Elvie: Pioneering Wearable Breast Pump Innovation
Elvie is a British company that revolutionized the breast pump industry by introducing the world's first truly wearable, silent breast pump in 2017. Founded on the mission to improve women's lives through smarter technology, Elvie has become synonymous with innovation, discretion, and freedom in breast pumping. Their products represent a significant departure from traditional electric pumps, offering mothers unprecedented mobility and privacy.
As a lactation consultant with over 12 years of experience, I have watched Elvie transform how modern mothers approach pumping, especially working mothers who need to pump discreetly at the office or while traveling. The brand's commitment to combining medical-grade effectiveness with sleek, user-friendly design has earned them a devoted following among tech-savvy mothers willing to invest in premium pumping solutions.
What Makes Elvie Different
Elvie stands apart from traditional breast pump manufacturers in several key ways:
- Wearable Design: Elvie pioneered completely wearable pumps that fit inside your bra with no external tubes, cords, or bottles hanging off your body. This design allows true hands-free pumping with complete freedom of movement.
- Silent Operation: Both Elvie models operate at whisper-quiet levels (30-35 decibels), making them the quietest pumps on the market. You can pump during video calls, meetings, or social situations without anyone hearing.
- App Integration: Elvie was the first breast pump brand to offer comprehensive app connectivity, providing real-time milk volume tracking, pumping history, and data insights through an intuitive smartphone interface.
- Modern Design: Elvie products feature award-winning industrial design that looks more like consumer technology than medical equipment, with smooth curves, premium materials, and sophisticated aesthetics.
- Spill-Proof Technology: The sealed, in-bra design prevents spills and leaks even while moving, standing, or walking, offering unprecedented freedom during pumping sessions.
Elvie Product Line
Elvie currently offers two breast pump models, each targeting different needs and price points:
Elvie Pump (Original): The flagship all-in-one wearable pump that fits entirely inside your bra with no external parts. Released in 2017 and updated in 2021, it represents the ultimate in discretion and mobility. Priced at $449.99 for a double pump set, it is positioned as a premium product for mothers who prioritize freedom and privacy above all else.
Elvie Stride: Launched in 2022 as a more accessible option, Elvie Stride brings hospital-grade suction and hands-free design at a lower price point ($299.99) with widespread insurance coverage. While it has small external tubing and a portable hub, it maintains Elvie's signature silent operation and app connectivity.
Target Market and Philosophy
Elvie specifically targets modern working mothers, professionals, and tech-savvy parents who view breast pumps as lifestyle technology rather than just medical devices. The brand's philosophy centers on empowering women with tools that fit seamlessly into their active lives without compromise. Elvie pumps are designed for mothers who refuse to hide in bathroom stalls, who want to pump during commutes, and who need technology that works as hard as they do.
The premium pricing reflects this positioning—Elvie is not trying to be the most affordable option but rather the most innovative and liberating. For mothers who have struggled with the limitations and inconvenience of traditional pumps, many find the investment worthwhile for the dramatic improvement in quality of life.
Innovation and Awards
Elvie has received numerous industry awards and recognition for innovation, including Time Magazine's Best Inventions, CES Innovation Awards, and iF Design Awards. The company invests heavily in research and development, with a team of engineers and designers continually refining their products based on user feedback and emerging technology. This commitment to innovation has positioned Elvie as a thought leader in the maternal health technology space.
Elvie Pump: Silent Wearable Breast Pump Review
Elvie Pump
$449.99 (Double Pump)
- ✓ Completely silent operation
- ✓ All-in-one wearable design
- ✓ App-connected tracking
- ✓ Spill-proof technology
- ✓ 5 oz capacity per cup
Overview and Design
The Elvie Pump is the original wearable breast pump that launched the wearable pump revolution. Unlike traditional pumps that require you to be tethered to a machine with bottles hanging from your body, the Elvie Pump is a completely self-contained unit that fits entirely inside your nursing bra. Each pump is roughly the size of a large cupcake, sitting discreetly in your bra cup with no external parts, tubes, or wires visible.
