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When you’re a first-time mom who has decided to incorporate pumping, finding the right breast pump is easier said than done.
After all, there are quite a few options to choose from. Figuring out which one is right for you can feel really confusing, especially if you’re not exactly sure what to look for to start with.
One popular easy-to-use pump you may want to consider is the Haakaa breast pump.
This Haakaa breast pump review will help you decide if this pump is a good fit for you!
Related: How to Prepare for Pumping at Work
A little about the Haakaa breast pump
The Haakaa breast pump is made of 100% food-grade silicone. This material helps with suction and makes it super easy to clean.
At this point, you’re probably wondering if the Haakaa pump is manual or electric. This pump do not require electricity, but it’s not exactly manual either. At least, not in the sense of having to continuously squeeze a handle as you would with other “manual” breast pumps.
Instead, the Haakaa breast pump is a suction style breast pump.
What does that mean? The mechanism is actually quite simple. All you will need to do is squeeze, and then put the silicone device on your breast. This will create a natural suction that will begin to express breast milk quickly and efficiently.
The Haakaa breast pump is an affordable option for mothers who are not able to use an electric pump, but still prefer hands-free.
Here are the most popular models available:
- Original silicone pump
- Breast pump with lid
- Breast pump with suction base and lid
- Breast pump with suction base and flower stopper
Not sure which to pick? Read on to get a better idea of which one will best suit your needs.
Using a Haakaa breast pump
First, let’s take a look at what the actual process looks like with a Haakaa breast pump. It’s very simple!
Step 1: Cleaning the pump
The first step before you use any Hakkaa pump is to wash and sanitize.
To do this, the instruction manual recommends boiling the silicone cup for 2-3 minutes. You can also use a steamer, if you prefer.
Once it is thoroughly sanitized, you can use a clean cloth to dry it out.
Step 2: Sit in a comfortable nursing position
Before you using the pump, you should get in a comfortable position.
Making sure you’re comfortable will make the experience much better for you.
Step 3: Place the pump properly
The next step is to place the flange over your breast. To do this properly, you need to fold back the silicone flange and place it so that your nipple is located directly in the tunnel’s center.
Make sure there is absolutely no discomfort, as this may lead to swelling or even a rash.
Step 4: Create a suction
After you have situated everything properly, start creating a suction. To create suction, you need to keep squeezing and releasing the base of the tool.
This will help start the flow of milk. For an even quicker process, keep feeding your baby on the other side as this will trigger an increased production.
In this step, you also need to ensure that you’re applying the right amount of pressure. If you apply too much, it may become painful. But if you apply too little, you won’t get nearly as much as you need.
So, find a pressure that is comfortable for you, while ensuring you’re getting enough milk flowing out.
Step 5: Remove the pump and store the milk
Now, simply remove the device by squeezing it gently. Be careful so that you don’t end up spilling everything you worked so hard to get.
Then, store it in a proper container (like these breast milk storage bags) and place in the freezer. Be sure to let it cool down first.
Refer to this CDC article for more specific guidelines on storing breast milk safely.
Step 6: Wash the pump
The final step is to just wash the pump itself. You can do so by rinsing it thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
And that’s all there is to it. Easy and hassle-free!
What we like about the Haakaa breast pump
Easy to use
This pump is a great choice if you’re looking for something simple and straight forward. There’s nothing complicated about the process, thankfully.
If you’re using the correct placement, this will naturally create suction, and you should be able to use this pump without any problems.
Easy to clean
Cleaning five to six different parts of a single device is extremely time-consuming. However, this pump comes as a single piece, so you’ll save time cleaning fewer parts.
Lightweight and portable
The Haakaa breast pump is very lightweight. Just toss into your bag and take with you when you’re on the go.
One-size-fits-all
If you were concerned about the fitting of the flange, you don’t have to worry. This pump can be used on almost any size of breast with ease and comfort.
What could be improved
May not be the best if you have a squirmy baby
If you plan to use this breast pump while you’re feeding your baby, it may not be the best choice if you have a squirmy baby who likes to move and kick around,
However, this is not an issue if you choose to pump separately or once your baby has finished nursing.
