The 7 Best Manual Breast Pumps
This wiki has been updated 30 times since it was first published in February of 2018. Many breast-feeding moms invest in an electric pump to store milk and keep up supply, especially when it's time to return to work. But these machines tend to be bulky and take a lot of time and effort to sanitize, so they're not practical for a quick pumping. Manual models make for a great portable backup when you may not have access to a plug or need to be discreet while at work or traveling. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Medela Harmony
2. Philips Avent Comfort
3. HaaKaa Silicone
Editor's Notes
June 12, 2020:
Mothers who are trying to supply a full day of milk when they go back to work will most likely choose an electric breast pump, but those who are simply interested in saving every precious drop and building an extra supply for the occasional night out may want to pass on the expensive, bulky electronic models.
For this update we added the HaaKaa Silicone for offering a hands-free way to catch let-down while the baby is nursing on the other side, plus when the suction is applied correctly this unit can collect several more ounces in a time-saving way. Sleep-deprived parents will appreciate that there is nothing to disassemble for cleaning, and they've added a suction base so you can set it down securely and not have to worry about spills.
The Medela Harmony is probably the most complex manual option, with it's two stage process, but it's all built-in to the swiveling handle, so it's not significantly larger than any other choices that require pumping by hand. The two-stage process also offers the most control over the speed of suction which is key to comfort for some mothers.
Many women will choose a manual pump of the same brand of bottle they prefer as the collection containers are designed to allow you to pop on a nipple and feed baby. The Lansinoh Easy Express and the Philips Avent Comfort even supply a newborn nipple for this purpose.
4. Lansinoh Easy Express
5. Evenflo Advanced
6. Nuk Expressive
7. Nature Bond Silicone
Tina Morna Freitas is a writer who lives in Chicago with her family and three cats. She has a B.A. in anthropology with a minor in English, and has built a freelance career over the years in writing and digital marketing. Her passions for cooking, decorating and home improvement contribute to her extensive knowledge of all things kitchen and home goods. In addition, her 20 years as a parent inform her expertise in the endless stream of toys and equipment that inevitably takes over the homes of most parents. She also enjoys gardening, making and sipping margaritas, and aspires to be a crazy cat lady once all the children are grown.