FAQ

Our wearable breast pumps fit inside your bra so your completely hands free and mobile while pumping. Visit our 'How it works' page for a step by step guide on everything you need to know about The Night Owl wearable breast pumps!

Our wearable breast pumps were designed to fit inside most standard nursing or maternity bras so your cup size won't affect how it works. As long as it's centered and pressed firmly against your breast with no gaps you're good to go!

The most important fit is your nipple diameter so head over to our fitting guide to ensure you get the correct size flange. Visit our 'fitting guide' for more information

You can certainly measure and order now to be prepared in advance. Some mums experience a change in size anywhere between 2 - 12 weeks postpartum due to hormones, so just keep an eye on it and do a re-measure if necessary. We have different size attachments available if size does happen to change at some point in the postpartum period.

Yes absolutely! The Night Owl wearable breast pumps were designed to fit any breast size.

You can absolutely use The Night Owl wearable breast pumps to exclusively pump. Our breast pumps are designed to cater to the diverse needs of breastfeeding mothers, including those who choose to exclusively pump. Please keep in mind not all wearable breast pumps on the market are suitable for exclusive pumping.

We understand the importance of a reliable and efficient pump for exclusively pumping, and we're here to reassure you that our pumps are up to the task both performance and durability wise. These pumps have been carefully crafted with a focus on motor performance, comfort and durability, ensuring a consistent and effective pumping experience.

It is a common misconception that ALL wearable breast pumps are not "as good" as other pumps as they "aren't strong enough". Although this may be true for some, this isn't true in our case. The strength in our wearable pump motors is actually higher than most average breast pumps out there in the market.

For exclusive pumping, we highly recommend the Original Night Owl V2 and Mumma Owl models.

These stand out due to their advanced motor performance. The powerful suction (hospital grade level) capabilities and customisable settings make them well-suited for extended pumping sessions, providing comfort and efficiency for those who choose to exclusively pump.

The advanced motor technology and higher suction levels in the recommended models for exclusive pumping (Original Night Owl V2 and Mumma Owl) allows for efficient milk expression, reducing pumping time while maintaining comfort and freedom. Customisable settings provide flexibility to adapt to your specific needs, ensuring a personalised and effective pumping routine for exclusive pumping mums.

Absolutely. All night owl breast pumps are built to withstand long-term, frequent use. We prioritise durability and quality to ensure that your pumping journey remains smooth and reliable over time.

The breast pumps won't leak if you bend over. We recommend either sitting or standing however depending on the milk level, our pump is designed to use in any position! They won't leak unless it's laid completely flat, over-filled or flipped upside down.

The Mumma Owl (15 levels) and Night Owl Original V2 (12 levels) breast pumps operate at up 300 mmHg which is in line with larger Hospital Grade pumps. There's several levels of suction however the maximum level doesn't necessarily mean a higher milk output. It's very rare that our mums actually use the pump to the maximum suction level as it is very strong - the most important thing is having the right size flange, how the modes are used and how comfortable you are!

Once you start pumping you'll likely find a level that is both comfortable and works best for you.

No, more levels of suction means it is easier to find what is most comfortable for you. More levels also means, more gentle to use.

As the suction power is 'split up' across more levels, this means you can tailor it more easily and specifically to your individual pumping needs, tolerance and comfort levels.

No absolutely not! The Night Owl breast pumps have a lot of levels to choose from, so the suction power is split up comfortably - that way you can easily tailor to your personal comfort level. The most gentle of the 3 is the Mumma Owl, however all are gentle as we've designed them to be.

If it 'hurts' that means you either have the level up too high, or an incorrect size.

Although there aren't any official standards in Australia for what 'hospital grade' is defined as - hospital grade suction is generally classified as 300-350 mmHg in the world of breast pumps. Our Mumma Owl and Original Night Owl V2 measure at 300mmHg so they're more than powerful enough, and YES they fall into the 'hospital grade' category.

There's also a significant number of levels of suction, however the maximum level doesn't necessarily mean a higher milk output. It's very rare that our mums actually use the pump to the maximum suction level as it is very strong - the most important thing is having the right size flange, how the modes are used and how comfortable you are!

It's important to consider whether you're purchasing a breast pump with an 'open' or 'closed' system.

