We spend months testing breast pumps. First, we purchase each model for testing. Our testing is conducted both at our in-house lab and with lactating parents to determine everything from efficiency of milk expression, comfort, ease of use, portability, and more.
We provide more pump tests than anyone on the planet, with multiple trials of each test to get an average and multiple users to capture a variety of experiences.
Efficiency
For efficiency we conduct three different test types. First, the ounces of milk expressed per minute is tested with a breast simulation bottle. We use the Emulate bottle that is shaped and designed to simulate an actual breast. We conduct multiple tests recording the amount of milk the pump can express in a 20-minute time frame. We take an average of the test results, do some math, and end up with the ounces per minute answer you find in our test scoring.
Next, we assess how much milk lactating mother's are able to express in the same time period. Because every mother is different and milk supply is based on multiple factors, this test carries less weighting than our breast simulation test that has the same factors and variables for each pump. However, the data is still valuable as it gives real-world feedback when used over time on the average milk expressed and which pumps performed better in natural settings.
Last, we tested the suction pressure using a Medela pressure gauge to assess how much suction each pump offers at its maximum setting. This provides tangible information to compare apples-to-apples on which pumps have the strongest suction. Interestingly, the power of recorded suction didn't necessarily indicate a better or more efficient pump, showing that it is only one small part of the efficiency equation.
Comfort
Comfort is somewhat subjective, but certain features can indicate that a pump and its parts are comfortable to use. The three factors we assess are the flange size options, including what comes with your pump and what sizes you can buy online. Second, we consider how well the flanges fit and what they are made of. A soft silicone edge is far more comfortable than a hard plastic flange that is unforgiving and doesn't adapt to the shape of the breast. And last, we consider how much suction variability the pump offers. The more modes it has, the higher the likelihood that you can find a comfortable setting for you. Settings include a combination of the suction's speed, pattern, and strength.
Ease of Use
Pumping, in general, isn't fun. It isn't the part of parenthood you can get giddy about, so it had better be easy. Seriously, we are tired, crabby, and maybe even sweaty, so don't challenge us! We assessed each option for ease of use by evaluating its user interface and features. This would include things like intuitive icons and settings, visible screens to remember settings, timers and minutes you've been pumping, etc.
Portability
If you work away from home or travel frequently, portability might be important to you. We assessed portability by measuring the weight and size of each pump. We looked at if they required an outlet or offered a rechargeable battery and how loud they were so you know if you are pumping discretely or advertising to the world that your boobs are out.
Hygiene
The last to test is keeping things clean. We assessed how difficult the products were to keep clean, sterilize, and assemble. We looked at whether you would need special parts, what the expectations were, and how difficult this process will be both at home and away.