Using Another Pump Alongside Your Night Owl? Here’s What You Need to Know:
Whether you're heading back to work, juggling multiple feeding routines, or just figuring out what works best for your body, using more than one breast pump is surprisingly common. Many mums find themselves rotating between their Night Owl Wearable Breast Pump and another style, like a traditional hospital-grade pump plugged into the wall with tubes such as Spectra or Medela.
And while it might seem like a pump is a pump, the truth is every pump is a little different and so is every boob. Here are the top things to keep in mind if you’re switching between pumps.
First, flange size isn’t one-and-done.
Here’s a sneaky one most mums don’t realise right away: flange fit can change between pumps. Why? Because the shape, angle, and design of each pump affects how your nipple sits during expression. Just because a 24mm flange works on your hospital-grade pump doesn’t mean it’s right for your wearable. There's also the chance that the size being used on your other pump, wasn't the best-fit to begin with!
Always recheck your flange size when changing pumps. A poor fit can impact milk output and cause discomfort (or even damage). Our fitting guide is a great place to start if you're unsure.
Second, wearables are less forgiving but more freeing.
Traditional pumps often use tubing and external bottles, while wearable pumps like The Night Owl tuck right into your bra. That’s game-changing for freedom and mobility, but it also means they require a bit more precision.
Your breast needs to be well-centred.
Your bra needs to be supportive but not squashing.
Your pump needs to be set up correctly, valves, seals, the lot.
Don’t worry, there’s a learning curve, but we’ve got your back. Once you nail the setup, many mums find wearables are a total game-changer.
Third, output may vary and that’s okay.
Pumping isn’t a science experiment where both pumps give the exact same result every time. Some wearables remove milk differently than traditional pumps. It’s normal to see different amounts, especially while you’re adjusting. Keep perspective.
What matters is comfort, consistent milk removal, and feeling supported, not matching millilitres to the decimal.
Fourth, more pumps mean more parts.
If you’re using multiple pumps, remember each one has its own parts with their own replacement timelines. With The Night Owl, we recommend valves every 1–2 months, diaphragms every 1–2 months, and shields and flange inserts every few months or when wear is visible.
Mixing up parts from different pumps?
Don’t. Even if it looks like it fits, it can cause suction issues or leaks and nobody’s got time for that mess.
Fifth, give yourself grace during the learning curve.
Switching between pumps can feel fiddly at first. You might even have a few “I hate this” moments, that’s normal. But over time, your body (and brain) will learn the rhythms of each pump. You’re not doing it wrong. You’re just figuring it out like every other mum.
And finally, your needs will evolve and that’s a good thing.
Many mums start by using their wall plug-in hospital-grade pump to help build supply in the early days, while also introducing The Night Owl for flexibility. But over time, most find themselves reaching for The Night Owl full time for night feeds, on-the-go sessions, or those sneaky hands-free Netflix marathons.
Using both isn’t cheating, it’s just smart. You’re creating a setup that works for you, not the other way around.
There’s no single right way to pump. But understanding how your pumps work together and how your body responds sets you up for success. The Night Owl is designed to give you flexibility, freedom, and support, whether it’s your main squeeze or your sidekick.
Got questions? Our Support Nest and Instagram DMs are always open.
