By Tehreem Fatima  Updated May 15, 2024

Are you looking for the best breast pump for a letdown? I understand how overwhelming it can be to find a breast pump that can help with your letdown while also being comfortable and efficient.

That’s why I have researched and compiled a list of the seven best breast pumps for letdown.

These breast pumps are highly recommended by mothers and experts alike for their efficiency in stimulating letdown. They have been listed based on their features, customer reviews, and overall performance.

So, if you’re a new mom or just looking for a better breast pump to help with your letdown, let’s get straight to the list!

Below, I have listed the top 7 breast pumps for letdown and their features and benefits to help you make an informed decision.

1. Best Overall: Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump

2. For Efficient: Medela Pump in Style with Maxflow

3. Best Portable: Baby Buddha Portable Breast Pump

4. Best Hands-free: Elvie Stride Plus Double Electric Breast Pump

5. Best Wearable: Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump

6. Best Manual: Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump

7. Best Collector: Haakaa Silicone Breast Milk Collector

In this section, I will provide a detailed analysis of each breast pump to help you understand its features and benefits better.

If you are looking for the best overall breast pump for a letdown, the Spectra S1 Plus is an excellent choice. This pump offers the perfect balance of features and functionality for efficient pumping.

It has customizable settings for suction strength and speed, allowing you to find the perfect level for your comfort. It also has a letdown mode that mimics a baby’s natural sucking pattern, stimulating milk flow and aiding in letdown.

The built-in rechargeable battery is another plus point of this pump, making it convenient for on-the-go pumping without being tethered to an outlet. Moreover, the closed system design ensures hygiene and prevents milk backflow, making maintenance easier.

Moms who have used the Spectra S1 Plus rave about how quickly they get their letdown and how comfortable it is compared to other pumps they’ve tried. They also appreciate the quiet operation, making night-time pumping sessions less disruptive.

However, some mothers mentioned that the pump’s size is bulky, making it less portable than other pumps on this list.

“I’ve tried different pumps, but the Spectra S1 Plus is the best. It’s efficient, comfortable, and has a rechargeable battery for on-the-go pumping.” – Karen, mother of three.

“The customizable settings are excellent! I have sensitive breasts, and this pump allows me to find the perfect level for maximum comfort.” – Rachel, a first-time mother.

The Medela Pump in Style with Maxflow is designed for moms who prioritize efficiency and convenience. This pump features the patented Maxflow technology, which allows it to express more milk in less time.

It also has a 2-phase expression mode that mimics a baby’s natural sucking pattern, aiding in letdown and maximizing milk production. The adjustable suction strength and speed allow for a customizable pumping experience.

The pump comes with a cooler bag, ice pack, and four bottles for storage, making it an excellent choice for mothers who need to pump on the go. It also has a compact and portable design, making it easy to carry in a breast pump bag.

Moms who have used the Medela Pump in Style with Maxflow praise its efficiency and ease of use. They also appreciate the included accessories, making it a convenient all-in-one pumping package.

However, some mothers mentioned that the pump’s noise level is a bit high, and its bulkier design may need to be more suitable for discreet pumping in public places.

“I have to pump frequently due to my work schedule, and this pump has been a lifesaver. I get more milk in less time, and it’s compact enough to carry around.” – Sarah, working mother.

“The cooler bag and ice pack are a great addition, especially for long trips. I don’t have to worry about my milk spoiling.” – Jessica, mother of two.

The Baby Buddha Portable Breast Pump is perfect for mothers who need a compact and lightweight pump for a letdown. It’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, making it one of the most portable breast pumps on this list.

Despite its size, it still offers adjustable suction levels up to 320mmHg and a 2-phase expression mode for efficient pumping. It also has a rechargeable battery that provides up to 10 sessions on a single charge, making it ideal for travelling or pumping.

Moms who have used the Baby Buddha pump love how discreet and portable it is, making it easy to use in public places without drawing attention. They also appreciate its strong suction power and customizable settings.

However, there may be better choices for mothers who need to pump frequently, as its small size may not be suitable for long-term and heavy use.

“I love how small and discreet this pump is. I can easily carry it in my purse or pocket, and no one would even know I’m pumping.” – Emily, mother of one.

“The suction strength on this tiny pump is impressive. It helps me get a lot of milk out quickly.” – Rachel, working mother.

If you have a hands-free breast pump for a letdown, then the Elvie Stride Plus Double Electric Breast Pump is perfect. It is designed to fit inside your bra and can be controlled through a smartphone app.

The pump features a closed system with five suction levels, making it efficient for milk expression. The accompanying app tracks pumping sessions and provides personalized tips for maximizing milk production.

Moms who have used the Elvie Stride Plus praise its convenience and discreetness, allowing them to pump while doing other tasks. They also appreciate the hands-free feature and the app’s helpful features for monitoring pumping sessions.

However, the pump’s price point may be a deterrent for some mothers.

“I love that I can pump while doing other tasks without being tethered to a cord. It’s so convenient!” – Maria, mother of three.

“The app is excellent for keeping track of my pumping sessions and providing tips for increasing milk production.” – Lisa, mother of twins.

If you want a breast pump for a letdown that you can wear under your clothes, the Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump is an excellent option. It fits inside a standard nursing bra and operates quietly, making it discreet for use in public.

The pump features five suction levels and a 2-phase expression mode. It also has an accompanying app that tracks pumping sessions and provides personalized tips for increasing milk supply.

Mothers who have used the Elvie Wearable Electric Breast Pump love its convenience and innovative features, allowing them to go about their day while pumping. They also appreciate its quiet operation and the helpful app.

However, it may be a bit pricy for some mothers, and the suction may need to be stronger than other options on this list.

