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WHY Swing Maxi™ HANDS-FREE
  • Patented design hands free cups, clinically proven to deliver 11.8% more milk

  • Portable & Compact

  • Hands-free and only 3 parts to clean

Swing Maxi™ Hands-free Features & Benefits

  • More Milk – Powerful suction in a compact design, combined with the anatomically designed collection cups with patented 105° open angle resulting in 11.8% more milk   
  • Portable & Compact – Rechargeable battery and lightweight design so you can pump anywhere 
  • Hands-free and Easy to clean - Includes in-bra collection cups with only 3 parts to clean and assemble 
  • Digital Feedback -- Connects to Medela's app so you know what level you're at, how long you've been pumping, and which mode you're in

Lightweight and comfortable: the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free double electric pump is easy to fit in a pocket or carry due to its lightweight, compact design and built-in rechargeable battery. Combined with the wearable milk collection cups and the included lanyard, it keeps you mobile when you need it most.

Swing Maxi™ Hands-free comes with the unique Medela wearable Collection Cups which offer:

  • Anatomic design: to fit your breast shape, support effective milk expression and maximize comfort.  
  • Ultra-lightweight: with only 2.7oz / 77g, it is amongst the lightest available, designed to fit comfortably and discreetly in your bra.
  • 3 parts, easy to clean: easy to assemble and dishwasher safe, making pumping less time consuming.
  • Transparent design:making it easy to check that you are placing your nipple correctly into the tunnel, preventing rubbing and supporting effective milk expression. The see-through cups help you notice when and how your milk is flowing.  
  • Connectivity:  enjoy automatic tracking by connecting with the Medela Family™ app – your personal assistant that provides automatic real-time tracking, personalized, science-based content as well as smart tools and pumping tips.
  • Intuitive Control:  with only 4 buttons, the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free pump is intuitive to use and easy to control.

Wear it together with your nursing bra

The compact and lightweight Swing Maxi™ Hands-free pump with its wearable milk collection cups is designed for moms who need to have the freedom to move whilst still having the benefit of double pumping.  The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free cups fit comfortably inside most nursing bras, meaning you can stay hands-free for a completely relaxed or multi-tasking pumping experience, check out our Keep Cool Bra / 3 in 1 Nursing Bra

Lanyard for extra mobility

Gives you the flexibility to pump when and where you need. At home or on the go.

Shaped to fit, shaped to work  

Unique design based on the anatomy of lactating breasts offers users great support for the breast and in particular for the underside of the breast which contains the sensitive milk-making tissue.1, 2

More milk, more comfort

Most breast pump shields have a 90° angle. The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free collection cups are designed with our scientifically proven 105° angle technology to create a more natural fit, reduce pressure on the breast, resulting in better milk removal and more comfort.3, 4

Complete discretion, comfort and convenience

At 2.7oz / 77g each, Medela’s Hands-free wearable collection cups are amongst the lightest available. Swing Maxi™ Hands-free won’t weigh you down. Giving you the flexibility to deal with everything else on your to-do list.

Easy to assemble, easy to clean

Just three parts to clean, and dishwasher safe for even more convenience.

A trusted expert in breast milk feeding for 60+ years

Medela brings you thenew Swing Maxi™ Hands-free double electric breast pump, uniquely designed to fit most breast shapes and nursing bras.

One pump, two ways of pumping

The flexibility and freedom to choose how you want to pump. Now you can switch from classic (PersonalFit Flex™) to hands-free breast pumping in a flash. The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free milk collection cups are quick-to-connect and start pumping, giving you the superior pumping experience millions of moms have trusted from Medela.

