In short: For occasional pumping (say, a bottle for an evening out) a manual or small electric pump is enough. If you pump every day, for example after returning to work, choose an electric or wearable in-bra pump. For exclusive pumping, a double pump that empties both breasts at once is the most practical. The right flange size matters just as much.
Author: Eva Birsa, mum and co-founder of Evitas · Updated: 2 November 2026
When do you need a breast pump?
Many breastfeeding mums never need a pump, or only need one now and then. According to the NHS, expressing milk is mainly useful when:
- you are away from your baby for a while (going back to work, a night out, baby in special care),
- your breasts feel overfull or engorged,
- your baby has trouble latching or sucking,
- you would like your partner to give your milk in a bottle,
- you want to boost your milk supply or mix breast milk into your baby's first solids.
You can also express by hand – it costs nothing and is especially helpful in the first days after birth. If you are not sure whether you need a pump, ask your midwife, health visitor or a lactation consultant (IBCLC).
Types of breast pumps
Manual pump
Works without power or batteries: squeezing the handle creates suction. It is the most affordable option, light, quiet and easy to travel with. The NHS notes that manual pumps are slower than electric ones, so they suit occasional pumping best.
Electric pump
A motor creates suction in a rhythm that mimics your baby: a fast stimulation phase first, then slower, deeper expression. You set the strength and mode yourself. Electric pumps are faster and easier on your hands, which makes them a good fit for regular pumping.
Wearable in-bra pump
The collection cup and motor sit in one unit (or the motor sits in a small pocket unit) that you slip into your bra. No tubes to a wall socket, so your hands are free while you pump. Cups usually hold less than the bottles of traditional pumps, and fit varies from mum to mum – a good seal is essential.
Single or double?
A single pump expresses one breast at a time, a double pump both at once. According to Great Ormond Street Hospital (NHS), double pumping saves time and usually yields more milk, so it is recommended for mums who pump often or exclusively.
Canpol babies, Momcozy and KikkaBoo breast pumps compared
All Canpol babies pumps are in our breast pump collection. Specs come from the product descriptions and the manufacturer's official website; the "who it suits" column is our general recommendation. The table also includes Momcozy and KikkaBoo models, where the manufacturer gives suction in mmHg or does not state it.
| Model | Type | Single / double | Suction | Modes × levels | Cup | Flanges included | Who it suits | Portability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Light | manual | single | by hand | – | bottle (with adapter for Canpol babies bottles) | soft silicone massage insert | occasional pumping | no power needed, light, quiet |
| PowerPump | electric, portable | single | up to 42 kPa | 4 × 15 | 180 ml | 22 mm (other flanges and inserts sold separately) | occasional to regular | USB-C rechargeable, compact |
| SmartSense single | wearable, in-bra | single | up to 36 kPa | 4 × 12 | 180 ml | 24 mm + 17, 19, 21 mm inserts | regular, hands-free pumping | 220 g, battery up to 120 min |
| SmartSense double | wearable, in-bra | double (2 units) | up to 36 kPa | 4 × 12 | 2 × 180 ml | 2 × 24 mm + 6 inserts (17, 19, 21 mm) | regular to exclusive pumping | 2 × 220 g, battery up to 120 min |
| MilkShell | electric, in-bra (pocket motor with tubes) | double | up to 30 kPa | 4 × 12 | 2 × 180 ml | 2 × 27 mm + 6 inserts (19, 21, 24 mm) | exclusive pumping, back to work | motor on a neck strap or clipped to your waistband |
| Momcozy S9 Pro | cordless, in-bra | single or double | up to 285 mmHg | 2 × 9 | 180 ml | 24 mm + inserts 17, 19, 21 mm | regular pumping, several sizes included | 250 g, 8–9 sessions per charge |
| Momcozy S12 Pro | cordless, in-bra | single or double | up to approx. 290 mmHg | 3 × 9 | 210 ml | 24 mm (inserts sold separately) | regular pumping, larger cup | 240 g, 7–8 sessions per charge |
| Momcozy M5 | cordless, in-bra | single or double | up to 285 mmHg | 3 × 9 | 160 ml | 24 mm + inserts 17, 19, 21 mm | occasional to regular, few parts | 230 g, 4–5 sessions per charge |
| Momcozy M6 Mobile Style | cordless, in-bra | single or double | up to 300 mmHg | 3 × 9 | 180 ml (recommended fill up to 150 ml) | 24 mm | regular pumping without an app | 287 g, 5–6 sessions per charge |
| Momcozy M9 Mobile Flow | cordless, in-bra | single or double | up to 300 mmHg | 3 + 2 extra + MyFlow × 15 | 150 ml | 24 mm + inserts 17, 19, 21 mm | regular pumping, tracking in the app | 302 g, 4–5 sessions per charge |
| Momcozy Air One | cordless, in-bra | double | up to 285 mmHg | 3 + Expert patterns | 180 ml | not stated | pumping at work, low profile | 260 g per unit, 6.1 cm thick |
| KikkaBoo Noa | cordless, in-bra | single | not stated | 3 × 9 | 150 ml | 115/25 mm + inserts 19 and 22 mm | occasional to regular, hands-free | 0.27 kg, 1100 mAh, approx. 120 min |
| KikkaBoo Leia Plus | electric, portable (integrated) | single | not stated | 3 × 9 | not stated | 88/24 mm | occasional to regular, also at night (night light) | 0.23 kg, 1400 mAh |
Higher suction (kPa) does not automatically mean better pumping – comfort and a correct flange fit matter more. With any electric pump, start at the lowest level and increase gradually to what still feels comfortable. Momcozy gives suction in mmHg: 300 mmHg is about 40 kPa, 285 mmHg about 38 kPa.
