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Best wearable breast pumps for hands-free pumping
When you’re a parent, every minute is worth its weight in gold, and hard-working products that make your life that little bit easier, like a wearable breast pump, might just become your new best friend. Read on for our verdict on the best wearable breast pumps on the market, as tried and tested by breastfeeding mums.
By Tammy Jacks | Last updated Mar 26, 2024
Rather than being stuck in the same place and pinned down by your breast pump, wireless and/or wearable breast pumps are fast becoming the most popular choice for breastfeeding mums. Newer, more innovative and intuitive models like the ones that have made it onto our “best list”, offer the freedom to move and multitask while pumping, are generally quiet enough to allow for discreet pumping on the school run, at your desk, on a train or in the park and enable hands-free operation, and can be conveniently carried around in your changing bag. Who doesn’t need that?
In addition to our guide to the best breast pumps and the best manual breast pumps on the market, we’ve zoned in on hands-free models and done extensive research to find the best wearable breast pumps that Mumsnetters are raving about right now. We spent countless hours examining the genuine feedback and advice from some of our 8 million Mumsnet users to determine which wearable breast pumps met the mark and which fell short. Additionally, we verified each model through input from nursing specialists and consumer reviews, ensuring our top picks are designed to offer optimal comfort whilst enduring multiple pumping sessions throughout the day and night.
Because pumping should be part of your day, not get in the way, we scrutinised many wearable breast pumps and only picked the ones that promise the most efficient pumping sessions - filling those baby bottles in the shortest time possible. Our final selection was then scored on the following: overall quality including parts and accessories, value for money, size and portability, suction strength and mode functions, noise level, and general ease of use including assembly and cleaning.
From the best portable wearable breast pump to the best option for larger breasts, here is our complete list of the best wearable breast pumps.
MAM Move Wearable Breast Pump: Currently 33% off at Boots
Mumsnet-favourite brand MAM have entered the wearable breast pump market with the MAM Move Wearable Breast Pump. Featuring 3 modes and five intensity levels, it also has a silent mode for discreet pumping and has been designed to fit snugly in your bra. Best of all, it's currently 33% off at Boots!
Was £200
Now £133
Fraupow Wearable Breast Pump
Not too fiddly
Lightweight and discreet
Achieves great output
Midwife calls included with purchase
Not as efficient as a hospital-grade pump
Only pumps one breast at a time
Price: £90 | Single or double pump: Single (pump one breast at a time) | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 4 modes and 12 different intensity levels | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 12 months for the unit and a 90-day warranty for the parts.
Weighing in at just 218 grams, the award-winning Fraupow wearable breast pump is lightweight, discreet and super-comfortable to use, according to Mumsnetters. But what’s given this wearable breast pump our “best overall” title for 2024 is that it offers most of the same features as other top-notch wearables on the market – like air pressure pulse technology, anti-leak design, and a full LED touchscreen display, but at a fraction of the price at under £100. Founder and mum Sunita Boyes has also gone the extra mile for mums, offering three 20-minute support calls from a midwife included with purchase.
This Fraupow is made from durable, BPA-free silicone materials and its ergonomic silhouette promises to fit a wide range of breast sizes. It comes standard with a 24mm flange, but more sizes and inserts can be bought separately. It has four modes including massage, pump, lactation and auto as well as 12 different intensity levels with a 20-minute automatic shut-off function. The only downsides? The Fraupow is a single breast pump, and some say the battery life is limited, only offering 90-100 minutes at full power before needing a recharge.
Related: The best sterilisers, tried and tested by Mumsnetters
Great value for money
Comfortable for larger breasts
Effective, powerful suction
Cups aren’t entirely translucent so difficult to judge nipple placement
Price: £31 | Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 4 modes and 6 suction levels | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 1 year
If you're looking for a wearable breast pump but don't want to spend over the odds, the BellaBaby is available as a single or double. The BellaBaby Wearable breast pump comes with 24mm and 28mm flanges/breast shields and is made from food-grade silicone with a soft edge and comfortable seal, making it skin-friendly for sensitive breasts. It’s quiet too, with manufacturers claiming that it’s vibration sound is lower than 40dB, or the equivalent of a gentle whisper.
BellaBaby’s cups can take 180ml of breast milk as opposed to 150ml that you’ll find with most other brands, so if you produce a lot of breast milk with each pump, this is a good choice. We also appreciated the stable design and easy pouring spout, so the milk won’t spill if you have to set the cup down or pour in a hurry.
