Choosing the best breast pump for small breasts can feel overwhelming, especially when comfort, efficiency, and proper fit are critical. Small-breasted moms often face unique challenges, such as finding the right flange size or ensuring a pump’s suction is gentle yet effective. This guide compiles top picks, detailed pros and cons, real-world testing insights, a buying guide, and a comparison table to help you find the perfect breast pump. Each recommendation prioritizes comfort and efficiency, with flange sizes suited for smaller breasts and designs that enhance the pumping experience.
Top Breast Pump Recommendations for Small Breasts
Spectra S1 Plus Hospital Strength Breast Pump
The best breast pump is the Spectra S1 Plus Hospital Strength Breast Pump, according to more than 2,100 moms who praise its efficiency, comfort, and ease of use. This quiet, compact pump has a rechargeable battery and separate modes for suction strength and suction speed, making it more customizable and easier to use than competitors. It’s been around for a while and is more than capable of handling pumping ¡®round the clock. You will get effective, comfortable suction for reliable milk output.
- Pros: Expresses milk quickly and comfortably. Closed system — safe for multi-person use. Superb pumping efficiency with a nightlight, timer, bottle holder, and memory function. Offers flange sizes as small as 20mm for better fit on smaller breasts.
- Cons: The tubes fall off easily during pumping (which means they need to be replaced). The pump vibrates during usage. At 3.3 pounds, it’s heavier than some portable options.
Shop Spectra S1 Plus on Amazon
Elvie Stride Wearable Breast Pump
If you’re looking for a powerful semi-wearable pump, the Elvie Stride is the perfect pick. It has a hospital-grade strength motor that has a suction power of up to 300 mmHG, which is higher than the original wearable Elvie pump. You can also use the Elvie app to control your pump and adjust suction settings, as well as monitor your pumping history and track milk volume. Moms like the soft silicone nipple shields, saying they are gentle against the breasts; they also come in three sizes so you can get the best fit.
- Pros: Lightweight and discreet, fits inside a bra. Offers 21mm and 24mm flanges, ideal for smaller breasts. Quiet operation, Zoom meeting-friendly. App connectivity for tracking.
- Cons: Nipple shields may become less comfortable over time. Motor placement makes it hard to check milk volume discreetly. Expensive compared to non-wearable options.
Momcozy S12 Pro Wearable Breast Pump
Moms also like the Momcozy S12 Pro as a secondary wearable breast pump. The design consists of a cup with a small, squarish motor attached to the top of it. The suction is also gentle, so I found it to be a comfortable pump. In my research I’ve found that the Elvie is popular among moms who have sensitivity from a difficult latch, so it’s sort of a good thing and a bad thing that the suction isn’t that strong.
- Pros: Budget-friendly wearable option. Includes 17mm, 19mm, and 21mm flange inserts for smaller nipples. Gentle suction ideal for sensitive breasts. Long battery life (8-10 sessions).
- Cons: Some reviews note motor durability issues after a few months. Less suction power than hospital-grade pumps.
Shop Momcozy S12 Pro on Amazon
Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump
This breast pump is designed for moms on the move. It’s very practical since it’s small enough to fit in your bag or even your pocket. The double pump system allows for more milk in less time, which is super-efficient. The pump connects to a handy app called My Medela. You can track your pumping sessions so you never forget that day’s progress. The 2-Phase Expression technology mimics babies’ natural sucking rhythms so it’s more comfortable and effective for you.
- Pros: Compact and portable, with 21mm and 24mm flanges included. Quiet operation for discreet pumping. App connectivity for session tracking. Efficient double pumping.
- Cons: Not as portable as fully wearable pumps due to external battery pack. Some users report uneven suction.
Shop Medela Freestyle Hands-Free on Amazon
BabyBuddha 2.0 Portable Breast Pump
The BabyBuddha 2.0 Breast Pump is a multitasking mom’s solution to making every session easy, comfortable, and convenient. This pump has a quiet motor, 15 different mode settings, and an extra soft cushion to prevent nipple soreness. Plus, the breast pump suction patterns in the stimulation mode mimic those of a breastfeeding baby to help increase milk supply and trigger letdowns. The lightweight and compact design makes it one of the smallest breast pumps on the market, meaning you can pump anywhere discreetly.
- Pros: Weighs only 0.8 pounds, highly portable. Offers 19mm and 21mm flange inserts. Soft cushion enhances comfort for smaller breasts. 15 customizable settings.
- Cons: Strong suction (up to 270 mmHg) may be too intense for some. Milk collection cups sold separately, increasing cost.
Comparison Table of Top Breast Pumps
| Pump Model | Flange Sizes | Suction Strength | Weight | Battery Life | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spectra S1 Plus | 20mm, 24mm, 28mm | Up to 320 mmHg | 3.3 lbs | 3 hours | $200-$250 |
| Elvie Stride | 21mm, 24mm, 27mm | Up to 300 mmHg | 0.5 lbs | 2-3 hours | $300-$350 |
| Momcozy S12 Pro | 17mm, 19mm, 21mm, 24mm | Up to 280 mmHg | 0.6 lbs | 8-10 sessions | $100-$150 |
| Medela Freestyle | 21mm, 24mm, 27mm | Up to 250 mmHg | 1 lb | 3 hours | $300-$400 |
| BabyBuddha 2.0 | 19mm, 21mm, 24mm | Up to 270 mmHg | 0.8 lbs | 4-6 sessions | $200-$250 |
Real-World Testing Insights
Spectra S1 Plus Testing
She says that the Spectra S1 was by far her favorite. “The Spectra pumped milk extremely efficiently,” she says. “In just 15 minutes, I could express up to 5 ounces per breast, while with other pumps I’d get maybe half that amount.” Plus, she says, the Spectra was easy to use, fit comfortably and was easy to clean. Our lab tester, Gena, stated, “The S1 is more substantial; while it is great sitting there, I am not a fan of carrying it.” In lab tests, it consistently yielded high milk output, averaging 4.5-5 ounces per session, with 20mm flanges providing a snug fit for smaller breasts.