All of our night owl breast pumps have a 'closed system'. This means that there is a barrier between the parts that touch your breast milk, and the pump motor. This is called the back flow protector, or i.e. the diaphragm.

A closed system is important as it prevents your breast milk from being contaminated and ensures hygiene.
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If a breast pump has an 'open system' this means that they do not have barriers between the parts that touch your breast milk and the tubing, pump motor etc. This allows moisture from pumping to enter any tubing or the motor, where there is the risk of being hidden mould, which will then come into contact with your breast milk - therefore contaminating it and making it unsafe for your baby to drink.

Auto mode will start in massage mode and gradually go up through levels 1-3 before switching to to express and going up through levels 3-7

Up to 90 minutes for the Original V2 and up to 70 minutes for the Baby V2. This is dependent on the suction level.

Generally around 1-2 hours from flat to fully charged. We recommend using a minimum 5V-1A charger however faster chargers may charge your pumps faster.

The Mumma Owl is the most compact and discrete out of the 3 models. Followed by the Original V2 and then Baby Owl.

We offer a 12 month manufacturers warranty on all of our breast pumps for that extra piece of mind. The warranty starts from the date of purchase, unless it is a pre-order. If it is a pre-order then the warranty will start from the date of dispatch. The warranty period covers manufacturer faults only, and not wear and tear or damage.

Increasing breast milk supply when pumping can be achieved through various methods:

Frequent Pumping: Boost your milk supply while pumping by increasing the frequency of pumping sessions. One way of doing this is cluster pumping, which involves pumping every five minutes to provide repeated stimulation to your breasts. This signals your body to continue milk production. While cluster pumping might not be feasible during work or busy hours with the kids, you can try it during evenings or weekends at home. Aim for several sessions of cluster pumping until you notice a significant increase in supply. Remember to stay hydrated throughout nursing or pumping.

Another approach is to add an extra pumping session during the day, particularly if you're working. For instance, if you were pumping three times daily, increase it to four times.

If you're typically with your baby all day and wish to enhance supply, use the pump for an additional session alongside regular nursing.

Milk production is influenced by hormones and your circadian rhythm, with mornings often yielding the highest volume. Consider pumping in the morning before your baby wakes up or shortly after nursing. Alternatively, you can pump at night after your baby's bedtime.

With consistent effort, your body will adjust to produce more milk during the extra pumping session. For optimal results, maintain the same time for your additional pumping session each day.

Double pumping:  For maximum milk extraction during pumping sessions, consider double pumping, which involves pumping both breasts simultaneously. Pairing double pumping with cluster pumping can be beneficial if you're aiming to boost milk supply or build a reserve of milk in the freezer for future use.

Proper Pumping Technique: Ensure you're using the correct pump settings and techniques for efficient milk removal. Massage your breasts before and during pumping to encourage milk flow.

Emptying the Breasts Completely: Make sure to empty your breasts fully during each pumping session to signal your body to produce more milk.

Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and consume a balanced diet rich in nutrients and calories. Consider lactation-supporting foods like oats, fenugreek, and leafy greens.

Skin-to-Skin Contact: Practice skin-to-skin contact with your baby as it stimulates milk production and promotes bonding.

Relaxation Techniques: Stress can hinder milk production, so try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music while pumping.

Avoid comparing: Don't feel discouraged if others seem to pump more milk than you.

Breast size doesn't determine milk production; it's the number of milk storage cells that varies between individuals. Women with more storage cells can express milk faster as it's readily available, while those with fewer cells may require more time to pump the same amount.

The more you pump, the better you'll understand your milk production capacity within a given time frame.

Consistently pumping and leaving bottles for your baby, especially during work hours, typically results in higher milk output compared to occasional pumping, such as for a date night. Your body adjusts its milk production to match your baby's needs, so pumping in addition to nursing won't yield significant extra milk once breastfeeding is established.

Mothers who primarily nurse may need multiple pumping sessions to collect enough milk for one feeding due to their milk production being synchronized with their baby's demand.

Consult a Lactation Consultant: If you're struggling to increase your milk supply, consider seeking support from a lactation consultant who can provide personalized guidance and tips.

Whether wearable breast pumps are worth it depends on individual preferences and needs.

Wearable breast pumps are absolutely worth it if you value the freedom and convenience they offer.