1 x Medela Swing Maxi™ double electric breast pump 
2 x Hands-free Collection Cup
2 x 24mm breast shield with O-ring applied on the shield
2 x 21mm breast shield with O-ring applied on the shield
2 x membrane
1 x tubing
1x lanyard for extra mobility
1 x power adaptor
1x instructions for use

Dimensions: 
Package Dimensions: width 8.94 x depth 5.44 x height 8.69 in (227 x 138 x  221 mm)

Unit weight:
Cup assembled already with 24mm shield, membrane and O-ring (x2) 5.4oz (154g)
21mm breast shied and O-ring (x2) 2.1oz (60g)
Tubing 0.58oz (16.7g)
Pump 11.5oz (325g)
US warranty
This product is warranted by Medela to the original retail purchaser to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the period of one year for pump mechanism (90 days for parts and detachable components) from the date of purchase. Warranty can only be claimed in the country
of purchase.Please contact Medela Customer Service for warranty replacement.

How does the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump work?

The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free double electric pump provides you with an intuitive superior pumping experience. This compact yet powerful pump has 9 adjustable vacuum levels, keeping you pumping in comfort. With Medela’s trusted 2-Phase Expression™ technology it mimics babies' natural sucking rhythm - faster at first to stimulate milk flow, then slower to feed – for comfortable and efficient pumping.

Vacuum is applied to the breast by means of a tubing connection to the pump. The air flow between the pump and the hands-free cups generate a vacuum that is applied to the breasts for milk expression. The milk is then collected within the cups and once pumping is finished the expressed milk can be poured from the cups into a bottle or storage bag.

The Hands-free Collection Cups are not intended to be used for milk storage.

Do you have to be sitting or can you be more active?

The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free is great for relaxing back and taking a moment, and also for those times when you have to be on-the-go. Whether you choose to use your hands-free pump while sitting, walking around, or tending to your baby, Swing Maxi™ Hands-free allows you both options.

It is good to note as with all pumps, the milk collection cups are not designed to be used when leaning over completely or during exercise as there is an opening (pouring spout) at the top of the cups through which milk could spill out.

How can I connect the cups to the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump?

The Hands-free Collection Cups are connected to the Swing Maxi™ double electric breast pump by way of a tubing connection. Connect the long end of the tubing to the motor unit as far as it will go. Connect the short end of the tubing into the tubing connection port on the collection cups.

How much milk can the wearable collection cups hold?

The Hands-free Collection Cups can hold up to 5oz / 150ml of breast milk in each cup.

How do the wearable cups hold or keep the milk inside safely?

The Hands-free Collection Cups use an O-ring sealing solution between the breast shield and cup (shell) to prevent milk leakage while in use. 

How do the wearable cups hold on to the breast?

The Hands-free Collection Cups are placed on the breast inside the nursing bra. The fit of the bra and vacuum generated from the pump creates a seal that allows the cups to stay in place while pumping and collecting milk. 

Do I need a special bra to be able to use the hands-free collection cups?

A special bra is not required when using the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free. The wearable cups are designed to fit into most nursing bras.

For the ultimate hands-free experience, check out our:

Link to Keep Cool Bra / 3 in 1 Nursing Bra

What is the weight of the pump? 

The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump weighs 11.5 oz/ 325g. The cups each weigh 2.7oz / 77g .

What are the weight of the Hands-free Collection Cups?

With each cup weighing only 2.7oz / 77g it is amongst the lightest available.

Can I use the Swing Maxi Hands-free™ double electric breast pump as a single?

Yes, the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free double electric breast pump can be used as a single pump. Simply assemble one collection cup ready for pumping and then insert the unused tubing end into the Y-shaped tubing holder.  This shuts off the vacuum to one side of the pump and allows for easy single pumping.

Do you need WiFi to use theSwing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump?

No, you do not need WiFi to use the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free pump. The pump has the ability to connect to the Medela Family™ app via Bluetooth® connectivity.

The Medela Family™ app is your personal assistant that provides automatic real-time tracking, personalized, science-based content and pumping tips, a virtual milk inventory system, plenty of smart tools and interactive checklists.

How long does the battery last and does it need the original charger?

With the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free built-in USB chargeable battery, you can pump on a single battery charge for up to 1.5 hours, which is on average up to 6 double pumping sessions.

