Renting a double electric breast pump beats buying outright if you're uncertain about long-term use or want hospital-grade performance without the $300–$500 price tag. Whether you're returning to work, increasing supply, or managing a premature infant in the NICU, understanding rental costs and benefits helps you make the smartest feeding choice. Here's what you need to know before renting.
Why Rent Instead of Buy?
Double electric pumps are powerful machines designed for frequent, efficient expressing—but they're expensive. Rental makes sense if you're in a short-term situation: maternity leave (typically 3–6 months), figuring out if exclusive pumping works for you, or dealing with a temporary supply issue. Most hospital-grade rentals cost $25–$60 per month, which means a six-month rental runs $150–$360 total. Compare that to purchasing a quality double electric at $350–$500 and the math shifts quickly, especially if you don't plan to use it beyond year one or for a second child.
Renting also eliminates the guesswork. Hospital-grade pumps are calibrated for consistent suction and cycle speeds that mimic a newborn's nursing pattern—something mid-range consumer models often skip. You're getting clinical-level equipment without the commitment.
Typical Rental Costs & What They Cover
Most breast pump rental providers charge a monthly or weekly rate, sometimes with a deposit refunded when you return the equipment.
Monthly rentals typically run:
- $25–$35 for standard double electric models
- $40–$60 for premium hospital-grade pumps (like Medela Symphony or Ardo Calypso)
- Setup fee: $0–$25 (some providers waive this)
- Deposit: $50–$150 (fully refunded upon return)
What's included:
- The pump unit itself
- Standard breast shields (typically 24mm or 28mm)
- Tubing, valves, and collection bottles
- Cleaning supplies and instruction manual
- Local delivery and pickup (check availability in your area)
What you usually buy separately:
- Replacement breast shield sizes if standard doesn't fit
- Replacement tubing or valves if damaged
- Storage bags for expressed milk
- Cleaning wipes or sterilizer
Key Benefits Beyond Cost
Speed and efficiency. Double electric pumps express both breasts simultaneously, cutting pumping time in half compared to single pumps. If you're pumping 8–10 times daily, that's 20–40 minutes saved each day—critical when juggling newborn care and work.
Stimulation and supply. Hospital-grade double pumps use stronger suction and faster cycle rates (up to 60 cycles per minute) that trigger prolactin release more effectively than consumer-grade alternatives. This matters if you're building supply or exclusively pumping.
Try-before-you-buy testing. Rental lets you test whether a specific pump's flange size, suction level, and cycle pattern work for your body before investing in a purchase. Many renters discover they prefer one brand over another after a few weeks—information worth paying for upfront.
Sanitary rental units. Most rental companies thoroughly clean and sterilize pumps between clients, meeting health department standards. You're getting a validated, safe piece of equipment, not a used item with unknown history.
Finding and Comparing Rental Providers
Start by checking whether your insurance covers rentals—some Medicaid plans and private insurers reimburse 50–100% of rental costs under DME (durable medical equipment) benefits. You'll need a prescription from your OB or pediatrician.
Local options include:
- Hospital lactation departments (often partner with rental services or rent directly)
- Specialty baby stores and lactation shops
- Regional medical equipment rental companies
- National chains like Medela's rental network
Platforms like Mercoly make it easy to compare trusted breast pump and equipment rental providers in your area, so you can check availability, pricing, and customer reviews in one place rather than cold-calling clinics.
When comparing, ask:
- Do they sterilize between rentals?
- What happens if the pump malfunctions mid-rental?
- Is local delivery included or is pickup required?
- What's the cancellation or early-return policy?
Transition to Ownership (Or Not)
After a rental period, some mothers buy the exact model they rented because they know it works. Others discover they're done pumping and happily return everything. A few switch to manual or cheaper portable pumps once supply stabilizes. Renting buys you time to decide without financial regret.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my insurance pay for a breast pump rental? Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and some private plans, cover 50–100% of DME rentals with a prescription—always call your provider first to confirm coverage and any authorization steps.
Q: How long does it take to get a rental pump delivered? Most local providers deliver within 24–72 hours; some offer same-day pickup. Call ahead to confirm availability, especially if you need one urgently.
Q: Can I return a rental pump early and get a refund? Policies vary; some providers pro-rate unused days, while others charge a flat monthly fee regardless. Ask about their specific cancellation policy before signing.
Start comparing breast pump rentals today to find the right fit for your feeding journey and budget.