Hi there, mama! As both a lactation consultant and a mom, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to choose the right breast pump. Whether you’re returning to work, exclusively pumping, or just looking for flexibility, having the right pump makes a huge difference. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the best breast pumps of 2024, so you can find one that fits your needs—and your budget.

Why a Good Breast Pump Makes All the Difference

Pumping can be a game-changer, but it’s also a time commitment. The right pump will help you express milk efficiently, feel comfortable, and save time. A poorly matched pump, on the other hand, can cause frustration (and sore nipples—no thank you!). So whether you need something portable for work or hospital-grade power for exclusive pumping, there’s a pump out there to make your journey smoother.

Top Breast Pumps of 2024

1. Spectra S1 Plus – The Hospital-Grade Hero

• Best for: Exclusive Pumpers, Moms Building a Stash

• Price: $$$

• Why Moms Love It:
  The Spectra S1 Plus offers hospital-grade suction, but it’s quiet and portable with a rechargeable battery. It’s gentle on sensitive nipples and allows you to control both the suction strength and cycle speed, making it a popular choice for moms with oversupply or low milk production concerns.

Bonus: It has a nightlight feature, making those 3 a.m. pumping sessions a little easier.

2. Elvie Pump – The Hands-Free Wonder

• Best for: Working Moms or On-the-Go Pumpers

• Price: $$$$

• Why Moms Love It:
  The Elvie Pump slips right into your bra, letting you pump discreetly and hands-free—no tubes, cords, or noise. It’s a great option if you need to pump at work or multitask at home. While it’s on the pricey side, many moms say the convenience is well worth it.

3. Medela Pump In Style with MaxFlow – The Reliable Classic

• Best for: Moms Who Pump Daily

• Price: $$$

• Why Moms Love It:
  This pump has been a mom favorite for years and recently got an upgrade with MaxFlow technology for faster and more efficient pumping. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and comes with a tote bag, making it great for daily use.

4. BellaBaby Double Electric Breast Pump – Budget-Friendly Efficiency

• Best for: Occasional Pumpers or Moms on a Budget

• Price: $

• Why Moms Love It:
  The BellaBaby pump is a surprising gem for its price. It offers double pumping, multiple modes, and comes with a built-in rechargeable battery. It may not be as durable as some higher-end models, but if you need a low-cost option that gets the job done, this pump is a great choice.

5. Haakaa Manual Breast Pump – The Simple Must-Have

• Best for: Collecting Letdown or Travel

• Price: $

• Why Moms Love It:
  This little silicone pump is a favorite for catching letdown milk from one side while nursing on the other. It’s also a lifesaver for traveling or quick relief when you’re feeling engorged. At such an affordable price, many moms say it’s an essential addition to any breastfeeding kit.

Tips to Make Pumping Easier

Pumping can feel like a chore, but these tips might help:

• Create a Routine: Try pumping at the same times each day to help regulate your supply.

• Use a Hands-Free Bra: Free your hands for scrolling, eating, or even catching up on Netflix!

• Keep Spare Parts on Hand: Life is too short to wash flanges every time you pump.

• Look at Photos of Your Baby: This can trigger letdown and make pumping faster and more effective.

Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Pumping is hard work, and it’s okay if some days feel like a struggle.

Every Feeding Journey is Worth Celebrating

Whether you pump occasionally or exclusively, every drop is a labor of love. And if pumping was part of your journey, it’s something to be proud of! At Mama Milk Fairy, we can turn your precious milk into beautiful keepsake jewelry—something you’ll cherish forever.

Even if breastfeeding or pumping wasn’t possible, we’ve got you covered. We also create keepsakes from formula, umbilical cords, and first locks of hair—because every journey is special.