Willow vs. Elvie Wearable Breast Pump Review
Ahhh the wearable, handsfree breast pump… thank goodness companies are starting to really prioritize technology to improve the lives of women. This is a big one. Instead of being stuck to tubes, that are stuck to a machine, that is plugged into the wall (and having to put on a specialized pumping bra every time) - women now have the option to purchase a wearable breast pump instead. A wearable breast pump is really two separate pumps that are wireless and you can fit right into your bra. This allows you to roam freely, get things done, hold your baby, or even pump while working or driving. Let’s face it, pumping sucks, so anything we can do to make pumping easier we are 100% here for.
Some things to consider before buying a wearable breast pump:
They are expensive, so check with your insurance if they will cover all or part of one. They can be bought with HSA/FSA money
Even though they fit in your bra, they aren’t subtle - they are somewhat bulky and make your breasts look large
You have to keep them charged. They are wireless so you will need to keep them plugged in and charged regularly
You need a really secure, full coverage bra to hold the pumps in place.
Willow vs. Elvie
There are 2 main competitors on the market now for wearable breast pumps. Both are awesome so it can be hard to decide between the 2. Here is a side-by-side comparison to help you decide.
Cost
Elvie slightly wins because no bags and the option to only buy 1
Both cost $499 for 2 pumps. The Elvie has the option to only buy 1 pump for $279. Insurance companies are late to the game for these and most don’t cover the full price of the pumps. Some will cover partial cost so be sure to check with your insurance if it’s covered.
The Willow website has a page that helps you to find this out HERE. Willow also offers discounts for “everyday heroes” of $50 - this includes healthcare workers, teachers, first responders, and military mamas.
There are various other sales, promotions, and discounts both brands have regularly.
One thing to keep in mind as well is that the Willow requires custom bags to use that are expensive ($24 for a pack of 48). It has the option to use a container instead of the bag but it just doesn’t work as well with the containers.
Ease of Use
Elvie wins
The Willow has quite a learning curve to get used to how to use it. It has custom bags and you have to do this weird flip motion to get the last bit of milk to suck into the bags. Also, some moms have reported that it’s really hard to get the right latch with the Willow.
Suction
Willow wins
Both have strong suction. The Willow’s suction is stronger overall but stronger suction is not always better and does not always mean more milk.
Positions
Willow wins
You can relax comfortably and easily move around wearing either pump. However, while using the bags (not the containers), you can fully recline while pumping with the Willow.
Noise
Elvie wins
The Elvie is silent while the Willow makes some noise. If you are pumping at work or somewhere in public, the Elvie is definitely the most discreet.
Size
Elvie wins
The Elvie is slightly smaller than the Willow so it is a little less bulky and more concealed when wearing it in your bra.
Storage
Tie
The Willow bags store up to 4 ounces and the containers store up to 5. The willow has its own custom bags so your milk is automatically stored for you in the bags - however, the bags are pricey.
The Elvie containers store up to 5 ounces but you will have to transfer to your own bags/bottles to store.
App
Willow wins
The Willow app is easier to use and has a more accurate reading of output (when used with the bags, not the containers). However, we don’t see this as a big deal as you can see your output in the bags and track it in other ways.
Charge
Willow wins
The Willow holds a charge longer than the Elvie. However, this is not an issue if you just always keep them charging between pumps.
Overall, we highly recommend wearable breast pumps especially if you will have to pump at work or will be exclusively pumping. They are also very useful for busy stay-at-home moms who will be pumping a lot.
