I received so many messages asking for feedback about the Willow pump. About a month ago, I started using the Medela pump. I wanted to compare and contrast the two. I listed the pros and cons of each pump below – I am a very concise person which is why I did it in list format so that you don’t have to sift through paragraphs to get the information. I really do like having both pumps to choose from depending on what I need them for. I don’t pump all day every day – I mostly breastfeed but if I am working, running errands, or going on date night without Madison, I like to have milk stored up in the freezer for her because she is fed exclusively breastmilk. We recently started giving her pureés which she loves!
*I received this through my health insurance.
-Pros:
Gets more milk out efficiently
More comfortable – more flange sizes to choose from. I need a size 21mm and Medela has a flange in that size.
Easy to line up the flange because the pump parts are clear
-Cons
Has multiple cords
Has to be plugged in – requires a wall charger
Bulkier
Can’t pump on the go (they do make a car adapter – I have not tried this)
More parts to clean
Milk doesn’t get pumped straight into the bag (I have seen special bags made by other companies that you can attach to the pump to do this)
Not hands free unless you wear a pumping bra
*I paid out of pocket for this pump.
-Pros:
Very convenient
Easy to pump on the go – in the car, etc.
Milk pumps straight into storage bags
Can track milk output in an app on your phone
Wireless and cordless
Fits in your bra
-Cons:
Doesn’t pump as efficiently as a regular pump
Milk bags are more expensive
Difficult to get the flanges lined up (although they have released new clear flanges)
Only 2 flange sizes (24mm and 27mm) – I need 21mm so the Willow is sometimes painful for me because it sucks in skin
Milk bags only hold 4oz so if you produce more than that, you have to switch out bags
Milk bags can get air in them while pumping (it won’t affect the milk but the more air, the less room for milk in the bag)
Somewhat bulky – you can definitely tell I am wearing them so I don’t wear them out unless I have a big jacket or something. This may depend on large your chest is. When I put them on, it makes me look like Dolly Parton lol
All in all, I would prefer to use the Medela because it is more comfortable and I get more milk faster!
Super helpful post, I use the Medela and have been considering the Willow pump for convenience but it sounds like it won’t suit me, based on your review. Thank you!