Image: MomJunction Design Team
Store breast milk easily with our list of the best manual breast pumps to feed your child conveniently. While it is well established that breast milk is the best form of nutrition for babies, unfortunately, some mothers may be unable to nurse their babies due to other responsibilities or health reasons. In such scenarios, a manual breast pump can be a suitable solution for mothers to ensure their baby gets the precious breast milk loaded with antibodies to help boost their immunity. Breast pumps are designed to help lactating women extract milk from their breasts and store it to feed the baby when away.
Manual breast pumps are battery-free devices that function on hand movements and are pretty efficient in extracting breast milk. You can also consider getting a manual breast pump to freeze your breast milk for future use. These manual models are available in various designs to suit your needs. So, explore our list of the best breast pumps to choose the right breast pump for your convenience.
Top Picks
10 Best Manual Breast Pumps
1. Best Leakage-Free:NatureBond Silicone Manual Breast Pump
The best benefit of using a manual breast pump is that you can use it anywhere and for as long as you want. This premium silicone pump comes with a pump strap and silicone stopper to collect breast milk without any leakage and through complete natural suction pressure. It is convenient to use and helps with issues such as breast engorgement. Here’s a video of a reviewer’s experience that tells you how to use the product that also comes in the list of best hand breast pumps.
Pros
- Noiseless pumping
- BPA-free and sterile vacuum sealed
- Comes with a breast cupping flap
- Dual-ring design to adjust the suction force
- Airtight packaging
Cons
- May lose suction after extended use
"After testing various tools, I switched to this device because it offers efficient suction without causing pain. Plus, its flexible tip seemed beneficial in transferring milk without any spills."
2. Best Food-Grade:Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump
Silicone breast pumps are designed to catch the leaks effectively while you pump or breastfeed, and this is why these are great. This patented breast pump is made using 100% food-grade silicone and is soft and comfortable. If you want to know more about this product, here’s a video of the product being reviewed that is worth watching.
Pros
- Draws milk effectively through suction
- Noise-less operation
- Dishwasher-safe and can be boiled
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Some may find the suction painful.
"This manual pump has made expressing milk easier for me. Initially, I needed some practice using this tool, but it was convenient to handle once I mastered it. Plus, cleaning it is a breeze."
Quick fact3. Best Easy-To-Control Vacuum:Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 9,316 fine reviews on Amazon.
The design of a breast pump plays a crucial role in how successfully you will pump, and this manual breast pump features an ergonomic swivel handle and an easy-to-control vacuum for enhanced comfort. Plus, it features a research-based and patented design. Learn more about this reliable product by watching this in-depth review video.
Pros
- Offers Manual suction control
- Noise-less operation
- Portable and discreet
- 2 phase expression technology
- Soundless when in use
Cons
- Designed only for occasional use
"This device has become a trusted companion in my breastfeeding journey. It is compact and suitable for use during traveling, work, or night feeding. Plus, it also helps in enhancing the milk flow by mimicking a baby's sucking motion."
NatureBond Silicone Manual Breast Pump Best Leakage-Free | Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump Best Food-Grade | Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump Best Easy-To-Control Vacuum | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Silicone | Silicone | BPA Free |
| Dimensions | 7 x 3 x 3 inches | 6 x 3 x 3 inches | 3.1 x 4.2 x 8.1 inches |
| Weight | 7.05 Ounces | - | - |
| Weight | - | 5.6 ounces | 14.4 ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 17,153 | 17,499 | 9,316 |
| Price | $1199.0 | $12.94 | $59.99 |
4. Best With Silicon Shield:Dr. Brown’s Manual Breast Pump
The mom-approved manual breast pump by Dr. Brown’s features a flexible and adjustable Softshape silicon-based shield that comfortably fits most breast types, creating a customized fit for better milk expression. It also offers dual pumping options–let down and stimulation mode for a comfortable pumping experience. The pack includes a hospital-grade breast pump, a slow-flow nipple-enabled 150ml wide-neck milk bottle, a storage-cum travel cap, and a cleaning brush for your convenience.
Pros
- Suitable for different breast shapes
- Wide-mouthed cup
- Anti-colic baby bottle
- Dual pumping modes
- Dishwasher safe
- BPA-free
Cons
- May not provide strong suction
- May make a squeaky noise
"Switching between the modes is easier with this pump. Plus, the curved handle helps me easily express the milk. Also, it is compatible with other bottle brands, which is pretty handy."
Did you know?5. Best BPA-Free:Philips Avent Manual Comfort Breast Pump
Looking for a pump that can produce a consistent and strong milk supply without hurting your breasts? If yes, you need the clinically tested Philips Avent manual breast pump. The express-and-store breast pump features a unique design that allows you to pump in a more comfortable position for a pampering experience.
