Blog Posts
Is High Suction Power Really the Best Breast Pump Feature? (Why New Zealand Mums Should Look Closer)
Megan at her hens do pumping hands-free with The Breasties Think high suction power equals a better pump? Think again. We understand the pressure of choosing the right breast pump NZ for you. Whether you're a first-time mum or a seasoned lactating veteran, the market is full of confusing specifications. Here's a fact you need to know: suction strength isn't the only key element. The comfort, efficiency, and smart features of a pump make all the difference to your overall milk supply and pumping journey. At Breastfriend, we celebrate every step of your journey. Our double pump, The Breasties, is engineered for both comfort and superior milk removal. We ensure you have support as you move through your day—yes, completely hands-free! We're here, pumping with you, every gentle, quiet, and efficient step of the way. Why Suction Strength Alone is Misleading Many companies focus on a high maximum suction number to sell their pumps, but research shows that painfully high suction does not equal more milk. In fact, it's often the cause of the common problems we hear about: painful pumping and even nipple damage. The key to efficient and comfortable milk expression is a combination of cycle speed and vacuum (suction) that effectively mimics your baby's natural nursing rhythm—delivering maximum strength only when it’s gentle and needed. Introducing The Breasties: Hospital-Strength Power Meets Hands-Free Freedom Brought to you by an exclusively pumping mum in New Zealand, The Breasties isn't just another pump; it's a solution to the most common pumping problems faced by mothers. We focus on true efficiency and unmatched support. The Breasties delivers the same high performance as those very bulky, expensive wired units, but in a completely wearable, discreet package. Unique Features That Make The Breasties Stand Out: Optimal Hospital-Strength Power: The Breasties offers 300mmHg suction—the proven optimal level to efficiently empty the breast without causing pain. This is the same strength found in traditional hospital pumps, but engineered for your comfort and convenience. The Completely Hands-Off Auto-Mode: Say goodbye to fiddling with buttons! Our unique auto-mode is designed to manage the entire pumping process for you, automatically transitioning between stimulation and expression phases. Just switch it on and let The Breasties do the work. A Quiet Solution for Discreet Pumping: Tired of that loud, distracting motor? The Breasties operates with minimal noise, making it perfect for office pumping, expressing while your baby sleeps, or simply enjoying a quiet moment. Pumping in the Dark? No Problem! The built-in night light feature ensures you can manage your settings and connect your parts easily during those late-night or early-morning sessions without waking up the whole house. Designed for Your Comfort: We understand that every body is different. We solve the problem of limited sizing by stocking flange sizes from 13mm up to 27mm, ensuring you can find the perfect, pain-free fit—even if you have smaller nipples. Solving Pumping Pain Points with Local Support When you choose The Breasties, you are choosing more than just a pump. You're getting a commitment to solving the biggest pain points in the pumping journey: Problem Solved How The Breasties & Breastfriend Deliver Pumps that don't empty Optimal 300mmHg hospital-strength suction and efficient cycles for complete breast drainage. Painful Pumping Flange sizes from 13-27mm for a custom, comfortable fit. Poor Customer Service Local NZ support, founded by an EP mum who understands your needs. Limited Parts Availability Local parts stocking means minimal downtime and quick access to spares. How long pumping takes Efficient auto-mode and powerful suction cut down on overall session time. Conclusion: Ready to Find the Best Breast Pump NZ? If you are looking for a powerful, efficient, and comfortable wearable pump backed by genuine local support and the specific parts you need, look no further. The Breasties offers the confidence of hospital-strength performance with the convenience of a hands-free, auto-managing design. Experience the Breastfriend difference today and make your pumping journey comfortable, quiet, and stress-free. Shop The Breasties Now
Learn moreThe Pump Parts Fridge Hack
The Pump Parts Fridge Hack is one I used everyday as an exclusive pumper and it's a clever, science-backed shortcut that thousands of mums swear by. It saves time, reduces stress, and makes pumping dramatically easier (especially at work). If you’ve ever been stuck in a bathroom trying to wash pump parts between meetings, this hack is about to change your life. What actually is this hack? The pump parts fridge hack is a simple method where you store your used (but clean) pump parts in the fridge between pumping sessions, instead of washing them after every single use. Cold temperatures slow the growth of bacteria, keeping the parts safe to reuse later the same day. This means you can pump multiple times at work without having to disassemble, wash, and dry everything after every session. It's sooo good... but can take up space in the fridge So back when I was still pumping I went on a hunt to find the perfect container, and of course I found it at my favourite place to shop, Kmart. And for $4, you have the perfect fridge companion. Here she is, and fits your Breastie containers perfectly. Important Safety Considerations While the fridge hack is widely used, there are a few guidelines to follow: Only reuse parts in the same 24-hour period. Always keep parts cold, ideally in the back of the fridge (the coldest spot). Avoid using this method if your baby is premature, medically fragile, or immunocompromised unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. Still sterilise all parts daily. xx Marie-Claire