Only use the power adaptor and cable that comes with the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump to recharge the battery.

Does my Swing Maxi™ Hands-free pump also work with the classic bottle pumping set?

The Swing Maxi™ pump is also compatible with the Medela PersonalFit Flex™ set (with bottles). You can use the pump either with the wearable collection cups included in the configuration or with the classic PersonalFit Flex™ set that can be bought separately.

Is the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free easy to clean?

With only three parts to clean :

1. Cup

2. Membrane

3. Breast shield (no need to separate or remove the O-ring from the breast shield for washing or disinfecting)

the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free has been designed to make cleaning easy. The cups are dishwasher safe on the top rack only. 

The pump unit and the exterior of tubing can be wiped down with a damp cloth if needed. The pump features a closed-system so milk cannot get into the tubing when used as instructed. Do not clean or rinse the inside of the tubing under any circumstances.

For additional cleaning guidelines see the Center for Disease Control website:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/healthychildcare/infantfeeding/breastpump.html (U.S).

How often do I need to clean the Hands-free Collection Cups?

The Hands-free Collection Cups should be boiled before first use, washed after every use (hand wash or dishwash), and disinfecting once per day (boil or microsteam). During regular washing and  disinfecting, you do not need to remove the O-rings from the breast shield.  Always allow all parts to completely dry on a clean towel. 

How can I clean and dry the tubing?

The Medela personal use breast pump features a closed-system so milk cannot get into the tube when used as instructed. Do not clean or rinse the inside of the tubing under any circumstances. The exterior of the tubing can be wiped down with a damp cloth if dirty.

What is the O-ring and why do I need to know about it?

The O-ring is the silicone component assembled around the breast shield of the Hands-free Collection Cup.  

The O-ring:

  • provides a seal between the breast shield and shell / cup
  • prevents milk leakage while in use
  • support ease of milk transfer from cup to bottle or storage bag 
  • is removable to allow transfer between different breast shield sizes and as needed for cleaning

A drawn graphic of a single Medela Hands-free Collection Cups O-Ring, with text "O-ring".
Do the O-rings fit to all breast shield sizes?

Yes. The O-ring fits all breast shield sizes. 21mm and 24mm size breast shields are included in the pack. 27mm size breast shield is available for purchase.

Is the O-ring applied to all breast shield sizes in the pack?

Yes. The O-ring is applied to all 21mm and 24mm breast shield sizes that are included in the pack.

How do I disassemble and reassemble the O-ring?

  • To disassemble the O-ring: Start by pulling out the bottom tab (as shown in image below) from the breast shield.

Diagram of Medela Swing Maxi™ double electric breast pump Hands-free collection cup showing the way to disassemble is to pull on the bottom tab from the lower center portion of the Hands-free collection cup.

  • To reassemble the O-ring: Start from the top (as shown in image below) of the breast shield. Stretch it over the outer edge of the breast shield. Ensure it goes on with the ridges facing outwards.

Press along the groove, checking that it is securely in place all the way around.

Diagram of Medela Swing Maxi™ double electric breast pump Hands-free collection cup showing the proper placement of the O-ring at the top center of the cup.Text also states, Ensure that the ridges are straight.

Do I have to take out the O-rings during washing or disinfecting?

During regular washing or disinfecting, you do not need to remove the O-ring from the breast shield.

How do I know how long should I express when using the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free with Hands-free Collection Cups? What can I do to help drain the breast effectively when pumping?

Many moms don’t sense their let down, so watch for this as you pump. When you start to see jets of breast milk squirting into the collection cup, you’ll know it’s happening.5

As you are using a breast pump with 2-Phase Expression™ technology, it will have a stimulation mode and an expression mode. The stimulation mode lasts one minute but once you see milk flowing as described, it’s important to switch to the expression phase. This is because that first let down typically provides around 36% of the milk volume, so you’ll be taking advantage of your flow to collect more milk.6

During the expression phase, pump at your Maximum Comfort Vacuum, which is the highest breast pump setting you can use while remaining comfortable. In research, this was found to remove a similar amount of milk as a baby does during breastfeeding.7, 8

To find the right level for you, increase the breast pump suction gradually until it becomes slightly uncomfortable, and then turn it down a notch. Pumping breast milk shouldn’t hurt.

