Customer reviews from medela.com
Medela - Freestyle Hands-free Double Electric Breast Pump - Gray
Average customer rating
4.2
(368 Reviews)
Rating breakdown 368 reviews
5 Stars
204
4 Stars
98
3 Stars
22
2 Stars
13
1 Star
31
74%of customers recommend this product.
(
119 out of
161)
Customer Reviews for Medela - Freestyle Hands-free Double Electric Breast Pump - Gray
Customer Rating
5
Hands free worry free
on February 14, 2023
Posted by: Mel22
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I was given this breast pump to try as part of the Stellar Product Testing Panel.
I have now used three different Medela pumps - the hands free, the manual, and the symphony. The hands free has been my favourite of the three. It is almost as compact and portable as the manual pump, but draws out a volume similar to the symphony (which was great for establishing my milk supply early on, but not exactly the most discreet or easy to travel with!).
The pump is easy to put together and use, and easy to clean. I love how I can wear it and play with my son, or make a morning coffee! I use this pump to help with excess milk in the morning, and it expresses 5-6oz after a feed, which for me is great. It’s an easy way to ensure one bottle feed a day for my otherwise exclusively breastfed son.
The only drawbacks I have found so far are that I cannot register my phone number with the app and so have not been able to use that service. This is low concern for me using it only once a day but I could see it being frustrating for those exclusively pumping. Other than that, I sometimes find the seals to appear complete but then when starting to pump I can clearly see they aren’t. Kudos to the see through design to help the user diagnose that problem when starting the pump, and also to keep any eye on what is being expressed. I’d definitely recommend this pump.
I have now used three different Medela pumps - the hands free, the manual, and the symphony. The hands free has been my favourite of the three. It is almost as compact and portable as the manual pump, but draws out a volume similar to the symphony (which was great for establishing my milk supply early on, but not exactly the most discreet or easy to travel with!).
The pump is easy to put together and use, and easy to clean. I love how I can wear it and play with my son, or make a morning coffee! I use this pump to help with excess milk in the morning, and it expresses 5-6oz after a feed, which for me is great. It’s an easy way to ensure one bottle feed a day for my otherwise exclusively breastfed son.
The only drawbacks I have found so far are that I cannot register my phone number with the app and so have not been able to use that service. This is low concern for me using it only once a day but I could see it being frustrating for those exclusively pumping. Other than that, I sometimes find the seals to appear complete but then when starting to pump I can clearly see they aren’t. Kudos to the see through design to help the user diagnose that problem when starting the pump, and also to keep any eye on what is being expressed. I’d definitely recommend this pump.
Response from medela.comBy *, Your Customer Solutions Team, April 20, 2023
Hi Mel22--- We're overjoyed to know that you have had a great experience with the Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump! Please don't hesitate to contact us at 800-435-8316 for assistance with the app. Thank you for choosing Medela!
Written by a customer while visiting medela.com
Customer Rating
4
Easy and effective but not very discreet
on February 14, 2023
Posted by: mtlmomgeek
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Thanks to the Stellar Product Testing Panel for giving me this pump to test.
Easy to clean, assemble and use. The collection cups are comfortable, but it would be ni e to have the option of a smaller size as not everyone collects 5oz from each side per session and they are not meant for storage. The volume markings are a bit hard to see and would be more helpful if they were more graduated.
The pump is as efficient as others I’ve tried, and it being wearable is great in theory, but the motor is so loud that it’s definitely not discrete enough to wear while running errands, attending a meeting or contact-napping with baby. The pump unit is also not light, so while it can certainly be worn for things like cooking and cleaning, it’s a bit tricky to keep in place.
Including 2 flanges sizes is a plus; I actually need two different sizes and was lucky that the included ones fit.
Overall, I didn’t dislike this pump but I don’t think it’s portable enough to replace my non-wearable one.
Easy to clean, assemble and use. The collection cups are comfortable, but it would be ni e to have the option of a smaller size as not everyone collects 5oz from each side per session and they are not meant for storage. The volume markings are a bit hard to see and would be more helpful if they were more graduated.
The pump is as efficient as others I’ve tried, and it being wearable is great in theory, but the motor is so loud that it’s definitely not discrete enough to wear while running errands, attending a meeting or contact-napping with baby. The pump unit is also not light, so while it can certainly be worn for things like cooking and cleaning, it’s a bit tricky to keep in place.
Including 2 flanges sizes is a plus; I actually need two different sizes and was lucky that the included ones fit.
Overall, I didn’t dislike this pump but I don’t think it’s portable enough to replace my non-wearable one.
Response from medela.comBy *, Your Customer Solutions Team, April 19, 2023
Hi mtlmomgeek--- We appreciate your honest feedback and have routed your comments to our team in charge of continuous improvements. Wishing you the best!
Written by a customer while visiting medela.com
Customer Rating
5
Convenient and practical
on February 14, 2023
Posted by: PumpedMom
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Thanks to the Stellar Product Testing Panel for providing me with this breast pump. I have a love/hate relationship with breast pumps. Or at least I did! This pump is incredible. My 7 month old is exclusively breastfed but I’ve been hesitant to pump. There was nothing holding me back once I got this pump.
