Manual breast pumps are designed for those who only need to pump occasionally. They work great for mothers who sometimes need to relieve engorgement or for those who’d like to have an extra bottle stored in the fridge for late-night feedings with dad.

Many women purchase manual breast pumps to use in an emergency like their electric breast pump is on the fritz. They also make excellent traveling companions, and you don’t have to worry about plugging them in or using batteries.

I recommend manual breast pumps to anyone considering breast pumping. Not all women are breast pump compatible; in other words, some women find it extremely difficult to pump with a breast pump, manual or electric. Instead of running out there and buying the most expensive double electric breast pump on the market, get a manual breast pump first and see if pumping will be effective.