Momcozy M5 Hands Free Breast Pump
Quiet and discreet
Small - you could wear it out and about
Efficient pumping
Pricey
Price: £180 | Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 3 modes and 9 suction levels | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 12 months for the unit
Tested by MNHQ: Read our in-depth Momcozy M5 review
Need to express on the go, at your desk or in public? Then, the MomcozyM5 will be your perfect breast pumping companion. A little pricey, we know, but this double wearable has earned its title as “The best portable wearable breast pump” as it’s an all-in-one unit that doesn’t require fancy tech or cables, plus it has an extended battery life, with one charge lasting for up to 120 minutes or 4-5 sessions before needing a quick recharge.
This simple, yet efficient unit also comes with a new double-sealed flange that snugly fits your breasts, allowing for more efficient pumping and less chance of spillage, plus it has a built-in automatic shut-off function in case you fall asleep or get distracted. We also like the newly upgraded 3-mode functionality which now includes Stimulation – to get your milk flowing, Expression – to improve milk flow and Mixed which is both fast and deep.
Related: Feed in comfort with the best nursing chairs
Elvie Stride Double Wearable Electric Breast Pump
Hospital grade strength of up to -270 mmHG
Ultra-quiet
Includes smart app features
Pricey (Single available for £167)
Battery may not last for longer pumping sessions
Price: £299 | Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 2 modes and 10 intensity settings | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 24 months for the unit
Tested by MNHQ: Read our full review of the Elvie Stride
Whether you’re a mum of multiples or simply planning on pumping more frequently, then a heavy-duty wearable breast pump like the Elvie Stride is a good option. Built for durability, it can handle extensive use without losing suction power or performance, which is why it’s a popular choice amongst Mumsnetters - despite the hefty price tag! It also stands out as being one of the quietest and most discreet breast pumps on our list thanks to the lightweight, compact design. However, this also means that each cup only holds 150ml of milk, as opposed to 180ml which is the standard cup size on other pumps.
If you’re a tech fan who likes to know a little more about your milk supply, then you’ll enjoy the convenience and intuitiveness of the Elvie Stride app companion which includes customisable settings, real-time tracking, guided pump sessions (and reminders), plus pumping history which can help you monitor milk supply and identify patterns.
Momcozy V2 Hands-Free Breast Pump
Extremely easy and intuitive to assemble
Very comfortable to use
Quiet enough for use in an office setting
Hands-free and easily portable
Not as discreet as other hands-free pumps, particularly if you have larger breasts
Quite pricey at RRP of £200
Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Mains and rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 3 modes, 9 vacuum levels | Closed system: Yes | BPA-free: Yes
Tested by MNHQ: Read our in-depth Momcozy V2 breast pump review
For an efficient, wearable breast pump which is comfortable, portable and quiet enough to use in an office setting, the Momcozy V2 has it all. Our tester put the pump through its paces over a period of several months, including a tricky time where she had to exclusively pump for her newborn during a hospital stay.
While the Momcozy V2 isn't quite as discreet as other pumps - our tester felt it was a bit too bulky for her to be completely comfortable wearing out and about - its noise level is less than 48dB and it has an impressive number of flange size options.
Minimalist design (cord-free)
Drop resistant
Easy to clean
Not technically a breast pump - more of a milk collector
Price: £17 | Single or double pump: Single | Power source: NA/manual | Number of settings: NA | Closed system: No | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 90 days
Tested by MNHQ: Read our in-depth Haakaa review
While the Haaka isn’t a true wearable breast pump (you’ll need a good nursing bra that’s compatible with the Haakaa like this one), this nifty little manual pump still deserves a spot on our list, because according to Mumsnetters – it’s non-invasive, easy to use and works well to extract milk. The soft silicone flange attaches easily to the breast and stays put while you apply gentle pressure to stimulate let down. Another bonus is that it’s a one size fits all and beyond pumping, it’s a great milk collector when breastfeeding on the opposite side. Mums love how simple it is to clean and maintain too as there’s no wires or accessories to faff about with.
For stronger suction, manufacturers suggest folding back the flange and squeezing the bottom whilst attaching the pump to your nipple. The only downside? The pump only has 100ml capacity, so may not be suitable if you need to pump a lot of milk at one time and it can pop off if the suction isn’t secure enough.