Pros
- Comes with a massage cushion
- Comfortable handle
- Noise-less operartion
- Better stimulation of milk flow
- Compact and lightweight design
- BPA-free
- Safe and effective to use
- Comes with a sealing disk for easy storage
Cons
- Some may find the bottle squeaky.
"I like this breast pump as it supports direct bottle attachment and straightforward cleaning. Its portability allowed me to carry it everywhere, even to my office. Moreover, it is compatible with other feeding products from this brand, which adds to the convenience."
6. Best Easy-Express Handle:Lansinoh Manual Breast Pump
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 8,561 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.
This manual breast pump can be considered a trusted choice for two reasons. First, it features a smart easy-express handle that will prevent hand fatigue and pain. In addition, it features dual-modes– stimulation and expression mode for proper suction, efficient pumping, and better milk expression.
Pros
- Comes with 2 flange sizes
- Wide-neck collection bottles
- Pre-sterilized breast milk storage bags
- Noise-free use
- Easy to clean
Cons
- The flange may lose suction.
"This hand pump's easy assembly and disassembling feature has simplified my cleaning job. Though it produces a slight squeaky sound, its effectiveness and comfort have made me continue to use this product."
7. Best Skin-Friendly:Godehone Silicone Breast Pump 2 Pack
If you are looking for a portable and functional manual expression breast pump that is trusted by moms, the Godehone silicone breast pump is a great option. This is a lightweight and compact pump that makes collecting and saving breast milk easy. The simple design of the milk-saver pump makes it easy to clean and store.
Pros
- Skin-friendly silicone construction
- Comes in a pack of two
- Features a soft and big sucker
- Food grade silicone
- Leak-free design
Cons
- Some may find the suction a little painful.
"Its silicone flange is gentle and soft on my skin. Plus, its powerful suction is useful for collecting milk. However, the suction reduces once the bottle is half-filled, so emptying the filled bottle midway helps. Despite these challenges, it's a decent product."
Quick fact8. Best Pain-Free:Unimom Manual Breast Pump with Soft Silicone Massaging Breast Shield
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The whopping 852 positive reviews on Amazon reflect the superior quality of this product.
If you are looking for a handheld breast pump from a trusted brand that offers tight suction and feels pain-free, the Unimom pump can be an apt choice. It features an extra-soft silicone shield guard that massages and warms the breasts for more comfort and to stimulate milk flow.
Pros
- Comes with a complete pump kit
- Free from toxins and chemicals
- Non-slip pump handle
- Good for passive pumping
- Offers consistent pumping
Cons
- May not be sturdy
"I use this pump for quick sessions or as a backup for my electric one. It is comfortable and simplifies my job but needs gentle use to avoid discomfort. Overall, its performance is satisfactory."
9. Best Compact Design:Tommee Tippee Made For Me Single Manual Breast Pump
Free from any cords and unnecessary tubes, the compact pump by Tommee Tippee can be a mother’s travel companion, and its soft, cushioned silicon horn ensures a comfortable pumping session. Its ergonomically designed curved handles and narrow neck allow moms to pump with less power reducing strain on their hands. In addition, this mommy-approved massaging breast pump features petals that provide a massage to help stimulate milk flow.
Pros
- Noise-free
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to use and clean
- BPA and BPS free
- Dishwasher and sterilizer safe
Cons
- May be difficult to clean small parts
- May be challenging to pour all the milk out
"I like that this manual pump is also compatible with other brands' bottles. Its direct pumping mechanism eases my job of feeding my baby without transferring it into the feeding bottle. Plus, it is sturdy and user-friendly."
10. Best Natural Suction: Elvie Curve Manual Wearable Breast Pump
The Elvie Curve is one of the best manual breast pumps that uses natural suction to gently express the milk. You can use this safe and durable device on its own by activating the suction or on the other breast while nursing your little one. The coolest feature is that this functional, safe, and effective pump is hands-free and can be attached directly to your bra, making it convenient to use. You can get up to four ounces by putting on this wearable pump by simply pressing on the silicone pouch to increase the suction level or the control valve on top to decrease it.
Pros
- Food-grade silicone
- Safe for baby and mother
- Dishwasher-safe
- Discreet and skin-friendly
Cons
- Might cause sore nipples if worn for a long time
How To Choose The Right Manual Breast Pump?
Here are some features to consider while buying a breast pump
- Design: Choose a suction pump with an ergonomic design for optimal convenience. The container should be leakage-free and the suction pump noise-free. Pick one with adjustable suction speeds, large suction pumps, and a soft silicone funnel to fit your breasts easily.
- Material: Consider breast pumps made of safe and strong materials like food-grade silicone for long-lasting use and durability. They should be free of harsh chemicals, including BPA and phthalates. Choose breast pumps that have undergone thorough testing and are pediatrician-recommended to ensure safety both for yourself and your baby.
- Ease of use: Ensure the breast pump is easy to assemble and requires minimal pumping effort. Few breast pumps also massage cushions to ensure painless pumping sessions. You can choose portable and lightweight designs for convenience.
