Best Manual Breast Pump Brands in Singapore For Easier Mommy Milking Duties

We know the importance of breast milk for growing babies; in fact, it is even recommended by the World Health Organisation to breastfeed for up to two years or longer. It is no surprise, given the many benefits of breastfeeding, such as the high nutritional value and antibodies for a strong immune system.

However, we know breastfeeding can be a struggle, and as a mom, you probably do not want your baby to miss out on the benefits of breastmilk. Thus, an easy-to-use, best manual breast pump could be the answer to your breastfeeding troubles.

Manual vs electric

Manual vs electric breast pump (hands-free breast pump) is a common topic of discussion among breastfeeding mothers who are considering using a breast pump to express milk. Check out their differences.

• Usage of manual vs electric breast pump: A hand pump is a device that is operated by hand and uses suction to extract milk from the breasts. Electric breast pumps, on the other hand, are powered by electricity and can often be used hands-free.
• Device look of manual vs electric breast pump: Hand-operated ones typically have a lever or a handle that the user must press in order to create suction and express the milk. A hands-free breast pump typically has a motor that creates suction, allowing the user to express milk without having to use their hands.
• The efficiency of manual vs electric breast pump: A hand pump is often a small and portable breast pump, making them a convenient option for mothers who need to “milk" on the go. Electric breast pumps are often more efficient than manual pumps and can be used to express more milk in less time. 
• The price difference between manual vs electric breast pump: In general, A hands-free breast pump tends to be more expensive than hand-operated one. The exact price difference will depend on a variety of factors, such as the brand, features, and overall quality of the breast pump. It is always a good idea to do some research and compare prices before making a purchase.

Now you ask, which breast pump is best? Overall, the choice between a manual vs electric breast pump will depend on the individual mother’s needs and preferences.

Benefits of milking manually

There are a wide variety of breast pumps in Singapore, such as manual, electric, and hospital-grade breast pumps, and it can be difficult to choose the ones that best suit your needs. Which breast pump is best, and why is it the hand-operated one? Here are some reasons why you should opt for a manual option:

• Price. A manual option is usually cheaper than electric and hospital-grade breast pumps. They also require no further maintenance costs.
• Usage. Not only are manual pumps easy to use, but they can also be used anywhere.
• Sound. It is also lighter and quieter than an electronic pump.

Choosing the best manual device

While there isn’t a single pump that is perfect for all mothers because of the difference in needs, there are still a few common things to look out for in a safe and reliable manual pump for your breastmilk. We explain some of the features you ought to look out for: 

• Safety. Ensure that your choice of breast pump is BPA-free.  
• Hygiene. Look for pumps that are dishwasher-safe, as you will need to clean them after every use.
• Comfort. Pick breast pumps with ergonomic handles to lessen hand fatigue and cushioning for a smoother pumping experience. 

7 top hand-operated breast pumps in Singapore

Let’s take a look at some of the best manual breast pump brands available: 

Mama’s Choice Manual Breast Pump

Best to Alleviate Pain

Do you experience sore nipples after every breastfeeding or breast-pumping session? Wanna know which breast pump is best for practicality?

Mama’s Choice is a perfect and practical choice for a breast pump. It alleviates the pain from breast pumping thanks to its innovative design that mimics the gentle sucking of a baby.

Mama’s Choice is an affordable pump that does not compromise on quality. Thanks to its unique design, it is also easy to use because the pump only requires one hand to operate it.

Finally, from its attractive colour to the complimentary bottle it comes with, this product is a definite shoo-in to be every mum’s go-to manual pump.

Features We Love:

• BPA and plastic-free.
• Nipple and breast-friendly.
• Designed to reduce wrist fatigue.

What Reviews Say on This Manual Breast Pump

Today, we’re diving into the world of Mama’s Choice Manual Breast Pump. As always, we’re taking a look at reviews from real parents just like you, to help you make the best choice for your family.

Parents are loving that Mama’s Choice Manual Breast Pump is compact and portable. One mom wrote, “It’s hands free, compact, lightweight, it’s perfect for on the go pumping. The soft silicone cups fit securely and comfortable." The fast delivery and well-packaged box also seem to be a big hit, with plenty of parents appreciating its convenience.

