When breastfeeding, it can be extremely helpful having a best breast pump that works for you. A manual breast pump, in particular, is a great way to express milk while keeping you in control of the speed and intensity of suction. If you're wondering if a manual breast pump is right for you or how to use a manual breast pump, keep reading.
There are two types of breast pumps: manual and electric. A manual breast pump works to mimic a baby's suckling and allows you to control the speed and intensity of the suction. It is hand-operated and is often cheaper than electric breast pumps, which may be faster but offer less control. You can also buy a breast pump bra that can help to hold your pump in place. These are particularly handy if you struggle to find the best breast pumping position for you but depending on how often you need to pump breast milk, may not be suited for extensive pumping.
It can be difficult for mums who are returning to work, have multiple children or just want to share the load of breastfeeding by introducing bottles to involve their partner. A manual breast pump is also useful for pumping when out and about, as you don't have to worry about finding somewhere to plug in like some electric pumps require.
The best at a glance:
•Best Manual Breast Pump for comfort: Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump - £25.99
•Best Wearable Manual Breast Pump: Elvie Curve - £29.99
•Best Silicone Manual Breast Pump: Haakaa Manual Silicone Breast pump - £15.99
•Best Manual Breast Pump with Accessories: Philips Avent Manual Breast Pump - £33.99
If you're looking for a manual breast pump that will work for you and your lifestyle, have a look at our carefully curated list of the best below. We have taken prices, features, and comments from our real mum testers to make all of our selections.
The Best Manual Breast Pumps 2024
The Best Manual Breast Pump overall
Description
This manual pump won Bronze in the Mother&Baby 2023 awards.
We love that this is small enough to be carried around with ease. The Lansinoh Silicone Breast Pump is simple to use and helps you to save every last drop of breast milk for your baby. It also comes with a neck strap, which can save you the heartbreak of spilling any milk as the strap can help keep it securely in place. This makes it a standout choice in our books and good value for money.
Our mum tester said: "I tended to use it in the mornings when my breasts were engorged. While baby fed on one breast, I would use the Lansinoh pump to collect leaking milk or lessen the engorgement from the other breast. As the collector fills and my breast reduced in size, I was able to fine-tune the suction by gently releasing and reattaching. By feeding my baby and using the collector at the same time, it saved me time in the mornings and provided me with some fresh milk to try with the bottle later on or freeze."
Read our full Lansinoh Silicone Breast Pump review.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Small and portable
- Comes with a neck strap
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Strong suction might be too much for some mums
Best Manual Breast Pump for comfort
Image: John Lewis www.very.co.uk
Description
Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump has a wide 105-degree opening angle which means it puts less strain on your nipple and milk ducts. Some mums have found that this leads to a more comfortable pumping experience. This hand-held pump also has an easy-to-use handle which controls the speed and flow of expressing.
Reviews: Medela is a trusted brand in the breast pump sphere and so their manual pump gets the overwhelmingly great reviews you'd expect. Mums found it was great at getting lots of milk in just a few minutes and that it was good to be able to control the speed. Reviewers liked the stand to prevent milk spillage, but a few said it was a negative that the stand was necessary.
Read the full Medela Harmony review.
Pros
- Two-phase expression
- Control the speeding flow of expressing via the handle
- Discreet and quiet
Cons
- Sometimes requires repositioning when using
3.
Elvie Curve
The Best Wearable Manual Breast Pump
Description
We love the Elvie Curve because it makes pumping effortless. It can be used in one of three ways. While you are breastfeeding on the other breast, pumping on the other breast, or whenever your breast feels full. This breast pump can be popped into your bra so you can wear it with ease around your home or discreetly outside.
Our mum reviewer Louise said: "The wearability of the product alone is reason enough to recommend it. The fact that you can use it while doing other things around the house or feeding your baby is great. You don’t have to worry about wires, batteries or making sure it’s charged. All you need to do is get it in place set the desired level of suction then you are ready to go. It is good that you can adjust the level of suction by a button and most pumps like this do not have this function. As much as I like this product I would only be able to get a good supply of milk when I was heavily engorged due to a missed feed, which did not happen a lot as my little boy didn’t miss feeds often."