The innovative all-in-one design integrates the motor, collection cup, and valve system into a single sealed unit. This engineering achievement allows you to pump while wearing regular clothing, walking around, working at your desk, or even exercising—all while remaining completely discreet. The sealed design prevents leaks and spills even when you are moving, bending, or changing positions.
Performance and Effectiveness
In my professional experience working with hundreds of mothers, the Elvie Pump provides effective milk removal for most women, though individual results vary based on anatomy and milk supply. The pump offers 7 intensity levels and multiple modes to customize your pumping experience. While it may not match the absolute strongest hospital-grade pumps in raw suction power, the combination of proper fit, comfort, and longer pumping duration (since you can pump while doing other activities) often results in comparable milk output.
The truly silent operation—operating at just 30 decibels—means you can pump during Zoom meetings, at your desk in an open office, or while having conversations without anyone hearing a thing. This discretion factor alone has been life-changing for many of my clients who previously struggled with the noise and visibility of traditional pumps.
App Connectivity and Smart Features
The Elvie app transforms your smartphone into a pumping dashboard, displaying real-time milk volume as you pump. This feature eliminates the need to constantly check bottles and provides valuable data about your pumping patterns over time. The app tracks your history, reminds you to pump, and even offers insights into your peak pumping times.
One of the most praised features is the volume-based alerts that notify you when your cups are nearing capacity, preventing overflow accidents. The app also allows you to control pump settings remotely, though most mothers find the physical buttons equally convenient.
Comfort and Fit
Proper fit is essential for effective pumping with the Elvie Pump. The system includes 24mm and 28mm breast shields in the box, with 21mm and 32mm sizes available separately. The in-app sizing guide helps determine your optimal size, though many mothers need to experiment to find the perfect fit. When properly fitted, most mothers report excellent comfort even during extended pumping sessions.
The pump works best with supportive, snug-fitting nursing bras that can hold the weight of the pump (approximately 8-12 oz when full). Some mothers find they need to purchase specific bras designed for wearable pumps to achieve optimal positioning and comfort.
Battery Life and Portability
Each Elvie Pump unit contains a rechargeable battery that lasts for approximately 5-6 pumping sessions (2.5-3 hours total use) on a full charge. The battery charges via USB in about 2 hours, making it easy to charge at your desk, in your car, or using a portable battery pack. The compact storage case makes the Elvie Pump extremely travel-friendly—it fits easily in any bag and requires no additional accessories for a day of pumping on the go.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The Elvie Pump has 5 parts per pump that need cleaning after each use: breast shield, valve, seal, spout, and bottle. This is fewer parts than most traditional pumps. All washable parts are top-rack dishwasher safe or can be hand-washed with warm soapy water. The sealed design means milk cannot enter the motor housing, reducing maintenance needs. Most mothers find the cleaning routine straightforward, though you do need to disassemble and reassemble the pump for each use.
Limitations to Consider
Despite its many advantages, the Elvie Pump has some limitations. The 5 oz per cup capacity means frequent emptiers may need to empty mid-session. The premium price point ($449.99 for double pump) puts it out of reach for many families, and insurance coverage is less common than for traditional pumps. Some mothers with very large breasts or unique anatomy find the pump does not fit well in their bras. Finally, the suction strength, while adequate for most mothers, may not be strong enough for those with low supply or those who need maximum power for effective milk removal.
Who It Is Best For
The Elvie Pump excels for working mothers who need to pump in open office environments, during commutes, or while multitasking with older children. It is ideal for mothers who travel frequently, need maximum discretion, or have struggled with finding private pumping spaces. Tech-savvy mothers who appreciate data tracking and smart features will love the app integration. Finally, mothers who can afford the premium price and who prioritize freedom and convenience over cost savings find the Elvie Pump transformative.
Elvie Stride: Hospital-Grade Hands-Free Breast Pump Review
Elvie Stride
$299.99 (Double Pump)
- ✓ Hospital-grade suction
- ✓ Silent hands-free design
- ✓ Insurance covered
- ✓ App-connected tracking
- ✓ More affordable option
Overview and Design
Launched in 2022, the Elvie Stride was designed to make Elvie's innovative technology more accessible through a lower price point and widespread insurance coverage. While not a completely all-in-one wearable like the original Elvie Pump, Stride offers a hybrid design that maintains hands-free pumping with hospital-grade performance.
