Pumping gives you the freedom to work outside of the home or have a date night. Manual breast pumps are an affordable option, with most models costing $30 or less. We’ve got what you need to know before buying a breast pump and how to decide between manual and electric. Below are our top choices for the best manual breast pumps.
Best Manual Breast Pumps
When comparing manual breast pumps, we noted that the Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump includes only the pump without any collection container, while the Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump includes a collection bottle and nipple so that you can feed your baby immediately if needed.
Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump
The Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump has features like an angled neck that lets you sit comfortably while pumping and a wide range of compatibility with all Philips Avent bottles. It sells for around the same price as the Medela and Lansinoh models.
What’s Included
The Philips Avent pump comes with a soft, textured massage cushion that goes on the breast shield, the pump itself, a collection bottle, and nipple. It is easy to put together and to use and the compatibility with the Philips Avent wide-mouth bottles is especially good news for those moms that have colicky babies and might need specialized bottles.
The included breast shield is 28mm, which is a little bigger than the average size and you can purchase a different size if you need to.
Functionality
Something that sets this best breast pump apart is the massaging cushions inside the flange. The hard plastic outer has a rubber cover that is intended to make the shield more comfortable while massaging to make pumping more effective. Some mothers found that the shield was effective in doing this, though others found the massaging cushions stopped them from getting a good seal. If this is an issue for you, then the rubber cover is removable.
The angle of the milk collection bottle is also different than others. It allows you to sit back and relax while pumping instead of leaning forward, which is good when you are trying to relax.
Something to note is that even being dishwasher safe, this is not as easy to clean as some of the others. You’ll need to clean the nooks and crannies before putting them in the dishwasher, which can be a challenge. Additionally, the handle might start to squeak if milk solids are left behind (which is possible because of the difficulty of cleaning).
Pros
- Soft massage cushion to stimulate the flow
- More comfortable than some other models
- Angle allows you to relax while pumping
- Compatible with Philips Avent wide-mouth bottles
Cons
- Not as easy to clean as some others
- Handle might start to squeak eventually
Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump
The Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump has a single part that makes it easy to use and bring with you wherever you go. It also has a one-size-fits-all design that works well for most mothers.
What’s Included
The Haakaa breast pump has a single piece that makes assembly non-existent. It also comes with easy-to-understand instructions. The pump is made from high-quality food-grade silicone that is free of BPA, PVC, and other harmful contaminants.
One downside is that if you buy the most affordable model, it only comes with the pump. You can transfer the expressed milk to another container and save it, but this can be a hassle. You can buy just the cap or you can choose to buy the pump with a storage bottle and cap included at a higher cost.
Functionality
For mothers who want simplicity in a breast pump, the Haakaa model offers it. All you have to do is cover your nipple with the pump and squeeze until there is a good amount of suction. Then, you can continue squeezing or let the pump sit and catch your letdown. Like the previous model, this works well for mommies who leak when feeding their baby from one side.
The small, compact design is perfect for bringing along with you wherever you go. This pump is about the size of a large cellphone (like the iPhone 6).
The one-size-fits-all design of this pump works well. It suctions to small breasts, large breasts, and all sizes in between.
Many parents also appreciate the quiet operation. As you do not have to constantly pump this to make it work, it is even quieter than other manual models that have handles or other moving parts that squeak sometimes. This means that there is no risk of waking up your baby while pumping, regardless of how lightly they sleep.
Pros
- Silent operation
- Small, compact design is the size of a large cellphone
- True one-size-fits-all design
- Do not need to constantly pump to get results
- Free of BPA, PVC, and other contaminants
Cons
- Need to buy extra parts (like a storage lid) if you want to keep the milk without transferring to another container
Bumblebee Manual Breast Pump
The Bumblebee Manual Breast Pump is affordable and comes with everything you need to express and save milk. Once you are done using the food-grade silicone pump, simply put the stopper in place or add the airtight lid and store it until later.
What’s Included
This comes with a silicone breast pump that helps you collect breast milk while feeding your little one. It is made of certified food-grade materials and free of PVC, BPA, and phthalates. It also comes with a convenient carrying pouch.
Functionality
The design of the Bumblebee pump allows you to adjust the amount of suction depending on where you squeeze it at. This is very similar to the Haakaa model previously mentioned and works in the same way.
The super-quiet operation is perfect for moms with a light sleeper. Even if your little one falls asleep while nursing, you can pump the other side before laying them down without the fear of waking them up.
As there is only one part of this pump, it is easy to clean and maintain. However, you may need a special brush to get down inside the bottle. You can clean it using the dishwasher and sterilize it using boiling water, a microwave sterilizer, or another type of bottle sterilizer.