Read our full Elvie Curve Breast Pump review.
Pros
- Catches bonus milk
- One press expression
- Discreet
Cons
- Some mums found expressions slow
The Best Silicone Manual Breast Pump
AmazonDescription
Haakaa Manual Breast Pump is the best hassle-free pump. All you have to do is put the suction onto your breast and collect all of the milk that would have otherwise been lost. This is one of the most popular manual breast pumps as it is easy to clean and requires very little effort.
Reviews: reviews are mixed about how much milk the Haakaa Manual Pump produces - some rave about it and others are lukewarm. Reviews confirm it's a comfortable and useful piece of equipment - particularly to use on the alternate breast whilst feeding - but some say it's an awkward, top-heavy shape so not easy to put down after use whilst simultaneously holding baby.
Pros
- Easy to use
- One size fits all
- No cords or batteries
Cons
- The shape of the bottle could be improved for stability
The Best Manual Breast Pump with Bottle
Image: Tommee Tippee Description
The lightweight Tommee Tippee manual breast pump is a soft silicone cup pump. It fits comfortably around your breast to avoid leaks. The manual pump has no tubes or cords so it can easily be moved from room to room. Your milk can be caught directly into a Tommee Tippee bottle too. Easily clean all parts by hand, in the dishwasher or in a steriliser.
Our mum tester Charlotte said: "I really liked using a manual pump as you seem to have more control over the pressure on your breast when you first start to express the milk. This one worked well. It was also easy to use and clean. It's considerably cheaper than the electric versions, so it's also really good value for money."
Read our full Tommee Tippee Made for Me Single Manual Breast Pump review.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Difficult to use at the same time as breastfeeding baby
- Some felt the fit wasn't great for them and resulted in loss of suction
The Best Adjustable Manual Breast Pump
www.boots.com
Description
If you are a fan of MAM bottles, this MAM manual breast pump may be perfect for you. Your milk will be expressed directly into the bottle for immediate use or for safe and hygienic storage. You can adjust the funnel and suction intensity for maximum comfort when expressing, and even convert to the MAM electric system with additional kit if you decide to go down that route at a later date. There are only four parts to put together, making cleaning relatively simple.
Our mum reviewer Carla said: "I would recommend this product as it is comfortable on the breast. The MAM pump has a lovely design. The funnel is very soft and doesn't cause any marks on the skin. It is quite small so can fit in your bag if needed to pump on the go/at work. The parts can be taken apart so can be sterilised easily."
Read our full MAM manual breast pump review.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Easy to clean and assemble
- 'one size fits all' suction cup
Cons
- Some mums struggled to see the milk coming through clearly
The Best Manual Breast Pump with Accessories
Image: AmazonDescription
The silicone breast shield moulds to the nipple to give comfort when feeding, and the pump mimics the suckling action of a baby. This small, lightweight kit is easy to transport and clean.
Our mum reviewer said: "this pump is by far one of the best for reducing the amount of milk escaping from the sides (every drop matters to me). I no longer find myself bent over a pump with aching hands, I can actually sit further back without worrying all of my hard work is wasted on milk determined to flow every which way but inside the pump. Another great point is that it comes apart like a dream and cleans just as easy, I don't have any fiddly parts that require any extra brain power to navigate."
Read our full Philips Avent manual breast pump review.
Pros
- Easily transportable
- Easy to use and clean
- ready shield moulds to the nipple
Cons
- Some found the suction not as strong as other options
Everything you need to know about a manual breast pump
A manual breast pump doesn't just refer to a pump that is squeezed by hand. Over the years, different types of manual breast pumps have made their way onto the market, all with the aim of making expressing milk easier for mums.
Breastmilk is often referred to as liquid gold, as it is packed full of vitamins and minerals which will help your baby grow into a healthy child. Breastfeeding is a labour of love and requires consistent feeding, so choosing to use a manual breast pump could help you and your baby.
Hand-held pumps: a hand-held is a classic style that typically has a handle or lever that you squeeze to create suction. This pull uses a vacuum pressure to draw out milk.
