You’re Using It Wrong! How To Use A Haakaa To Save Liquid Gold

Understanding the Genius of Silicone Suction

Before we dive into the ‘how,’ let’s clarify the ‘what.’ The Haakaa isn’t a breast pump in the traditional sense. Electric and manual pumps work by creating an intermittent vacuum that mimics a baby’s suckling pattern—suck, swallow, release, repeat. This action actively draws milk from the breast.

The Haakaa, on the other hand, is a single piece of medical-grade silicone that operates on the principle of continuous natural suction. When applied correctly, it creates a gentle, constant negative pressure. This pressure doesn’t force milk out in the same way an electric pump does. Instead, it capitalizes on your body’s natural Milk Ejection Reflex, or ‘let-down.’

Key Differences:

• Mechanism: Traditional pumps actively stimulate and extract. The Haakaa passively collects milk that is already being released during a let-down.
• Power Source: No batteries, no plugs, no noise. The Haakaa is powered by physics alone, making it silent and portable.
• Primary Use: Its main purpose is to be worn on the breast you are not actively nursing from. When your baby feeds on one side, they trigger a let-down reflex in both breasts. The Haakaa is there to catch what would otherwise be lost into a breast pad.

Think of it less as a pump and more as an incredibly efficient milk saver. Its simplicity is its strength, but that same simplicity often leads to improper use.

If You’re Doing This, You’re Not Alone

Let’s paint a picture. Your baby is latched, and you remember your Haakaa. You grab it, squeeze the bulb at the bottom, press it onto your other breast, and let go. It hangs there, maybe with a little bit of suction. Five minutes later, it’s either fallen off or has collected a mere 10 milliliters. You feel defeated and wonder what all the hype is about. This is the ‘Stick It On and Hope’ method, and it’s the single most common reason parents feel their Haakaa isn’t working.

Why This Method Fails:

• Weak Suction: Simply squeezing the base creates a very shallow, weak vacuum. It’s often not strong enough to withstand a slight bump from your baby’s feet or a shift in your position.
• Poor Seal: This method doesn’t ensure the flange (the wide, open part) is fully sealed against the breast tissue, allowing air to leak in and the suction to break.
• Missed Opportunity: It fails to generate enough negative pressure to effectively draw out the milk during a powerful let-down, leaving much of that liquid gold behind.

The result is frustration and a valuable tool being relegated to the back of a drawer. But a simple change in your application technique will make all the difference. It’s time to learn the method that lactation consultants and experienced parents swear by.

This is the Game-Changer.

This technique, often called the ‘flange-fold’ or ‘flip and squeeze’ method, creates a significantly stronger and more reliable seal, maximizing suction and, therefore, milk collection. Follow these steps precisely for the best results.

1. Prepare Your Space: Before you latch your baby, have your clean Haakaa within arm’s reach. Ensure you are in a comfortable nursing position.
2. Evert the Flange: This is the most critical step. Fold the wide flange of the Haakaa all the way back, away from the opening. It will look a bit like a flower with its petals pulled back.
3. Position and Squeeze: Center the opening of the pump over your nipple. Squeeze the bulb of the Haakaa as much as you can to expel the air.
4. Attach and Flip: While still squeezing the bulb, press the Haakaa firmly onto your breast. Then, with your other hand, roll the everted flange forward so it unfolds and makes full contact with your skin.
5. Release and Feel the Suction: Let go of the bulb. You should feel a strong, continuous, yet comfortable pull. The Haakaa should be securely attached, capable of withstanding gentle movement.

Once attached, simply begin nursing your baby on the other side. As your baby stimulates your let-down, you will see the Haakaa begin to fill with milk—not just drips, but streams. Many mothers are shocked to collect one to four ounces per feeding using this method, effortlessly building a freezer stash without adding extra pumping sessions.

More Than Just a Milk Catcher

Your Haakaa is a versatile tool that can be used for more than just catching let-down. Its gentle, continuous suction makes it perfect for a variety of therapeutic applications.

Therapeutic Uses:

• Clearing a Clogged Duct: This is a popular and effective hack. Fill the Haakaa with warm water and one to two teaspoons of Epsom salt. Apply it to the affected breast using the ‘flip and squeeze’ technique. The combination of heat, magnesium from the salt, and gentle suction can help draw out the clog. Do this for 10-15 minutes, a few times a day. (Always discard this milk/water mixture).
• Relieving Engorgement: In the early days when your milk is coming in, your breasts can become painfully full. Using an electric pump can sometimes worsen the problem by signaling your body to produce even more milk. The Haakaa can provide relief by drawing off just enough milk to soften the breast and make it comfortable, without sending your body into overproduction mode.
• Assisting with Hand Expression: If you need to hand express, doing so into a wide-mouthed Haakaa is far easier and less messy than trying to aim for a narrow bottle opening.
• Weaning Comfortably: When you are ready to wean, the Haakaa can be used to relieve pressure and prevent clogged ducts without fully emptying the breast, helping your supply to down-regulate gradually.

Hygiene is Non-Negotiable

Because your Haakaa comes into contact with your breast milk, proper cleaning is paramount to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your baby safe. Its one-piece design makes it incredibly easy to clean.

Cleaning Instructions:

1. After Each Use: Immediately after using and storing your milk, rinse the Haakaa with cool water to remove any milk residue. Then, wash it thoroughly in hot, soapy water. Use a bottle brush to ensure you clean the inside completely. Rinse well and allow it to air dry on a clean surface.
2. Sterilization: It is crucial to sterilize your Haakaa before its first use and regularly thereafter (at least once a day in the early newborn weeks is a good practice). The easiest way is to place it in a pot of boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Ensure it is fully submerged. You can also use a steam sterilizer system if you have one.
3. Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Do not use harsh detergents, antibacterial soaps, or UV sterilizers, as they can damage the silicone over time, causing it to become cloudy or sticky.
4. Regular Inspection: Before each use, inspect your Haakaa for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, cloudiness, or a change in texture. If you notice any damage, it’s time to replace it.

Quick Fixes for Common Frustrations

Even with the correct technique, you might run into a few issues. Here’s a quick guide to troubleshooting the most common problems new parents face with their Haakaa.

Patience is key. It may take a few tries to get the technique and positioning just right. Don’t be discouraged! Every drop you collect is a victory.