Momcozy: the difference between its in-bra pumps
All six models sit in your bra and work without tubes or an external motor. They differ mainly in controls (buttons or app), cup size, thickness and charging. You will find them all in the Momcozy collection.
| Model | What sets it apart | Controls | Noise (manufacturer) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S9 Pro | 2 modes (stimulation, expression), four flange sizes in the box | buttons, LED screen | under 45 dB |
| S12 Pro | 3 modes, 210 ml cup, DoubleFit flange, screen with timer | buttons, LED screen | up to 46 dB |
| M5 | pump, cup and flange in one piece, reminder at 120 ml | buttons, LED screen | up to 50 dB |
| M6 Mobile Style | 3 modes, 180 ml cup, no app | buttons | under 50 dB |
| M9 Mobile Flow | 15 levels, Milk Boost and Milk Relief modes, MyFlow, separate control of each side, full-cup alert | app | under 48 dB |
| Air One | 6.1 cm thick, transparent top for nipple alignment, automatic switch to expression, wireless charging case for up to 15 sessions, 5 parts to wash | app and buttons | under 45 dB |
If you want simple button controls, choose between S9 Pro, S12 Pro, M5 and M6. If you want to set modes on your phone and track your milk, M9 and Air One suit you better. We stock Air One as a double pump; the other models also come as a single pump.
Specs come from the product descriptions and official Momcozy pages. Sources differ in places (for example on sessions per charge), so treat the figures as a guide.
KikkaBoo Noa and Leia Plus: portable electric pumps
KikkaBoo Noa is worn in your bra, with no external cords or tubes. It has 3 modes (massage, expression, bionic), 9 suction levels, a memory function, a session timer and a 150 ml container. A 115/25 mm silicone flange and 19 and 22 mm inserts are included.
KikkaBoo Leia Plus is an integrated portable pump with the same 3 modes and 9 levels, an LED touchscreen with night light, a memory function and a 1400 mAh battery. The materials are BPA-free and the flange measures 88/24 mm.
Both pumps have anti-backflow protection. Noa is designed to be worn in your bra, while Leia Plus has the larger battery and a night light. You will find the whole brand in the KikkaBoo collection.
How to choose a breast pump: 5 questions
- How often will you pump? A few times a week → manual or a portable electric pump. Daily → electric or wearable. Several times a day or exclusively → double.
- Where will you pump? On the sofa at home it hardly matters; at work, in the car or while looking after an older child, hands-free in-bra pumps are a big plus.
- One breast or both? If the other breast leaks while you feed, you can catch that milk with a breast milk collector – no pumping needed.
- Which flange size? Check which sizes are included and whether inserts are available (see below).
- Cleaning and noise: fewer parts means quicker washing. According to the manufacturer, all electric Canpol babies pumps in this comparison run at up to 50 dB.
How to choose the right flange size
The flange (breast shield) is the part that sits on your breast. A flange that is too small or too big can cause pain and reduce milk output. Following Cleveland Clinic's advice:
- Measure the diameter of your nipple at the base in millimetres (not the areola), ideally right after feeding or pumping. Measure both sides – they can differ.
- As a starting point, most people do well with a flange 2–4 mm larger than their nipple diameter.
- Good fit: the nipple moves freely in the flange tunnel without rubbing the sides, and little or no areola is pulled in.
- Too small: pain, nipple rubbing against the tunnel, cracks, a pale or purple ring.
