How to Purchase a Used Breast Pump

Purchasing a breast pump can be daunting. There are a variety of models, styles and functions, and the cost for a new breast pump can be prohibitive. Before you give up on being able to afford a new breast pump, consider a used breast pump. Research the pros and cons of the situation and decide if purchasing a used breast pump is right for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Research breast pump models to find out which one is the right for you. Most people who consider a used breast pump want a double electric model, which means that the pump, which is battery-operated or plugs into the wall, can empty both breasts at the same time.

2. Read online reviews to discover which models are the most durable. These models are the best to buy used since they will hold up under use by more than one person.

3. Find out how much the breast pump you want costs if you were to purchase it new. Most used breast pumps will sell for about half of what a new model costs. Keep that number in mind so you do not overpay for your used breast pump.

4. Look for used breast pumps in places such as eBay, Craigslist and your local newspaper's classified ads. Feel free to ask the sellers any questions before buying; after all, you want to know exactly what you are purchasing. Try to find a breast pump that is under two years old to ensure the longevity of your purchase.

5. Purchase your own tubing, breast shields and bottle collectors for your breast pump. What people are most interested in buying used is the breast pump motor and housing. Since the plastic parts that help to pump and collect the milk are the main parts that are exposed to human fluids, most people want to purchase their own new set rather that using the old set that came with the used breast pump.

6. Visit a baby specialty store to buy parts for your breast pump. Alternately, you can visit the breast pump manufacturer's website and order the parts.

Tips & Warnings

• The best place to purchase a used breast pump is from a family member or close friend. This way you will know the history of the breast pump and the health history of the mother.
• There are some health risks involved in buying a used breast pump. Although moms purchase used breast pumps quite often, there is a chance that the previous user of the breast pump managed to get some of her breast milk inside the housing of the pump, which can lead to mold build-up or the passing of a disease transmitted through breast milk. Weigh the potential risks versus the benefits of buying a used breast pump.

Resources

• To find a used breast pump online, visit eBay.
• To find a used breast pump online, visit Craigslist.

[bookmom]

on 6/19/2008 Good advice! I had a used pump and never had a problem. I consider the advice to never consider buying a used one propaganda by the pump manufacturers.