Momcozy V1 Hospital Grade Breast Pump
Extremely efficient - our tester said it emptied both breasts in just five minutes
Comfortable
User-friendly instructional video accessible via QR code
Pricey
Motor unit doesn't have an attachment for clothes or body so it's not as transportable as we'd like
Price: £200 | Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Mains and rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 3 modes, 9 suction levels | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes
Tested by MNHQ: Read our in-depth Momcozy V1 breast pump review
If you're looking for a hands-free breast pump which is super quick and efficient, the Momcozy V1 is a great option. Our tester - a busy mum of two - found that the pump was extremely effective at emptying both breasts in just five minutes whilst being comfortable to use.
The double-sealed flange comes in a choice of two sizes - 24 or 27 mm - and is made from soft, food-grade silicone for added comfort and security. It's also made with a 105° wide-angle design for discretion.
While it's not the cheapest or most discreet wearable pump available, its certainly not the most expensive or bulky, making it a great middle-range option for efficient, hands-free pumping.
Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Double Electric Wearable Breast Pump
Super lightweight
Transparent design for easy nipple alignment
Easy cleaning – with only three parts (dishwasher safe)
Pricey
Noisy
Price: £240 | Single or double pump: Double | Power source: Rechargeable battery and power adapter | Number of settings: 4 modes and 9 suction settings | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 1 year for the unit and 90 days for the parts
Tested by MNHQ: Read our in-depth Medela Freestyle Hands-free Breast Pump review.
As leaders in breast pump innovation, Medela certainly know a thing or two about what mums need from a high-quality breast pump, and the Medela Freestyle is their latest wearable model. Unlike most other wearables on our list, where the motor (or main unit) is attached to the cup, this pocket-sized pump is a separate unit, allowing the lightweight collection cups, which weigh only 76g each, to fit discreetly inside your bra. The cups are designed to maximise milk flow, with a broader lower half to support the underside of the breast and can be worn vertically or slightly tilted outwards for better visibility of the nipple and milk flow. Mumsnetters also agree that the suction is strong, but smooth and not painful.
This wearable uses a closed system design, where the tubing connects the breast shields to the motor unit, ensuring that milk, moisture and air can’t flow into the tubing. Plus, the unit itself is simple to use with both stimulation and expression phases, where you have full control to adjust your maximum comfort vacuum. Medela users also gain access to the award-winning Medela app - built for ease of use. It offers a breastfeeding tracker, personalised content, community support and more.
Good value for money
Simple design
Long battery life
Some say it’s noisier than manufacturers claim
Price: £30 | Single or double pump: Single | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 2 modes and 9 suction settings | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 1 year for the unit and 90 days for the parts
If you’re looking for a straightforward, easy-to-use wearable breast pump with no fancy frills or fuss, then the Vornn by Vorsprung Wearable electric pump is a good, reliable choice. This single wearable breast pump comes with all the great features of pricier models like soft silicone shields and parts, a USB-C cable, bra adjustment buckle and an easy-to-use LCD touch screen that allows you to switch between different modes and speed levels, but at a fraction of the price.
Plus, it offers a comfortable expressing experience through lightweight suction cups and completely softened contact points, so it won't irritate your nipples or surrounding breast tissue. The extended two-hour battery life and USB-C charger makes it compatible with car charges, power banks and computers, making it super convenient to pump on the go. Another bonus is the silicone valve that prevents milk leakage and milk back-flow, but some reviewers have pointed out that it’s best to pump whilst being in an upright position. In a nutshell, this pump gets a thumbs up for its ease of use, solid pumping strength, and the ability to hold a decent amount of breastmilk (150ml).
Elvie Single Wearable Electric Breast Pump
Ultra-quiet
Small and discreet
Comes with a smart app that controls the pump and monitors milk flow
Pricey for a single unit
Price: £269 | Single or double pump: Single | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Number of settings: 2 modes and 14 intensity settings | Closed system: Yes | BPA free: Yes | Warranty: 2-year warranty on the pump and 90-day warranty on washable components
Tested by MNHQ: Read our full Elvie review
There’s no doubt that Elvie’s breast pumps are a firm favourite amongst Mumsnetters and their wearable version is proving just as popular – for good reason. This single unit is by far the quietest and most discreet wearable on our list, with some mums even able to do the grocery shop with it tucked away in a nursing bra (as explained above).