- Maintenance: Pick breast bumps with wide mouths for easy and quick cleaning. They should also be dishwasher- and sterilization-safe for easy cleanup proper hygiene.
Benefits Of Using A Manual Breast Pump?
Here are several benefits of using a breast pump:
- For working mothers, using a manual breast pump will offer more control over the time and schedule of feeding. Feeding schedules can be organized for more free time.
- Pumping post breastfeeding can significantly increase milk supply. The vacuum will stimulate the production of milk.
- Storing some extra milk using a pump will help mothers feed the baby when they deal with low milk supply.
- Pumping helps the babies who have medical conditions that prevent breastfeeding.
- If you are unable to sit for long periods to breastfeed the baby, breast pumps are useful.
- These compact pumps are easy to carry wherever you go.
[ Read : CMBEAR Electric Breast Feeding Pump ]
Safety Tips
While maintaining proper hygiene and sterilizing the breast pumps, you can feed your baby with the stored breast milk. Here are the things you need to keep in mind while using a breast pump:
- Always wash your hands and clean the tools before a pumping session.
- Use airtight and sterilized bottles to store the breast milk.
- If you are using storage bags for storing milk, use them only once.
- Reuse the storage bottles after sterilizing them.
- Do not add fresh breast milk to frozen milk.
[ Read : Pigeon Breast Pump Pro Reviews ]
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should I use a manual pump?
If you are a working mother or travel often, you can use a manual breast pump to pump and save some milk. This ensures that your baby gets your breast milk even while you’re away. You can also use a breast pump if you have issues while breastfeeding, have difficulty in latching, are separated from your infant in intensive care, or if your baby is unable to extract sufficient milk from the breasts.
2. How do manual breast pumps work?
Manual breast pumps are generally made of silicone and feature a handle that has to be operated manually to extract milk. In addition, the pumps have a suction cup and a storage bottle or bag. You need to place the suction cup on your breast and squeeze the pump handle to create a vacuum and stimulate milk flow. You can then extract the milk, store it in a storage bottle or bag, and feed your baby later.
3. How should I sterilize a manual breast pump?
Clean all the breast pump parts that come in contact with milk. Then, wash the parts using liquid dish soap and warm water (1). You can also follow the manufacturer’s instructions to sterilize the pump.
4. Is a manual pump better than an electric model?
Manual pumps are portable and suitable for use when traveling. Electric pumps, on the other hand, are ideal for daily use and offer hands-free operation.
5. Why do I get more milk from a manual pump?
A manual pump requires skin-to-skin contact, as you hold the device with one hand and pump with another. This contact helps in ejecting more milk and draining the breast fully.
6. Does a manual pump decrease milk supply?
Pumping does not alter the milk supply. Milk supply decreases when you are unable to produce the required milk.
7. How long does it take for breasts to refill after pumping?
This depends on your milk supply. It may take anywhere between 20 minutes to an hour.
Why Trust MomJunction?
If you are confused about the different breast pumps available, Vibha Navarathna can guide you with her insightful post. She is an experienced writer specializing in nursing, baby, and pregnancy products. In this article, she has put together the best manual breast pumps based on reviewer feedback that allow you to extract milk safely and store it for future use. For all the products on this must-buy list, Vibha has provided factual information along with the pros and cons. This description will allow you to make an informed decision before the purchase.
The Bottom Line
With the advent of manual breast pumps, storing breastmilk to feed your child has become easier. Our top picks from the above list include the Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump for its gentle suction and noise-less operation and the Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump for its ergonomic swivel handle. The Lansinoh Manual Breast Pump is another trusted option, offering a dual-mode pumping option. While buying a manual breast pump, ensure that it has skin-friendly material, a suitable mode of operation, and the best design and cushioning. It should also be easy to clean to protect the baby from harmful germs. Maintain hygiene by sterilizing it often, and always wash your hands and clean the pump before pumping. Also, ensure you do not add fresh breast milk to frozen milk.
Infographic: How To Clean A Manual Breast Pump?
The FDA recommends cleaning all the breast pump parts that come in contact with milk after each use to keep it safe and hygienic. However, appropriately cleaning the pump is essential to prevent any milk residue and to reduce the risk of germ buildup. So, read the following infographic to learn how to efficiently clean a manual breast pump.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Cleaning a Breast Pump
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-pumps/cleaning-breast-pump - Breast Milk Storage and Preparation.
https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breast-milk-preparation-and-storage/handling-breastmilk.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/recommendations/handling_breastmilk.htm - Breastfeeding FAQs: Pumping.
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/breastfeed-pump.html - Breast pumping shouldn’t hurt.
https://www.childrensmn.org/educationmaterials/childrensmn/article/16075/breast-pumping-shouldnt-hurt-treatments-for-mothers-who-pump-breast-milk/
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