Buying Used Breastpump?

[aidensxmomma]

Is it safe to buy a used one? I found a Medela Double Electric breastpump that someone is selling on craigslist for $35. I would like to have a breastpump on hand so I can pump if/when I need to go somewhere without baby, if my OH wants to feed her (once breastfeeding is established), or for when we travel. I've heard Medela are the best and don't want to lose out on a good deal (at least I think it's a good deal).

Any advice/precautions?

 

[mommyof3co]

Yes it's completely safe because the pump itself doesn't come into contact with any breastmilk BUT I would buy new directly from Medela the part that goes on the breast, the tubing and whatever else does come into contact. But $35 for a Medela is great...even with having to buy the other stuff

 

[asacia]

Have a read through here before deciding:
https://www.breastfeedingonline.com/pumps.shtml

Personally, I wouldn't risk it, not just for the hygiene aspect, but pumps can wear out if used regularly, and if you don't know the pumps history, it could be a waste of money.

 

[BurtonBaby]

I debated this after my Playtex was terrible, and was looking at spending another $300 on a breastpump. Honestly, after reading a couple of articles, I chose to buy a new one. However, while in the hospital I used their Medela pump, and it was fine. Also my cousin rented one and it was fine. I guess its just what you feel comfortable with. Also Medela does new single electric pumps for cheaper if you are only going to be pumping occasionally? I really want their new handsfree pump, but their is no way DH is gonna let me.

 

[k8y]

I couldnt get on with the electric ones, I found I got more out with the avent manual one.

 

[Arcanegirl]

I bought a second hand one, all parts that come into contact with skin or milk can go in the steraliser and the one i got had only been used a few times.

 

[Mervs Mum]

Both mine were used. I did buy a new shield for the Swing but only because the one that came with it was cracking a bit.

 

[elm]

If you think about it the pumps they have in hospital are all used as are the ones you can hire so I don't see any problem with buying a used one. I have a used medela swing. If you can get a double pump that cheap I'd go for it I've used three different medela pumps and they've all been great (I prefer the two phase ones that do quick sucks at the start then slower ones).

x

 

[elm]

I debated this after my Playtex was terrible, and was looking at spending another $300 on a breastpump. Honestly, after reading a couple of articles, I chose to buy a new one. However, while in the hospital I used their Medela pump, and it was fine. Also my cousin rented one and it was fine. I guess its just what you feel comfortable with. Also Medela does new single electric pumps for cheaper if you are only going to be pumping occasionally? I really want their new handsfree pump, but their is no way DH is gonna let me.

Just remind him how much you'd be spending on formula if you weren't bfing x

 

[BurtonBaby]

Very true!! The benefits of breastfeeding are endless huh?

 

[asacia]

If you think about it the pumps they have in hospital are all used as are the ones you can hire so I don't see any problem with buying a used one. I have a used medela swing. If you can get a double pump that cheap I'd go for it I've used three different medela pumps and they've all been great (I prefer the two phase ones that do quick sucks at the start then slower ones).

x

Hospital ones are classes as 'multi-user' pumps, and each new user should use thier own tubing, bottles, valves and horns. The only shared bit is the actual pump.

With pumps you buy in shops (even the £200 ones) they are classed as single user. With the medela ones, you can buy replacement horns etc, but as they aren't designed to be used by more than one woman, I personally wouldn't risk it.

 

[Mervs Mum]

I bought a replacement horn/breast shield from expressyourselfmums

 

[elm]

If you think about it the pumps they have in hospital are all used as are the ones you can hire so I don't see any problem with buying a used one. I have a used medela swing. If you can get a double pump that cheap I'd go for it I've used three different medela pumps and they've all been great (I prefer the two phase ones that do quick sucks at the start then slower ones).

x

Hospital ones are classes as 'multi-user' pumps, and each new user should use thier own tubing, bottles, valves and horns. The only shared bit is the actual pump.
With pumps you buy in shops (even the £200 ones) they are classed as single user. With the medela ones, you can buy replacement horns etc, but as they aren't designed to be used by more than one woman, I personally wouldn't risk it.

I don't see what the actual difference is - I used my own tubing, bottles, valves and horns not the ones that came with the used pump plus the pump only comes into contact with the end of a long tube that has air sucking towards it. I'm not trying to make an argument or anything just wondering if I'm missing something? I don't want to be taking risks but can't see that I have?

Thanks

 

[asacia]

"even if you get a new collection kit (the part the touches your breast and collects the milk) it may be possible for air-born pathogens or droplets of milk that are not visible to the naked eye to get into a pump motor and cause contamination to the next user. Most single user pumps are "open system" pumps and do not have any protective barrier to prevent cross contamination to multiple users."

Taken from: https://www.breastfeedingonline.com/pumps.shtml

 

[Mervs Mum]

I dont think you are missing anything Elm. I think it's a matter of personal preference. I have only used pre owned pumps and neith myself or LO have had any issues with thrush or illness at all.