Pumping should be continued until the breast feels well drained, soft all over and the milk stops flowing, rather than for a fixed duration. Once your supply is established (after about four weeks), you can start tailoring how many minutes you need to pump for, which can save you valuable time. It is advised to check if your milk has stopped flowing and how your breasts feel, to determine the end of your pumping session. Some moms need to pump longer than others due to their number of let downs, which determine how often and how long milk flows.6,9 What’s really amazing is that while every mom has a unique flow pattern, yours will be the same each time you pump as well as when you breastfeed.10

It is important to note that it could be potentially easier for a user to forget how long they have been using a hands-free pump when multi-tasking. It is advised to not overstimulate the breasts and prolong use of the breast pump collection cups unnecessarily.

Do you have control of suction in both the stimulation and expression modes?

With the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free 9 adjustable vacuum settings you have full control in both stimulation and expression mode to find your Maximum Comfort Vacuum.

Is double pumping more effective?

Double pumping both breasts together compared to single pumping (one breast at a time) has been shown to stimulate an additional milk ejection (milk let-down) which on average results in 18% more milk pumped over a 15 minute pumping duration.11 It also means that the milk has a higher fat and calorie content and there is better breast drainage.11

Are the wearable breast pump cups adaptable to different breast shapes?

The Hands-free Collection Cups are designed in an anatomical shape to comfortably fit most breasts.

Which sizes are the Hands-free Collection Cups available in?

The Hands-free Collection Cups come in three tunnel sizes: 21 mm, 24 mm and 27 mm to maximize comfort and effective milk drainage during pumping. To ensure proper fit with the wearable collection cups, check out our Medela Breast Shield sizing guide https://www.medela.com/fittingguide. The 24 mm and 21 mm breast shield sizes are part of the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free configuration. The 27 mm size is available for purchase separately.

How do I select the correct breast shield size?

Select the breast shield size by measuring the diameter of your nipple. It is best to select the breast shield size that is slightly larger than your nipple.

The 21 mm size is for smaller or up to 17 mm nipple diameter. The 24 mm size is for larger than 17 mm up to 20 mm nipple diameter.
The 27 mm size is for larger than 20 mm nipple diameter.

 

Here’s how to check:

  • Using the 24 mm sized shields included with your pump (or the size chosen after measuring your nipples), center your nipple and gently hold the Hands-free collection cup against your breast. (Please note: pressing any pumping shields too hard against your breasts when pumping could restrict the flow of milk through the ducts).
  • Adjust your breast pump’s vacuum for Maximum Comfort Vacuum to achieve optimum suction level, turning the vacuum up until slightly uncomfortable and then down one notch.
  • When your breast shield fits correctly, your nipple will be centered in the breast shield tunnel and will move freely during pumping.
  • Visit www.medela.com/fittingguide, or if you are still unsure that you selected the correct size, see a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist.

1. Gooding MJ et al. J Ultrasound Med. 2010; 29(1):95–103.
2. Prime D. K. et al. Breastfeed Med. 2018; 13(7):A-45.
3. Sakalidis VS et al. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2020; 99(11):1561-1567.
4. Clinical study, Data on file (NCT02492139 compared to 90°).
5. Kent JC et al. J Hum Lact. 2003; 19(2):179–186.
6. Prime DK et al. Breastfeed Med. 2011; 6(4):183–190.
7. Kent JC et al. Breastfeed Med. 2008; 3(1):11–19.
8. Kent JC et al. Pediatrics. 2006; 117(3):e387-e395.
9. Kent JC et al. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2012; 41(1):114–121. 
10. Gardner H et al. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2015; 15:156. 
11. Prime DK et al. Breastfeed Med. 2012; 7(6):442–447.

