How to Use a Haakaa Pump

If you’ve just picked up a Haakaa breast pump and aren’t quite sure how to use it, you’re not alone! This simple, hands-free silicone pump has become a must-have pumping essential for breastfeeding moms thanks to its gentle suction, quiet operation, and ease of use—but getting the hang of it can take a little practice.

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to use a Haakaa pump, including how to attach it, when to use it, how much milk you can expect to collect, and how to clean and care for it after each session. Whether you’re hoping to catch your letdown, relieve engorgement, or build a freezer stash, this guide will help you make the most of your Haakaa.

Prefer to watch? Check out my full Haakaa pump how-to video below, then scroll down for the detailed written instructions.

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What Is a Haakaa Pump?

The Haakaa pump is a soft, one-piece silicone breast pump that uses natural suction to collect breast milk—without any cords, batteries, or loud motors. It’s often called a manual breast pump, but unlike traditional hand pumps, there’s no squeezing or repetitive motion involved. You simply attach it to your breast and let the suction do the work.

Most moms use the Haakaa on one breast while nursing or pumping from the other. It gently draws milk out during letdown, which would otherwise be lost in a breast pad. It’s also great for catching drips, relieving engorgement, or collecting milk during a morning oversupply.

Because it’s lightweight, portable, and super easy to clean, the Haakaa has become a go-to choice for both new moms and experienced pumpers who want to make every drop count.

When to Use a Haakaa Pump

One of the best things about the Haakaa is how flexible it is—you can use it throughout the day without needing to plug in, set up, or even sit still. That said, some times are more effective than others for milk collection.

Here are the most common times to use your Haakaa:

• While Nursing on the Opposite Side: This is the most popular way to use a Haakaa. While your baby nurses on one breast, attach the Haakaa to the other. You’ll often catch the letdown that happens naturally, which would otherwise be soaked up by a nursing pad.
• During a Letdown with an Electric Pump: If you’re double pumping but only using a single electric pump, the Haakaa can be a great hands-free solution for the other side.
• First Thing in the Morning: Many moms notice a stronger letdown and fuller breasts in the morning. Using the Haakaa as part of your morning routine can help build your freezer stash with very little effort.
• Between Feeds to Relieve Engorgement: If your breasts feel overly full and you want gentle relief without committing to a full pumping session, the Haakaa can help release pressure without overstimulating your supply.
• While Traveling or Out and About: The Haakaa is completely portable, making it perfect for use in the car, at work, or anywhere you don’t want to bring a full pump setup.

How to Use a Haakaa Pump Step by Step

Using a Haakaa pump is simple once you get the hang of it. The key is creating a good seal so the natural suction can do its job—and then letting your body take care of the rest.

Here’s how to use your Haakaa pump in just a few easy steps:

Step 1: Sterilize Before First Use

Before using your Haakaa for the first time, sterilize it by boiling in water for 2–3 minutes or using a steam sterilizer. Let it cool and dry completely before use.

Step 2: Center Your Nipple in the Flange

Hold the Haakaa with the wide opening facing your breast. Gently center your nipple into the neck of the pump before attaching.

Step 3: Create Suction

There are two common ways to create suction:

Fold-back method

• Fold the flange of the Haakaa pump back.
• Squeeze the base of the pump to create a vacuum.
• Press the pump firmly against your breast.
• Unfold the flange so it rests flat against your skin to seal the suction.

Straight-on method

• Squeeze the base of the Haakaa pump slightly.
• Place the pump directly over your nipple, centering it in the flange.
• Release your grip to allow the pump to form a gentle vacuum and suction onto your breast.

Choose whichever feels most comfortable and secure for you.

Step 4: Let Milk Flow Naturally

Once suction is in place, you don’t need to pump or squeeze. The Haakaa will collect milk passively—usually during letdown while nursing or pumping on the other side. Some moms also use gentle breast compressions to help milk flow faster.