The Stride system consists of collection cups that fit inside your bra, connected by short tubing to a small, portable hub that houses the motor and controls. The hub is about the size of a deck of cards and clips to your clothing or sits in a pocket. This design provides strong hospital-grade suction while maintaining the discretion and hands-free convenience that makes Elvie pumps special.
Performance and Suction Power
The Elvie Stride delivers hospital-grade suction power that rivals traditional electric pumps from brands like Spectra and Medela. Many of my clients who switched from the original Elvie Pump to Stride report increased milk output thanks to the stronger suction capabilities. The pump offers customizable suction levels and cycling patterns to mimic natural breastfeeding rhythms.
For mothers who need maximum milk removal—whether due to low supply, exclusive pumping, or building a freezer stash—Stride's hospital-grade performance makes it more effective than many wearable pumps. The combination of strong suction with hands-free convenience creates an ideal balance for serious pumpers who still want mobility.
Silent Operation and Discretion
Like the original Elvie Pump, Stride operates virtually silently at approximately 30-35 decibels. This makes it equally suitable for pumping at work in shared spaces, during meetings, or while video conferencing. The small hub with short tubing is significantly more discreet than traditional pumps, though not quite as invisible as the all-in-one Elvie Pump. Most mothers can wear the Stride under loose clothing without it being noticeable.
App Integration
The Elvie Stride uses the same excellent app as the original Elvie Pump, providing real-time milk volume tracking, session history, and pumping insights. However, unlike the Elvie Pump which measures milk volume automatically, Stride users need to pour milk from the cups into bottles with volume markings, then input the amount into the app. This extra step makes tracking slightly less seamless but still provides valuable data for mothers who want to monitor their pumping progress.
Insurance Coverage
One of Stride's biggest advantages is widespread insurance coverage. The pump is classified as a hospital-grade breast pump and is available through most insurance durable medical equipment suppliers at no out-of-pocket cost under the Affordable Care Act. This makes Elvie's innovative technology accessible to mothers who could not afford the premium Elvie Pump price. Many of my clients have been thrilled to receive a Stride through insurance when they expected a traditional pump.
Comfort and Wearability
The Stride collection cups fit inside your nursing bra similarly to the Elvie Pump, though they are slightly larger to accommodate the connection port for the tubing. The system includes 24mm and 28mm breast shields with 21mm available separately. The short tubing (approximately 6 inches) provides freedom to move your arms and hands while pumping but is less flexible than the completely tubeless Elvie Pump.
Most mothers find Stride comfortable for extended pumping sessions. The in-bra design eliminates the hunched-over position required with traditional pumps, promoting better posture and allowing you to work, type, or care for a baby while pumping.
Battery Life and Portability
The Stride hub contains a rechargeable battery that provides approximately 4-5 pumping sessions per charge. The hub charges via USB in about 2 hours. While the battery life is slightly less than the original Elvie Pump (due to stronger suction requiring more power), it is still excellent for a full day of pumping. The compact hub and cups fit easily in the included carrying case, making Stride very portable for working mothers or travelers.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The Elvie Stride has 6-7 parts per side that need cleaning: breast shield, valve, cup, seal, connector, and tubing. All parts except the hub are dishwasher safe or can be hand-washed. The cleaning routine is comparable to the original Elvie Pump and simpler than most traditional pumps. The closed system design prevents milk from entering the tubing or hub in normal use, reducing maintenance needs.
Value Proposition
At $299.99 retail (and often free through insurance), Elvie Stride offers exceptional value. It brings Elvie's signature silent operation, app connectivity, and hands-free design at a price point competitive with traditional hospital-grade pumps. For mothers who want innovation without breaking the bank—or who can get it free through insurance—Stride represents the sweet spot of performance, convenience, and affordability in the Elvie lineup.