Of course, no product is perfect. Some parents have mentioned that the pump is a little more noisy than they expected. Yet, this doesn’t seem to deter them from using it due to its convenience factor.

In the end, most parents agree that despite its minor flaw, Mama’s Choice Manual Breast Pump is worth considering. It’s got more than enough positive features to make up for the negatives, and its quality is vouched for by many moms.

Hegen PCTO Manual Breast Pump

Most Convenient Breast Pump

In addition to its single-handed operation for pumping breast milk, the Hegen manual pump allows for a unique one-hand close with its trademark Twist-to-Open and Press-to-Close capability. Basically, the best breast pump for convenience, right?

Both efficiency and comfort are priorities in the design of the Hegen manual pump. Applying exactly the proper amount of force will allow you to pump comfortably at the intensity you desire while using the Hegen manual pump.

With little milk loss and oxidation, you may express-store-feed into a single container, making every drop matter during the usage of the Hegen manual pump.

You may also swap between the Hegen manual pump, the breast milk storage and lid (sold separately) and even the feeding collar (sold separately) for storage or direct-to-feeding, all without the risk of spillage. 

One Hegen breast pump review said that the device “works so well if you’re already using Hegen bottles. The ergonomic handle makes it easy to hold and operate with one hand" and she “found it to be much more efficient than other hand-operated pumps."

While another Hegen breast pump review praised its packaging. “Products came well sealed and packed," the Hegen breast pump review said.

As for the delivery, a Hegen breast pump review said that it is fast. “Delivery is within three days," said a user who left a 5-star Hegen breast pump review.

Features We Love:

• BPA-free
• Phthalate-free and PVC-free.
• Hegen manual pump fits all Hegen PCTO™ bottles.

What Reviews Say about This Manual Breast Pump

Parents are praising the Hegen PCTO Manual Breast Pump for its efficient design and the ability to stimulate milk supply. They love the fact that it’s lightweight and compact, making it perfect for moms on the go. The pump is also known for its single-handed operation, combining efficiency and comfort.

Furthermore, Hegen’s unique design allows the milk bottle to double as a storage cup, which they call their Express-Store-Feed range. Parents appreciate this feature as it makes the process more convenient.

While many parents find the larger pump funnel circumference beneficial as it fits the whole breast more fully, some may need time to adjust if they’ve been using pumps with smaller heads, like Philips.

In the end, most parents agree that despite its differences from other pumps, the Hegen PCTO Manual Breast Pump is worth considering. It’s got more than enough positive features to make up for the initial adjustment period. The pump’s thoughtful design, which includes a square bottle without a neck to prevent milk wastage, is a definite plus.

Pigeon Manual Breast Pump

Most Comfortable Breast Pump

Using the best manual breast pump can be tiring to use and become an unpleasant experience, with the need to constantly engage the device to collect milk. Presenting you the Pigeon manual breast pump.

Luckily, the Pigeon manual breast pump’s ergonomic design handle reduces the hand pressure needed so that minimal effort is required for maximum results, allowing for an easy and comfortable experience with manual pumping over a longer period of time.

Although using the Pigeon manual breast pump needs some manual labour, it is actually incredibly simple to do so. This is because the ergonomic handle lessens hand fatigue for comfortable and simple pumping that has been tried and tested.

The handle of this Pigeon manual breast pump uses two-phase technology, which offers two distinct compression points for expressing milk—one to start the flow of milk and the other to gather letdown.

Moms who prefer to manage their pumping tempo will benefit most from Pigeon manual breast pump. It comes with a 6-ounce bottle, a screw cap and a full nipple, as well as a stand to keep the baby bottle from toppling over.

Features We Love: 

• No backflow feature to prevent milk from flowing back into the funnel.
• BPA/BPS free materials.

What Reviews Say about This Manual Breast Pump

Parents are praising the Pigeon Manual Breast Pump for its ease of use, convenience, and speed. They love that it’s painless and effortless, allowing for quick storage of milk.

