From Heavy-Duty to Hands-Free: Meet the Ardo Melia
Ardo's Transition to Wearables
Ardo is a brand poised to become a major competitor in the pump industry, challenging heavyweights like Medela and Spectra. With a strong lineup of traditional pumps like the Ardo Alyssa, Ardo Calypso, and Ardo Carum, the company’s entry into wearables with the Ardo Melia marks an exciting evolution.
The Melia is built on the popular S32 motor body, shared with other pumps on the market. However, Ardo has made significant modifications to both the motor programming and parts, setting the Melia apart from its competitors.
What Makes the Ardo Melia Stand Out?
Enhanced Motor Programming
While the S32 motor body is widely used, Ardo reprogrammed the Melia to deliver smooth and controlled suction. This is consistent with Ardo's reputation for piston pumps like the Carum and Calypso, which provide a unique pull that feels both powerful and gentle.Unique Silicone Parts
The diaphragm in the Melia has a modified texture, being smoother and thinner in certain areas. This helps deliver the pump's signature smooth suction but requires careful preparation. Parts must be boiled for 7–10 minutes before first use—so follow the manual carefully!Wide Range of Settings
The Melia offers 15 settings per mode, more than the typical 9–12 found in other pumps. This allows for greater customization, though the incremental changes between settings might feel too subtle for some users.
Modes and Performance
Stimulation Mode: Designed for effective letdowns, it starts at 110 mmHg and goes up to 240 mmHg, with cycle speeds from 94 to 30 per minute.
Massage Mode: A lower suction mode ranging from 36 to 134 mmHg, ideal for sensitive nipples.
Expression Mode: Provides a long, consistent pull at 170 mmHg.
Automatic Mode: Gradually increases suction from 40 to 210 mmHg, perfect for those struggling with letdowns.
This range makes the Melia adaptable for various needs, particularly for users transitioning from the Ardo Alyssa or Carum.
Pros of the Ardo Melia
Customizable Programming: Smooth suction with wide settings ensures compatibility with many users.
Durability: Ardo is known for high-quality motors, so this wearable should last longer than many competitors.
Insurance Accessibility: The Melia is available through insurance with no upgrade fees, making it a budget-friendly option compared to pricier wearables.
Cons to Consider
Part Dependency: The motor does not perform well with generic S32 parts. Stick with Ardo-branded components for optimal results.
Part Replacement Costs: Due to high cycle speeds, parts like duckbills and diaphragms will require frequent replacement (every 4–8 weeks).
Learning Curve: Proper part preparation (e.g., boiling) is essential to avoid performance issues.
Who Will Love the Ardo Melia?
If you’re currently using the Ardo Alyssa or a piston pump like the Carum, the Melia is a fantastic addition for on-the-go pumping. Its smooth suction may also appeal to users of pumps like the Motif Luna or Zomee Fit, but those accustomed to heavier vibration pumps (e.g., Medela or Spectra) may find the transition challenging.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Ardo Melia is an excellent choice for moms looking to bridge the gap between traditional and wearable pumps. While it’s not a replacement for heavy-duty pumps, it’s a reliable secondary option for busy moms. Just remember to prep your parts correctly and replace them regularly to maintain performance.
Want more tips? Check out our Wearable Pump Parts Calculator (Melia support coming soon!) to estimate long-term costs. Additionally, the Genuine Lactation On-Demand All Access program is perfectly designed to help pumping parents succeed with pumps like the Ardo Melia. This program helps to close the gap in efficiency between a traditional heavy-duty pump and one of these higher-quality wearables.
If you’ve used the Ardo Melia, share your experiences below—your feedback helps us understand how this pump performs in real-life scenarios.
Happy Pumping!
