Available to buy here:
Welcome back to “Baby to Child,” the channel where we bring you all the tips and honest reviews to make your parenting journey a little easier. Today, we’re diving into a product that many of you pumping mamas and papas may be familiar with—or at least have heard of: Dr. Brown’s Softshape Silicone Shields. Specifically, we’ll be looking at the Size A (21mm) flanges, designed for use with Dr. Brown’s manual and electric breast pumps. Let’s take a closer look at what these shields have to offer.
These flanges are made from 100% silicone, and right off the bat, that’s something that stands out. With 360-degree flexibility, they’re meant to provide a comfortable fit for a wide range of breast shapes and sizes, promising to create that perfect seal for the best possible pumping session. No hard plastic bits here, which is a nice touch for anyone who’s ever had to deal with that discomfort during longer pumping sessions.
Speaking of comfort, the Softshape silicone is gentle against the skin. It’s soft, pliable, and designed to prevent irritation, something that’s particularly important if you’re pumping frequently. The single-piece design also ensures there are fewer nooks and crannies, which means cleaning should be easier—and who doesn’t want that, right? They’re dishwasher-safe (top rack), which is a huge win, especially when you’ve got a million other things to think about.
As for sizing, Dr. Brown’s has you covered with three options: A (21mm), B (25mm), and C (30mm). We’re looking at the Size A in this review, which is aimed at smaller breast sizes. It’s always good to have sizing options when you’re shopping for pumping accessories, so you don’t have to deal with discomfort or poor performance just because you didn’t get the right fit.
Now, real-world testing. I’ve had a chance to use these shields with both the manual and electric versions of the Dr. Brown’s pumps. I can honestly say they feel great to wear. They’re soft, flexible, and they do a good job at creating a solid seal without causing any discomfort. No slipping or shifting while pumping, which is crucial if you’re trying to multitask during those sessions.
But there were a few things worth noting. While the shields are certainly comfortable, they might not work for everyone, especially if you need a more customized fit. If you’ve tried other brands or have a specific need, the fit might not be as snug as you’d like, and there might be some leakage depending on your breast shape and how the shields are positioned. So, while they’re a solid choice for most, I wouldn’t say they’re perfect for everyone.
Speaking of pros, let’s talk about what works. First off, the material is fantastic—100% silicone with no plastic, meaning it’s gentle on the skin and durable. Cleaning is a breeze, and the fact that these shields come in multiple sizes is a big plus. The secure fit and comfort make these flanges a solid option for regular use.
On the flip side, though, there are a couple of cons to consider. The fit might not be perfect for every body, especially if you’re on the larger side or have a more specific need when it comes to flanges. Some people might also find that these shields take a bit of trial and error to get the right seal.
Let’s talk value for money. These aren’t the cheapest flanges on the market, but given the quality of the materials and the comfort they offer, I’d say they’re worth the investment if you’re using Dr. Brown’s pumps regularly. The convenience of the dishwasher-safe design and the overall durability means you’re not likely to need replacements anytime soon. So, while they might cost a bit more than other options, you’re definitely getting what you pay for in terms of comfort and quality.
Now, if you’re looking for alternatives, there are other silicone flanges out there, like the Spectra flanges or Medela’s silicone options. Both are good choices, but the Dr. Brown’s Softshape Silicone Shields offer a nice balance between comfort and fit, especially if you’re already using Dr. Brown’s pumps.
As for build quality and longevity, these shields are made to last. The silicone is soft but sturdy, and while I can’t speak to long-term wear and tear since I’ve only been using them for a short period, they certainly seem built to last.
Customer support—so far, I haven’t had to contact Dr. Brown’s customer service directly for any issues, but their reputation in the baby product market is solid. If you do have any problems or questions, though, their customer service is generally known for being helpful and responsive.
Wrapping up, the Dr. Brown’s Softshape Silicone Shields are a solid choice for anyone looking for comfort and flexibility in their breast pumping routine. They’re easy to clean, comfortable to wear, and they come in a variety of sizes to help ensure a better fit. However, if you’re someone who needs a very specific fit or you’re dealing with larger breast sizes, they might not be a perfect match for you.
Mid-review reminder: If you’ve found this review helpful, don’t forget to hit that like button, subscribe, and ring the bell so you never miss a review from us here at “Baby to Child.” Your support helps us keep bringing you more helpful insights and honest reviews.
Alright, now for the final thank you: thank you so much for tuning in today. If you’re interested in these Softshape Silicone Shields, you’ll find the link in the comments below. If you already use them, let us know your thoughts—how’s the fit for you? And if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Dr. Brown’s via the link in the comments box.
Goodbye till next time, and remember: parenting isn’t easy, but with the right tools, we can all make it through—one pump at a time!
Available to buy here:
