Best Wearable Breast Pumps of 2023

Everything featured on The Nessie is independently selected and rigorously tested. We may receive a small commission on purchases made from some of our links. Also, The Nessie is part of the Ness Card ecosystem. (The Ness Card is issued by The Bank of Missouri, pursuant to a license from Mastercard, and serviced by Ness Well Financial, LLC.) Since you’re here, you’d probably be into it.

Becoming a parent means familiarizing yourself with many new things: sleepless nights, diaper changes, baby monitors, postnatal vitamins, and… a lot more. For those who choose to breastfeed, this list also includes breast pumps. With classic plug-in versions, this means sitting in front of an outlet until you’re done, which can total several (boring) hours every day.

Enter: Wearable breast pumps. 

As a new mom, when I had the chance to test out some wearable pumps, I was thrilled. Would I finally be able to get the laundry done again? Might I be able to vacuum while pumping? Could I actually be a productive human once more? 

I tried the most popular wearable breast pumps, from the trendy Willow to the budget-friendly Momcozy. After hours of portable pumping, I found the Elvie to be the best by far. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and quiet—all things you want in a wearable pump. However, plenty of other great pumps performed almost as well in our testing.

Here’s how the best wearable breast pumps stack up:

  1. Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump (Best Overall Wearable Breast Pump)
  2. Momcozy S12 Wearable Breast Pump (Best Affordable Wearable Breast Pump)
  3. Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump (Runner-up)
  4. Willow 3.0 Double Electric Breast Pump
  5. BabyBuddha Breast Pump

The Best Wearable Breast Pumps

Best Overall

Elvie Double Electric Breast Pump

  • One of the smallest portable pumps on the market
  • Connects to an app that monitors your pumping and saves your preferred settings
  • Automatically detects letdown and stops when full capacity is reached
  • Capacity: 10 ounces
$549 on Elvie $549 on Amazon
product image, white background
Pros
  • Smaller and more discreet
  • Stops pumping when full
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Has to be charged frequently

Believe the hype you’ve heard about the Elvie: It really is that good. For starters, it’s so easy to set up. I struggled to put my wall pump together, so I loved that the Elvie is straightforward and ready to go in just a few simple steps clearly explained in the guide. All you have to do is pop a few pieces together (like snapping Legos together). More importantly, it’s the smallest and most lightweight of all the pumps I tried, which is important when you want something that you can wear on the go. It hid easily inside my regular bras and didn’t add too much bulk.

The Elvie looks like 3D versions of those cups you find inside a sports bra, which means they fit seamlessly over your breasts (as opposed to the funnel shape of a wall pump’s flanges). My husband swore he couldn’t tell I was even wearing a pump—a big win and a big draw for anyone who wants a discreet pump you can wear anytime, anywhere. The suction was powerful enough for me to fully express my milk every time, yet didn’t cause any pain or soreness. It was also effective enough that, even when I was at home with plenty of access to outlets, I still chose to use the Elvie over my wall pump just for the convenience and comfort. 

My second favorite thing about the Elvie is how smart it is. The automatic sensing function is amazing. It knows when the cups are full and turns itself off. This means there’s no leaking and you don’t have to keep peeking inside your shirt to check. Plus, it senses letdown (the reflex that causes breast milk to flow) and automatically adjusts the suction to maximize milk production. It also pairs with an app that allows you to track your pumping history from your phone and save your preferences—like your intensity, rhythm, and pump time—so you don’t have to start from scratch every time. Its size and ease of use make it the best wearable breast pump overall, and the best wearable breast pump for working moms.

My only gripe with Elvie is that the battery doesn’t last as long as other pumps—about one hour compared to 2.5 hours with the Medela (the longest-lasting pump on this list). I ended up charging it after every use just to ensure it wouldn’t die on me.

Best Affordable Wearable Breast Pump

Momcozy S12 Wearable Breast Pump

  • Completely wireless design
  • Comes in a variety of flange sizes (17, 19, 21, 24, and 27 mm) 
  • Capacity: 12 ounces 
$139.99 on Amazon $139.99 on Momcozy
product image, white background
Pros
  • Affordable price
  • Easy to pour
  • Doesn’t leak
Cons
  • Noisier than other pumps

You don’t have to spend $500 to get a decent wearable breast pump. One of the most popular affordable options is the Momcozy S12, which is a fraction of the price of most other pumps. I immediately liked that it has no wires or tubes, so I didn’t have to worry about the pump getting caught on my shirt or a baby hand yanking it out of place. This design makes it easier to move around freely while wearing it, and it’s powerful enough to extract adequate milk per session. Plus, it’s comparable in comfort to the Elvie and Medela (although a tad bulkier). It also comes with a universal USB charger, which means I could easily charge it in the car.