Right from the get go, it’s easy to set up and to connect to the app. Once charged, I found battery lasted for about 8 approximately 15 minute sessions.
It fits in a regular nursing bra (and even in a couple regular ones) and while you’re pumping you can stick the unit in your pocket and go about doing regular things. For me, this was so important. I don’t have the time to sit somewhere and be hooked up to a machine. While using this pump I cooked dinner, emptied the dishwasher, did my hair; I pumped in a waiting area while my older child was in surgery, I played with my toddler, and sometimes I just sat on the couch with a cup of tea. The convenience of that is impossible to beat in my opinion. You can just pack it up, and take it wherever.
Another thing I loved was the comfort of it. In my previous experiences with pumping, I always found it hurt a bit or at the very best was uncomfortable. With the letdown function on this pump, you maximize your output but you don’t sacrifice comfort in the least. I’d forget I was wearing it sometimes while pumping 3 or 4 oz per side.
Cleaning is also a breeze. The instructions were clear on how best to clean it. I found washing it with hot water during the day and then tossing all washable components in the dishwasher at night was the most effective method. All parts still look like new and show no wear and tear.
My one, and only, complaint is that the cups don’t stand that well on their own. I found them somewhat tippy especially if the tubes were still connected. Easiest remedy for that was to empty them as soon as I was done pumping.
If you’re scared or intimidated to try pumping, this unit will ease you in to it. An excellent, practical, and well thought-out product!
Response from medela.comBy *, Your Customer Solutions Team, April 20, 2023
Hi PumpedMom--- Thank you for the excellent feedback. We wish you all the best on your breastfeeding journey!
Written by a customer while visiting medela.com
Customer Rating
4
Efficient but not totally hands free
on February 14, 2023
Posted by: Cael
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I received this product via Stellar Review at no cost to me.
When I received it I was really impressed by the packaging. Super cute inside panel and all the parts were in separate mini boxes so it was easy to make sure I received everything.
Huge bonus was that this pump came with 2 sizes for breast shields 24mm and 21mm. Most pumps only come with the standard 24mm and you will have to order from the company which delays starting your pumping journey. Another bonus to this pump is that it’s actually comfortable to wear. I have larger breasts and this is the best fit that I’ve had in a pump. There is also the added feature that is the Medela app that helps track your pumping sessions, taking inventory of milk you are freezing and so much more. The pump was all touch screen and pretty easy to use. Make sure to read the instruction manual first as it gives you pointers for how best to use the pump. Highly recommend using the pump with the app.
Downside to the pump… it’s not completely hands free. The actual pump part is attached via the tubes that are clipped into the cups. It comes with a cord to attach around your wrist but I found it too heavy to do that. Instead I opted to wear a sweater with pockets so that I could have the pump in there. So NOT hands free. Another minus is that to shut off the pump you have be using the app. There is no display option on the pump to shut it off from there. However if you need to stop it fast you can still turn off the pump manually on the side of the pump control.
It however was great to use around the house while cleaning or light playing with your little one. Though would not be comfortable using it outside the house as you can clearly tell you are pumping when it’s on.
Even with that downside, I would highly recommend this pump to any new or experienced moms. Fit, comfort level and pumping power and the bonus app were a 10/10.
Response from medela.comBy *, Your Customer Solutions Team, April 20, 2023
Hi Cael--- We appreciate your honest feedback as it helps us to continuously improve upon our designs. If you ever need help or have any questions about your breast pump, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We'd be happy to help!
Written by a customer while visiting medela.com
Customer Rating
4
Freestyle Hands Free Double Electric Breast Pump
on February 14, 2023
Posted by: Queenb94
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] First, I want to thank the Stellar Product Testing Panel for providing me with this breast pump. As someone who has been using a hand pump this pump was a dream! No only was it great for the flexibility of pumping on the go - but had great suction power to ensure good expression. I like the fact that I was able to put the cups directly into my nursing bra without having to purchase a brand specific bra. The cups were small enough to fit comfortably however did not allow for more than 5 ounces. As having one over producing breast ; I did have to stop the pump and pour out the milk. I wish that the cups were a tad bigger so that I did not have to stop expressing. If the cups held about 7 ounces; I would have been impressed. Overall, I am impressed with the product and would recommend to someone who is needing to pump on the go but does not get more than 5 ounces during a pumping session. I like that it was also easy to clean; especially using the Medela wipes and sanitizing microwave bags. Thank you Stellar and Medela! You’ve made my life a tad bit easier with this product.
Response from medela.comBy *, Your Customer Solutions Team, April 20, 2023
Hi Queenb94--- Thanks for taking the time to share your honest feedback with us and other moms like you. We're sure many of them will find this feedback helpful!
