Breast pumps: How we test breast pumps

Tough lab tests and real-life experiences

In January 2011, we surveyed 542 mothers who'd used a breast pump in the last two years to find the models they were most satisfied with and would recommend.

We combined the results of this survey with a series of lab tests to assess the less subjective areas of performance to bring your our Best Buy breast pumps.

Use the Which? product finder to compare breast pumps and find Best Buy breast pumps that scored highly in our tests.

Breast pump power test

The Which? breast pump power test

What makes our testing different?

Half the overall score for each breast pump is made up of the customer satisfaction score, but our scoring system is unique because we've combined our survey results with expert lab tests, covering areas such as:

  • weight and stability of the pump - whether it's heavy to hold, and whether it falls over when it's full
  • noise – we discovered a variety of noises, from squeaking to 'cow noises' and squelching
  • battery life, for electric pumps
  • vacuum range, for electric pumps
  • comfort of pumping and grip
  • the shape and material of the breast shield
  • how easy it is to set up for the first time, and also once you're experienced at using it
  • the length of the power lead of an electric pump, so you don’t have to sit by a power source
  • the usability of all the included bottles and storage containers, and whether they leak when full.
Breast pump sound test

We discover how noisy breast pumps really are during the sound tests

Customer score

Customer scores are based on how satisfied mums are with their breast pump overall and whether they'd recommend the brand and model to someone else.

Total test score

The total test score is made up of:

  • 50% customer score
  • 25% performance
  • 25% ease of use

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