Step 5: Check the Fit and Adjust if Needed

The Haakaa should feel snug, not painful. If it’s slipping or losing suction, try repositioning it, reapplying suction, or adjusting your bra to help hold it in place.

Step 6: Remove and Transfer Milk

When milk stops flowing or the pump is getting full, gently break the suction by sliding your finger under the flange. Then pour the milk into a clean bottle or storage bag using the built-in spout and store your breast milk safely.

How to Clean and Sterilize Your Haakaa Pump

Because your Haakaa is made from a single piece of silicone, cleaning it is quick and easy—which is one of the reasons moms love it so much. That said, proper cleaning is still important for keeping your milk safe and your pump in good condition.

Here’s how to clean and sterilize your Haakaa pump:

After Each Use:

1. Rinse immediately with cool or lukewarm water to remove any leftover milk. This helps prevent buildup and makes cleaning easier later.
2. Wash thoroughly in warm, soapy water using a soft brush or sponge. Avoid harsh cleaners or rough scrubbing that could damage the silicone.
3. Rinse well to remove any soap residue.
4. Air dry completely on a clean, dry towel or drying rack before storing or using again.

Sterilizing Your Haakaa:

For first-time use and regular deep cleaning (daily or every few uses), sterilize the pump using one of the following methods:

• Boiling water method: Submerge the Haakaa in boiling water for 2–3 minutes.
• Steam sterilizer: Use an electric or microwave steam sterilizer if you have one on hand.
• Cold water sterilizing tablets: Follow the product instructions if using a cold water solution like Milton.

Storage Tips:

Once clean and dry, store your Haakaa in a clean, dust-free container or a silicone pump bag. Avoid keeping it in a damp or sealed environment if it’s still wet, as that can promote mold growth.

By cleaning and sterilizing your Haakaa regularly, you’ll keep it safe, hygienic, and ready to go whenever you need it.

Tips for Getting a Better Suction Seal

If your Haakaa keeps slipping off or isn’t staying in place, don’t worry—you’re not doing anything wrong. A secure seal can take a little practice, but once you find the method that works for you, it becomes second nature.

Here are some tips to help you get (and keep) a strong, comfortable seal:

• Fold the Flange Back Before Applying: One of the easiest ways to get a good seal is to fold the flange of the Haakaa back before attaching. Squeeze the base, center your nipple, press the pump against your breast, then unfold the flange over your skin to lock in suction.
• Wet the Rim Slightly: If the pump isn’t sticking well, try dampening the rim of the flange with warm water. A tiny bit of moisture can help create a tighter seal without causing discomfort.
• Use a Pumping or Nursing Bra for Support: Your Haakaa works best when it’s held upright. If it feels like it’s slipping, tuck it into a snug pumping or nursing bra to help keep it in place hands-free.
• Make Sure You’re Centered: Even a slight misalignment can break suction. Before releasing the squeeze, double-check that your nipple is centered in the neck of the pump.
• Reattach if Needed: It’s completely fine to remove and reapply the pump if it doesn’t feel quite right the first time. A better seal usually means better milk flow and more comfort.

Still having trouble? Try applying the Haakaa when your breast is full or during letdown—suction tends to hold more easily when there’s natural milk flow.

FAQs About the Haakaa Pump

Final Thoughts on Using the Haakaa Pump

The Haakaa pump is one of those simple but genius tools that can make a big difference in your breastfeeding journey. Whether you’re catching letdown while nursing, building your freezer stash with minimal effort, or just looking for a quiet, no-fuss alternative to electric pumping, the Haakaa is a handy little helper that’s easy to love.

By learning how to get a secure seal, knowing when to use it, and keeping it clean and ready to go, you’ll be making the most of every drop—without extra stress or setup.

I hope this guide gave you the confidence to start using your Haakaa with ease. And if you’re planning to use it alongside nursing without overcomplicating your routine, don’t miss my guide on how to combine breastfeeding and pumping.