Who It Is Best For
Elvie Stride is ideal for mothers who want hands-free pumping with hospital-grade performance but do not need the complete invisibility of the all-in-one Elvie Pump. It is perfect for mothers using insurance coverage who want the most innovative pump available through their plan. Working mothers who need silent operation and mobility but also want maximum milk output will appreciate Stride's combination of strong suction and convenience. Finally, mothers who find the original Elvie Pump too expensive but love Elvie's approach will find Stride offers most of the benefits at a more accessible price.
Elvie Pump vs Elvie Stride: Complete Comparison
Both Elvie models offer innovative wearable pumping solutions, but they target different needs and budgets. Here is a detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right Elvie pump for your situation.
| Feature | Elvie Pump | Elvie Stride |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449.99 | $299.99 |
| Insurance Coverage | Limited | Widely covered |
| Design Type | All-in-one wearable | Cups + hub with tubing |
| Silent Operation | Yes (30 dB) | Yes (30-35 dB) |
| Hands-Free | Completely | Yes |
| App Connectivity | Real-time volume | Manual input |
| Suction Power | Moderate | Hospital-grade |
| Capacity per Cup | 5 oz (150 ml) | 4 oz (120 ml) |
| Battery Life | 5-6 sessions | 4-5 sessions |
| Spill-Proof | Walk & move | Sitting/standing |
| Discretion Level | Complete invisibility | Very discreet |
| External Parts | None | Small hub + short tubing |
| Breast Shield Sizes | 21, 24, 28, 32mm | 21, 24, 28mm |
| Parts to Clean | 5 per pump | 6-7 per side |
| Charge Time | 2 hours (USB) | 2 hours (USB) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Best For | Maximum discretion & mobility | Hospital-grade power + hands-free |
Which Elvie Pump Should You Choose?
Choose Elvie Pump If You:
- Need absolute maximum discretion and invisibility
- Want to pump while walking, exercising, or in motion
- Prefer the all-in-one design with no external parts
- Value real-time milk volume tracking in the app
- Can afford the premium price ($449.99)
- Have adequate milk supply with moderate suction needs
Choose Elvie Stride If You:
- Need hospital-grade suction power
- Want to use insurance coverage (often free)
- Prefer a more affordable price point ($299.99)
- Don't mind a small hub and short tubing
- Require maximum milk output for supply building
- Want hands-free convenience with strongest performance
Elvie Brand Pros and Cons
Elvie Advantages
- Revolutionary Silent Operation: Both models operate at whisper-quiet levels (30-35 dB), making them the quietest pumps available. Perfect for pumping in meetings, on calls, or in shared spaces.
- Truly Hands-Free Design: Wearable in-bra design eliminates hunching over bottles and allows you to work, care for baby, or multitask while pumping.
- Complete Discretion: Elvie Pump offers complete invisibility under clothing; Stride is highly discreet with minimal external parts.
- Smart App Integration: Industry-leading app provides milk tracking, session history, and valuable pumping insights. Elvie Pump offers real-time volume measurement.
- Spill-Proof Technology: Sealed design prevents leaks and spills, with Elvie Pump allowing movement while pumping.
- Modern Award-Winning Design: Sleek, premium aesthetics that look more like consumer tech than medical equipment.
- Excellent Portability: Compact, lightweight, USB-rechargeable design makes both models extremely travel-friendly.
- Insurance Option: Elvie Stride widely covered by insurance, making innovation accessible.
- Quality Construction: Premium materials and engineering with 2-year warranty on both models.
- Fewer Parts: Simpler design with fewer parts to clean compared to traditional pumps.
Elvie Limitations
- Premium Pricing: Elvie Pump at $449.99 is one of the most expensive pumps on the market, potentially prohibitive for many families.
- Limited Insurance for Pump: Original Elvie Pump has limited insurance coverage; mainly Stride is covered.
- Lower Capacity: 4-5 oz cups mean frequent emptiers may need to empty mid-session or pump longer.
- Suction Limitations: Elvie Pump suction, while adequate for most, may not be strong enough for mothers with low supply or those needing maximum power.
- Fit Requirements: Works best with specific bra types and may not fit all breast sizes/shapes comfortably.
- Learning Curve: Assembly, proper positioning, and optimal settings may require experimentation and adjustment period.
