Medela Pump In Style Advanced

Bottom Line

The Medela Pump In Style Advanced is recommended for working moms or any user who has to pump frequently. However, even moms who pump less frequently love this model for its fast, efficient pumping. A number of owners say it helps to establish or boost their milk supply. The Pump In Style comes with three different bag styles and the price depends on the choice of bag.

Performance

Great choice for busy moms. Working moms says the Medela Pump In Style Advanced is so quick and efficient, they can set up, pump, break down and clean the pump on their 30-minute lunch break. Because it's a double pump, it completely empties both breasts in one 10-minute pumping session, users say, but every woman is different and times will vary. It can be used hands-free with the optional Easy Expression Bustier (*Est. $25). The Pump In Style includes both a power cord and a battery pack, so it can be used even if a wall plug isn't available. Its pumping strength is adjustable, and it can be used as a single or double pump.

Some users say the Pump In Style is noisy, but most find the motor to be quiet and discreet. The pump has a choice of three carry bags; the Backpack is standard while the On-the-Go Tote features built-in bottle holders and a tubing storage pocket. The Metro Bag features a removable pump in a separate bag, as well as several different sizes of breast shields. A few owners complain of breakdowns, but they're not common.

The Pump In Style Advanced uses the same two-phase expression technology as other Medela pumps, and users say it helps stimulate the letdown reflex and milk flow. A number of moms say it helped them either establish milk supply or increase a poor supply. The suction level is adjustable and moms find the pump comfortable, with several size options for breast shields to accommodate women of different sizes. The Backpack and On-the-Go Tote come with the standard, medium 24 mm breast shield; other sizes are sold separately. The Metro Bag includes the larger, 27 mm breast shield in addition to the medium size.

The biggest criticism owners seem to have about this pump is the cost, although even moms who paid the price reluctantly say they're glad they did. A number of reviewers compare it favorably to hospital-grade pumps costing three or four times as much.

Ease Of Use

Easy to assemble. The Medela Pump In Style Advanced is very easy to use, from setup to breakdown to cleaning, owners report. However, they dislike that there are quite a few parts to clean, particularly moms who have to pump frequently. The parts are dishwasher-safe or can be hand-washed. The pump should be sanitized daily, and users say purchasing the optional Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags (*Est. $9 for five bags) makes that a breeze. Each bag can be used up to 20 times.

Some moms complain of condensation forming in the tubing of the Pump In Style, which can be a hassle to clean. Others point out that the instructions specify running the motor for a few seconds after pumping with only the tubing attached to solve this problem.

The carry bags that come with the Pump In Style get rave reviews from users who say they're a very portable, efficient way to transport the pump and accessories; some even say they can fit reading materials in the bag to pass the time while pumping. Moms particularly love the cooling compartment for storing breast milk until they can refrigerate it, and they appreciate that parts are often easy to find at a local grocery store or drug store.

Customer Service

An excellent reputation. The Medela Pump In Style Advanced comes with a one-year limited warranty on the motor and a 90-day limited warranty on other parts. Medela has a sterling reputation for customer service, and a number of reviews praise the company's response to problems with their units. Medela provides a high level of support for breastfeeding moms, with helpful representatives talking a number of users through pumping issues. Online support from a certified lactation consultant is also available.