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Checklist: how to choose the right breast pump for you
Becoming a parent is a time filled with endless joy, countless ‘firsts’ and endless confusion as you attempt to navigate the world of baby products. Knowing how to choose the right breast pump and decide what you actually need to make your transition into parenthood that much easier.
So, what kind of breast pump do you need?
You’ll be given advice from other parents around you, you’ll be tempted by advertisements that you see, but the best advice I can give you is to do your due diligence and research the kind of pumps that are out there, have a think about how you’re likely to use them, and decide on the features that matter most to you, for e.g. the freedom to move around as you pump, efficient extraction of milk to make your expressing time shorter, or noise levels! Check out our list of best breast pumps in Australia.
A traditional breast pump
A hard-working pump that plugs into the wall and efficiently extracts breast milk as you relax.
This pump is perfect for:
- Time-poor mums who want as much milk expressed as possible in as short a time as possible.
- Mums that require expressing at night, thanks to handy features like a night light
- Mums who require a long-lasting lithium battery to lessen charging time
- Mums who value efficiency and need a strong suction, to ensure you are getting the most out of your time spent pumping.
- Mums who can effectively take their breast pump with them wherever they go.
- Mums who seek affordability and comfort as two non negotiables.
We recommend: Kiwy Miya Hospital Grade 3-in-1 Breast-pump
Why do we recommend the Kiwy Miya Hospital Grade 3-in-1 Breast-pump?
We love the intuitive nature of the Kiwy Miya Hospital Grade 3-in-1 Breast-pump, as ‘auto mode’ will begin 2 minutes in stimulation mode before expressing mode commences, ensuring that your breasts are ready to express. We also love that the Kiwy Miya Breast-pump has the ability to set separate suction settings for left or right side to encourage optimal milk extraction, and it can also convert into a Single, Double or Manual Breast-pump. With a sound volume of <40 decibels when pumping, combined with the LED night light, you can be assured that your family will not be disturbed as you express overnight. Better yet, the Kiwy Miya Breast-pump is medical grade, offering a patented closed-system design, ensuring that milk expressed will not be infected by potential bacterias that can make your baby sick.
A wearable breast pump
An efficient, time-saving alternative to a traditional breast pump that can be worn in your bra and effectively extracts milk as you go about your day.
This pump is perfect for:
- Working mums who need to express during their work day.
- Mums who don’t have time to sit still as they express.
- Mums who are tired of tripping over cords and tubes.
- Mums who are travelling often.
- Time-poor mums who require efficient milk extraction.
- Mums who value comfort, and are seeking a pump that fits properly.
- Mums who value hygiene, and require an anti back flow and seal system design.
We recommend: Omababy V3 Pro Handsfree Portable Breast-pump
Why do we recommend the Omababy V3 Pro Handsfree Portable Breast-pump?
Omababy's light and portable hands-free pump can provide you with all that you need! It is cordless, uniquely designed to fit inside your bra, so you won't need to purchase an extra bra just for the pump! It is also designed to give you the freedom and comfort to pump anytime, anywhere without alerting those around you! We love that the Omababy V3 Pro Handsfree Portable Breast-pump features 4 Modes: Massage, Pumping, Lactation, Automatic and has 12 levels of intensity, bringing more suction adjustment and precise suction force for each breast with less pain and more let-down.
When selecting a breast pump, think about how frequently you’ll be expressing milk and what suits your daily routine. A manual pump works well for infrequent use, but if you’ll be pumping often or heading back to work, an electric or hospital-grade option is usually more efficient. Choose a model that feels comfortable, is simple to clean, and runs quietly. Handy features like adjustable suction levels, rechargeable batteries, and backflow protection can make pumping easier and more convenient.
Hospital-grade breast pumps are powerful, durable, and designed for mums who need to pump frequently or exclusively. They’re particularly helpful if you’re establishing milk supply after birth, have a premature baby, or experience issues with milk production. These pumps offer stronger, more consistent suction that mimics a baby’s natural nursing rhythm, which can make pumping faster and more effective. While they are more expensive, many mums choose to rent them short-term through hospitals or lactation consultants, making them a practical choice for those who need extra support during the early months of breastfeeding.
Portable and hands-free breast pumps are a top choice for many mums because they offer unmatched convenience and flexibility. These lightweight pumps sit comfortably inside your bra, letting you express milk while on the go — whether you’re working, doing chores, or travelling. Although they may not be as powerful as some plug-in electric models, their discreet design and freedom of movement make them incredibly practical. Modern versions often feature adjustable suction levels, quiet motors, and spill-proof containers, making the experience both efficient and comfortable. For mums with busy schedules, a wearable pump is a practical way to maintain milk supply without putting life on pause.
Finding the right suction level is all about comfort and what feels natural for your body. Ideally, your pump should mimic your baby’s feeding rhythm — starting with a gentle stimulation before moving to a stronger, steady pull once your milk lets down. Begin on a low setting and gradually increase until you find a strength that’s effective but still comfortable. If it ever feels painful, it’s too strong. The goal is to express milk efficiently without causing any discomfort or strain.
Breast pump parts don’t last forever — regular use naturally wears them down and can impact suction or milk flow. Most mums find it best to replace key parts like valves, membranes, and tubing every couple of months, or sooner if you notice weaker suction or visible wear. If you’re pumping frequently, it’s worth checking parts more often and keeping spares handy. Always follow your pump’s brand recommendations — fresh parts help your pump work efficiently and keep things clean and safe for your baby.
