Mastering Manual Pumps: Top 10 Hand Pump Reviews!
Today we’re diving into manual pumps, also known as hand pumps. These little guys might not be as flashy as electric pumps, but they’re incredibly handy to have in your arsenal. Let’s talk pros, cons, and some features to look for when picking the perfect hand pump for your needs.
(This blog post was originally a video. Check it out, here!)
Why Consider a Manual Pump?
There’s so much to love about manual pumps. They’re portable, lightweight, and budget-friendly—you can toss one in your purse and forget it’s even there. They’re also super quiet and require no power, making them perfect for on-the-go or as a backup.
One of my favorite things about manual pumps is the control they give you over suction and speed. Many moms tell me, “I used my manual pump the other day, and it worked faster and better than my electric one!” If that’s you, guess what? You can totally stick with it if it works for you.
That said, manual pumps do have some downsides. They’re more labor-intensive (your hand can get tired!), and multitasking is a challenge since both hands are occupied. But if you’re looking for a simple, effective, and intuitive way to pump, these might just be your new best friend.
Why Every Mom Needs One
I always recommend that working moms keep a hand pump at work. At some point, you’ll forget a crucial part for your electric pump, and a manual pump will save the day. But beyond emergencies, hand pumps are a great tool for understanding your own body. They let you explore what works for you—what triggers a letdown, what feels comfortable, and what helps you pump most effectively.
Features to Look For
When choosing a manual pump, don’t stress too much—most are pretty similar, and the odds of making a bad choice are slim. Here are a few things to consider:
- Compatibility with your bottles and flanges. It’s easiest if your hand pump works with the parts you already use.
- Comfortable flange size and material. Some pumps come with soft silicone inserts, which can be a game-changer for comfort.
- Ease of cleaning and assembly. Fewer parts mean less hassle.
A Quick Look at Popular Options
Let’s review some of the manual pumps out there:
- Medela Harmony: This pump is lightweight, portable, and widely available. I love its two-phase system for stimulation and expression modes, but I’m not a fan of its o-ring design, which can fall off and is hard to replace.
- Lansinoh Manual Pump: A solid option with two modes and easy-to-find replacement parts. It’s a bit bulkier, but it stands up well and gets the job done.
- Dr. Brown’s Hand Pump: Great if you already use Dr. Brown’s bottles, though the included flange is a size 25, which might be too large for most moms.
- Philips Avent Manual Pump: This compact pump is super portable, but its cushion and short tunnel might not work for everyone.
- Spectra and Ardo Kits: These brands offer kits to convert your electric pump parts into a manual pump. Ardo even has an ergonomic handle you can adjust for comfort.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best manual pump for you is one that fits seamlessly into your routine. Choose one that’s compatible with your existing setup to avoid extra parts and pieces. And don’t underestimate the power of a manual pump to help you better understand your body and milk supply.
Meet Allison Tolman, LPN, IBCLC!
She is the owner and founder of New Little Life, a company dedicated to providing objective information and support for pumping mothers. With 15+ years of experience in various pregnancy and postpartum fields including as an LPN, birth doula, childbirth educator, and IBCLC, her current research focuses on testing and exploring breast pumps to find the most practical way to help pumping mothers reach their goals as well as teaching lactation professionals to better understand the complex art of pumping.