Learn moreWorld Prematurity Day: Supporting the Mums
I don't have a preemie myself, but this day tugs at me now I'm a parent. Once you become a mother, you suddenly feel ache in your body for every other mum's story. Especially the ones who didn't get the soft landing they'd expected. One minute you're pregnant... the next you're standing beside an incubator learning how to pump. Most NICU mums still have to buy a pump... This is a reality, and not one they may have planned for. Most of us hope to have a journey where we can exclusively breastfeed (I was one of them) but then things don't quite work out, especially when you're in NICU. Yes, when you're there, you may get access to the big-hospital grade one, but when you're home? And overnight? Or you need do actually move around? You have to buy your own. And even though Breastfriend is cheaper than it's counterparts for a similar looking product, that's still money coming directly out of mum's pocket for a product she hasn't had time to research during a brutal and emotional time. That sits heavy with me. You just end up with what you're recommended initially, but there's no way of knowing whether that is best. Our donation to Little Miracles Back in August, when Breastfriend was 1.5 months old, we made our first donation to Little Miracles. We gifted: Our viral breast pumps Silver nipple cups Plenty of storage bags I did this but: We weren't big enough. We weren't established enough. We definitely weren't profitable. My dream? Outside of supporting the everyday mum in their pumping journey, I want to donate pumps regularly to NICU mums so they don't have to buy their own. So they can go home with a pump without thinking about money. So getting milk to their baby isn't another stress on top of a thousand others. But, that can only happen if I make this business profitable. Why today matters? Prematurity affects 1/10 babies. That's everywhere, every mum's group, every antenatal class, every stress, every classroom, every office, every job site and eventually, every retirement home. NICU mums are doing recovery, grief, pumping, and round-the-clock vigilance all at once. It's unbelievably tough, and it deserves awareness, care, actual practical support, not just hashtags. To every NICU parent spending today beside a tiny tiny baby, virtual hug. And to all the mums who'll walk this path in the future: I'm building this business with you in mind.
Learn moreFinding The Right Flange
Breastfriend stocks 12 flange sizes, ranging from 13mm through to 27mm, this makes us New Zealand's most inclusive! Do I need a flange? Yep, highly likely. A breast pump flange is the silicone piece that sits over your nipple to create a seal. When the pump starts, the vacuum should draw only your nipple into the tunnel, not your whole areola. This is what allows efficient milk removal. Our pumps come with standard 24 mm flanges, but you may need a smaller or larger size depending on your nipple measurement and how pumping feels. Using the correct flange size is essential for good suction and milk transfer. The wrong size can cause poor output, clogged ducts, mastitis, reduced supply, and nipple pain or damage. Now let's find the right size! Do not pump or nurse before measuring, but do roll your nipple gently to stimulate, this is especially important for flat or inverted nipples. Use the silicone nipple ruler included with The Breasties (recommended for best results). Measure your nipple in millimetres at the widest part (typically the base). Measure both nipples as you may need two different sizes. Your flange size is 1-2 mm more than your nipple's size. If you are pregnant, we recommend adding 2-3 mm. Add your new flanges to cart! Keep an eye on your nipples... Things can (and likely will) change over time. Your nipples adjust, being more swollen in the early days, and then as time goes on they will likely become smaller. This doesn't necessarily mean that you need a new flange, but if you're experiencing discomfort, then it's important to check your flange size. I've got questions! We're just an email away: hello@breastfriend.co.nz We'll try help as best we can, but we might not be able to answer all questions and for some you might need to speak to a lactation consultant.
Learn more🎄 Breastfriend Christmas Shipping Cut-Off Dates 2025
We’ll keep dispatching orders right up until the shutdown, but anything placed after these dates may not arrive before Christmas Day.
