Buying a Used Breast Pump

Many pump manufacturers previously offered replacement kits that could be purchased when a different person used the pump. This seemed like a great way to keep things sterile, however this did not account for contamination of the pump mechanism.

In recent years, breast pump manufacturers have developed a variety of models with closed system functionality. A closed system breast pump prevents contamination of breast milk by preventing any outside air from getting in the tubing and bottles your milk is expressed into. The closed system technology also keeps your expressed milk from entering the pump mechanism, which can not be cleaned.

There are many breast pumps to choose from when any pump will do. However, in the world of inexpensive, closed system breast pumps, only a few are available. One such model, the Ameda Purely Yours, is an inexpensive, closed system breast pump that provides efficient, safe use. Also available is the closed system offering from Hygeia, the EPS. Each of these pumps work quite well, with the Ameda Purely Yours getting the upper hand due to price. (Ameda Purely Yours starts at $149, Hygeia EPS starts at $219)

Apart from standard closed system models, comes a variety of Hospital grade pumps, which are closed system by nature. The main difference between hospital grade and standard models is the durability, as well as functionality of hospital grade pumps. The majority of hospital grade pumps have a wider range of suction and speed settings to accommodate multiple users, and are capable of repeated use day in and day out. One of the better priced hospital grade pumps is available through Ameda. The Ameda Elite offers tons of settings, great suction, and will set you back the least out of all hospital grade pumps available.

The average starting price for most hospital grade pumps is around $700-$1100.

When searching for a used pump, you should only be looking for a closed system. The only way to safely guarantee a sanitary pump is by buying closed system models. Additionally, when purchasing a closed system pump, you must also remember that you need to replace the parts that come into contact with your skin or the bottles.