“I love wearing this pump under my clothes while running errands. It’s so convenient and discreet!” – Sarah, mother of two.

“The app is a game-changer. It helps me stay on track with my pumping schedule and gives personalized tips for increasing milk supply.” – a working mother.

The Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump is a top choice if you prefer a manual breast pump for a letdown. It features 2-phase expression technology and an ergonomic handle for comfortable pumping.

The pump’s compact size makes it easy to take on the go, and it can also be used as a backup pump if your electric one malfunctions.

Mothers who have used the Medela Harmony praise its efficiency and ease of use. They also appreciate its compact size and affordable price point.

However, some moms may find pumping manually tiring and prefer an electric pump for a letdown.

“I love that I can pump anywhere without worrying about finding an outlet. This manual pump is a lifesaver!” – Rachel, mother of three.

“The 2-phase expression technology mimics my baby’s nursing pattern, which makes pumping more comfortable and efficient.” – Jessica, stay-at-home mom.

If you want a simple and affordable option for collecting letdown milk while breastfeeding, the Haakaa Silicone Breast Milk Collector is an excellent choice. It attaches to your breast through suction and collects milk from your non-nursing breast.

The Haakaa collector can hold up to 4 oz of milk, making it perfect for occasional use or as a backup for electric pumps. It is also made of 100% food-grade silicone, making it safe for both mom and baby.

Mothers who have used the Haakaa Silicone Breast Milk Collector love its simplicity and effectiveness. They also appreciate how easy it is to clean and its portability.

However, remember that this product is not intended for use as a standalone pump and may not be suitable for mothers with oversupply.

“I love using this while breastfeeding my baby. It’s so convenient and collects any letdown milk that would often go to waste.” – Lily, first-time mom.

“This collector has saved me from many engorgement episodes when I couldn’t get to my electric pump. I highly recommend it!” – Grace, mother of four.

When it comes to choosing a breast pump for letdowns, there are a few factors to consider:

1. Pumping Needs: Think about how often you will use your breast pump and for what purpose. An electric pump may be more suitable if you plan on exclusively pumping or returning to work. A manual or milk collector may be sufficient for occasional use or catching letdowns while breastfeeding.
2. Comfort and Convenience: Look for pumps with adjustable suction, ergonomic design, and compatibility with different breast shield sizes. This will ensure maximum comfort while pumping and make the process more efficient.
3. Portability: If you use your breast pump on the go, consider its weight and size. Electric pumps can be bulkier and heavier, while manual or milk collectors are more compact and lightweight.
4. Safety: Ensure the breast pump is made of safe materials free from harmful chemicals like BPA, PVC, and phthalates.
5. After-Sales Support and Warranty: Check for the brand’s return policies and warranties to ensure your investment’s peace of mind and protection.

Considering these factors, you can choose the right breast pump to effectively assist with letdowns and make your breastfeeding journey more comfortable and convenient.

In conclusion, finding the best breast pump for letdown depends on your specific needs and preferences. Electric pumps for efficient milk expression, manual pumps for occasional use or as a backup, and milk collectors for catching letdowns while breastfeeding are all excellent options to consider.

When deciding, remember to prioritize comfort, convenience, portability, safety, and after-sales support. Ultimately, the best breast pump meets your needs and helps make your breastfeeding journey more enjoyable for you and your baby.

Happy Pumping!

Below, we’ve answered a few commonly asked questions about breast pumps and letdowns:

Here’s a summary of some valuable resources and what they offer:

1. Kellymom (Kellymom): This website is well-regarded for its evidence-based information on breastfeeding, pumping, and parenting. It’s an excellent starting point for mothers seeking lactation support and practical advice on balancing work and breastfeeding.

2. UpToDate – Pumping Breast Milk (Beyond the Basics) (UpToDate): This resource offers detailed patient education materials for mothers seeking a deeper understanding of pumping breast milk. It includes additional resources for finding lactation specialists and peer support.

3. La Leche League Online Support Resources (La Leche League International): La Leche League (LLL) is a global organization offering breastfeeding support in over 80 countries. Their online resources include a search function for finding local LLL leaders and groups, providing mothers access to personal guidance and community support.

4. WIC Breastfeeding Support – Expressing and Pumping Milk (WIC Breastfeeding Support): The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers tips and videos on milk expression and pumping. This resource is beneficial for solving breastfeeding challenges and making milk expression work for each mother.

5. Women’s Health – Breastfeeding Resources (Women’s Health): This government website provides general information about breastfeeding from reputable sources like the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Pediatrics. It’s a trustworthy source for mothers seeking authoritative advice on breastfeeding.

6. PHFE WIC – Breastfeeding Support, Resources & Information (PHFE WIC): PHFE WIC offers extensive breastfeeding support and resources, including classes and lactation information. Contacting their offices can connect mothers with more personalized support and educational materials.

7. Mamava – Breastfeeding Resources for Parents (Mamava): Mamava provides resources tailored to the needs of working mothers, including facts and talk tracks to help explain the necessity of pumping at work. It also reviews products like nursing covers, aiding mothers in finding the best gear for breastfeeding and pumping.

8. Cincinnati Children’s – Maintaining Milk Supply with a Breast Pump (Cincinnati Children’s): This resource offers insights into using a breast pump to build and maintain milk supply, alongside clinical trials, research studies, and ongoing support resources. It’s a valuable source of information for mothers looking to optimize their pumping routine.

9. Lurie Children’s – Breastfeeding and Pumping Resources (Lurie Children’s): Catering especially to mothers of NICU babies, this resource compiles support sites, organizations, and instructional videos to assist with breastfeeding and pumping during a challenging time.

These resources collectively provide knowledge and support for breastfeeding mothers, especially those in the consideration stage looking to make informed decisions about pumping.