Regardless of the chosen method of feeding (acknowledging that all approaches are valid), many mothers share the sentiment that pumping can be laborious. It entails discomfort, necessitates considerable preparation and cleanup, and is inherently inconvenient.
Fortunately, there have been notable improvements in pumping technology over the years. My initial experience with pumping involved managing cords and dealing with spillage, but as I’ve progressed to my third child, advancements in technology have greatly enhanced both the process and its integration into my daily life. Presently, there is a range of cordless options available, providing hospital-grade suction that prioritizes comfort and convenience.
Two prominent brands in the market, Willow and Momcozy, offer a variety of options catering to the needs of new mothers. Below, I have conducted a comprehensive assessment of two popular cordless models from each brand: the Willow Go and the Momcozy M5. This evaluation encompasses aspects such as functionality, wearability, and washability. Stay tuned until the conclusion for my final recommendation.
The Players
Willow specializes in providing convenient pumping solutions and is renowned for its highly convenient and technologically advanced options designed to fit discreetly inside a bra without the need for cords. While we have previously favored the Willow 3.0 model, we have now evaluated the Willow Go for this comparison.
Momcozy provides a comprehensive range of maternity, bra, and feeding products. The brand offers five pump models tailored to meet the needs of mothers, with some featuring attachable motors and others designed to fit seamlessly into a bra. We have tested the All-in-one M5 pump to assess its performance compared to the Willow Go.
Test 1: Functionality
The Willow Go pump is a hands-free, base-free, cord-free device that provides hospital-grade suction, enhancing pumping efficiency. Featuring 15 adjustable levels of suction, users can tailor their experience to accommodate their body’s evolving needs. Additionally, it offers versatility with the option to select between 5 and 7 oz. containers, both of which are reusable. Willow asserts that the Willow Go pump may extend the feeding journey by an average of 4 months, although this claim has yet to be substantiated. However, personal experience indicates a higher output compared to traditional wall pumps, suggesting positive progress.
The Momcozy M5 features a “Baby Mouth” design, which incorporates a horizontal angle to replicate the natural suckling angle of a baby, ensuring comfort during pumping. Additionally, it offers a vibrate-to-pump mode intended to facilitate smoother pumping by loosening the ducts. While the Willow Go boasts 15 suction levels, the Momcozy M5 offers 9 suction levels along with 3 modes: stimulate, express, and mixed. In personal testing, both pumps have demonstrated similar output levels, indicating effective and comfortable performance for both models.
Winner: Tie
Test 2: Technology
Willow Go excels in several aspects. Notably, its extended battery life allows for approximately three sessions before requiring a recharge, which is particularly advantageous for individuals prone to forgetting to plug in devices. The integration of app connectivity enhances user experience by enabling functionalities such as starting/stopping the pump remotely, adjusting suction levels (leveraging the brand’s proprietary technology that replicates a baby’s latch), and monitoring pumping duration and volume. This tech-forward approach aligns seamlessly with other modern products designed to simplify this stage of the motherhood journey, making the Willow Go a valuable addition to such solutions.
The Momcozy M5 pump has a battery life of 100-120 minutes, necessitating more frequent charging compared to the Willow Go. There have been occasions where I found the M5 battery depleted when needed, prompting me to resort to using the Willow Go instead. Additionally, the M5 lacks app connectivity, which diminishes its appeal in this regard.
Winner: Willow Go
Test 3: Wearability
I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort level of the Willow Go pump. Despite its 100% comfort rating, I maintained a level of skepticism beforehand. However, I found that it integrates seamlessly into my bras, to the extent that I have been able to run errands and socialize with friends while wearing it without their notice until I mentioned it.
The Momcozy M5, unlike some other MomCozy models, does not feature a motor, allowing for convenient wearability while on the move. Additionally, it operates quietly, making it a discreet and easy-to-wear choice for users.
Winner: Tie
Test 4: Washability
Willow Go: For any parent caring for a newborn, especially those with multiple children, maintaining cleanliness is paramount and can feel like a full-time responsibility. Fortunately, the Willow Go pump simplifies this task with five out of its six components being dishwasher safe, facilitating easy cleaning and allowing users to stay organized and focused on other aspects of caregiving.
Winner: Willow Go
Overall Winner: Willow
As previously emphasized, ensuring a well-fed baby is paramount, and both of these pumps provide excellent options for mothers. However, in selecting a favorite, I must extend additional praise to Willow. While acknowledging its higher price point, I wholeheartedly endorse the brand for those who can accommodate the investment.
I have found numerous aspects of this pump to be highly satisfactory, particularly its exceptional performance resulting in improved output. Additionally, as someone accustomed to utilizing data-driven products, I appreciate its connectivity features and ability to track data effectively.
Above all, I am deeply thankful for the ability to comfortably pump while on the move. This phase of life is both rewarding and demanding, and the convenience of being able to pump from any location is truly liberating and straightforward. I encourage you to explore this option—I trust you will find it as rewarding as I have.