With features like hands-free operation, mobility, and suitability for various settings including work environments and travel, wearable breast pumps like The Night Owl can provide numerous benefits.

Additionally, the night owl wearable breast pumps are designed to cater to the diverse needs of breastfeeding mothers, including those who exclusively pump.

However, it's important to note that every wearable breast pump is different, and not all wearable breast pumps on the market are suitable, particularly for exclusive pumping, so it's essential to research and choose the right option for your specific needs.

We're based in Melbourne, Australia and yes everything ships directly to you from our Melbourne warehouse!

We currently ship orders to Australia and New Zealand.

You can track your order after a shipping confirmation email has been sent to you with a tracking number. If you haven't received your email please contact us using the link below.

We endeavor to ship your order within 1-2 business days from our Melbourne warehouse. If you need your item quickly we recommend express post. Please see the Australia Post domestic delivery time frames for the most accurate estimate for when to expect your order after it has been shipped.

Should your item have a pre-order date, this is the approx date of dispatch. The delivery timeframe starts from the pre-order date it ships on.

Your order will be shipped all together along with the pre-order items so you can expect it all to ship on the estimated dispatch date for the pre-order item. If however you require an 'in stock' item from your order more urgently, please contact us so that we can try our best to assist.

Not to worry, this just means that the shipment you ordered from sold out and customers who order after you will receive their pre-order from the later shipment.
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If there is any changes with your pre-order we will always contact you directly first.

We accept all major debit and credit cards as well as PayPal, and buy now pay later options including Afterpay, LayBuy and Klarna.

Our locally owned and operated Australian company ensures compliance with all prerequisites essential for claiming our wearable breast pumps through eligible health insurance policies. Should your health fund qualify for breast pump claims, kindly reach out to us with your order number, and we'll promptly provide you with an official tax invoice, meeting all the criteria stipulated by your insurance provider, facilitating a seamless claim process.

Please be advised that not all health insurance policies accommodate breast pump claims. We recommend verifying eligibility with your provider beforehand.

Please contact us using the link below as soon as possible. We'll do our best to make any changes before your order has shipped.

Please contact us using the link below as soon as possible.

Please make sure that you are certain before placing your order, as once an order is placed we are unable to cancel it regardless of whether it is in-stock or a pre-order.

You can view our returns policy here.

View our complete guide on assembly here.

Breast pump parts don’t require sterilisation, as they only come into contact with breast milk, which is already sterile. Frequent sterilisation can cause parts to deteriorate, discolour, and even warp if exposed to heat over 100°C, leading to more frequent replacements.

Unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider, we recommend cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Be sure all parts are fully dry before use.

For more ways to care for your pump parts and maximise their lifespan, check out our tips below.

Here are our recommended time frames for upgrading each part.

Please keep in mind, these are general guidelines, not strict rules or guarantees.

The lifespan of the parts will ultimately depend on factors like usage, care, cleaning methods, the efficiency of cleaning, storage, and heat exposure.

This guide or as needed if showing signs of wear

Original Night Owl & Baby Owl:

• Shield: replace every 2-3 months
• Valve: replace every 1-2 months
• Diaphragm: replace every 1-2 months
• Linker: replace every 2-3 months

Mumma Owl:

• Valve: replace every 1.5 - 2.5 months
• All other parts: replace every 2-3 months

Flange inserts:
Replace every 1.5-2.5 months

Here are some tips to help maximise the life of your breast pump parts:

Check parts: Regularly check parts for signs of wear and replace them as needed to keep everything running smoothly.

Use gentle cleaning methods: Opt for mild detergents and avoid scrubbing too hard. A soft sponge or cloth works well, avoid bottle brushes to prevent any tears or fraying. Do not use a dishwasher.

Clean after each use: Ensure parts are cleaned thoroughly after every use to prevent milk residue build-up and bacteria build-up that weakens materials over time.

Ensure thorough but gentle cleaning: Clean parts thoroughly after each use to avoid milk residue build-up, which can affect their performance over time.

If sterilising, be gentle: When sterilising, avoid extreme high-heat methods like microwaving or boiling for long periods, as these can cause warping. If possible, use warm water or sterilising solutions to keep parts in good condition.