- Part Replacement Costs: Replacement parts, especially breast shields and valves, can be expensive over time.
- Size Availability: Limited breast shield sizes compared to traditional pumps; not all sizes widely available.
- App Dependency: Best features require smartphone and Bluetooth connectivity; some features limited without app.
- Not for Everyone: Wearable design may not work as effectively for mothers with unique anatomy or very large breasts.
In my professional assessment, Elvie pumps represent a significant advancement in breast pump technology, particularly for mothers who need discretion and mobility. The limitations are primarily around cost and specialized fit requirements rather than fundamental design flaws. For mothers whose lifestyles align with what Elvie offers, the investment often proves worthwhile.
Elvie Key Features: What Makes Them Special
1. Silent Operation Technology
Elvie pumps are engineered with proprietary motor technology that operates at just 30-35 decibels—quieter than a whisper and significantly quieter than any traditional breast pump. This game-changing feature allows you to pump during video conferences, in open-plan offices, during meetings, or while socializing without anyone hearing. The psychological freedom of silent pumping cannot be overstated—many of my clients report that quiet operation alone justified their Elvie purchase.
2. Truly Hands-Free Wearable Design
Unlike traditional pumps that require pumping bras and still leave bottles dangling, Elvie pumps sit completely inside your bra. This means genuine hands-free pumping with full range of arm motion. You can type, hold your baby, eat, work out, or do household tasks while pumping. The freedom to multitask transforms pumping from an interruption into a background activity that fits seamlessly into your day.
3. Spill-Proof Sealed System
The sealed, in-bra design prevents spills and leaks even during movement. With the Elvie Pump, you can walk, stand, bend, and move freely without worrying about milk spillage—something impossible with traditional pumps. This feature is particularly valuable for mothers who pump while commuting, caring for active toddlers, or moving around the house or office.
4. Smart App Connectivity
The Elvie app transforms your pumping experience with data-driven insights. Track milk volume over time, identify your most productive pumping times, maintain complete session history, and receive alerts when cups are nearly full. The Elvie Pump's real-time volume measurement means you never need to remove the pump to check how much milk you have expressed. This data helps optimize your pumping schedule and provides peace of mind about milk production.
5. Discreet Design
The Elvie Pump fits completely inside your bra with no visible external parts, allowing you to wear regular clothing and pump in any setting. Elvie Stride, while having a small hub, remains highly discreet under loose tops or with the hub clipped inside a pocket. Both pumps allow pumping in public, at work, or in social settings without obvious equipment or the need for special pumping covers.
6. Premium Materials and Construction
Elvie products feature medical-grade silicone, BPA-free plastics, and premium construction quality that reflects their British design heritage. The smooth surfaces, quality feel, and attention to detail create a product that feels less like medical equipment and more like high-end consumer technology. This matters both for durability and for the psychological aspect of using a product that feels modern and sophisticated.
7. Portable and Travel-Friendly
Both Elvie models are extremely portable with USB rechargeable batteries, compact storage cases, and no need for power outlets. The lightweight design means you can easily pack them for business trips, vacations, or daily commutes. Many traveling mothers report that Elvie pumps make business travel possible in ways traditional pumps never could.
8. Simplified Cleaning
With just 5-7 parts per pump to clean, Elvie pumps are simpler to maintain than traditional pumps. All washable parts are dishwasher safe, and the closed system design prevents milk from reaching internal components. The straightforward cleaning routine saves time and reduces the hassle of pump maintenance.
Who Should Buy Elvie Breast Pumps?
Elvie pumps are not for everyone, but for the right mothers in the right circumstances, they can be absolutely transformative. Based on my experience consulting with hundreds of pumping mothers, here are the profiles of mothers who benefit most from Elvie pumps.
Working Mothers in Professional Settings
If you work in an open office, shared workspace, or environment without dedicated private pumping rooms, Elvie pumps solve a major challenge. The silent operation and discreet design allow you to pump at your desk, during meetings, or in semi-public spaces without drawing attention. Many of my corporate clients report that Elvie pumps made returning to work significantly less stressful because they could maintain their pumping schedule without constantly leaving their workstation or missing important meetings.