Features & Benefits

Swing Maxi™ Hands-free Features & Benefits

  • More Milk – Powerful suction in a compact design, combined with the anatomically designed collection cups with patented 105° open angle resulting in 11.8% more milk   
  • Portable & Compact – Rechargeable battery and lightweight design so you can pump anywhere 
  • Hands-free and Easy to clean - Includes in-bra collection cups with only 3 parts to clean and assemble 
  • Digital Feedback -- Connects to Medela's app so you know what level you're at, how long you've been pumping, and which mode you're in

Lightweight and comfortable: the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free double electric pump is easy to fit in a pocket or carry due to its lightweight, compact design and built-in rechargeable battery. Combined with the wearable milk collection cups and the included lanyard, it keeps you mobile when you need it most.

Swing Maxi™ Hands-free comes with the unique Medela wearable Collection Cups which offer:

  • Anatomic design: to fit your breast shape, support effective milk expression and maximize comfort.  
  • Ultra-lightweight: with only 2.7oz / 77g, it is amongst the lightest available, designed to fit comfortably and discreetly in your bra.
  • 3 parts, easy to clean: easy to assemble and dishwasher safe, making pumping less time consuming.
  • Transparent design:making it easy to check that you are placing your nipple correctly into the tunnel, preventing rubbing and supporting effective milk expression. The see-through cups help you notice when and how your milk is flowing.  
  • Connectivity:  enjoy automatic tracking by connecting with the Medela Family™ app – your personal assistant that provides automatic real-time tracking, personalized, science-based content as well as smart tools and pumping tips.
  • Intuitive Control:  with only 4 buttons, the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free pump is intuitive to use and easy to control.

Wear it together with your nursing bra

The compact and lightweight Swing Maxi™ Hands-free pump with its wearable milk collection cups is designed for moms who need to have the freedom to move whilst still having the benefit of double pumping.  The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free cups fit comfortably inside most nursing bras, meaning you can stay hands-free for a completely relaxed or multi-tasking pumping experience, check out our Keep Cool Bra / 3 in 1 Nursing Bra

Lanyard for extra mobility

Gives you the flexibility to pump when and where you need. At home or on the go.

Shaped to fit, shaped to work  

Unique design based on the anatomy of lactating breasts offers users great support for the breast and in particular for the underside of the breast which contains the sensitive milk-making tissue.1, 2

More milk, more comfort

Most breast pump shields have a 90° angle. The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free collection cups are designed with our scientifically proven 105° angle technology to create a more natural fit, reduce pressure on the breast, resulting in better milk removal and more comfort.3, 4

Complete discretion, comfort and convenience

At 2.7oz / 77g each, Medela’s Hands-free wearable collection cups are amongst the lightest available. Swing Maxi™ Hands-free won’t weigh you down. Giving you the flexibility to deal with everything else on your to-do list.

Easy to assemble, easy to clean

Just three parts to clean, and dishwasher safe for even more convenience.

A trusted expert in breast milk feeding for 60+ years

Medela brings you thenew Swing Maxi™ Hands-free double electric breast pump, uniquely designed to fit most breast shapes and nursing bras.

One pump, two ways of pumping

The flexibility and freedom to choose how you want to pump. Now you can switch from classic (PersonalFit Flex™) to hands-free breast pumping in a flash. The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free milk collection cups are quick-to-connect and start pumping, giving you the superior pumping experience millions of moms have trusted from Medela.

Videos & Downloads
What's included

1 x Medela Swing Maxi™ double electric breast pump 
2 x Hands-free Collection Cup
2 x 24mm breast shield with O-ring applied on the shield
2 x 21mm breast shield with O-ring applied on the shield
2 x membrane
1 x tubing
1x lanyard for extra mobility
1 x power adaptor
1x instructions for use

Dimensions: 
Package Dimensions: width 8.94 x depth 5.44 x height 8.69 in (227 x 138 x  221 mm)

Unit weight:
Cup assembled already with 24mm shield, membrane and O-ring (x2) 5.4oz (154g)
21mm breast shied and O-ring (x2) 2.1oz (60g)
Tubing 0.58oz (16.7g)
Pump 11.5oz (325g)
US warranty
This product is warranted by Medela to the original retail purchaser to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the period of one year for pump mechanism (90 days for parts and detachable components) from the date of purchase. Warranty can only be claimed in the country
of purchase.Please contact Medela Customer Service for warranty replacement.