- Too big: a lot of areola pulled into the tunnel, tugging, swelling after pumping, less milk.
| Model | Sizes included |
|---|---|
| SmartSense (single and double) | 24 mm + 17, 19 and 21 mm inserts |
| MilkShell | 27 mm + 19, 21 and 24 mm inserts |
| PowerPump | 22 mm (other flanges and inserts sold separately) |
| Momcozy S9 Pro, M5, M9 | 24 mm + inserts 17, 19, 21 mm |
| Momcozy S12 Pro | 24 mm (inserts sold separately) |
| Momcozy M6 Mobile Style | 24 mm |
| KikkaBoo Noa | flange 115/25 mm + inserts 19 and 22 mm |
| KikkaBoo Leia Plus | flange 88/24 mm |
Your size can change over the months of breastfeeding, so re-check it from time to time.
Flange size and spare parts
The flange (breast shield) should match the diameter of your nipple, not the size of your breast – Canpol babies makes the same point. The right size means more comfortable, pain-free pumping and better milk flow, because the nipple doesn't rub against the sides of the tunnel. La Leche League GB describes a good fit like this: the nipple sits snugly but has enough room to slide in and out a little during pumping without rubbing; the best fit is completely comfortable and gives you the most milk.
How to measure your nipple diameter
- Measure the diameter of the nipple at its base in millimetres, without the areola – ideally right after feeding or pumping (Cleveland Clinic).
- Measure both breasts. According to La Leche League GB, you may need a different size on each side.
- As a starting point, choose a flange 2–4 mm larger than your measurement and try it on the lowest suction level.
- After pumping, your nipple may look a little bigger, but it shouldn't look darker or swollen (La Leche League GB). If pumping hurts or causes rubbing or swelling, try another size and talk to a lactation consultant.
When to use a reducer and when a 27 mm flange (SmartSense)
- The SmartSense pump comes with a 24 mm silicone flange and 17, 19 and 21 mm reducers.
- Reducer: use one if 24 mm is too big for you (smaller nipples). According to the manufacturer, it prevents rubbing and stops the areola being pulled into a flange opening that is too large. A set of 17, 19 and 21 mm reducers is also available separately.
- 27 mm flange: designed for mums with a larger nipple diameter who need more room than 24 mm gives. It has a sealing rim and fits both the single and double SmartSense: 27 mm silicone flange.
Which parts to replace and how often
Silicone parts wear with use; according to the manufacturer, replacing them regularly keeps pumping efficient and suction pressure correct. For SmartSense, Canpol babies recommends replacing the membrane and anti-backflow valve every 3–4 weeks with frequent use (several times a day), and the flanges every 2–3 months, depending on wear. Detailed replacement and cleaning instructions are in the pump's user manual.
| Part | What it does | When to replace (manufacturer) | Evitas product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone membrane and anti-backflow valve | maintain suction and correct pressure; the valve stops milk from reaching the pump's mechanical parts | every 3–4 weeks with frequent use | Spare parts for SmartSense (1 membrane + 1 valve) |
| 180 ml milk container with 24 mm silicone flange | collects the milk; the SkinFIT flange adapts to the breast and prevents leaks | flange every 2–3 months (depending on wear) | Spare container for SmartSense (without membrane and valve) |
| 17, 19 and 21 mm reducers | make the flange opening smaller for smaller nipples | as per the pump's instructions | Flange reducing inserts for SmartSense |
| 27 mm silicone flange | more room for larger nipples, sealing rim against leaks | as per the pump's instructions | 27 mm silicone flange for SmartSense |
These parts are designed for the SmartSense wearable breast pump. You'll find all pumps in our breast pump collection.
How often and when to pump
- Occasional pumping: pump after a feed, or on the other breast during a feed, when milk flows most easily. It often takes a few sessions to collect one bottle.
- Exclusive pumping or building supply (e.g. a premature baby): Great Ormond Street Hospital (NHS) advises at least 8–10 sessions in 24 hours, including at least one at night; The Breastfeeding Network recommends stimulating your breasts at least 8 times a day, including once overnight.
- Going back to work: start pumping a few weeks beforehand so you can get used to your pump and build a small freezer stash.
- Pumping should not hurt. Start on stimulation at a low level; if it hurts, turn the suction down and check your flange size.
If you have supply concerns or pain, get help from a lactation consultant, midwife or health visitor.
If your breasts feel hard and tight while pumping, or you suspect a blocked duct, also read Breast engorgement and blocked ducts: what helps, when to worry.
Cleaning your breast pump
The CDC advises after every session:
- Cap and label the milk and put it in the fridge straight away.
- Take the pump apart and check all parts that touched milk.
- Rinse the parts under running water, then wash them as soon as possible in hot soapy water (or in the dishwasher if the manufacturer allows it).
- Let them air-dry on a clean surface.