Elvie Stride Testing
“The Elvie Stride has several features, like a powerful motor and decent cup capacity, that make it ideal for moms who want the convenience of a wearable pump but the power and price of an electric pump,” Jaclyn King, a mom of two, writes in her review of the Elvie Stride. Testers noted its ability to collect 3-4 ounces per 20-minute session, with 21mm flanges ensuring comfort for smaller nipples. However, some reported slight discomfort after 30 minutes of continuous use.
Momcozy S12 Pro Testing
Testers found the Momcozy S12 Pro comfortable for short sessions (15-20 minutes), yielding 2.5-3.5 ounces per session. Its 17mm and 19mm flange inserts were a game-changer for moms with smaller nipples, reducing discomfort. However, one tester noted the motor failed after three months, though customer service replaced it promptly.
Medela Freestyle Testing
“I’m a mom of two and usually¤±¤ì¤Ð
need to be hands free while pumping.” Said one mom of two. “This pump works well (strong suction, adequate output) however it isn’t as portable as I’d like it to be since you have to carry both the pump and the battery pack around with you.” Testers reported 3-4 ounces per 15-minute session, with 21mm flanges fitting well for smaller breasts. The app was praised for tracking but criticized for occasional connectivity issues.
BabyBuddha 2.0 Testing
Our tester loved the ability to customize the speed and suction strength (intensity) and control each pump separately. In testing, it yielded 3.5-4.5 ounces per 20-minute session, with 19mm flanges providing a comfortable fit. The soft cushion was a standout, reducing nipple soreness, though some testers found the suction too strong at higher settings.
Buying Guide for Breast Pumps for Small Breasts
Key Considerations
- Flange Size: The right flange size ensures a comfortable fit and adequate milk supply. “Poorly fitting flanges can lead to pain, a decrease in the amount of breast milk pumped, or both,” says Dr. Madden. Look for pumps with 17mm, 19mm, or 21mm flanges or inserts for smaller nipples.
- Suction Strength: A pump should go up to at least 250 mmHg. A suction power level of about 250 to 300 mmHg should work for regular, exclusive pumping, while for occasional pumping, look into pumps that offer suction power of at least 200 mmHg.
- Portability: Pumps vary in this department, so it should be a factor you strongly consider. Some breast pumps require you to be plugged into an electric outlet at all times, which confines you to a certain area. Others portable breast pumps are charged with a battery, so they allow you to move around freely.
- Comfort: Does the pump fit your body well? With any pump, it’s crucial to make sure you can get compatible flanges that fit the size of your nipples. Expressing is easier and more efficient if you feel relaxed, so choose a pump that’s appealing to look at and comfortable to hold.
- Noise Level: Some pumps have motors that are louder than others. It can be hard to know how loud a pump is until you’ve tried it, so be sure to read reviews to determine whether a pump you’re interested in purchasing is louder or on the quiet side.
Steps to Choose the Right Pump
- Measure your nipple size using a nipple ruler to ensure proper flange fit.
- Determine your pumping frequency (exclusive, occasional, or hybrid) to decide between electric, wearable, or manual pumps.
- Check insurance coverage, as many plans cover breast pumps fully or partially. Learn more about insurance coverage.
- Test different suction settings in-store or via returnable online purchases to find the most comfortable option.
- Read user reviews on platforms like Amazon for real-world insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What flange size is best for small breasts?
The right flange size depends on your nipple diameter, not breast size. Most moms with small breasts need 17mm, 19mm, or 21mm flanges. Measure your nipple with a ruler or sizing tool to ensure a snug fit, as improper sizing can cause pain or low output.
Are wearable pumps effective for small breasts?
Yes, wearable pumps like the Elvie Stride and Momcozy S12 Pro are effective, especially with smaller flange sizes. However, they may be less efficient than plug-in electric pumps, yielding slightly less milk per session (2-4 ounces vs. 4-5 ounces).
How often should I pump with a small breast pump?
For exclusive pumping, aim for 8-12 sessions per day, 15-20 minutes each. For occasional pumping, 2-4 sessions daily suffice. Adjust based on your supply and baby’s demand. Consult a lactation consultant for personalized advice.
Can I increase milk supply with these pumps?
Yes, pumps like the Spectra S1 Plus and BabyBuddha 2.0, with strong suction and customizable settings, can help increase supply by mimicking a baby’s nursing rhythm. Pump between nursing sessions and stay hydrated to boost output.
How do I clean and maintain my breast pump?
Start by disassembling your breast pump and placing all parts that come into contact with breast milk in soapy, warm water. Use a clean brush dedicated solely for cleaning pump parts, and scrub away gently. Air-dry parts to prevent bacterial growth. Sanitize daily for newborns or premature babies.
Additional Resources
- CDC Guidelines on Breast Milk Storage and Cleaning
- La Leche League Breast Pumping Tips
- KellyMom Breastfeeding and Pumping Resources
This comprehensive guide aims to simplify your search for the best breast pump for small breasts, balancing comfort, efficiency, and practicality. Whether you prioritize portability, power, or budget, these top picks and insights from real moms will help you make an informed choice.