Of course, a lower price often means lower performance. In the case of the Momcozy, I mostly noticed this in the sound. It’s much noisier than other pumps, which means there’s no hiding the fact that you’re pumping. (It also doesn’t have an app, but I didn’t find that I missed it.) If this doesn’t bother you, the Momcozy is a great pick. But if you want to secretly pump during a conference call, look elsewhere.

Runner-Up

Medela Freestyle Flex Wearable Breast Pump

  • Weighs less than one pound
  • Features lightweight cups designed to fit snug over your breast
  • Capacity: 10 ounces
$349.99 on Amazon $349.99 on Medela
product image, white background
Pros
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Easy to put on
  • Fits well inside a nursing bra
  • Lasts for hours on a single charge
Cons
  • Can spill when removing

The Medela is the first wearable pump I tried—and the one that originally got me hooked. While some pumps take a few tries to fit, I got this one on the first try. I could just shove it blindly into my bra and it slipped right on properly, with no extra adjustment necessary. I could also fit it inside a regular bra (not a nursing bra), which I loved. The pump itself is the size of a remote control, so I could stick it in the pocket of my robe or tuck it into my leggings’ waistband while I walked around the house.

This pump provided the Goldilocks of suction—not too much, not too little. I was able to fully express my milk during each session, yet my nipples didn’t get sore or chafed. There’s an automatic rhythm designed to imitate a baby’s sucking, so you don’t have to manually switch between stimulation and expression. You can just set it and forget it, which I really appreciated because what new mom needs one more thing to think about?

Like the Elvie, the Medela has an app that tracks your pumping schedule and output, which my barely functioning mom brain appreciated. I equally valued how easy the Medela is to clean. The closed system meant no milk got into the tubing, so all I had to do was wash the cups and the breast shields—easy peasy.

One complaint about the Medela: You have to be careful pulling the cups out of your bra—or bending over—because the cups are open at the top. This makes it easy to pour the milk into a bottle, but also makes it a little too easy to spill if you aren’t very careful (or if there’s a wiggling baby in your arms). 

Other Wearable Breast Pumps To Consider

Willow 3.0 Double Electric Breast Pump

  • Fully cordless pump that comes with self-sealing bags
  • “Smart Suction” technology that automatically switches between modes
  • Capacity: 8 ounces
$549.99 on Willow $549.99 on Amazon
product image, white background
Pros
  • Strong suction
  • Closed cups prevent leaking
  • Doesn’t require monitoring
Cons
  • Larger than the Elvie
  • Must pump into bags

Willow vs. Elvie is a common debate. While the Elvie is my top choice, I understand why Willow is such a close contender. It has a smaller capacity than the Elvie (8 ounces compared to the Elvie’s 10) but the pumping experience is just as comfortable. I had no trouble fitting the flanges onto my breasts and found the suction to be the equivalent of my Spectra wall pump, which is a big feat for a portable pump. I could wear the Willow while I cooked, while I cleaned, while I did laundry… heck, even while I walked on the treadmill. It’s truly a hands-free pump, too, which I loved.

Thanks to the automatic sensors that detect letdown and know when to switch modes and intensity, I didn’t have to manually adjust anything while I pumped. Like the Elvie, the Willow has an app, which allows you to control the pump from your phone and record your pumping sessions. I found this helpful and easy to navigate.

My biggest complaint about the Willow—aside from the fact that it’s a little bulkier than the Elvie—is that you have to pump into the brand’s single-use bags, which attach to the flanges. This adds an extra step: You have to then transfer the milk from the bag to the bottle. I prefer pumps that allow you to deliver milk directly into the bottle. Plus, the disposable bags feel wasteful, and, at $29.99 for a pack for 48, the cost adds up. 

BabyBuddha Breast Pump

  • Can be used in double or single mode
  • Universal pump that can fit any flanges
  • Capacity: 9.46 ounces
$249.99 on Amazon $249.99 on Baby Buddha
product image, white background
Pros
  • Powerful suction
  • Pump is easy to operate
  • 14 different settings
Cons
  • Doesn’t fit into regular bra
  • Not discreet

The BabyBuddha is a wearable pump that looks and feels like a regular wall pump. The flanges connect to two standard-sized bottles, which protrude dramatically from the chest. The flanges—which are available in different sizes—fit comfortably without chafing and offered just the right amount of suction. The BabyBuddha can fit flanges and bottles from any pump, which was convenient when I didn’t feel like washing the included flanges. I could just pop my Spectra ones on instead.

Caution: The BabyBuddha is very powerful (just as much as my Spectra wall pump, if not more so!). Those with sensitive nipples, take heed. Still, with 14 different settings and modes—which range from “gentle massage” to “strong expression”—you should be able to find a level that works for you. 