Learn moreBeyond the Pump: Why Flange Fit is Our Core Promise to Every Mum
When I launched Breastfriend, my goal wasn't just to sell a pump—it was to deliver a truly better pumping experience for New Zealand mums. I know firsthand, from my own body and my own pumping journey, that the existing options were often inadequate. I did the rigorous research and deep digging, using my own struggles to identify the critical gap: the lack of inclusive sizing and support. I searched the globe to curate and deliver a breast pump system that finally meets the standard of care every mum deserves. What I learned quickly from our incredible Breastie community is that "better" isn't just about suction or battery life—it's about feeling seen, supported, and confident. For too long, the industry has forced mums to fit their bodies to the pump. We decided to flip that script. Our Core Brand Belief: The Pump That Fits You, Not the Other Way Around At Breastfriend, driven by my own experience, we made a commitment to demand and deliver a system where our extensive range of sizes and personalised fitting support are not just a feature; they are our core brand belief. For us, inclusivity isn't a marketing buzzword—it's a mission to address the deep emotional reassurance every mother needs when pumping. The Reality: Why One Size Doesn't Fit All Most breast pump brands offer a handful of sizes, leaving many mums—especially those with very small nipples, elastic tissue, or nipple asymmetry—to endure pain, low output, and stress. If you're a mum who has experienced: Pain or discomfort during pumping. The stress of low milk output. Past trauma with ill-fitting pumps. Worry about atypical anatomy or post-surgery changes. ...you know the difference a perfect fit makes. It’s the difference between an efficient, comfortable session and quitting early. We Lead with Inclusivity: More Sizes, Deeper Support We are proud to be the most inclusive breast pump brand in New Zealand, offering a huge range of sizes, including those often left out. Breastfriend's Difference Why This Matters to You 12 Flange Sizes (The widest range in NZ) Ensures you can find the precise fit you need for comfort and optimal output. Very Small Increments Crucial for nipples that fall between standard sizes, eliminating pain and maximising efficiency. Support for Asymmetry Many women have two different size nipples. Our ability to support a one-to-one fit addresses this common, but often ignored, reality. Dedicated Fitting Education Providing free nipple rulers and guides with your pump means you are never left guessing about your size. This inclusivity functions as deep, vital emotional reassurance. You shouldn't have to settle when it comes to feeding your baby. A Thoughtful Solution for Every Mum We are committed to being the thoughtful solution for all body types and fit challenges. We want to be the brand that mums like you associate with leadership in body diversity and comfort—a brand that is recognized as the definitive solution for all pumping challenges. This is why we focus on supporting every mum, including: Mums with small or "hard-to-fit" nipples. Mums experiencing nipple asymmetry. Mums with elastic tissue that requires specific sizing. Mums post-surgery or with other unique anatomical needs. You deserve a pump that respects your body's uniqueness. What You Can Do Next To empower our community and help others, we are actively seeking stories and case studies that highlight challenging fit scenarios where Breastfriend has provided the perfect solution. If you have a story about how our inclusive sizing or one-to-one fitting support made your pumping journey better, please share it with us! Together, we’re setting a new standard for comfort and confidence in breastfeeding support. With love and gratitude, Marie-Claire Founder, Breastfriend. SHOP THE BREASTIES
Learn moreOur Black Friday Offer
From day one, the goal was simple: keep things fair, keep things real, and keep the margins lean so mums get the best possible product at the best possible price, and that would be every single day.
Learn moreLabour Day Giveaway Terms & Conditions
1. Promoter This giveaway (“Promotion”) is hosted in collaboration between Breastfriend NZ Ltd, Hotmilk Lingerie, Tap. Health, and Viva La Vulva NZ (“the Promoters”). 2. Eligibility Open to New Zealand residents. Instagram accounts must be public at the time of winner selection so entry actions can be verified. 3. Entry Period Entries open Monday 20th October 2025 and close Monday 27 October 2025 at 11:59 p.m. NZT. 4. How to Enter To enter, participants must: Follow @viva_la_vulva_nz, @tap.health, @hotmilklingerie, and @breastfriend.co.nz on Instagram. Like the giveaway post on any of the participating brand pages. Tag a mum who deserves a smooth labour (each tag counts as one entry, no limit). Share the giveaway post to their Instagram Story for five (5) bonus entries. 5. Prize Details One winner will receive the Ultimate Labour Day & Postpartum Bundle valued at approximately NZD $850, including: $200 voucher from Viva La Vulva NZ Tap 2.0 TENS Device from Tap. Health (RRP $109) $200 gift card from Hotmilk Lingerie Breasties wearable pumps with all accessories, flange set, and breastmilk bags from Breastfriend (RRP $365) 6. Winner Selection & Notification The winner will be randomly drawn on Tuesday 28 October 2025 and shared on @breastfriend.co.nz instagram story. The winner will also be contacted via Instagram Direct Message within 24 hours of the draw. If the winner does not respond within 5 days, a new winner will be selected. 7. Prize Delivery Prizes will be shipped or delivered directly by each contributing brand within New Zealand only. No substitutions or cash equivalents will be offered. The prize is non-transferable. 8. General Conditions By entering, participants agree to these Terms & Conditions and acknowledge that this promotion is not sponsored, endorsed, or administered by Instagram. Each Promoter is responsible only for fulfilment of their own prize component. The Promoters reserve the right to verify entries, disqualify fraudulent or spam entries. Personal information provided by entrants will be used solely for the purpose of administering the giveaway and contacting the winner. 9. Contact For questions regarding this promotion, please contact hello@breastfriend.co.nz.
