How We Test & Research Breast Pumps

In-Depth Testing by Real Moms (2-4 Weeks)

We don’t base our reviews on quick impressions or manufacturer specifications alone. Our team of real moms, lactation consultants, and product specialists put each pump through its paces for a minimum of 2-4 weeks. This extensive real-world testing allows us to assess the pump’s performance under the conditions you’ll actually experience—late-night pumping sessions, on-the-go use, and daily cleaning routines.

Key Factors We Evaluate

We dig into every aspect of a pump’s performance to see if it lives up to the demands of motherhood, from efficiency to ease of use and everything in between.

• Effectiveness: How efficiently does the pump remove milk? Does it mimic natural breastfeeding patterns to maximize output? We measure milk volume and pumping time.
• Comfort: Is the pump comfortable to use for extended pumping sessions? Does it cause any nipple pain or discomfort? We assess suction patterns and flange fit.
• Ease of Use: Can you assemble, operate, and clean the pump intuitively and quickly? We time setup and breakdown processes.
• Portability: Is the pump compact and lightweight for on-the-go pumping? We test in cars, offices, and while traveling.
• Noise Level: How discreet is the pump? This is crucial for nighttime pumping or pumping in public spaces.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: How easy is it to clean and sanitize the pump parts to ensure hygiene? We count parts and assess dishwasher safety.
• Durability: Does the pump seem well-made and built to last for your entire breastfeeding journey? We check build quality and warranty terms.
• Value for Money: Is the pump’s price point reasonable considering its features and performance compared to alternatives?

How We Research Insurance Coverage Information

Understanding insurance coverage for breast pumps can be confusing and overwhelming. We go the extra mile to research and compile insurance information for each brand and model we review.

We present this insurance information to help you understand your options, but we always recommend contacting your specific insurance provider directly to confirm coverage details, as policies vary significantly between plans.

Beyond Our Testers: A Comprehensive Review Process

For a well-rounded review, we go beyond in-house testing to gather multiple perspectives:

Expert Consultations

When needed, we consult with International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) and other breastfeeding experts to ensure our reviews are accurate and align with the latest lactation science and best practices.

Brand Reputation & Safety Standards

We only recommend pumps from reputable brands known for their quality, safety standards, and FDA compliance. We verify that pumps meet FDA requirements for breast pumps as Class II medical devices.

Real Parent Experiences

We actively seek out real-world experiences by analyzing thousands of verified customer reviews, scouring online parenting forums, and engaging with our thriving community. This helps us identify potential issues and highlight pumps that moms truly love and recommend to others.

Clinical Studies & Research

Where available, we reference peer-reviewed studies and clinical research on pumping efficiency, milk production, and breast pump technology to support our findings.

Transparency and Your Voice Matter

We believe in complete transparency. Our reviews showcase both the strengths and weaknesses of each pump, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your unique needs and circumstances. We never hide negative aspects or provide biased reviews.

Your input is also valuable! If you have questions or feedback about a specific pump, or if your experience differs from ours, we want to hear from you. Reader experiences help us refine our recommendations and provide more comprehensive information for future moms.