It’s also simple to use and clean with no cords or tubes and only five parts to clean. Another standout feature is the intuitiveness of the unit - as it automatically switches from Stimulation into Expression mode when it detects letdown and will pause when the bottle is full, so no chance of overfilling, leaks, or spillage. You have the option to store the milk you've just pumped in the refrigerator using the provided lids, eliminating the need to transfer it to a different container.
Elvie manufacturers have made sure not to miss the finer details like brightness control settings on the hub, a side selector function which allows you to track which breast you're pumping from and default intensity settings so you can save your preferred pumping settings. It’s also worth mentioning that this breast pump comes with a carry bag, two bottles and two sets of breast shields (24mm and 28mm).
What is a wearable breast pump?
A wearable breast pump is similar to other types of breast pump in how it extracts milk, but this nifty device lets you pump milk hands-free while you're out and about or doing chores around the house. Most models fit right into your bra without any cords or attachments getting in the way. So, you can go about your day and still take care of your milk supply effortlessly. Plus, many wearable breast pumps come with adjustable settings, allowing you to find your perfect pumping rhythm and comfort level.
How do I choose the best type of breast pump for me?
When choosing the right wearable breast pump for your lifestyle and needs, there are a few factors to consider before you buy:
The hands-free design: The wearable pump's design should be sleek, yet solid allowing you to move freely and multitask while pumping. Some pumps like the Medela Freestyle Breast Pump have a separate hub or unit that fits seamlessly into your pocket, with just the cups attached to your breast, whilst most others have the hub and cups attached as a single unit that fits into your nursing bra.
Budget: Compare the features and prices of different pumps within your budget. Luckily, we’ve included a variety of wearable breast pumps on our list ranging from £30 to £300.
Suction strength and modes: Look for a wearable pump with adjustable suction levels and modes that suit your comfort and milk expression needs. For instance, some pumps like the Fraupow Wearable Breast Pump has a gentle massage function to stimulate the letdown reflex before pumping.
Flange size options: Opt for pumps that offer different flange sizes to ensure a comfortable fit for your breast shape and size. Some pumps come with more than one flange size, whilst others indicate that you need to buy them separately. Regardless, it’s important to find the right size flange for you, as this will affect your comfort level as well as how much milk you get to extract.
According to feeding experts at Medela, you’ll need to re-evaluate your flange size if you find that one or more of the following are happening while you’re pumping:
Discomfort is caused by your nipple rubbing against the sides of the breast shield tunnel.
Excessive areola is being drawn into the breast shield tunnel.
Redness appears on or near the nipple during and/or after pumping.
Nipples or areola turn white during and/or after pumping.
Your breasts remain full after pumping.
Battery life: Consider how long the pump's battery lasts to ensure it can support your typical pumping sessions without frequent recharging, especially if you’re using the pump on the go.
Hygiene features: Look for pumps with closed systems that prevent milk from entering the tubing, ensuring hygiene and ease of cleaning. The good news is that all the pumps on our list have closed systems except for the Haakaa which is a manual wearable pump.
Smart features: if you’re tech savvy and like to stay on top of your pumping schedule, choose a wearable pump that has additional app capabilities for real-time monitoring, history tracking, and personalised settings.
Comfort and fit: If you want to learn more about a pump you have in mind, read more reviews on our Mumsnet Forum for first-hand tips and advice to assess its comfort as well as how well it stays in place.
Noise level: Consider the noise level if you plan to pump discreetly in various settings.
Portability: Check if the pump is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry, especially if you're often out and about.
Return policy: Ensure you understand the return policy in case the pump doesn't meet your expectations.
Do wearable breast pumps actually work?
Yes, wearable breast pumps can be effective tools for expressing milk. They’re designed to provide convenience and flexibility, allowing mums to pump milk hands-free while engaging in other activities. However, the effectiveness of a wearable breast pump depends on factors such as the pump's design, suction strength, fit, and the user's milk supply.
Many women find wearable breast pumps to be helpful in maintaining their milk supply and expressing or pumping milk conveniently, especially when they need to pump on the go or while multitasking. However, individual experiences may vary, and it's important to choose a high-quality pump that suits your needs and comfort.
What to look for when choosing a wearable breast pump
Firstly, it’s important to read reviews like this one so that you have a good idea of the variety of good wearable breast pumps on the market. If you’re considering a particular one, be sure to follow our guidelines above on how to choose the best type of wearable breast pump for you, plus consider the following:
Compatibility - If you plan to use a wearable breast pump with a specific nursing bra, check if the pump is compatible with your preferred bra style.