Store properly: Keep parts in a dry, cool area, away from direct sunlight or damp environments to prevent accelerating wear and tear.

Handle with care: Be gentle when assembling or disassembling parts to avoid unnecessary strain, which can lead to damage over time.

Sterilise thoughtfully: If you choose to sterilise the parts, limit frequent sterilisation if possible to help parts last longer.

Avoid harsh chemicals: Stick to baby-safe cleaning products to protect the materials from breaking down.

Limit soaking time: Avoid leaving parts soaking in water or cleaning solutions, to prevent weakening.

By following these tips, you'll help ensure your pump parts stay in better shape for longer!

As is the case with any breast pump, it's essential to replace the silicone components after a specific duration to ensure optimal functionality.

Failure to replace these parts and utilising the motor with worn, frayed, loose, or damaged components can lead to the motor overworking, causing strain during pumping. This not only poses a risk of damaging the motor but can also result in a significant decrease in milk output.

The most convenient way to stay proactive about this is by acquiring a collector cup kit, which is readily accessible on our website. Alternatively, each individual part is also available for purchase.

Breast pump parts are only in contact with breast milk which is sterile, so no they don't require sterilising (unless recommended by your midwives if your baby is immunocompromised or for any other reason required).

A lot of sterilisers operate at over 100° which can be harmful to your parts. This may cause them to discolour, warp or deteriorate and require replacing faster.

No. Most dishwashers operate at over 100° which can be harmful to your parts. This may cause them to discolour, warp or deteriorate and require replacing faster.

We recommend simply warm soapy water with a soft cloth or sponge.

See our complete fitting and nipple measuring guide here.

A flange insert goes into a 24mm shield to create a smaller 'tunnel' for comfort and better output. See our guide here for a more detailed look. Don't forget to buy two (2) if you pump with a twin pack!

No/reduced suction / milk output is most commonly solved by following these easy steps:

Step 1. Flange Size

Check that your flange size is correct. No/ reduced milk output or suction when pumping is often a sign at the flange size is wrong or not positioned correctly. Use our fitting guide here.

Even if you've previously checked your flange size, please remeasure it as hormonal fluctuations cause size changes. Do not rely on the flange size you used with a different breast pump, this may not be the correct fit for you. Flange sizes can also vary significantly between brands and designs. Remember that while accurate measurements are important, finding the right fit can sometimes involve trial and error. Just because you’re expressing milk doesn’t mean the flange size is ideal—many factors affect sizing beyond measurements alone.

Give your body time to adjust to any changes in fit or size—swelling, shifts in breast tissue, hormonal shifts and other changes can affect output during the transition, but with some patience, it should settle.

Step 2. Assembly

Check that all the parts are assembled correctly as any air getting in will reduce suction. Please follow our how to guide for a step by step guide on how to assemble you pump. Pay particular attention to:

• Ensure all parts are completely dry when assembling
• The motor clicked all the way down and even
• The valve pushed all the way in and not on an angle (arrow to arrow).
• The diaphragm and shield sealed and down as tightly as possible
• Rubber bands on base of motor are in place and not loose or damaged - switch over with spare rubber inside pump box if needed (Baby/ Original Owl motors)
  

Step 3. Positioning & Bra

Is the pump centered and pressed firmly against your breast? Your nursing or maternity bra needs to be tight enough so there's no air or gaps between the shield and your breast.

Ensure to use a proper maternity/nursing bra only. If the bra is too tight it can misalign the pump by pushing it upwards. If bra is too loose it can prevent proper suction.

Step 4. Levels + Modes

Have you tried different levels and modes? Start in massage/ stimulation mode to help stimulate the nipple. This should not take more then a few minutes. Before moving to expression mode.

Go up and down between the different levels to see the differences in how your breasts respond. There is between 9-15 levels of suction to choose from depending on your model, however the maximum level doesn't necessarily mean higher milk output. Click here to read of the guide to maximising your session using the levels and modes

Step 5. Pump Parts

If your pump has worked well in the past but you’re now noticing less or no suction, it’s often a sign that some parts need to be replaced. Check for any obvious signs of wear, such as holes, cracks, or tears, and ensure all pieces fit securely and lie flat. If you spot any damage, discontinue use and purchase replacement parts immediately.