Learn moreThe Breastfriend goodie bag
Every Breastie order includes a little something extra. A thoughtfully curated goodie bag featuring samples from New Zealand brands who believe in supporting mums through pregnancy, postpartum and beyond. These samples have been generously contributed by the brands themselves so you can experience their products firsthand. Please note: not every bag will contain every item listed below. In true limited-edition style, the contents vary depending on what each brand has kindly contributed — making every bag a little different, but always special. The Herb FarmBaby Calm (Full Size) This beautiful full-size gift from The Herb Farm is a gentle, plant-based formula to support babies through teething, restlessness and general fussiness. It is designed for little bodies but often becomes a go-to for parents too. We are so grateful to Lou for offering such a generous product to our earliest customers. Explore The Herb Farm DaeliSugar Free Electrolytes (Sample) Daeli makes clean, sugar-free electrolytes designed to support hydration and energy and contain 2-4x the electrolytes of standard sports drinks. Perfect for postpartum mums and anyone juggling broken sleep, feeding and recovery. Kelly from Daeli has kindly contributed samples to help new mums discover how effective their formula really is. Explore Daeli Parker & CoLavender Magnesium Balm (Mini) Hand-blended in Aotearoa, Parker & Co's best-selling magnesium balm combines nourishing butters with calming essential oils to help relax your nervous system and unwind tight muscles. Nicole's contribution to our goodie bags is a little moment of calm in a chaotic season. Explore Parker & Co The Nude AlchemistTeething Tamer or Magnesium Balm or Nipple Nectar (Sample) Sara from The Nude Alchemist has kindly contributed samples of their well-loved products. The Teething Tamer is a natural, topical remedy designed to help soothe little ones through the discomfort of teething, while the Magnesium Balm provides calm and relaxation for tired bodies and minds. Both are staples for many families and a beautiful way to support mums and babies through challenging moments. Explore The Nude Alchemist Pure MamaBelly & Body Oil (Mini) Lara from Pure Mama has contributed their award-winning Belly & Body Oil in a deluxe mini size. Formulated with nutrient-rich ingredients, this oil deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin, helping to ease dryness and support elasticity during pregnancy and postpartum. It's a cult favourite for its luxurious feel and results, and we're delighted that our customers will get to experience it firsthand. Explore Pure Mama Mammas Milk BarLactation Oat Milk Rich Chocolate (Sample Sachet) Wendy from Mammas Milk Bar has generously contributed sample sachets of their Lactation Oat Milk Rich Chocolate blend. This nourishing, delicious formula is crafted to support milk supply while giving mums an easy way to refuel during the demands of postpartum life. It is plant-based, nutrient-rich and designed to help mothers feel cared for and energised. Explore Mammas Milk Bar Two Raw SistersExclusive Recipe & Free App Trial Rosa and Margo from Two Raw Sisters have shared an exclusive recipe and a free trial code for their recipe app, designed to make healthy, delicious eating feel achievable for everyone. Their app includes hundreds of plant-focused, family-friendly recipes, with a new baby-friendly category being added soon. As cookbook authors and sisters, their mission is to simplify nourishment in everyday life, something every mum can relate to. We're so excited for our customers to discover their world of easy, wholesome food. Explore Two Raw Sisters And What Else? There are more surprises inside each goodie bag, carefully contributed for this season of life. These goodie bags are made possible by the businesses inside them. We are incredibly thankful to each partner for supporting our community in such a tangible, generous way.
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