How often are you going to use your breast pump?

These features are important for anyone who is planning to pump regularly.

• Electric vs. Manual

Electric pumps are far more efficient than manual pumps, which require constant hand pumping to express milk.

• Speed and Suction

Adjusting the suction is important for the mother’s comfort, while adjusting speed is important to simulate the release of milk.

• Single vs. Double

A double pump allows a mother to empty both breasts at one time, while a single breast pump will obviously take twice as long.

• Compatible Accessories

Different brands offer different parts and accessories. A customer who plans to pump in the car, for example, will need a pump with a battery or car adaptor option.

• Mobility

Some pumps are highly portable, but require a mom to sit still while pumping, others allow her to remain fully mobile while expressing milk.

Freshly Expressed Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

(For Healthy Term Babies)

Room Temperature:
4–6 hours at 68–78°F (19–26°C)

Cooler with 3 Frozen Ice Packs:
24 hours at 59°F (15°C)

Refrigerator:
5–8 days at 39°F or lower (4°C)

Freezer:
6–12 months at 0–4°F (-18 to -20 °C)

Open System Breast Pumps

Open system pumps do not have a barrier between the parts where the milk is collected and the pump’s tubing and motor. Over time, small amounts of milk can be sucked into the tubing and even reach the pump’s motor. This makes it possible for mold, viruses and bacteria to breed and potentially contaminate breastmilk. Thoroughly cleaning the pump by removing the faceplate and regularly sterilizing the tubing can help prevent harmful substances from building up in open system pumps.

Closed System Breast Pumps

Closed system breast pumps have a barrier preventing any milk from getting into the pump’s tubing or motor. For this reason they are thought to be more hygienic and require less maintenance to keep clean.

How Do You Clean a Breast Pump?

Understanding what goes into cleaning a breast pump will prepare you to help customers select the products they need to make the routine as easy as possible. Because proper sanitizing is essential for keeping baby safe, new moms should consult their owner’s manuals regarding cleaning instructions.