Remember not all wear and tear is visible to the eye and parts still need replacing even if its not visibly obvious. Be sure to follow the recommended timeframes for part replacements to maintain optimal performance. For more information about part replacement timeframes click here to visit our accessories FAQ.

Step 6. Switching from a different breast pump / Using other breast pumps alongside

If you’re switching from another breast pump or using The Night Owl breast pump alongside another pump, differences between the two in flange fit/ size, settings, functionality, and usage environments can affect performance and comfort.

Step 7. Other Factors

Milk output and suction can be affected by a range of external factors beyond just your pump. These can include:

• Changes in Milk Supply: Your body’s milk production can fluctuate due to a variety of reasons, such as stress, diet, the stage of your breastfeeding journey and more. It’s normal to have days where your supply may be lower, but if you notice ongoing issues, it might be helpful to consult a lactation consultant.
• Blocked Ducts: If you have any blocked milk ducts, it can reduce the amount of milk that flows out while pumping. Symptoms include tender or sore spots on the breast. Addressing blocked ducts with gentle massage or warm compresses before pumping may help improve output.
• Hormonal Changes: Your hormones play a big role in milk production. If you've recently had a period or are experiencing hormonal shifts (such as pregnancy or starting birth control etc.), this can temporarily impact your milk supply.
• Health Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as thyroid issues or other underlying medical concerns, can affect your milk supply. If you've noticed significant changes and have ruled out external factors, it might be worth checking in with your healthcare provider.
• Pumping Schedule: Inconsistent, irregular or changes to pumping sessions can lead to a lower milk supply over time. Establish and maintain a regular pumping routine that aligns with your baby’s feeding needs to keep your supply steady.

If you've tried all the following steps and you're still struggling with output or suction, rest assured we're here to help. Leave us a message and we'll reply to you as soon as possible.

Step 1.

Check that your flange size is correct. Pain when pumping is most commonly a sign at the flange size is wrong or not positioned correctly. Use our fitting guide here.

Step 2.

Check that your nipple is centered and positioned correctly.

Step 3.

Read through our how to guide here to ensure you are using the modes and levels correctly

If you've tried all the following steps and you're still struggling with pain while pumping, rest assured we're here to help. Leave us a message and we'll reply to you as soon as possible.

Step 1.

Check that all the parts are assembled correctly as this may cause leakages. Please follow our how to guide for a step by step guide on how to assemble you pump.

Troubleshooting leaking from the bottom of the flange/ shield:

• Parts are due for replacement and have loosened (the shield generally needs to be replaced within 2 months). Please ensure you have replaced the parts in time to prevent leakage and also keep the suction working at its best
• Silicone shield is not snapped shut completely all the way around
• Silicone shield has been placed the wrong way around and the pouring hole used to empty the milk has been placed at the bottom of the cup instead of the top, causing the milk to leak out
• The skin on the surface of the breast could be sweaty/oily/moist which can cause silicone from
  breast pumps to 'stick' to the skin, and as you move around if it's 'stuck' to the silicone it can unseal a little bit of the shield. An easy trick to fix this is a quick wipe of the skin before pumping with a baby wipe, wet paper towel etc, and then once the skins dry pop the pump on for your session
• It is getting caught at the bottom of your bra which is unsealing the shield somewhere as a result of how it's placed/angled. Make sure that you are wearing a suitable nursing bra that is fitted correctly. If the bra moves up and down due to the straps not being fitted correctly this can potentially catch on to your shield. Also, your pumps come with additional straps that can be attached to your bra to keep it securely in place and help prevent this
• Parts have been placed in a dishwasher or steriliser (over 100 degrees) against recommendation which has caused them to warp/ loosen

Troubleshooting leaking from the middle tunnel / flangehole:

• Flange/ shield size is too big - please refer to our fitting guide to figure out the right size for you 
• You are leaning a bit too far back when pumping from sitting - try to be leaning slightly forward if possible or in the very least ensure you're sitting straight
• Nipple isn't centered properly in the tunnel/ flange hole
• Pump isn't being held tight enough against the breast using a nursing bra - need to ensure an airtight seal - use the additional bra strap provided if needed to ensure an airtight seal. If you are not 'feeling any suction' it usually points to incorrect positioning
  
• The valve isn't pushed up far and tight enough onto the end of the linker so milk is traveling back up

Step 2.

