Evenflo SimplyGo Single Electric Breast Pump

If you’re like me, the first thing that comes to mind when you think about pumping is boredeom! Here you are, a new mom, becoming an expert in multitasking, learning how to survive on three hours of sleep and trying to take advantage of every minute not spent tending to your baby, and now someone wants you to simply sit there and do what? Just pump? It seems ridiculous!

As you may be able to tell, I’m not a fan of pumping. Therefore, the more efficient it can be, the better. Thankfully, the Evenflo SimplyGo Single Electric Breast Pump is just that: efficient.

Upon opening the box, I was immediately attracted to the pump's compact design and obvious portability. It includes a single pump bag that fits both the pump and a bottle, which is complete with nipple, nipple hood, bottle cap ring and sealing. (A word of caution: When stored in the bag and shoved into a book bag, the pump has a tendency to accidentally turn on, causing you to lose your mind trying to figure out what that buzzing sound is. Be aware that this is a possibility and make sure the pump is turned off.) Conveniently, all things included are unmistakably identified via pictures in the instruction manual’s section “Identification of Parts.” This is particularly useful when it comes to assembly and maintenance. In addition to the necessary parts, a nipple adaptor, stand and nursing pads are provided. Having had some difficulty in the first few weeks of breastfeeding, proper fit and nipple care aided by the nipple adaptor and nipple pads is imperative.

In addition to the instruction manual is an information sheet regarding Evenflo products that coincide with SimplyGo Single Electric Breast Pump, including Evenflo’s Dual Electric Breast Pump. Personal situation will determine whether a single or dual pump is preferred. For example, the majority of my pumping is done just one day a week, and I need only to relieve myself and supply milk for about three or four feedings a week (approximately 10 to fifteen ounces). If you were pumping regularly—for example, if you worked full time—the Dual Electric may be more your speed.

For me, the pumping adventure occurs during short breaks throughout one workday per week, slumped over in my car trying desperately to be as discreet and quick as possible. Because of this, the compactness of a single unit is advantageous, providing for portability, an easier setup and clean up, and the ability to use my non-pumping arm for privacy to shield myself from potential passersby. I’m always sure to put my vehicle’s windows up too, since the device is rather loud. I don’t know about you, but pumping is not a time to draw attention to myself—nothing screams awkward like a co-worker seeing a little too much!

Step by step instructions—with illustrations!—walk you through assembling your pump. To turn on, three AA batteries or the AC adaptor provided need to be inserted. While clearly explained, initially hooking the horn assembly to the pump unit may take some coaxing as it requires proper lineup and angling. Instructions on disassembly are not provided and although easily deduced, you do have to press a small button on the side of the pump unit that acts as a release to the horn assembly.

As I mentioned before, pumping is mind numbing. What to do—watch television, read a book, call a friend, take a nap? I’ve tried them all and even though using a single unit makes all of these easier, you must maintain focus. I know what you're thinking: Maintain focus? You just said all you're doing is pumping! What is there to focus on? Let me explain: Even more than I dread pumping, I dread spilling that liquid gold. The best way to prevent spillage is to keep the horn assembly firmly pressed to your chest. A slip of the horn—which is very likely when starting to doze off—will result in some spilt milk and a wet shirt, neither of which are desirable. Lesson to be learned: Stay alert! When not in use, the pump rests safely and sturdily on the provided stand, further limiting the potential for more milk to spill—a feature I can certainly appreciate.

Overall, the pump is affordable, efficient, compact and easy to use. For occasional expression, I would certainly recommend it.

Price: $36
To buy: babiesrus.com