With so many breastfeeding products available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when deciding which tools are right for you. One option you may find helpful is a silicone breast pump or milk collector. These devices are simple, low-tech tools that let you express breast milk without assembling pump parts or adjusting the suction settings on your electric pump. This simplicity makes them a popular choice for many new mothers.

What is a Silicone Pump?

This is a small, manual pump, made from soft, flexible food grade silicone, designed to help you express milk. These pumps create gentle, adjustable suction that many mothers find comfortable. They are quiet, easy to use, and require no batteries or cords—making them a convenient, portable option for busy moms.

What Are Milk Collectors?

Some moms prefer using a “milk collector” instead of a full-sized silicone pump. These devices can be worn in your bra to "catch" leaking milk from the opposite breast while breastfeeding your baby, instead of soaking through nursing pads or burp cloths. They can be used with or without added suction.

When Silicone Breast Pumps and Milk Collectors May Be Helpful

  • Relieving engorgement by removing a little bit of milk

  • Supporting milk production when used as part of your daily routine

  • Building a small freezer stash of your precious milk

  • Collecting enough milk for baby’s first bottle

  • Keeping a compact pump in the diaper bag for occasional use on the go

  • Getting quick milk removal when you don't have access to your electric pump

How to Use Silicone Breast Pumps and Milk Collectors

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Prepare and position: Find a comfortable spot, latch your baby as usual, and have your silicone pump nearby or already in place.

  2. Create gentle suction: Center the pump over your nipple. Lightly squeeze the lower part of the pump and place the flange over your breast. As you release your grip, you’ll feel gentle suction as it pulls your breast into the flange. Stop or reposition if it feels uncomfortable.

  3. Adjust as needed: If you need more suction, fold back the edges of the flange while gently squeezing the lower part of the pump. Release your grip to hold it securely in place.

  4. During feeding: The suction should hold the pump in place. You can gently squeeze or adjust the position of your pump to ensure it is comfortably expressing milk.

  5. Removing the pump: Some moms leave it in place throughout the feeding, while others use it only for the initial letdown. Once you’ve collected enough milk, gently squeeze the lower end of the pump to release suction and remove it.

Transfer and Store Your Milk

After your baby finishes feeding, transfer the collected milk into a clean bottle or breast milk storage bag for later use. Follow safe milk storage and handling guidelines.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

The CDC recommends cleaning all breast pump parts after every use, including silicone breast pumps and milk collectors. If your baby is a newborn, was born prematurely, or has a compromised immune system, sanitize your silicone pump or milk collector at least once daily in addition to washing it after each use.

When to Use Caution

While silicone breast pumps are a convenient and effective option for many mothers, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Too Much Suction

Their wide-mouth design and adjustable suction allow them to accommodate breasts of many shapes and sizes, but they can also create strong suction. Too much suction may cause discomfort or nipple damage.

Discomfort and Nipple Care

If the pump is not correctly aligned, suction could feel uneven or uncomfortable. Pay attention to the position of the pump on your breast. Listen to your body—if it feels too intense or painful, adjust the angle, reduce the suction strength, and check your nipples for signs of damage or irritation.

Potential for Underfeeding

Using a silicone pump or milk collector before your baby has fed from the second side may reduce the amount of milk available to your baby. To prevent this, make sure your baby feeds well first, is only going to feed from one breast, or place the pump on the first breast as your baby begins feeding on the second. 

Contribute to Oversupply

Frequent use with many feedings can sometimes stimulate oversupply. While this may sound helpful, too much milk can lead to challenges such as difficulty latching, fast milk flow, and the need for more frequent milk removal to stay comfortable.

Inefficient Pumping

While silicone pumps are great for catching milk during letdown, they are not as effective at fully emptying the breast as electric pumps. If you need to express larger volumes of milk—such as when returning to work—a double electric breast pump is usually a better choice.

Support for Your Breastfeeding Journey

Breastfeeding and pumping require patience and practice, and every ounce of milk you collect is a gift of love for your baby. Using a silicone breast pump or milk collector can help ease some of the pressure and boost your confidence. If you experience pain, discomfort, or have concerns, reach out to a lactation consultant—their guidance and support can be invaluable as you care for yourself and your baby.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.