Mothers Who Travel Frequently
Business travelers, commuters, and mothers who are often on-the-go benefit enormously from Elvie's portability and hands-free design. You can pump during your commute (as a passenger, not while driving!), in airports, on trains, or in hotel rooms without finding outlets or arranging special accommodations. The compact storage, USB charging, and battery operation make Elvie pumps ideal travel companions.
Tech-Savvy and Data-Oriented Parents
If you love tracking data, using apps, and incorporating technology into parenting, you will appreciate Elvie's comprehensive app integration. The milk volume tracking, session history, and pumping insights appeal to mothers who want quantitative information about their milk production. The modern design and smart features align with a tech-forward lifestyle.
Mothers Who Value Privacy and Discretion
For mothers who feel uncomfortable with the visibility and noise of traditional pumping, Elvie offers unprecedented privacy. You can pump in public settings, during social gatherings, or at family events without anyone knowing. This discretion factor is deeply meaningful for mothers who have felt isolated or excluded due to pumping requirements with traditional pumps.
Active Mothers and Multitaskers
If you have older children to care for, household responsibilities to manage, or simply cannot sit still for 20-30 minutes multiple times per day, the hands-free mobility of Elvie pumps allows you to pump while doing other essential activities. Mothers report pumping while preparing meals, playing with toddlers, doing light household tasks, or working—activities impossible with traditional pumps.
Mothers With Traditional Pump Struggles
If you have tried traditional pumps and struggled with discomfort, inconvenience, or simply hated the experience, Elvie's completely different approach may work better for you. Many of my clients who were ready to give up on pumping altogether found renewed motivation with wearable pumps. The psychological shift from seeing pumping as a restrictive chore to an activity you can do while living your life makes a significant difference.
Premium Buyers Who Prioritize Quality
Mothers who view breast pumps as important investments in their breastfeeding journey and are willing to pay premium prices for superior convenience and innovation will find Elvie pumps worth the cost. If you have the budget and value freedom, discretion, and modern design, Elvie delivers exceptional quality.
Insurance-Covered Mothers (Elvie Stride)
If your insurance covers breast pumps and you want the most innovative option available through coverage, Elvie Stride often represents the best pump you can get at no cost. Many mothers are surprised and delighted to find Elvie Stride on their insurance provider's approved list when they expected only traditional pumps.
Who Should Consider Other Options
Elvie may not be ideal if you are on a tight budget without insurance coverage for Stride, need maximum absolute suction power for low supply issues, have very large breasts that may not fit comfortably, or prefer the proven track record and widespread availability of traditional pumps like Spectra or Medela. Additionally, if you have a comfortable private pumping space and do not need mobility, traditional pumps may offer better value.
Where to Buy Elvie Breast Pumps: Best Prices and Options
Elvie breast pumps are available through multiple purchasing channels, each offering different advantages. Here is a comprehensive guide to buying your Elvie pump.
Insurance Coverage (Best Value for Elvie Stride)
Elvie Stride is widely covered by insurance under the Affordable Care Act's breast pump benefit. Most insurance plans cover Elvie Stride at no out-of-pocket cost through durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers. To get your Elvie Stride through insurance:
- Contact your insurance company to verify breast pump coverage and identify approved DME suppliers
- Common suppliers that carry Elvie Stride include Aeroflow, Edgepark, Byram Healthcare, and insurance-specific providers
- You typically need a prescription from your OB-GYN, midwife, or primary care physician
- Order during pregnancy (usually after 30 weeks) or postpartum
- Most mothers can receive Elvie Stride completely free through insurance
Note that the original Elvie Pump has limited insurance coverage and is less commonly available through DME suppliers. Always verify with your specific insurance plan. For complete insurance details, see our insurance coverage guide.
Amazon (Best for Out-of-Pocket Purchase)
Amazon offers competitive pricing on both Elvie models with fast Prime shipping, easy returns, and frequent customer reviews. Current retail prices are:
Target (Convenient In-Store Options)
Target carries both Elvie Pump and Elvie Stride in many stores and online with same-day pickup or delivery options in most areas. Target's pricing matches Amazon closely, and Target Circle members receive additional discounts. Target also stocks some replacement parts and accessories for in-person shopping convenience.
