Wearable breast pumps offer convenience and flexibility for pumping parents. However, one major drawback is their high price point, which can limit access to those who could benefit from them. In my search for more affordable options, I discovered the Imani i2 breast pump.
What sets the Imani i2 apart is its minimalist design. It consists of two pumps on top of two plastic cups with flanges that you place inside the cups. Unlike other high-tech wearable pumps, the Imani i2 doesn’t have a screen, timer, or app connectivity. It simply has four buttons on the top to control the pumping process. Despite its simplicity, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was just as effective, if not more so, at extracting milk compared to pumps that cost three times as much.
The Imani i2 may be small, but it packs a punch. The clear plastic collection cup houses a motor on top, and all the pump components are neatly connected within the cup. Manufactured by Imani and distributed in the US by Legendairy Milk, the pump is easy to assemble and disassemble. At first, I was skeptical of the connection between the motor and the cup, but it proved to be sturdy and reliable.
During my pumping sessions, my goal was to get at least 3 ounces of milk. However, with the Imani i2, there were numerous occasions when I exceeded that amount and pumped over 5 ounces within the same timeframe. I was impressed by its performance. Moreover, the pump was comfortable to wear, though I noticed it could be slightly top-heavy. Nevertheless, the cups fit well into my bras, unlike the larger Willow pumps.
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The Imani i2 features two modes: massage and expression. Imani recommends starting with the massage mode, a low-suction mode with high speeds, to stimulate letdown. After a few minutes, you can switch to the expression mode, which offers higher suction but lower speeds. This two-mode system is designed to mimic a baby’s latch during a pumping session. However, unlike pumps such as the Willow Go (recommended by WIRED), you need to manually switch between the modes on the Imani i2. The Willow Go automatically transitions after two minutes.
For replacement parts, the Imani i2 utilizes rubber pieces similar to standard breast pump duckbill and backflow protector parts. It is recommended to purchase these parts from Imani’s partners to ensure proper compatibility. The prices for these parts range from $8 to $12 on the Legendairy website, making them affordable options to keep as backups.
As for the breast shields, the Imani i2 comes with a 25-mm size. This shield sits against the breast and nipple. Additionally, there is a 21-mm insert included for smaller areolas. It is essential to measure yourself to determine the correct size. Imani offers a measurement guide to help you choose the appropriate shield size. They also offer 17-mm and 19-mm inserts and larger breast shields as separate purchases. Wearing the right size is crucial for maximum milk collection and to prevent discomfort while pumping.
Unlike other leading wearable breast pumps, the Imani i2 lacks smart features. It does not have an accompanying app to track pumping sessions, milk volume, or duration. The pump’s motor includes five buttons, one for each mode, two for adjusting the suction level, and a power button. There are also five small lights that indicate the selected level and a battery indicator light. While this pump may lack smart technology, it remains a cost-effective option for those seeking a reliable and efficient wearable breast pump.
In conclusion, the Imani i2 offers an affordable alternative to pricier wearable breast pumps. Its minimalistic design may lack the bells and whistles of high-tech pumps, but it delivers comparable results in terms of milk extraction. With its simple controls and comfortable fit, the Imani i2 proves to be a reliable companion for pumping parents. While it may not be the most technologically advanced option on the market, its affordability and effectiveness make it a worthwhile investment.