FAQs

How does the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump work?

The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free double electric pump provides you with an intuitive superior pumping experience. This compact yet powerful pump has 9 adjustable vacuum levels, keeping you pumping in comfort. With Medela’s trusted 2-Phase Expression™ technology it mimics babies' natural sucking rhythm - faster at first to stimulate milk flow, then slower to feed – for comfortable and efficient pumping.

Vacuum is applied to the breast by means of a tubing connection to the pump. The air flow between the pump and the hands-free cups generate a vacuum that is applied to the breasts for milk expression. The milk is then collected within the cups and once pumping is finished the expressed milk can be poured from the cups into a bottle or storage bag.

The Hands-free Collection Cups are not intended to be used for milk storage.

Do you have to be sitting or can you be more active?

The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free is great for relaxing back and taking a moment, and also for those times when you have to be on-the-go. Whether you choose to use your hands-free pump while sitting, walking around, or tending to your baby, Swing Maxi™ Hands-free allows you both options.

It is good to note as with all pumps, the milk collection cups are not designed to be used when leaning over completely or during exercise as there is an opening (pouring spout) at the top of the cups through which milk could spill out.

How can I connect the cups to the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump?

The Hands-free Collection Cups are connected to the Swing Maxi™ double electric breast pump by way of a tubing connection. Connect the long end of the tubing to the motor unit as far as it will go. Connect the short end of the tubing into the tubing connection port on the collection cups.

How much milk can the wearable collection cups hold?

The Hands-free Collection Cups can hold up to 5oz / 150ml of breast milk in each cup.

How do the wearable cups hold or keep the milk inside safely?

The Hands-free Collection Cups use an O-ring sealing solution between the breast shield and cup (shell) to prevent milk leakage while in use. 

How do the wearable cups hold on to the breast?

The Hands-free Collection Cups are placed on the breast inside the nursing bra. The fit of the bra and vacuum generated from the pump creates a seal that allows the cups to stay in place while pumping and collecting milk. 

Do I need a special bra to be able to use the hands-free collection cups?

A special bra is not required when using the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free. The wearable cups are designed to fit into most nursing bras.

For the ultimate hands-free experience, check out our:

Link to Keep Cool Bra / 3 in 1 Nursing Bra

What is the weight of the pump? 

The Swing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump weighs 11.5 oz/ 325g. The cups each weigh 2.7oz / 77g .

What are the weight of the Hands-free Collection Cups?

With each cup weighing only 2.7oz / 77g it is amongst the lightest available.

Can I use the Swing Maxi Hands-free™ double electric breast pump as a single?

Yes, the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free double electric breast pump can be used as a single pump. Simply assemble one collection cup ready for pumping and then insert the unused tubing end into the Y-shaped tubing holder.  This shuts off the vacuum to one side of the pump and allows for easy single pumping.

Do you need WiFi to use theSwing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump?

No, you do not need WiFi to use the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free pump. The pump has the ability to connect to the Medela Family™ app via Bluetooth® connectivity.

The Medela Family™ app is your personal assistant that provides automatic real-time tracking, personalized, science-based content and pumping tips, a virtual milk inventory system, plenty of smart tools and interactive checklists.

How long does the battery last and does it need the original charger?

With the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free built-in USB chargeable battery, you can pump on a single battery charge for up to 1.5 hours, which is on average up to 6 double pumping sessions.

Only use the power adaptor and cable that comes with the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free breast pump to recharge the battery.