Written by a customer while visiting medela.com
Customer Rating
5
Convenient and compact
on February 14, 2023
Posted by: Nicole
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This pump has been a game changer for me. I had been using the freestyle flex which was a great pump but not at all discrete and I found could be pushed off by my baby if I tried to pump while he was awake. I was so excited to receive this pump as part of the Stellar Product Testing Panel. The hands free version of the freestyle is so convenient and allows me to do anything around the house without having to worry about it coming off. I recently took it overseas and it was so easy to pack in my suitcase. It’s easy to clean and because it uses the collectors, I love that I can pour all the milk into one bottle without any extra cleanup. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a comfy portable pump.
Response from medela.comBy *, Your Customer Solutions Team, April 21, 2023
Hi Nicole--- We're so happy you have had a great experience with the Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump!
Written by a customer while visiting medela.com
Customer Rating
5
Hands down a life changer when it comes to pumpin
on February 14, 2023
Posted by: Shelley
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] My son is 7 months old and can be all over the place when breastfeeding. Any sound or sight distracts him. Not to mention the new little teeth that he has. Needless to say not too much fun to breastfeed. I pump to have milk on hand for him to eat when I need a break from breastfeeding.
Thanks to the Stellar Product Testing Panel for providing me with the Medela Freestyle Hands Free Double Electric Breast Pump which has been a life changer.
Now that my little man is crawling around, multitasking is a must to keep up with him. I can successfully pump while chasing him around. I can't imagine going back to any other pump now that I have tried this one. This pump gets good output and is lightweight and comfy to wear around discreetly in my bra. It has given me hope that I can make it to my goal of breastfeeding until my son is 12 months old. It has allowed me to get things done around the house as well as pump while out for walks with the stroller and dog.
I wouldn't recommend bending over while pumping especially if you are a high milk producer as this can hold up to 5 oz and could potentially spill out if you lean forward to far. I appreciate the minimal parts to clean and the fact that they can go in the dishwasher. I recently went to mexico and pumped in the plane on the way down without anyone even knowing. Thats a win if you ask me.
The only thing that'd make this pump better is if it was waterproof and you could pump while showering haha can you imagine?! Now that would be true mom multi tasking. We all know those days where it feels like there is no time for a shower lol.
I like that it has the controls on a separate handheld device that can go in your pocket so that when I am pumping while out and about ie walking the dog while pumping I can adjust settings without having to look in my bra. Overall definitely recommend this pump, I cannot imagine life without it now.
Thanks to the Stellar Product Testing Panel for providing me with the Medela Freestyle Hands Free Double Electric Breast Pump which has been a life changer.
Now that my little man is crawling around, multitasking is a must to keep up with him. I can successfully pump while chasing him around. I can't imagine going back to any other pump now that I have tried this one. This pump gets good output and is lightweight and comfy to wear around discreetly in my bra. It has given me hope that I can make it to my goal of breastfeeding until my son is 12 months old. It has allowed me to get things done around the house as well as pump while out for walks with the stroller and dog.
I wouldn't recommend bending over while pumping especially if you are a high milk producer as this can hold up to 5 oz and could potentially spill out if you lean forward to far. I appreciate the minimal parts to clean and the fact that they can go in the dishwasher. I recently went to mexico and pumped in the plane on the way down without anyone even knowing. Thats a win if you ask me.
The only thing that'd make this pump better is if it was waterproof and you could pump while showering haha can you imagine?! Now that would be true mom multi tasking. We all know those days where it feels like there is no time for a shower lol.
I like that it has the controls on a separate handheld device that can go in your pocket so that when I am pumping while out and about ie walking the dog while pumping I can adjust settings without having to look in my bra. Overall definitely recommend this pump, I cannot imagine life without it now.
Response from medela.comBy *, Your Customer Solutions Team, April 21, 2023
Hi Shelley--- We're thrilled that your experience was what you had hoped for! Thank you for sharing your positive feedback. We wish you all the best!
Written by a customer while visiting medela.com
Customer Rating
5
Gave me my freedom back
on February 14, 2023
Posted by: Abby
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This Freestyle Hands Free pump is a total game changer. I went from dreading my pumping time to being so productive while pumping! It was easy to set up and use, with only a few pieces to clean and put together. I really liked that there were no tiny pieces to keep track of. The milk collectors and nipples shields both get tucked into any bra, leaving just some tubing and a sleek electronic device hanging out - it tucked easily into my pocket. I was able to work around the house (doing dishes and tidying), play with my son (the breast shields did not pop off while lugging him around, not could he remove the pieces from my breast), and I was even able to exercise. It felt so great to not waste precious time being stuck pumping. I did have some issues with leaking from the milk collectors, so I learned the importance of making sure everything snaps together properly. It can be hard to see how much milk has been collected, so I kept a close eye on the containers. But these are minor issues which do not impact how much I love this pump. It’s got a great battery life, a good length of tubing, and isn’t too loud. It’s quite high tech, and I easily found a setting that was comfortable for me while being very efficient. I received this pump as part of the Stellar Product Testing Panel, but would buy it for myself after seeing how well it works. I’m really grateful for how this pump has changed my feeding journey!
Response from medela.comBy *, Your Customer Solutions Team, May 10, 2023
Hi Abby--- That's terrific to hear! Thank you for sharing your honest feedback. Best wishes!
Written by a customer while visiting medela.com