Sanitise the parts at least once a day as well (steam, boiling for 5 minutes or a dishwasher sanitise setting) – especially if your baby is under 2 months old, was born prematurely or has a weakened immune system. Never submerge the motor unit in water. Replace silicone membranes and valves regularly; for the Basic Light manual pump, the manufacturer recommends replacing the membrane and valve every 3–4 weeks if you pump several times a day.
Storing expressed milk at a glance
| Where | NHS | CDC |
|---|---|---|
| Room temperature (up to 25 °C) | – | up to 4 hours |
| Fridge (4 °C or colder) | up to 8 days | up to 4 days |
| Ice compartment of a fridge | 2 weeks | – |
| Freezer (−18 °C or colder) | up to 6 months | best within 6 months, up to 12 acceptable |
- Defrost slowly in the fridge and use within 24 hours; never refreeze thawed milk.
- Do not warm milk in a microwave (hot spots). Use warmed milk within 2 hours and throw away any leftovers in the bottle after 2 hours (CDC).
- For freezing, pre-sterilised 150 ml breast milk storage bags with a measuring scale and date labels are handy (single use).
For bottle-feeding expressed milk, read our guide to the LOVI Mammafeel bottle.
Useful extras
- Breast milk collector (2 pcs) – catches milk leaking from the other breast while you feed (up to 50 ml per shell).
- Breast milk storage bags – for the fridge and freezer.
- Nursing pads and lanolin cream – in our breastfeeding collection. To pick the right pads, read Reusable or disposable nursing pads?
See the full range in the Canpol babies collection.
For an overview of the whole brand – from postpartum care to toys – see our Canpol babies brand guide.
Frequently asked questions
Which breast pump should I choose to start with?
If you do not know how often you will pump, start with a manual or small portable electric pump. For daily pumping, an electric or wearable in-bra pump is more practical; for exclusive pumping, choose a double pump.
Should I buy a single or double breast pump?
A double pump saves time and, according to Great Ormond Street Hospital (NHS), usually yields more milk. It makes sense if you pump several times every day. For occasional pumping a single pump is enough.
Does pumping hurt?
It should not. Pain is most often a sign of too much suction or the wrong flange size. Turn the suction down, check the fit and talk to a lactation consultant if needed.
How often should I pump if my baby does not feed at the breast?
To establish and maintain your supply, Great Ormond Street Hospital (NHS) advises at least 8–10 sessions in 24 hours, including at least one at night.
How long can expressed milk stay in the fridge?
Up to 8 days at 4 °C or colder according to the NHS, or up to 4 days according to the more cautious CDC. In the freezer (−18 °C), up to 6 months.
Can I move around while wearing an in-bra pump?
Yes, that is what it is designed for. For SmartSense and MilkShell the manufacturer highlights a tight seal and anti-leak design, but avoid bending over a lot while the cup is full.
What is the difference between Momcozy in-bra pumps?
You control S9 Pro, S12 Pro, M5 and M6 with buttons on the pump, while M9 and Air One also work through an app. S12 Pro has a 210 ml cup, M9 has 15 suction levels, and Air One is 6.1 cm thick and charges in a wireless case. The comparison above has the details.
How do I know if my flange size is right?
Measure the diameter of your nipple at the base in millimetres and choose a flange 2–4 mm larger. The right flange feels comfortable: the nipple slides a little in the tunnel during pumping but doesn't rub against the sides, and it isn't darker or swollen afterwards. With SmartSense you can size down with the 17, 19 or 21 mm reducers, and there is a 27 mm flange for larger nipples.
How often should I replace the membrane and valve on a SmartSense pump?
With frequent use (several times a day), Canpol babies recommends replacing the silicone membrane and anti-backflow valve every 3–4 weeks, and the flanges every 2–3 months depending on wear.
Sources
- NHS – Expressing and storing breast milk
- Great Ormond Street Hospital (NHS) – Breastfeeding and expressing milk for your baby
- The Breastfeeding Network (UK) – Expressing and storing breastmilk
- CDC – Proper storage and preparation of breast milk
- CDC – How to keep your breast pump kit clean
- Cleveland Clinic – Finding your breast pump flange size
- Canpol babies – Breast pumps (official product information)
- La Leche League GB – Expressing & storing milk
- Canpol babies – Intelligent In-bra Breast Pump SmartSense (official product information)
- Momcozy – S9 Pro vs S12 Pro (official)
- Momcozy Support – Detailed specifications of the M5
- Momcozy – M6 Mobile Hands-free Breast Pump
- Momcozy – M9 Mobile Hands-free Breast Pump
- Momcozy – Air 1 Wearable Breast Pump
This content is for information only and does not replace advice from your paediatrician, midwife or lactation consultant.
Read next: Hospital bag checklist · Newborn essentials checklist · Storing breast milk: how long it lasts in the fridge and freezer
