Even though this company is pretty new to the American market, Spectra’s breastfeeding devices are already highly popular and praised by the users. Their S series of breast pumps fares very well in reviews and tests, so we’ve decided to see what is the fuss all about. We took a closer look at their Baby USA S1 model, which is a little pricey but comes with tons of features and is among the company’s best sellers. Is this pump really worth the money? Join us, and let’s check it out together!
Specifications:
- Brand – Spectra (South Korea)
- Model Name – Baby USA S1
- Power source type – AC / Rechargeable battery
- Weight – 7.8lbs
- Dimensions – 14.4″ x 12 x 9.5″
- Dishwasher safe – Yes, but not advisable
Features of Spectra Baby USA S1
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Ease of use
Just like many other breastfeeding devices manufactured by Spectra, this one is also simple to assemble and use. Of course, the package includes an instruction manual, but that won’t be necessary in this case. Once you attach the breast flange to the bottles, you’ll have to hook them to the so-called “hygienic backflow protectors”. After this, you’ll have to attach everything to the pump, and you will be good to go.
One of the best things here is that the S1 can be plugged into an adapter, but you can also charge its built-in battery, which gives the user much greater flexibility. The buttons are straightforward to operate, with the power button being located directly in the center. The digital display looks quite sleek and is very easy to read. It shows the suction setting, the amount of time spent pumping, as well as the cycle setting. All of this is relevant and very well organized.
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Efficiency
This pump provides moms with a very efficient pumping process, and many users claim that the Spectra Baby S1 provides the most natural experience of breastfeeding. There are many useful features on this device, such as the adjustable suction and speed settings that allow the user to find the right rhythm of pumping. Even with both suction and speed on the highest setting, you still won’t experience any kind of pain – but the results will be outstanding. The amount of produced milk will be different for every mother, but we can safely say that the Spectra S1 can produce lots of milk in a short time.
The manufacturer claims that this device is a “hospital-grade” pump. Even though we think that this term is more of just a marketing ploy than something real, the S1 stands up in quality. It even surpasses the effectiveness of some other hospital-grade pumps – and the reason behind this is that you can pump both breasts at the same time with it.
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Comfort
Even though the manual pumps are a bit more comfortable (as they don’t have motors), using the Spectra S1 is, surprisingly, a very relaxing experience. Like we already mentioned, it does not cause pain during the pumping sessions, and that’s always a big plus in our book. Even when it is on the highest setting, this pump will provide you only with a gentle pulling sensation – no tugging or pain here.
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Portability
Unfortunately, the pump doesn’t come with an insulated or a tote bag, but there’s an option to buy both of these things on the manufacturer’s website. If you decide to do this, you’ll be pleased to know that the tote bag looks absolutely sleek and attractive, and even has some extra pockets for additional storage. There’s plenty of room for things such as ice packs, baby food, spoons, etc. The insulated bag also looks very good, featuring a combination of white and pink colors and looking very elegant.
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Hygiene
When it comes to hygiene, the Spectra Baby USA S1 deserves only words of praise. The reason behind that is the presence of the so-called “hygienic backflow protectors,” which are there to prevent the build-up of condensation inside the tubing. Without this feature, mildew could appear in the tubing and cause some serious health problems for your baby. The pump components are easy to disassemble and clean.
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Noise
This is one of the quietest battery-operated pumps on the market! Instead of having a loud motor like some other devices of this type, the S1 has a whisper-quiet motor that will allow you to do some pumping in the wee hours. However, the pump will become slightly louder if you place it on a hard surface (such as the table) – we advise you to put it on your couch or the sofa.
What’s wrong with the product?
- It’s among the more expensive models
The Spectra Baby USA S1 is a great model, but it’s not for the moms who are looking to save some money. This device falls into the category of premium breast pumps and is pricier than some other models we’ve reviewed.
- Comes with only one size of breast flanges
Even though the package includes two flanges, both of them are of the same size – medium. You can order other sizes from the manufacturer’s website, but we would still like to see at least one different size in the box.
Conclusion
All in all, we can safely say that this pump delivers. It is an excellent choice for the mothers who are struggling with their supply issues, as it is highly efficient and can pump out a lot of milk in a short amount of time. Keeping this pump clean is very easy, and you’ll even be able to use it at night due to its whisper-quiet motor that deserves only words of praise. Although it is one of the more expensive models on the market, we think that this pump is definitely worth considering for purchase. It’s simply one of the best breastfeeding devices that the money can buy!