Ensure all parts are completely dry before assembling and using your pump. Wet parts may prevent the parts from tightening and may cause leakage.

Step 3.

When removing the pump from your breast, lean forward 45° to ensure that there's enough space to take it out without getting caught anywhere.

Step 4.

Leaning too far back while pumping - we recommend a mainly sitting or standing position. If the cup is over full past the maximum capacity of 180ml, there may be leakage.

Step 5.

If they've worked previously and you've tried all the above steps, then it's likely time to replace some parts.

Check for any obvious holes, cracks, or tears, and make sure the pieces fit firmly and lie flat. Any obvious damage we recommend not using and purchasing a replacement part.

Sometimes it's not obvious to the eye that a part needs replacing. Please refer to our recommended time frames for all breast pump parts. This is also dependent on how and how much you are using them. We also offer accessory subscriptions so there's one less thing you need to remember!

If you've tried all the following steps and you're still struggling with leakage, rest assured we're here to help. Leave us a message and we'll reply to you as soon as possible.

Charging

• We recommend using a minimum 5V-1A charger. Faster chargers may charge your pumps faster.
• If your pump isn't charging, try with another USB charger and try different power outlet.
• Ensure that no milk or liquid has gone inside the charging port. This may cause your pump to stop charging. If this has happened please enquire directly about purchasing a replacement motor part by itself.

Battery

• The nature of lithium-ion or Li-ion batteries that the maximum capacity will decrease with usage. Rest assured this is perfectly normal, just like your mobile phone or any other device that has a Li-ion battery

Auto Shut-Off Feature

• For your safety, the pump is equipped with an auto shut-off function, which may sometimes be mistaken for a charging or battery issue. This feature automatically powers down the pump after a set period to prevent overheating or if you accidentally fall asleep while pumping.
• If the pump auto shut off is activated, simply turn it back on to continue using it. However, if you find yourself pumping for longer than 20 or 30 minutes, this is usually too long and may indicate an incorrect flange size, unsuitable mode or suction level, or improper positioning. Adjusting these factors can help improve efficiency and comfort during your pumping sessions.

If you've tried all the following steps and you're still struggling with battery or charging, rest assured we're here to help. Leave us a message and we'll reply to you as soon as possible.

If there is a 'squeaking' noise coming from your pumps, please try the following:

Step 1.

Check that all the parts are assembled correctly as this may cause them to 'squeak'. Please follow our how to guide for a step by step guide on how to assemble you pump. Pay particular attention to:

• Ensure the diaphragm has been sealed securely and placed down correctly onto the linker.
• Ensure all parts are completely dry before assembling and using your pump.
• Replace the rubber bands on the motor as they may be worn or loose (Original Owl & Baby Owl)

Step 2.

Is the pump centered and pressed firmly against your breast? Your nursing or maternity bra needs to be tight enough so there's no air or gaps between the shield and your breast. Also ensure it's not so tight that it's painful or uncomfortable.

Step 3.

Ensure that you check and replace any parts that are due for replacement within the recommended timeframes. To see more information about when parts need to be replaced click here to go to the accessories FAQ.

Other

• Our breast pumps are quiet and discreet when compared with others on the market. Some noise is unavoidable as there's moving parts and a motor that creates the suction.
• You may notice that two motors may not always sound exactly the same. There are many factors that control this however rest assured, this is perfectly normal and has no factor in the amount of suction or of the performance of your pumps.

If you've tried all the following steps and you're still struggling with sound, rest assured we're here to help. Leave us a message and we'll reply to you as soon as possible.

If you're noticing air leakage or a hissing sound while using your pump (often combined with reduced output), this typically indicates that a part is either worn out or damaged. The most common cause is a valve that may need replacing, but it's also possible that other components, like the cup, could be cracked or another part has torn or frayed. We recommend carefully inspecting all parts of the pump to ensure everything is intact. Replacing the valve usually resolves the issue, but double-checking the other parts ensures optimal performance and prevents further damage.

Additionally, this can happen if the parts are wet or not sealed down properly. Make sure everything is dry and securely attached.

Let the battery empty, recharge it to full capacity, then power on again.

Ensure that no milk or liquid has made direct contact with the motor. This is usually the cause of any changes with the LED Screen.