One mom wrote, “It’s simply awesome.. painless… effortless… very easy to assemble n gives you extra milk as compare to hand expressing." The pump is also noted for being particularly useful for moms with babies in NICU.

Another positive feature is the pump’s food-grade, BPA/BPS-free, and skin-safe silicone material, which ensures safety for both mom and baby.

Despite its benefits, some parents found the pump’s milk valve to be delicate and not very durable. It appears that this part may need to be replaced after 1-2 months of use, which can be an inconvenience.

Additionally, while the pump fits many mothers comfortably, it may not be a perfect fit for everyone.

As one user noted, “But maybe won’t fit every mother the same way."

In the end, most parents agree that despite its minor flaws, the Pigeon Manual Breast Pump is worth considering. It’s got more than enough positive features to make up for the negatives, and its quality is vouched for by many moms.

Tommee Tippee Made for Me Single Manual Breast Pump

Recommended Breast Pump for On-the-Go Moms

The Tommee Tippee manual breast pump is the perfect travel companion, measuring a mere 9.7 x 15.5 x 18.5 centimetres when assembled.

As a result, the Tommee Tippee manual breast pump can easily fit into most handbags or diaper bags for convenient pumping anytime and anywhere.

Although light and compact, this best breast pump for traveling are still super comfortable with its cushion silicone horn for your breasts and ergonomically shaped handle for a more efficient pumping session.

Even a 5 oz. Closer to Nature baby bottle with measuring marks is included with the Tommee Tippee manual breast pump so you can keep track of how much you’re expressing.

This Tommee Tippee manual breast pump is the ideal travel companion because it is cord- and tube-free and small enough to fit in your handbag or diaper bag.

Its incredibly light weight won’t slow you down, and its discrete design enables you to pump discreetly while your baby sleeps at work, in a coffee shop, or at home.

You may quickly and easily start expressing thanks to the flange’s hygienic one-piece design, which is also simple to construct and remove from this Tommee Tippee manual breast pump.

Features We Love: 

• BPA/BPS free materials.
• Dishwasher and steriliser-safe.

What Reviews Say about This Manual Breast Pump

Parents seem to love the convenience of the Tommee Tippee Breast Pump. They appreciate how easy it is to clean, and the ability to pump directly into Tommee Tippee bottles. One parent praised the pump’s suction power, saying it is strong but not too harsh. The sturdy handle also received positive feedback for its stability during use.

However, some parents were disappointed with certain aspects of the pump. Issues raised included a frosted nipple chute which makes alignment tricky, an hourglass-shaped milk collection bottle that can trap milk in the upper curved portion, and weaker suction power compared to other pumps.

Some parents also mentioned that the pump has many parts, making it a bit of a hassle to clean and reassemble.

Lastly, there were reports of leakage if the silicone part wasn’t perfectly flush with the breast.

In the end, while the Tommee Tippee Breast Pump has its strengths, it also has some drawbacks that could affect its usability and efficiency. It might be a good fit for some parents, especially those who already use Tommee Tippee bottles, but others may find the issues outweigh the benefits.

As always, what works for one family might not work for another. So, take these reviews as a guide, not a guarantee.

Haakaa Silicone Breastfeeding Manual Breast Pump

Best Budget-Friendly Breast Pump

If you’re wondering which breast pump is best for those on a budget, then look no further than Haakaa. Their silicone milk pump is a super easy-to-use one-piece model with no assembly required.

Simply have it cover your breast and nipple, gently squeeze and allow the suction to do the work and extract your breast milk.

For its price, you will not be missing out on effectiveness or comfort. Moreover, it is also suitable for fitting breasts of all shapes and sizes.

Features We Love: 

• 100% food-grade silicone.
• BPA PVC and Phthalate-free.

What Reviews Say about This Manual Breast Pump

According to online reviewers, they’re loving it for its fast, standard delivery of just 2-3 days. One mom said, ‘Ordered on 10/10 and received on 12/10. This is very useful for collecting letdown during breastfeeding sessions.’ So, if you’re a parent in need, this product gets to you pronto!

