The Medela Freestyle: Holy Heck, It Actually Works

You'll never guess what I was doing while I typed this post. Even if you guess, you'll never believe it. I didn't believe it either. I was pumping. Given my dubious relationship with my old breast pump, which caused total work stoppage (…

The Medela Freestyle: Holy Heck, It Actually Works

You'll never guess what I was doing while I typed this post. Even if you guess, you'll never believe it. I didn't believe it either.

I was pumping.

Given my dubious relationship with my old breast pump, which caused total work stoppage (and parental incompetence) three times a day, I'm blown away by the new Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Electric Pump. It's incredibly compact, it's rechargeable, and it really and truly is hands-free. Yes, there's a bunch of gear that comes with it that might look a little overwhelming at first, but the instructions are clear and concise and getting started is a snap.

While I pumped, I was able to reply to email, empty the dishwasher, refill sippie cups, fold laundry...you get the idea. I bet I could even pump while driving - but that's where I draw the line in terms of research.

Here's one more very cool effect I hadn't considered: With my hands available to do other things, shockingly I don't mind pumping longer at a stretch. Meaning more milk to add to my freezer stash to help keep my baby on breastmilk longer. So Medela Freestyle is better for both of us.

Get it any number of places including Amazon. It's not cheap. But neither is formula. -Julie

More in LivingView all picks →

A smarter way to shop for everyday essentials

A smarter way to shop for everyday essentials

Let’s be honest: shopping for household essentials is not exactly the glamorous part of adulthood. But when those essentials can be better for your home, more thoughtfully packaged, and delivered without another errand on your calendar? …

Great deals on great rugs. Don't miss this sale!

Great deals on great rugs. Don't miss this sale!

A great rug can do more than cover a floor. It can pull a room together, make a space feel finished, define a cozy reading corner, or instantly make a dorm room feel less like a temporary landing zone and more like home. That's part of t…

Save on skincare essentials at Walmart's Beauty Event

Save on skincare essentials at Walmart's Beauty Event

Fall is an especially good time to reassess what your skin actually needs. After months of sun, heat, humidity, and more outdoor time, your routine may benefit from a thoughtful reset. You can save big on adding some essential products t…