Can I buy a used pump?

When it comes to purchasing a pump, putting out the big bucks can be tough.  Sure, we all know that pumping is a whole lot less expensive that formula feeding, but not many of us can spend $150 - $300 on a single item without second guessing ourselves.  If you're shopping online for the best deal on a breast pump (and who isn't?), it doesn't take very long to come across ads for used pumps.

"Only used twice!"  "In like-new condition!!"  "Great deal - 75% off!"

It's tempting to want to save money by buying used  - I love a good deal as much as the next mom- but don't do it!  There are only 2 things you should never ever buy used for your baby - car seats and breast pumps. Nearly all consumer grade pumps (i.e. all of those except hospital rentals) are single user medical products.  Sharing a pump with another woman (or buying used) subjects your baby to a small but very real risk of contracting a serious illness, like HIV, Hepatitis B, HTLV-1 and Candidiasis (thrush), to name a few. A good rule to live by:

If you wouldn't let a woman you don't know nurse your baby, don't use her breast pump!!