What's so special about the Elvie breast pump?
The Elvie really is an innovative addition to the breast pump market and gives mums, especially working mums, something they’re crying out for – it’s completely hands-free, it's really convenient and it's practically invisible.
Breastfeeding can mean pumping several times a day, and with most pumps that means your movements are restricted. The Elvie simply pops into your nursing bra so that you can carry on doing whatever you need to do while you collect your milk.
There are no cords, and the pump connects to an app that allows you to monitor milk flow and control the pump from your phone.
How easy is the Elvie to assemble?
With only five parts, the Elvie is simple to assemble. The first time our tester, Sam, used the pump it took two minutes to put together – after a few uses it took her less than 30 seconds. You will, however, need to charge the hub via a micro USB for about 40 minutes before first use.
There are clear step-by-step instructions included in the box and you can also find additional instructions and videos online which show you how to assemble, fit and sterilise the pump. There is also a FAQ section if you really get stuck.
With two of almost every component if you buy the double box (this comes at a steep cost of £449 though!), one set can be sterilised while the other is being used, which is particularly handy for mums who are always on the go.
Elvie sell extras online, which includes breast shield, bra adjusters, pump seals and a pump spout and valve kit, but are a little on the pricey side – £24.99 for a two-pack of breast shields, for example.
How does it look?
This pump is sleek and attractive and the design minimal – it's so small that it will easily fit into the palm of your hand, measuring only 128 mm x 110 mm x 68 mm.
It consists of a small plastic hub that attaches directly to a bottle, both of which sit inside your nursing bra. There are no wires or tubes, and it isn't bulky to wear.
How does it work and what's it like to use day-to-day?
You can control the pump directly on the hub or via an app on your phone, which you can download for free. As the buttons on the hub are quite small, it may be better to use the pump solely through the app. The app also allows you to monitor milk volume, track pumping history for each breast and control the Elvie remotely.
Once you position it on your breast and tuck inside your bra, the pump will always start in stimulation mode before automatically switching to expression mode after two minutes – you can also switch to expression mode manually in the app. Expression mode is a slower pumping rhythm to release milk efficiently and there are seven suction settings altogether.
If you have a demanding baby, twins, older children that need your attention, or if you are returning to work, the Elvie means you can spend less time tethered to a wall and more time focusing on those other life essentials.
There's no need to be near a plug socket as it is completely hands-free and wireless. Sam really rated the freedom of movement the Elvie gave her. She found that she could walk around, use her phone and even do the washing up while using it.
You can easily use the pump at home or when out and about. It's ultra portable and more than small enough to pop into a handbag, something you could have trouble with when it comes to larger electric pumps like the Ardo Calypso Double Plus – it also comes with its own carry bag for convenience.
As such, it's easy to store as it fits together nicely and doesn't come with many additional parts.