The included bottle holds about 3.5 ounces, so you will need another storage container if you want to store a lot of milk.
Pros
- Easy to clean and sterilize
- Very quiet operation
- You can adjust suction depending on where you squeeze
- Made of food-grade silicone and other safe materials
- Comes with an airtight lid
Cons
- Only holds about 3.5 ounces
Dr. Brown’s Silicone Breast Pump
No doubt you recognize Dr. Brown’s brand. If you’re a big fan of Dr. Brown’s, consider purchasing Dr. Brown’s Silicone Breast Pump. It’s made of soft silicone so you won’t feel uncomfortable suctioning this hands-free breast pump onto you.
What’s Included
In this set, you’ll receive a silicone breast pump, anti-colic bottle, storage cap, and travel bag. The anti-colic bottle is part of Dr. Brown’s Options+ bottle line which is the #1 Pediatrician Recommended baby bottle in the U.S. A storage cap allows you to seal the bottle right away after pouring breast milk in it from the pump. And for final, a drawstring bag to easily store all the parts inside so you don’t lose anything.
Functionality
Unlike most manual breast pumps, this Dr. Brown’s pump is more of a hands-free milk catcher than a pump that you operate with your hands. To use, place the pump up against the breast and give it a soft squeeze and then release. This will allow the pump to suction against the breast. If it doesn’t suction well at first, try again since you’ll want to have a good suction before the milk starts collecting. Some moms may want to hold it on to prevent the pump from slipping off and spilling milk.
This is a great option for moms who want to collect milk from one breast while they’re pumping or nursing from the other breast. Once you’re done, you can easily pour the milk from the pump into a Dr. Brown’s bottle.
Pros
- Hands-free (with good suction)
- Spout pours milk out easily
- Includes a storage cap, bottle, and travel bag
- Soft silicone
- Great price
Cons
- May take a while to get a good suction
- No cap for pump (so you don’t want to forget a bottle to pour it into)
NatureBond Silicone Breast Pump
The NatureBond Silicone Breast Pump is designed for mothers who want to pump to get their milk supply up. Costing less than $15, it’s a great choice when you are trying to save money and save your t-shirts from the inevitable leakage that happens when you are trying to feed your little one.
What’s Included
The uniquely designed food-grade silicone pump comes with a stopper and lid to store breast milk for later. It comes with a cute and compact carrying bag that is convenient to throw in the diaper bag and go. The pump itself comes in air-tight vacuum packaging, which ensures hygiene through the shipping and selling process.
Functionality
The silicone pump is not necessarily designed to pump breast milk. Instead, you position the breast inside, give it a gentle squeeze, and collect the letdown. It’s small enough that you can use it with one hand and it gives you the opportunity to pump from one side and feed your baby from the other. It is so lightweight that once you get the seal right, you can easily use it hands-free.
If you expect to get 4-5 ounces the first time you pump, you’ll likely be disappointed. However, this is a great tool for building your milk supply. Many mothers report that they only get 1-2 ounces the first time, but that amount increases with use.
Maintenance of this is super easy because there are only a few parts. You wash it with soap and water as you would normally and then sterilize it with your bottles.
For moms who are worried about how to use a silicone breast pump, there are full-color instructions that make it easy to understand. You’ll be using this pump in no time at all.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Uses food-grade silicone
- Hands-free, lightweight design
- Helps you increase milk supply
- Very easy to clean
Cons
- Doesn’t collect a lot of milk at first, but it will as your supply grows
Elvie Curve Manual Wearable Breast Pump
The Elvie Curve Manual Wearable Breast Pump is quite an innovate pumping tool. By placing this manual pump in your bra, you can pump and literally go anywhere you want!
What’s Included
Inside you’ll receive 1 frame, 1 pouch, and instructions for how to use the pump. The frame and pouch are used together during a pumping session — the pouch being the silicone portion of the pump that will suction to the breast. To be clear, you only get 1 Elvie Curve with each purchase, so you’ll have to purchase twice if you want to pump from both breasts at the same time.
Functionality
The Elvie Curve is neat because it allows you to manually pump (hands-free) literally from within your bra! Simply place the pouch into the frame and suction it to your breast. A valve allows you to adjust the suction to get the right fit so you’re not feeling uncomfortable. Once you have everything positioned properly, you can go about your business without having to hold a pump. Collect up to 4 ounces at a time with the Elvie Curve.