The quality also gets two thumbs up. One reviewer noted, ‘Quality looks good, better than Gen1 cause there is a base to make it stand stably.’ And guess what? They’re coming back for more! A repeat purchaser mentioned the good suction and complimented the pretty fast delivery.

All in all, this unnamed product seems to be a winner. It’s fast to arrive, handy for breastfeeding sessions, and stands stable with good suction.

MEDELA Harmony Flex Manual Breast Pump

Best Breast Pump with Breast Shield

For busy schedules, as a backup to your electric device, or for periodic use, if you typically nurse your infant, the Medela manual breast pump is ideal.

Mums adore their on-the-go Medela manual breast pump because it is portable, requires no batteries or cords, and can fit in a handbag.

Medela manual breast pump’s PersonalFit FlexTM shield, which has a 105-degree opening angle, a soft rim, and an oval shape for improved fit, relieve pressure from your milk ducts more effectively and comfortably than typical breast shields. Clinically proven: better comfort for you, more milk for your infant.

Thanks to 2-Phase Expression technology and the PersonalFit Flex shield, Medela manual breast pump is one of the best.

It is lighter, quieter, and simpler to use than electric pumps. The Medela manual breast pump is perfect for occasional usage and is easy to use and transport anyplace.

A double electric pump like the Swing Maxi Flex or Freestyle Flex can be a better option for mothers who breastfeed more frequently.

Features We Love:

• Pump discretely and quietly whenever and anywhere you like.
• PersonalFit Flex breast shields: for more milk and enhanced comfort.
• With its distinctive grip, the 2-Phase Expression technology allows you to imitate your baby’s natural suckling rhythm.

What Reviews Say about This Manual Breast Pump

Online reviewers are singing praises for this handy tool. One mom-to-be bought it in advance and can’t wait to use it, mentioning that the item was well packaged and received. She’s hoping it works as well as the reviews and videos she’s seen.

But what about delivery? Well, one user noted it was a bit slow for her urgent need, but still gave a thumbs up for the pump’s excellent suction. So, if you’re planning to order, you might want to give it some buffer time.

The star of the show? A user who saw results in less than 5 minutes! She said, ‘So so so good!!!!!!!! Definitely worth the purchase!’ Now that’s what we call efficient!

Philips Avent Comfort Manual Breast Pump

Best Cushion Feel on a Breast Pump

Even when you are sitting up straight, the innovative design of the Avent manual breast pump allows your milk to flow directly from your boobs into the bottle.

As a result, you can milk with the Avent manual breast pump while sitting more comfortably because you won’t need to bend forward to ensure that all of your milk fills the bottle.

When you are pumping with Avent manual breast pump, it will be easier for your milk to flow if you are relaxed and sitting comfortably.

The Avent manual breast pump’s massage cushion has a warm, smooth velvety texture that feels nice against the skin and gently stimulates milk production.

The recognisable petal cushion of the Avent manual breast pump is made to seem like a newborn sucking and is meant to help subtly induce letdown.

Features We Love:

• No leaning forward
• Soft and adaptive cushion
• Portable and lightweight

What Reviews Say about This Manual Breast Pump

Price Comparison Table

Which breast pump is best for those on a budget? Let us take a look at the prices of the best manual breast pump reviewed here to help you make a better financial choice:  

Editor’s Note: Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication. However, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.

Tips on milking manually

How to clean your breast pumps?

Now you know which breast pump is best for your needs, how do you clean your best breastpump in general?

The key to ensuring your milk is safe to drink is to properly wash your best manual breastpump/hand pump before and after every use. Here are some tips on how to best clean them:

• Firstly, rinse milk from every part of your best manual breast pump before washing it with hot soapy water.
• Secondly, all parts of the breast pump should be washed, dried, and sterilised.
• Thirdly, use dedicated cleaning sponges, brushes, and cloths to clean them well. If possible, use a dedicated washbasin to avoid contamination. 
• Finally, air dries the parts instead of using a towel as they may contain germs and bacteria. 

For example, a Hegen breast pump review said that hand-operated ones are easy to clean with minimal parts for washing.

To further help you breastfeeding mums, read: Best Baby Bottle Bags in Singapore to Keep Milk Safe for Consumption