Medela Pump In Style with Max Flow Review

Medela is a family-run business that places a strong emphasis on supporting breastfeeding. For over three decades, the company has been a prominent player in the market, selling products in the US.

Performance Comparison

Efficiency

In our comprehensive testing of the Medela Pump in Style with Max Flow, it had a consistent and effective latch, especially with the Emulait bottle. We observed a steady milk output, averaging about 0.24 oz of milk per minute. A 20-minute pumping session yielded 4.75 - 5 oz of milk.

At one point, we did notice a rare occurrence. Milk began pooling within the flange, and this temporary blockage required clearing. While this issue didn't occur more than once, it's something to keep in mind.

The difference between our pressure gauge reading and the manufacturer's claim struck us as particularly interesting. Our gauge showed 160 mmHg at maximum intensity level, and the manufacturer claims it can reach 295 mmHg. Despite this variance, this pump maintained a secure seal throughout our testing.

Comfort

Comfort is key, and this pump has several features that benefit comfort. It comes with 24 mm oval-shaped breast shields. It has two modes, stimulation and expression, along a range of 10 vacuum levels. This allows you to make your pumping session your own, dialing in the comfort and efficiency that suits you best. The pump will automatically transition from stimulation to expression after a minute, and it even remembers your favorite level from the stimulation phase and gently guides you back to it. The y-shaped tubing offers single or double pumping options.

The real comfort perk is the soft, smooth, and flexible rims on the breast shields. It's a game-changer compared to the pumps with rigid plastic edges.

Ease of Use

The Medela's comprehensive package of extras and accessories, including a stylish bag, pump parts, four bottles, and an insulated bag with an ice pack, enhances its overall value for users. The interface is easy to use and doesn't require extensive manual reading to decipher. However, we find the quick start guide that comes with the pump is almost too simple, and we wish it had more details about the product to provide users with a deeper understanding of its features and functionalities. Without a screen, it doesn't track information. Users will need to be aware, manage, and monitor these aspects themselves as you can easily lose track of your suction level or how long you've been pumping.

Portability

The Medela Pump in Style with Max Flow gives you a couple of power options. You can plug it into the wall or use the battery pack, which uses 8 AA batteries. Unfortunately, the battery pack feels a bit on the cheap side.

Size-wise, this pump is in the middle of the pack, and it weighs 1.5 lbs. We think you'll have no problem transporting it around. Interestingly, some users noticed that the suction power took a nosedive when they used the battery pack. So, many moms, including us, use it plugged into the wall, as that seems to offer the best performance.

Compared to others, this pump is loud. At the highest setting, we recorded 59 dB, and it makes a distinctive thumping noise with a touch of rattle, but it's not ear-piercing. You'll notice it, but it's not obnoxious.

Hygiene

The Pump in Style has a closed system. That means you won't have to worry about condensation building up in the tubing or any breast milk sneaking back into the motor. And, when it comes to cleaning, a bottle brush did just fine for us. This pump includes five parts to wash for pumping and six if you're counting the bottle lid. Also, all of the parts are dishwasher-safe except for the tubing.

Should You Buy the Medela Pump In Style with Max Flow?

The Medela Pump In Style with Max Flow is packed with a range of handy accessories, adding to its appeal in terms of cost and overall value. It includes everything you need to get started with pumping, especially if you're a working mom. While it faced some challenges in our tests, struggling to compare with top-tier pumps, it's a good pump. While we would select other pumps over this one, we think you will likely be happy with it should you receive it as a gift.

What Other Breast Pumps Should You Consider?

Among top-ranked breast pumps, the Spectra S1 Plus is a strong performer if you prioritize efficiency. It's ideal for establishing and maintaining milk supply, especially for those who are pumping regularly. If you have a choice, we prefer it over the Medela. If cost is a concern, or you want something more portable, the Baby Buddha is a cost-effective option with above-average efficiency, and it's impressively compact. While it doesn't come with accessories like the Medela, it's affordable and leaves room in your budget to purchase other items you may need for pumping.

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