Pump Cost vs. Formula Cost

Every mother must make the decision of whether to breastfeed or formula feed her baby. When nursing mothers return to work, they are often put off by the initial cost of a quality electric breast pump. It can seem so expensive that they think formula feeding may be a more affordable option. The chart below can help you compare the true costs of feeding and infant for six months, and help you determine which method will be the most cost-effective for you. Comparing the prices for feeding an infant for six months can help you determine which method will be the most cost effective for you.

The overall price total for formula can drastically change if you have to switch formulas because your child has problems digesting a certain type or doesn’t care for a particular brand. Wasted formula is not considered in this cost estimate. Formula can easily be wasted if your baby doesn’t eat the amount that you mixed.

Additionally you can continue to express breast milk with your pump after the first six months without any additional cost. You can even use the same breast pump later if you choose to have more children.

To decide if pumping breast milk is best for you and your baby read our article Benefits of Breastfeeding.