Does my Swing Maxi™ Hands-free pump also work with the classic bottle pumping set?

The Swing Maxi™ pump is also compatible with the Medela PersonalFit Flex™ set (with bottles). You can use the pump either with the wearable collection cups included in the configuration or with the classic PersonalFit Flex™ set that can be bought separately.

Is the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free easy to clean?

With only three parts to clean :

1. Cup

2. Membrane

3. Breast shield (no need to separate or remove the O-ring from the breast shield for washing or disinfecting)

the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free has been designed to make cleaning easy. The cups are dishwasher safe on the top rack only. 

The pump unit and the exterior of tubing can be wiped down with a damp cloth if needed. The pump features a closed-system so milk cannot get into the tubing when used as instructed. Do not clean or rinse the inside of the tubing under any circumstances.

For additional cleaning guidelines see the Center for Disease Control website:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/healthychildcare/infantfeeding/breastpump.html (U.S).

How often do I need to clean the Hands-free Collection Cups?

The Hands-free Collection Cups should be boiled before first use, washed after every use (hand wash or dishwash), and disinfecting once per day (boil or microsteam). During regular washing and  disinfecting, you do not need to remove the O-rings from the breast shield.  Always allow all parts to completely dry on a clean towel. 

How can I clean and dry the tubing?

The Medela personal use breast pump features a closed-system so milk cannot get into the tube when used as instructed. Do not clean or rinse the inside of the tubing under any circumstances. The exterior of the tubing can be wiped down with a damp cloth if dirty.

What is the O-ring and why do I need to know about it?

The O-ring is the silicone component assembled around the breast shield of the Hands-free Collection Cup.  

The O-ring:

  • provides a seal between the breast shield and shell / cup
  • prevents milk leakage while in use
  • support ease of milk transfer from cup to bottle or storage bag 
  • is removable to allow transfer between different breast shield sizes and as needed for cleaning

A drawn graphic of a single Medela Hands-free Collection Cups O-Ring, with text "O-ring".
Do the O-rings fit to all breast shield sizes?

Yes. The O-ring fits all breast shield sizes. 21mm and 24mm size breast shields are included in the pack. 27mm size breast shield is available for purchase.

Is the O-ring applied to all breast shield sizes in the pack?

Yes. The O-ring is applied to all 21mm and 24mm breast shield sizes that are included in the pack.

How do I disassemble and reassemble the O-ring?

  • To disassemble the O-ring: Start by pulling out the bottom tab (as shown in image below) from the breast shield.

Diagram of Medela Swing Maxi™ double electric breast pump Hands-free collection cup showing the way to disassemble is to pull on the bottom tab from the lower center portion of the Hands-free collection cup.

  • To reassemble the O-ring: Start from the top (as shown in image below) of the breast shield. Stretch it over the outer edge of the breast shield. Ensure it goes on with the ridges facing outwards.

Press along the groove, checking that it is securely in place all the way around.

Diagram of Medela Swing Maxi™ double electric breast pump Hands-free collection cup showing the proper placement of the O-ring at the top center of the cup.Text also states, Ensure that the ridges are straight.

Do I have to take out the O-rings during washing or disinfecting?

During regular washing or disinfecting, you do not need to remove the O-ring from the breast shield.

How do I know how long should I express when using the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free with Hands-free Collection Cups? What can I do to help drain the breast effectively when pumping?

Many moms don’t sense their let down, so watch for this as you pump. When you start to see jets of breast milk squirting into the collection cup, you’ll know it’s happening.5

As you are using a breast pump with 2-Phase Expression™ technology, it will have a stimulation mode and an expression mode. The stimulation mode lasts one minute but once you see milk flowing as described, it’s important to switch to the expression phase. This is because that first let down typically provides around 36% of the milk volume, so you’ll be taking advantage of your flow to collect more milk.6

During the expression phase, pump at your Maximum Comfort Vacuum, which is the highest breast pump setting you can use while remaining comfortable. In research, this was found to remove a similar amount of milk as a baby does during breastfeeding.7, 8

To find the right level for you, increase the breast pump suction gradually until it becomes slightly uncomfortable, and then turn it down a notch. Pumping breast milk shouldn’t hurt.

