Smart moms shop around and look for bargains. In order to save money when breast pumping, more of my clients are buying used breast pumps or borrowing pumps from friends or family. When buying items for the nursery and other baby gear, hand-me-downs are often as good as new and can save you a lot of money. If you’ll be pumping frequently, the equipment you need is important. When researching the purchase of a breast pump, think twice about buying used or sharing with a friend.

New, professional grade breast pumps (meant to be used when mom is back at work or is breast pumping instead of breastfeeding) can cost as much as 400 dollars, so cost is definitely a consideration. Even the most expensive pump, however, is a drop in the bucket compared to the cost of formula. Infant formula can cost from $1500 to $2300 per year. So when you buy a high-quality pump in order to give your baby pumped breast milk instead of formula, you are actually saving money! Continue reading →

Breastfeeding does not require any special equipment. All you really need is a baby, and your breasts! But for a breastfeeding mother who needs to be away from her baby for work or school, a high quality professional-grade breast pump is essential! It can help her maintain her milk production, and provide breast milk to her baby, even though she can’t always be there in person.

Historically, breast pumps were considered feeding equipment and not eligible for insurance coverage or tax deductions. Finally, after much pressure from the American Academy of Pediatrics and various legislators, the IRS has changed its classification. According to the new IRS guidelines, breast pumps are no longer considered feeding equipment. As of January 1, 2011, they are considered a medical device. This is great news for breastfeeding mothers all over the United States. It will now be easier for mothers to get insurance coverage for breast pumps. Continue reading →