-priced options like Spectra, Willow, Elvie, and even some Medela models, the Freemie comes in at a more budget-friendly price point, earning it an affordability rating of around 82%.
- Comfort (65%): Comfort is a subjective experience, but our testers found that the Freemie’s comfort level dipped slightly for extended pumping sessions. If you plan on pumping for longer stretches, consider this factor. In terms of comfort, we rate the Freemie at around 65%.
- Silence (70%): On the positive side, our testers found the Freemie to be not very loud. The controls are intuitive, and assembly is straightforward. For ease of use, the Freemie scores around 70%.
- Hygiene (60%): Here’s where the Freemie takes a bit of a hit. The closed system design promotes hygiene by preventing milk from entering the tubing. However, cleaning the Freemie can be trickier than other pumps because of the multiple parts involved. Compared to pumps like Elvie and Willow with minimal parts to clean, the Freemie’s hygiene rating falls to around 60%.
Pros
- Hands-free
- Portable design
- Affordable
- Efficient
- Discreet & Silent
Cons
- Can be uncomfortable for long sessions
- Cleaning requires more effort
Where To Buy:
What is the Freemie Breast Pump?
The Freemie is a mobile breast pump system with ultra-lightweight collection cups that fit snugly inside your bra. Unlike traditional pumps, the Freemie allows for complete freedom of movement while pumping.
What’s in the Box?
The Freemie comes with a pump motor, collection cups, flanges (the tunnel pieces that connect to your breasts), and tubing. A hidden gem? Freemie doesn’t advertise it, but many retailers include Freemie Inserts – little silicone discs that help with flange fit and comfort (a lifesaver for some moms!).
Freemie vs. The Competition
The market is flooded with a lot of breast pumps, with features ranging from portability to wearability. Some pumps offer excellent portability but limit you to holding a machine. Others prioritize compactness and allow for complete hands-free pumping. Here’s a quick comparison of Freemie to some of the popular breast pumps available online:
| Feature | Freemie | Spectra S1 | Medela Pump in Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobility | Hands-free, wearable | Limited | Limited |
| Price | Moderate-High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Efficiency | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Comfort | Good for short sessions | Excellent | Good |
Looking for maximum discretion and portability? These wearable pumps go completely under your clothes, offering complete freedom of movement.
| Feature | Elvie | Willow | Zomee Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobility | Wearable & hands-free | Wearable & hands-free | Wearable & hands-free |
| Suction Power | Adjustable/ up to 280 mmHG | Adjustable/ up to 250 mmHG | Adjustable/ up to 280 mmHG |
| Weight | Lightest (5 oz) | Light (12 oz) | Moderate (14.8 oz) |
| Price | Most Expensive | Expensive | Moderate |
| Customer Reviews | Excellent (Quiet, Discreet) | Very Good (Quiet, Easy to Use) | Good (Affordable, Comfortable) |
Freemie Breast Pump Reviews: Digging Deeper
Freemie boasts an average rating of 3.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon based on over 230 reviews, with many moms raving about its portability and efficiency. Here’s a closer look at some customer experiences:
- Amazon Review (5 stars): “This pump is a lifesaver! I can finally pump while I get things done around the house. It’s quiet and discreet, and I get as much milk as I did with my old pump.” – Sarah K.
- Walmart Review (3 stars): “I love the freedom this pump gives me, but it took some getting used to. Cleaning can be a hassle, and longer pumping sessions can get a bit uncomfortable.” – Jessica M.
- Freemie Website Review (4 stars): “The customer service at Freemie is fantastic! They helped me find the perfect flange size and answered all my questions about using the pump. I’m thrilled with my purchase.” – Emily L.
As you can see, customer experiences with Freemie are varied. While many praise its portability and efficiency, some mention discomfort for extended use and challenges with cleaning.
What Sets Freemie Apart?
The Freemie’s valid claim to fame is its hands-free design. It empowers moms to pump discreetly and conveniently, fitting seamlessly into their busy lives.
FAQs
- Is the Freemie pump hospital grade? Yes, It has a suction strength of 280 mmHG and is efficient hospital-grade.
- Which is better, Freemie vs. Willow? Both excel in portability, but Freemie offers adjustable suction while Willow is quieter and completely wearable.
- Do Freemie Cups leak? Leaks can happen with any pump if the parts are damaged or not setup correctly, but ensuring proper flange fit is crucial for Freemie.
- Is Freemie compatible with Medela? Freemie uses a closed system and requires its collection of cups and flanges.
The Bottom Line
The Freemie breast pump is a game-changer for moms prioritizing mobility and discretion. While it may not be the most comfortable for extended sessions, its efficiency and hands-free functionality make it a compelling option for busy moms who value pumping freedom.