Pumping should be continued until the breast feels well drained, soft all over and the milk stops flowing, rather than for a fixed duration. Once your supply is established (after about four weeks), you can start tailoring how many minutes you need to pump for, which can save you valuable time. It is advised to check if your milk has stopped flowing and how your breasts feel, to determine the end of your pumping session. Some moms need to pump longer than others due to their number of let downs, which determine how often and how long milk flows.6,9 What’s really amazing is that while every mom has a unique flow pattern, yours will be the same each time you pump as well as when you breastfeed.10

It is important to note that it could be potentially easier for a user to forget how long they have been using a hands-free pump when multi-tasking. It is advised to not overstimulate the breasts and prolong use of the breast pump collection cups unnecessarily.

Do you have control of suction in both the stimulation and expression modes?

With the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free 9 adjustable vacuum settings you have full control in both stimulation and expression mode to find your Maximum Comfort Vacuum.

Is double pumping more effective?

Double pumping both breasts together compared to single pumping (one breast at a time) has been shown to stimulate an additional milk ejection (milk let-down) which on average results in 18% more milk pumped over a 15 minute pumping duration.11 It also means that the milk has a higher fat and calorie content and there is better breast drainage.11

Are the wearable breast pump cups adaptable to different breast shapes?

The Hands-free Collection Cups are designed in an anatomical shape to comfortably fit most breasts.

Which sizes are the Hands-free Collection Cups available in?

The Hands-free Collection Cups come in three tunnel sizes: 21 mm, 24 mm and 27 mm to maximize comfort and effective milk drainage during pumping. To ensure proper fit with the wearable collection cups, check out our Medela Breast Shield sizing guide https://www.medela.com/fittingguide. The 24 mm and 21 mm breast shield sizes are part of the Swing Maxi™ Hands-free configuration. The 27 mm size is available for purchase separately.

How do I select the correct breast shield size?

Select the breast shield size by measuring the diameter of your nipple. It is best to select the breast shield size that is slightly larger than your nipple.

The 21 mm size is for smaller or up to 17 mm nipple diameter. The 24 mm size is for larger than 17 mm up to 20 mm nipple diameter.
The 27 mm size is for larger than 20 mm nipple diameter.

 

Here’s how to check:

  • Using the 24 mm sized shields included with your pump (or the size chosen after measuring your nipples), center your nipple and gently hold the Hands-free collection cup against your breast. (Please note: pressing any pumping shields too hard against your breasts when pumping could restrict the flow of milk through the ducts).
  • Adjust your breast pump’s vacuum for Maximum Comfort Vacuum to achieve optimum suction level, turning the vacuum up until slightly uncomfortable and then down one notch.
  • When your breast shield fits correctly, your nipple will be centered in the breast shield tunnel and will move freely during pumping.
  • Visit www.medela.com/fittingguide, or if you are still unsure that you selected the correct size, see a lactation consultant or breastfeeding specialist.
References

1. Gooding MJ et al. J Ultrasound Med. 2010; 29(1):95–103.
2. Prime D. K. et al. Breastfeed Med. 2018; 13(7):A-45.
3. Sakalidis VS et al. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2020; 99(11):1561-1567.
4. Clinical study, Data on file (NCT02492139 compared to 90°).
5. Kent JC et al. J Hum Lact. 2003; 19(2):179–186.
6. Prime DK et al. Breastfeed Med. 2011; 6(4):183–190.
7. Kent JC et al. Breastfeed Med. 2008; 3(1):11–19.
8. Kent JC et al. Pediatrics. 2006; 117(3):e387-e395.
9. Kent JC et al. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2012; 41(1):114–121. 
10. Gardner H et al. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2015; 15:156. 
11. Prime DK et al. Breastfeed Med. 2012; 7(6):442–447.

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