Quality breast pumps are quite expensive, and this is why many mothers are opting to go for used breast pumps instead of new ones. If you are considering buying a used one, there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. You just need to know what to look for in a used breast pump so that you can get the most out of it. Here are a few things you should know.
- Closed system and open system pumps
In a closed system pump, there is a barrier between the pump mechanism and the milk collection kit to prevent contamination of the milk by viruses, bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can affect your baby’s health. In an open system pump, there is no such barrier, and therefore breast milk also gets to the pump’s motor. For this reason, you should never buy a used open system pump. You cannot completely sanitize the pump’s motor, so buying new parts and tubing does not really help. If you are buying a used pump, make sure you go for a closed system one. Buying a used open system pump is like buying a used toothbrush. Gross, right?
- Single user and multiple user pumps
Multiple user pumps have very strong motors that can stand up to the task. However, this is not the case with single user pumps. If you buy a used single user pump, it might not serve you well, and for as long as you would wish because it is not designed to be used by more than one person, and its useful life might have been exceeded. That said, you should check the expected life of the pump you intend to buy so that you know whether you are getting good value for your money. Make sure the used breast pump that you buy is a multiple-user one so that you can get the most out of it. All multiple user pumps are closed system pumps, but the converse is not true.
- Brand
You may have brand preferences for various reasons, or you may know nothing at all about the brands available. Do some research on the brands available and compare their features and prices. If you plan on having more babies in the near future, consider going for a brand that allows you to recycle the pump so that you do not have to spend more money on yet another breast pump.
- WHO-Code compliance
Check whether the breast pump you intend to buy is WHO-Code compliant. This code aims to protect buyers from manufacturers and sellers who are too aggressive in their marketing, and do not have the buyers’ best interests at heart.
- Hospital-grade electric pumps
Be careful when buying used hospital-grade electric pumps. This is because you might be buying a stolen item. To ensure that you do not end up buying a stolen pump, check the serial number, and find out with the manufacturer. They will often have a record of stolen pumps.
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