Pros
- Dishwasher safe and BPA free
- Hands-free
- Can pump inside bra (discreet)
- Soft silicone
- Adjustable suction
Cons
- Expensive for just 1 pump
- Some women weren’t able to pump milk from it
Best Medela Hand Pump
Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump
The major benefit of the Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump is that it has been designed after years of research to mimic a baby’s natural suckling. The movements allow more efficient flow, which means less time pumping and more productive results. The Medela model is a little more expensive than others on this list, but its unique design makes it worth it.
What’s Included
This comes with 2 5-ounce bottles and lids, a bottle stand, the membrane for each bottle, and a valve/breast shield.
The bottle stand is nice when you are taking a break from pumping or when you need to switch to a new bottle since you don’t have to worry about the bottle tipping over and spilling all your hard work.
The included breast shield is 24mm, which fits the average nipple size. You can buy additional shields that are different sizes if necessary. Medela does provide a guide that helps you find the right breast shield fit.
Another great thing about the components of the Medela Harmony is that they are all BPA-free.
Functionality
The unique design of the Medela manual pump is designed to make it function as an electric pump in terms of efficiency. By achieving a letdown before pumping, breast milk can be removed more efficiently.
The handle functions in two different ways making it easier to mimic your baby’s natural suckling motions. It has a swivel designed handle moms find easy to use.
It is easy to assemble this breast pump from Medela, too. Just place the swivel handle on the collection bottle, attach the shield, and you’re ready to get started. When you’re finished, you can easily pop all the pieces in the dishwasher for cleaning.
The suction options offered by the Medela makes it great, however, the O-ring does wear down with use. Once it wears down, you lose all suction and some parents report the ring wearing down after the first few uses. So, you may want to buy a spare to keep on hand, a little disappointing considering the higher price point of the Medela pump.
Pros
- Uses a 2-phase pumping process for better results
- Easy to assemble
- Parts are BPA-free and dishwasher safe
- Bottle stand included
- Comes with 2 bottles/storage containers
Cons
- O-ring wears down with time and the pump will lose suction
- More expensive choice than others
Best Lansinoh Manual Breast Pump
Lansinoh Manual Breast Pump
The Lansinoh Manual Breast Pump also has a 2-part expression process that makes milk collection easier. It is near the same price range as the Medela model but has extra features like an extra valve, a secondary breast shield, and a nipple that fits on the collection bottles.
What’s Included
This comes with the pump, two separate breast shields, and a BPA-free bottle with a lid. The included bottle is a nice feature, especially for mothers who are going to pump a lot and want the convenience of storing breast milk directly in the fridge. And, it works with Lansinoh 5-ounce bottles, so you can easily stock up.
The included nipple is also nice. It has a shape that mimics that of the breast, which really helps the transition when you give your baby a bottle instead of a breast for the first time.
There are two flanges (or breast shields) provided with this model; 25mm and 30.5mm. The smaller flanges are standard-sized, but moms who have smaller nipples might need a smaller flange to create the airtight seal needed for effective pumping.
Functionality
The Lansinoh manual pump has a few small pieces that you need to put together to make the handle work, but it’s not difficult once you learn where everything goes.
The shape of the handle fits in your hand well, reducing hand cramps during a long pumping session. The breast shield is also comfortable and there is a rubber ring that makes it gentler, especially for women with larger breasts.
Even though the different parts of this pump are dishwasher safe, it is recommended to wash some of the smaller parts by hand. The valve might get damaged after many uses. Fortunately, an extra valve is included in case of damages.
Pros
- Bottle nipple included
- Two-step expression process is more effective
- Two breast shields included
- Ergonomically designed handle reduces risks of hand cramps
- Extra valve included
Cons
- Has a few small parts that should be washed by hand
Manual Breast Pumps Compared
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed.
The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with
the product compared to others in the table.Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump 7.4 8.8 39.99 Elvie Curve Manual Wearable Breast Pump 9.7 7.8 34.99 Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump 9.9 9.0 24.94 Lansinoh Manual Breast Pump 9.8 9.0 20.12 Dr. Brown's Silicone Breast Pump 7.8 9.0 17.12 Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump 9.6 9.2 12.94 Bumblebee Manual Breast Pump 6.7 9.2 - NatureBond Silicone Breast Pump 3.9 9.0 -
Manual vs. Electric Breast Pump: Which is Best?
Like many tools for parenting, the breast pump that will work best for you depends on your lifestyle.
Mothers who plan on staying at home and breastfeeding might not need a pump as often. Additionally, as they are not usually pressed for time, they don’t need the efficiency of an electric pump.
For breastfeeding mothers who plan on working outside of the home, an electric pump might be a better choice when you are trying to pump quickly so you can return to work.