The style of the pump can also be a drawback. Because of the size and shape of the flanges, they don’t fit in a regular bra and they aren’t easily concealed unless you’re wearing a very bulky jacket or oversized top. This was a huge con to me as it almost defeats the purpose of being a wearable pump. However, it’s great for anyone who wants a pump that’s almost exactly like their plug-in version, only battery-powered.

Are Wearable Breast Pumps Worth It?

Elvie

Take it from an overtired, over-stressed, over-busy breastfeeding mom: A wearable breast pump is absolutely worth it. I started with a standard well plug-in, but the difference between that and my wearable pump—which also meant the difference between sitting by an outlet for hours and being ambulatory—is huge. In fact, I might say it’s the best thing I invested in postpartum. 

A wearable breast pump is just what it sounds like. It runs on a battery and doesn’t need to be plugged into an outlet, so you just slip it into your bra and go. 

They’re especially great for people returning to work who want to pump with discretion. One study that evaluated women physicians returning to work after maternity leave icon-trusted-source Breastfeeding Medicine “The Impact of Wearable Breast Pumps on Physicians' Breastfeeding Experience and Success” View Source found that wearable pumps, when compared with traditional pumps, correlate with shorter lactation time and an increased likelihood of providing adequate breast milk. 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the demand for wearable breast pumps is expected to grow. The market was valued at about $350 million in 2021 and is projected to expand to $975.5 million by 2030 icon-trusted-source Market Analysis Report “Wearable Breast Pumps Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Component (Wearable Pumps, Accessories), By Technology (Manual Pumps, Battery Operated Pumps, Smart Pumps), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 - 2030” View Source , according to one report. 

Of course, because of the convenience and the technology involved, wearable breast pumps can get very expensive very fast. Some models cost upwards of $500. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of hands-free pumps, so check your plan first.

How Do Wearable Breast Pumps Work?

Momcozy

A wearable pump runs on a rechargeable battery, while a standard pump plugs into a wall outlet and needs electricity to operate. This means you can use a wearable breast pump anytime, anywhere—no outlet required. Many hands-free pumps also don’t have tubing. Instead, they use suction to collect milk directly in cups, containers, or bottles. This means having fewer parts to clean and less chance of having your pump get caught on something (and thus losing precious milk).

Additionally, you’ll often find that wearable breast pumps are more lightweight than standard pumps (no bulky equipment here!). This enhances their portability factor and makes them much more convenient and comfortable.

How We Found The Best Wearable Breast Pumps

best wearable breast pump | Momcozy
Momcozy

Meet Your Guinea Pig

I’m Amanda, a first-time mom to a baby girl. Along with 10 years of experience in service journalism and commerce editorial—specifically in the lifestyle and health spaces—I recently gave birth to little Addison Mae at the end of December 2022. I’m currently doing a combination of breastfeeding and formula feeding, which involves a lot of pumping now that I’m back to work.

I’m one of those outliers who doesn’t mind pumping. What I did mind was being tied to an outlet for 20+ minutes five to six times per day. (I’m an active person!) So when I had the chance to test out wearable pumps, I was all for it—especially knowing that I would be pumping for at least the next year.

Our Testing Process

I began by narrowing down the most popular wearable breast pumps based on reviews and ratings, ultimately picking the five featured in this review. Elvie and Willow sent samples for testing and The Nessie purchased the rest. I then wore each pump every time I pumped in a 48-hour timespan. In the beginning, I was pumping up to seven times per day (and night) every two to three hours. Now, I still pump three to four times a day. I evaluated the pumps on a variety of factors, including how comfortable and discreet they were, how much milk they were able to extract, and their overall ease of use.

The Wearable Breast Pumps Buying Guide

best wearable breast pump | willow
Willow

Trying to pick out the best hands-free breast pump can be overwhelming. There are so many brands, so many options, and so many sizes. (Not to mention price points.) Fortunately, I learned a thing or two in my quest for the best.

Here are a few important factors to keep in mind when choosing a wearable breast pump:

  • Comfort: How comfortable are the cups? Is it lightweight? Does it provide enough suction, too little, or too much?
  • Ease of use: Is the pump easy to operate? Are there a lot of parts to clean and wrangle?
  • Capacity: How much milk can each cup hold? Does it leak easily?
  • Portability: Is the pump discreet and easy to conceal? How long does the charge last? Is it noisy?
In this article
Articles you might like
Care, Dental
Post Excerpt

Want more?

Subscribe to Nessie Sightings. Wellness recommendations you’ll want—delivered to your inbox twice a week. Subscribe to our (free) newsletter and join our growing community!

The emails are free, the finds are priceless.

Sign up for twice weekly emails discovering the best in health.

“This card is such an exciting addition to my wallet and it’s perfect for someone who values health and wellness but hasn’t found a credit card that rewards me for that. I love getting rewarded for wellness practices like sleeping, meditating, and moving my body—plus extra points on purchases at my favorite places like Whole Foods, ClassPass and sweetgreen. The app is easy to use and the card is designed for your definition of health and wellness, which I love. It’s flexible!”