Collection shells: with no pumping required for these, they simply sit in your maternity nursing bra like a nursing pad and collect the milk that leaks between breastfeeds or when pumping.
Silicone pump: these are often used to collect milk from the opposite breast to the one you are feeding from. You don't need to continually hand pump and instead rely on vacuum suction which can be established from a squeeze once attached.
How to choose a manual breast pump
Because a manual breast pump can feel like an intimate and important purchase, there are a few things to consider when picking one in order to make the right decision for you and your body.
Comfort - Take your breast size and what you think will feel comfortable into consideration.
Features - Does that breast pump perform in all the ways you need it to? Will it work with your routine?
Price - It can be easy to feel pressured into buying the most expensive gadgets, but definitely stick to your budget.
We have taken all of these elements into consideration when making our selections above.
How to use a manual breast pump
If you're wondering how to use a breast pump, follow these instructions for how to use the different manual pumps.
It's important to always start by washing your hands. Make sure your pump and bottle are clean and sterile before use. You might want to find a quiet space where you won't be disturbed to pump in peace.
Tip: begin by massaging your breast for a few minutes – this helps with the let-down reflex.
Hand-held pumps: with the bottle attached, place the breast shield over your nipple and make sure it's in the centre of the funnel. Gently press down on the handle to stimulate milk flow and repeat. Once your milk starts to flow, press the handle and hold for a few seconds before releasing.
Collection shells: as this doesn't require hand pumping, simply place in your nursing bra and ensure your nipple is aligned with the opening. The cup will then collect milk that leaks in between feeds or on the opposite breast while feeding.
Silicone pump: gently squeeze the pump to release air inside the pump and whilst still squeezing, attach it to your breast. When attached, release your grip on the pump, which will create a suction that starts to express the milk.
Tip: When your milk starts slowing down, switch breasts. Then swap back again as you may find you have more milk to express.
Once you've finished expressing, remove the breast shield and securely store your fresh breast milk.
After pumping, always clean and sterilise all of your feeding equipment.
Manual vs electric breast pumps:
Everyone is different, so many mums-to-be can easily feel on the fence about picking the right type of breast pump for them - here are some pros & cons to both manual and electric breast pumps, so you can make a more informed decision.
Manual breast pumps
Pros
• You don't need a power source which is more convenient (and can be quieter too)
• They're a great budget option compared to electric versions
• Can relieve pressure from the breast if you have any uncomfortable engorgement
Cons
• Manual breast pumps can be more time-consuming
Electric breast pumps
Pros
• They're more versatile, making it easier to double pump if you need to
• Designed to be a more hands-free option
• Gives you more control over the speed and intensity of pumping
Cons
• They're typically pricier, and not all are wireless
FAQs
Can I pump straight after birth?
Yes. If you are unable to breastfeed, you can pump straight after birth. This will help develop and maintain a good supply of breast milk. NHS recommend mothers wait six weeks to establish a breastfeeding routine. However, each parent's feeding journey will be different, and it is safe to pump straight away if you feel that is what is right for you and your baby.
How to store breast milk
• Breast milk should be stored in a clean sterilised container or milk storage bag.
• Milk can safely stay in the fridge for up to 8 days at 4C or lower
• If you're unsure of the temperature of the fridge or it is above 4C, use it within 3 days
• Breastmilk can be stored for up to 6 months in the freezer
• Milk that's been cooled or defrosted in the fridge can be carried in an ice-cool bag for up to 24 hours.
• It is best to store breast milk in small quantities using special storage bags to help avoid waste. It is important to label and date it.
How do I heat breastmilk?
You can warm breast milk by putting the bottle into hot water and checking the temperature to ensure it is not too hot for your baby. Ideally, it should be no hotter than body temperature. Never microwave milk. It may create hot spots and lead to your infant getting burnt.
What should you do if you are having difficulties feeding?
Visit the NHS website for more information about infant feeding or find your local breastfeeding support services.
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Samantha Ball is a Product & Lifestyle Writer for Mother&Baby and freelanced for the website for two years before joining the team full time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.