Elvie Official Website
Purchasing directly from Elvie.com ensures you receive authentic products with full manufacturer warranty and support. The official website occasionally offers promotions, bundles, and exclusive colors not available through other retailers. Direct purchase from Elvie provides access to their customer service team for sizing questions and technical support before buying.
Replacement Parts and Accessories
For replacement breast shields, valves, seals, bottles, and other accessories:
- Elvie Official Website: Complete selection of all sizes and parts directly from manufacturer
- Amazon: Wide selection with fast Prime shipping for most common replacement parts
- Target: Limited selection of common parts available in stores and online
- Lactation Consultant Offices: Many IBCLCs sell Elvie pumps and parts with expert fitting assistance
Buying Used Considerations
While Elvie pumps are closed-system designs that prevent milk contamination of internal parts, I still recommend purchasing new for hygiene and warranty reasons. Breast pump motors and batteries degrade over time, and used pumps may not perform optimally. Additionally, only new pumps include manufacturer warranties. If budget is a primary concern, consider Elvie Stride through insurance rather than purchasing used.
For more guidance on choosing the right pump and purchasing options, see our comprehensive breast pump buying guide and best pumps for working moms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Elvie Pump and Elvie Stride?
The main difference is the design and price. Elvie Pump is a completely wearable, all-in-one pump that fits entirely inside your bra with no external parts, costs $449.99, and holds 5 oz per cup. Elvie Stride is a hands-free pump with cups that fit in your bra connected by short tubing to a portable hub, costs $299.99, is widely insurance-covered, and provides hospital-grade suction.
Both are silent and app-connected, but Stride offers stronger suction while Pump offers complete discretion. Elvie Pump allows walking and movement while pumping; Stride is best while sitting or standing in place. Most mothers choosing between them prioritize either maximum invisibility (Pump) or strongest suction and insurance coverage (Stride).
Does insurance cover Elvie breast pumps?
Elvie Stride is widely covered by insurance under the Affordable Care Act and is available through most durable medical equipment suppliers at no out-of-pocket cost. The original Elvie Pump is less commonly covered by insurance due to its premium price point, though some plans may offer partial coverage.
To get Elvie Stride through insurance, contact your insurance provider or work with a DME supplier like Aeroflow or Edgepark who will verify your coverage and handle the ordering process. You will typically need a prescription from your healthcare provider. Always verify coverage with your specific insurance plan before ordering.
Is Elvie Pump really silent?
Yes, both Elvie Pump and Elvie Stride are virtually silent during operation. They use innovative motor technology that operates at approximately 30-35 decibels, which is quieter than a whisper. This makes them ideal for pumping in meetings, at your desk, or while socializing without anyone noticing.
The silent operation is one of Elvie's most praised features by users. Many mothers report pumping during video conferences, in open offices, and even during in-person meetings without anyone hearing. This is dramatically quieter than traditional pumps like Spectra (45 dB) or Medela (50-55 dB).
How does the Elvie app work?
The Elvie app connects to your pump via Bluetooth and provides real-time pumping data including milk volume, pumping history, and session tracking. The app shows how much milk you have expressed during each session, tracks your pumping schedule, and maintains a comprehensive history.
With Elvie Pump, the app displays real-time milk volume as you pump using built-in sensors. With Elvie Stride, you input the volume after measuring. You can control pump settings from the app, receive notifications when bottles are full, and access pumping insights. The app works on iOS and Android and stores your data securely for tracking trends over time.
Can you really pump while walking with Elvie?
Yes, the Elvie Pump is designed to be completely spill-proof and can be worn while walking, standing, and moving around freely. The sealed design and in-bra placement keep milk secure even during movement. Many mothers pump while commuting, working out, doing household chores, or caring for other children.
The Elvie Stride allows some movement but is best used while sitting or standing in place due to the external hub and tubing. While you have hands-free mobility with Stride, extensive walking or bending may cause discomfort or tubing issues. For maximum movement freedom, Elvie Pump is the better choice.