Kira's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“It’s no secret that wellness is such an important part of my everyday life. I spend a lot of money to help fuel my love of running, recovery, nutrition and mindfulness, so the fact that I can now earn rewards for every dollar I spend with the Ness Card is amazing. My health always comes first, and the Ness Card makes that easy to do. It’s a win-win for everyone!”

Andi's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“As a new mum, wellness and self-care is a priority for me—so I can, in turn, be able to take care of my baby. I love the incentives that Ness offers for making healthier choices. And to be rewarded along the way for those purchases is such a plus!

Oh, and getting 5x point rewards on my Erewhon $20+ smoothie makes it a little more justifiable.”

Amrit's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“I made a promise to myself to find my joy again in 2023. For the past few years, I haven’t been taking care of myself mentally and physically because I’ve just been on the go and focusing on the future instead of being present. I realized that part of the reason I wasn’t happy was because I wasn’t taking care of myself. So, now with the Ness Card—which literally rewards you for staying on top of your wellness journey—I’ve easily been able to focus on my mental and physical journey. Using the card is now a part of my weekly routine, whether I’m buying groceries, going to therapy, spending a day at the spa, or treating myself to a delicious yummy meal.”

Candace's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“I love life with the Ness Card! The team behind the scenes work really hard to make it valuable and to create a sense of community, which you feel in every newsletter and hand-crafted partnership. The card itself encourages me to be even more curious about where I’m spending my money. It definitely incentivizes me to spend ‘healthier’, which is really unique. On top of that, getting points for taking more steps? There is seriously nothing like it.

David's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“My favorite thing about the Ness Card is that it rewards you for your healthy habits, and not all of them require spending. Yes, you can earn 5x points when you spend at any of their approved health and wellness merchants (think Erewhon and many of your other favorites) but you also earn points for being active daily! So now your sanity walks are literally paying off :) As someone who not only works in wellness but lives and breathes it, essentially most of my expenses live in that realm and with the Ness Card I can now be rewarded nicely for those purchases.”

Kirsty's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“I love that I have rewards to look forward to when I focus on my health and wellness. As a mom of two and full time photographer/creator, it’s hard to find time to prioritize my health and—as my body ages—I want to make sure that I’m treating it to all the TLC it needs (and deserves)! The Ness Card reminds me to take care of my mental, physical, and emotional health on the daily.”

Valerie's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“It’s refreshing to have a card app that is so easy to use. I can track my spending and rewards at the click of a button. I love getting a notification when I get extra points for getting a full night sleep or getting my steps in, though of course those are optional. I work a lot, and I feel like I get extra rewarded for taking the time to take care of myself – whether it’s therapy or simply cooking at home instead of dining out. The points accumulate really quickly, and I’ve already gotten a $1,000 credit at Erewhon in my first four months. I also go visit family in Europe a lot, and no one takes my card there, so it’s so convenient to be able to use my Ness Card without ever paying a fee.”

Mélanie's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“As someone who spends the majority of her money on wellness, the Ness Card is perfect for me! I love earning 5x points on purchases at healthy businesses that I was already making, anyways. The Ness Card also motivates me to get enough sleep, practice mindfulness and other healthy habits. The app is really user-friendly and I love watching my points add up. I am excited to redeem them for wellness-related items!”

Lauren's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“The Ness Card motivates me to keep up my healthy habits, and has helped me discover new brands and products that are in alignment with my goals. I’m not spending any more with my Ness Card, but the money I am spending on health and wellness is actually earning me rewards, benefits, and even cash back. And because Ness’s definition of a ‘healthy merchant’ is so generous, I’m able to recognize all of the small ways I practice self-care throughout the week. From buying fresh veggies to going to therapy to taking my supplements, the Ness Card is there to cheer me on: ‘Keep being healthy, girl. You deserve 5x points for that.'”

Melissa's Favorite Healthy Merchants

“The Ness Card rewards me when I spend money on health and wellness. Especially because so much of my wellness routine is spent being active, gardening, making food with my husband, getting a massage, or having some me time, it is nice to be rewarded for that with points that are with brands I shop at all the time anyway. It allows my wellness choices to work harder which I love.”

Research Based

This article was rigorously researched and fact checked. We use peer-reviewed journals and reputable medical sources (think: CDC, WHO, NIH, and the like) to back up every claim we make, and also reach out to experts in the field to ensure we’re covering things the right way. We apply these principles to everything we cover—including brands we partner with—and we’ll always disclose sponsorships, ads, and any kind of financial relationship with anything featured on The Nessie. You deserve the best, most straightforward information on health and wellness, and we think this is the right way to do it. You can read more about our testing and review process here.

If something doesn’t seem quite right, let us know at [email protected].