Inaccurate measurements
The measurements may be a little off. If you want or need exact measurements, you may have to double check it with another bottle or measuring cup.
May cause discomfort
Of course, most of the time this device won’t cause too much discomfort. Yet, it’s worth noting that some mothers have experienced a small amount of tenderness while pumping.
Which version should I buy?
As you already know, Haakaa offers a few different versions of their popular silicone breast pump.
Which one you should choose basically boils down to whether or not you would like your breast pump to have a leakproof cap, suction base, or a flower stopper. Keep reading for the breakdown!
If you don’t mind skipping the cap and suction base, the base model Haakaa silicone manual breast pump should provide everything you will need.
This option is best for moms who are looking to spend as little as possible. Not having a cap shouldn’t be a deal breaker as long as you always have breast milk storage bags handy to transfer milk to as soon as you’re done pumping.
As far as the suction base goes, this is another nice-to-have option, but it’s not a total deal breaker. The purpose of the base is to help prevent accidental spills by sticking to flat surfaces.
Pros:
- Most affordable option
Cons:
- Does not come with cap or base
- Only comes in the 4 ounce/100 ml size
If you would like to have the leakproof cap, but don’t see a need for the base, you may want to consider this Haakaa breast pump.
Pros:
- Still a very affordable option
- Comes with a silicone leakproof cap to prevent leaks and spills
Cons:
- Does not come with suction base
- Only comes in the 4 ounce/100 ml size
If you’d rather spend just a tad more and get the leakproof lid and the suction base, you have that as an option as well. This Haakaa breast pump comes with the silicone leakproof cap and the suction base to help you avoid spills.
This one also gives you more choices for milk capacity (3 ounce, 4 ounce, or 5.4 ounce).
Pros:
- Comes with a silicone leakproof cap and suction base
- Comes in 3 ounce, 4 ounce, or 5.4 ounce
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive
Finally, you also have the option of choosing a flower stopper instead of the silicone lid. The flower stopper will prevent leaks and spills, and it’s adorable! This one also comes with the suction base and has the same 3 size options as the last version (3 ounce, 4 ounce, and 5.4 ounce).
Pros:
- Comes with a silicone flower stopper and suction base
- Comes in 3 ounce, 4 ounce, or 5.4 ounce
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than versions #1 and #2
Bonus tips and tricks
Using a suction style breast pump can be confusing for some moms at first. Here are some tips and tricks that may help you get the most out of your product:
- Ensure the silicone is completely dry before using it.
- Fold the flange back while lining it up on the nipple for a perfect latch.
- Roll the flange back onto the breast as you gently squeeze the bottom.
- If it hurts at all, remove and try again with less suction pressure or by repositioning the flange.
- Try different positions while nursing to help the Haakaa collect from the other side.
- Apply a heating pad or warm towel to encourage the flow.
- Sometimes women find having a shower or bath will stimulate let-down. You shouldn’t use it in the shower but can use it in the bathtub with careful consideration not to get any water in the milk.
Commonly asked questions
1. Can the Haakaa help increase my supply?
Generally speaking– Pumping can increase your milk supply, but it can vary from person to person as to how much it will increase.
2. Can you use the Haakaa while lying down?
Yes, but it is recommended to be on your side rather than your back when lying down to use it.
4. Is it safe to use the Haakaa in the shower?
It is not recommended to use it in the shower since water can mix with the milk.
5. How long does it take for the milk to flow from the breast?
It will depend on each individual, but typically, it can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes to drain.
Final Haakaa review verdict: Is it worth the money?
After researching the Haakaa breast pump, we can conclude that all versions are quite effective and simple to use and keep clean.
It’s also nice to know that this pump is free of BPA, PVC, lead, and phthalates. It will also fit just about every breast size and is comfortable to use for the majority of moms.
Overall, the Haakaa breast pump is a great value for the money and can make pumping easy for you!