Here are some other considerations to make:
- Portability – Even if you are using the pump for working hours, manual pumps have a lot fewer working parts and are more compact. This makes it easier to pack in your bag and take to work. You also don’t have to worry about having batteries charged or finding an outlet in a discreet location to pump.
- Expression – Some moms need to express more milk. If your milk supply is low, you have limited time to pump, or you are separated from your newborn after birth because of an illness, being able to pump efficiently can help build or keep your milk supply up. While a manual pump can be used to express frequently, it is tiring and time consuming to use it frequently.
- Control – Unless you buy an expensive electric model that lets you adjust the speed, using a manual pump is going to give you more control. This means once you learn what works best for your body, you’ll maximize the amount of milk you are expressing.
- Easy Cleaning – Manual pumps have fewer working parts than electric pumps, so they are easier to clean when you are done using them.
- Quiet – Many manufacturers have worked to make their pumps quieter. Even so, the mechanisms used to create suction in an electrical pump can be noisy. Manual pumps are always quiet.
Buying Guide
It can be hard for new and also experienced mommies to know what they need in a breast pump. Once you have decided that a manual is the best choice for your lifestyle, here are a few tips that will help you choose the right model for you.
Suction
The amount of suction provided by a pump is going to affect how easily you can express. Some mothers require more stimulation than others. While, you cannot necessarily try out the suction on different pumps before you make your decision, you can take time to read manual breast pump reviews and learn from other mother’s experiences.
You want a pump with a firm latch but aside from that, the amount of suction depends on your preference.
Comfort
One of the benefits regarding the comfort of manual breast pumps is that you have the freedom to control how quickly or slowly you express milk.
Something else that affects the level of comfort is the breast shield. Many companies offer more than one size and it might be best to choose a model that has options. And while the breast shield is usually made of hard plastic, some pumps are sold with a silicone cover that is generally more comfortable.
Effectiveness
The reason that many mothers choose pumps instead of manually expressing the breasts is that they are generally more effective. Self-expression works well for some, but it can be difficult to empty your breasts completely and this is very important when you are trying to get your milk supply up. The pump should help you completely remove the milk effectively.
Price
One of the reasons that some mothers choose a manual pump, especially if they don’t plan on using it a lot, is because manual breast pumps are significantly more affordable than electric pumps.
For mommies who are worried about the cost, many insurance companies provide at least one breast pump at no cost to you. It’s worth checking into if you are shying away from an electric pump because you don’t want to spend $50-100 or more.
FAQs – Manual Breast Pumps
How does a manual breast pump work?
It is fairly easy to understand how a manual pump works.
First, you’ll do the letdown technique. This is a slower method of pumping that stimulates the breast and gets the milk flowing. Then, the expression technique is used to remove milk from the breast more rapidly. This simulates the same suckling motion that a baby would use while nursing.
A manual pump usually has a breast shield (or flange) that you position your breast inside. Then, you squeeze the handle to create suction on your breast and the breast milk drips down inside of the storage container, usually a bottle. You can put the bottle in the refrigerator to use later or place it in a breast milk bag to store in the freezer.
There is a secondary style of breast pump that also works with hand expression. These usually have a flexible silicone shield for your breast. You manually stimulate milk flow and the pump catches it. This style works well for mothers of babies who prefer one side over the other since they can express milk on one side while their baby feeds on the other.
How do I use a manual breast pump for clogged ducts?
One major benefit of a manual pump is that it can be used to remove the milk from blocked ducts. Silicone pumps work best for this. You can fill them with warm water and some Epsom salt, then use them as you would normally. After the duct has been cleared, you can pump that side to encourage milk production and ensure the blockage is out completely.
Do I need a breast pump if I’m nursing?
Many new mothers might think that a breast pump isn’t necessary, at least for the first few months of your child’s life. However, it is important to remember that you are going to be separated from your baby eventually and even if it’s only for a few hours, your baby is probably going to need to eat during that time. Having a breast pump lets you provide them the nutrition they need when you’re away.
Some mothers also use a breast pump to help stimulate milk flow. Many mothers stop breastfeeding because they are no longer producing enough milk for their little ones. While there are supplements and other techniques that can be used to increase milk flow, one of the easiest ways to encourage your body to produce more milk is by expressing more milk than your baby needs. Your body will replace what your baby eats plus the amount that you pump and you will begin producing more.
Final Take
Manual pumps are perfect for moms who only pump occasionally or who prefer a smaller and more discreet model for going back to work. As you look over the models, think about what will work best in terms of suction and effectiveness.
Comfort is also important and some mothers prefer the silicone models because they are softer. There are dozens of options. Hopefully, one of our recommendations for the Best Manual Breast Pump will work for you and your family.