Support and accessories - Consider what comes with the pump, such as extra flanges, storage bags, bottles or cooler bags. Availability of replacement parts and customer support can be beneficial.
Additional features - While cost is a consideration, prioritise the features that are most important for your needs. Sometimes, investing in a higher-quality pump can offer better performance and longevity.
Can I wear a hands-free breast pump on the go?
Yes! In fact, one of the primary advantages of wearable breast pumps is their mobility and convenience. These pumps are designed to allow you to pump milk while you're engaged in various activities, such as working, walking or even running errands. However, take note that some manufacturers suggest sitting upright for maximum effect and don’t recommend vigorous activities that require bending down - like vacuuming.
Wearable breast pumps have been cleverly designed to fit discreetly into your bra, allowing you to move freely without being tied down by cords or attachments. This hands-free feature makes it easier to pump in different settings, whether you're at work, travelling, or simply out and about.
What’s the best wearable breast pump to buy?
There are various wearable breast pumps to buy in the UK that’ll undoubtedly suit your needs, but we've picked the Fraupow Wearable Breast Pump as our overall winner. It's affordable, has powerful suction capabilities, comes with 12 different intensity levels and is light enough to pop into your nursing bra with minimal fuss. This model gets a lot of love on our forums too.
Tips for using a wearable breast pump
Find the right fit: Ensure the flange size fits your breasts comfortably to avoid discomfort or improper milk expression. Experiment with different sizes if needed. According to Motif Medical:
If you measured up to 17mm you’ll fit in a 21mm flange.
If you measure up to 22mm use size 24mm.
If you measured up to 23mm select size 27mm.
If you measured up to 26mm use 30mm.
If you measured up to 32 mm use size 36 mm.
Adjust suction levels Customise suction levels to mimic your baby's nursing rhythm and your comfort level. Gradually increase or decrease suction to find what works best for you.
Position the pump securely in your bra to prevent leaks and ensure efficient milk expression. Make sure it's aligned properly over your nipple and areola.
Stay relaxed as this can enhance milk flow. Find a comfortable and quiet space and consider using relaxation techniques or looking at pictures of your baby to encourage letdown.
Monitor and empty regularly- Keep track of your pumping sessions using an app or timer to maintain a pumping schedule. Regularly emptying your breasts helps maintain milk supply and prevents discomfort.
How we choose our recommendations
Recommendations from real parents
We're firm believers in the power of real-life experience when it comes to product reviews. That's why, before endorsing any new items, we turn to our invaluable community of over 7 million Mumsnet users each month. We trust their candid opinions to provide us with genuine feedback, whether it's praise or constructive criticism.
Expert advice
We consistently ensure that our information aligns with the most current expert recommendations, providing you with reliable insights. Our diligent research process involves thorough examination of each product to ensure it adheres to the latest expert guidance and withstands rigorous scrutiny. Here we also looked at what lactation consultants at Motif Medical had to say about the importance of choosing the correct flange size for comfort and pumping success.
Consumer feedback
Additionally, we thoroughly search the web beyond Mumsnet, reviewing authentic feedback from parents who have personally purchased and shared their thoughts on the products. By considering both positive and negative input, we ensure that every recommended product is backed by a collection of favourable reviews.
Celebrated products
Lastly, we also verify products that have earned industry awards, accolades, or acknowledgments from reputable sources. This information is integrated into our assessment process, assisting us in selecting the best wearable breast pumps on the market.
Why you should trust us
Mumsnet has been helping parents make their lives easier since 2000 and, in those years, we’ve seen, tried and reviewed thousands of products. We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.
Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.
About the author
Tammy Jacks has 19+ years' experience in the publishing industry, enjoying a long and fruitful career as Managing Editor and Health & Beauty Editor for Woman & Home magazine in South Africa. She later went on to become Assistant Editor of the popular South African parenting title Living and Loving, and has written for numerous lifestyle publications including Oprah Mag SA, Health Intelligence, Your Family Magazine, Longevity, and pharmaceutical company Clicks Clubcard Magazine, as well as edited books for popular fitness influencers and health professionals.
Tammy is passionate about fitness, wellness, and nutrition and is a keen marathon runner and cyclist. When she’s not running on the road, you’ll find her trying to keep up with her busy eight-year-old daughter, and two cats Zoe and Nala.