How do you clean Elvie breast pumps?
Elvie pumps have 5-7 parts that need cleaning after each use: breast shields, valves, bottles/cups, and seals. Disassemble all parts that contact milk and wash in warm soapy water or place in the top rack of the dishwasher. The pump hub and electronic components should be wiped with a damp cloth only.
Sterilize parts once daily by boiling for 5 minutes or using a steam sterilizer. Air dry on a clean towel. The simple design with fewer parts makes cleaning easier than traditional pumps. Replace valves and seals every 1-3 months or when you notice decreased suction. The closed system design prevents milk from entering internal components, reducing maintenance needs.
What size do Elvie pumps come in?
Both Elvie Pump and Elvie Stride come with 24mm and 28mm breast shields included in the box. Additional sizes (21mm and 32mm for Pump, 21mm for Stride) are available for purchase separately. Proper fit is essential for comfort and effective milk removal, so many mothers need to try different sizes to find their optimal fit.
The app includes a sizing guide to help determine the best size for your nipple. Your nipple should move freely in the tunnel without rubbing the sides, and you should not feel pinching or discomfort. Many lactation consultants can help with sizing if you are unsure. Proper sizing significantly impacts pumping effectiveness and comfort.
How long does the Elvie battery last?
The Elvie Pump battery lasts for approximately 5-6 pumping sessions (about 2.5-3 hours total) on a full charge. The Elvie Stride battery lasts for approximately 4-5 sessions. Both charge fully in about 2 hours using the included USB charging cable.
Battery life depends on suction strength settings, with higher levels draining the battery faster. The portable design and USB charging make it easy to charge between sessions at your desk, in your car, or using a portable battery pack. Most mothers find the battery life sufficient for a full day of pumping with overnight charging.
Is Elvie worth the high price?
Whether Elvie is worth the price depends on your specific needs and priorities. For mothers who need maximum discretion for pumping at work, during social activities, or while caring for other children, the freedom and silent operation make it worth the investment. Working moms, frequent travelers, and those who struggled with traditional pumps often find exceptional value.
If you have a private pumping space and do not need mobility, a traditional hospital-grade pump like Spectra may better suit your needs at a lower price. Consider Elvie Stride as a more affordable insurance-covered option with similar hands-free benefits. Many mothers report that Elvie pumps made the difference between successfully continuing breastfeeding or giving up, which makes the investment worthwhile for their families.
Can Elvie Pump replace a traditional electric pump?
For many mothers, Elvie Pump can serve as their primary pump, especially if they need mobility and discretion. However, some mothers with low milk supply or specific medical needs may find traditional hospital-grade pumps with stronger suction more effective for maximizing milk output.
Elvie Stride offers hospital-grade suction in a hands-free design and may better replace traditional pumps for mothers who need maximum power. Many mothers use Elvie as their primary pump and keep a traditional pump as backup for power pumping sessions or if they experience supply challenges. The best approach depends on your individual milk production and pumping goals.
Does Elvie work with all bra sizes?
Elvie Pump and Stride work with most nursing and pumping bras in sizes 32A-40DD, though fit varies by bra style and construction. Elvie Pump requires a snug-fitting bra to hold the pump securely in place. Elvie Stride is more flexible with bra compatibility since only the cups fit inside the bra.
Both work best with nursing bras that have stretchy fabric and provide good support. Some mothers need to try different bras to find the best fit for their Elvie pump. Elvie sells their own recommended pumping bras, and many third-party brands offer Elvie-compatible options. For mothers with very large breasts or unique sizing needs, finding the right bra fit may require experimentation.
What warranty does Elvie offer?
Elvie offers a 2-year limited warranty on both Elvie Pump and Elvie Stride that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear of replaceable parts like valves, seals, and breast shields.
To maintain warranty coverage, register your pump on the Elvie website and retain your purchase receipt. Elvie customer service is known for responsive support and helpful troubleshooting assistance. If you experience issues within the warranty period, contact Elvie support for repair or replacement options. The 2-year warranty is longer than many competitors and reflects Elvie's confidence in their product quality.