How to Use a Haakaa to Increase Milk Supply

Posted on February 09, 2026

Introduction
What Is a Haakaa and How Does It Work?
The Principle of Supply and Demand
Step-by-Step: How to Attach Your Haakaa
Using the Haakaa While Nursing
The Epsom Salt Hack for Clogged Ducts
Creating a "Double Pump" Experience
When to Use the Haakaa for Maximum Impact
Supporting Your Supply from the Inside Out
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Troubleshooting a Low Haakaa Output
Handling and Storing Your Collected Milk
How to Tell if Your Supply Is Increasing
When to Seek Professional Support
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

If you have ever noticed milk leaking from one breast while your baby nurses on the other, you have seen the let-down reflex in action. This "bonus milk" often ends up soaked into a nursing pad, but many parents want to save every drop. The Haakaa silicone breast pump has become a staple in many breastfeeding journeys because it allows you to catch that milk effortlessly.

At Milky Mama, we know that every drop of liquid gold counts toward your goals. Whether you are looking to build a freezer stash or gently signal your body to produce more, this simple tool can be a powerful ally. This post will cover exactly how to use a silicone pump to support your supply, the best techniques for attachment, and how to integrate it into your daily routine.

Using a silicone collector is not just about saving leaks. When used with intention, it can help increase your overall output by increasing the demand placed on your body. For more guidance on the same topic, read our practical guide on how to use a Haakaa to increase milk supply.

What Is a Haakaa and How Does It Work?

A Haakaa is a one-piece silicone breast pump that uses gentle suction to collect milk. Unlike an electric pump, it does not have a motor or moving parts. It relies on the pressure created by a vacuum seal to draw milk from the breast.

It is often called a "passive" collector, but this is a bit of a misnomer. While it does catch the milk that leaks during a let-down, the suction also helps pull additional milk forward. The let-down reflex is a hormonal response where your body releases milk from the small sacs in your breasts into the milk ducts. This usually happens on both sides at the same time.

Because the Haakaa is made of soft, food-grade silicone, it is lightweight and portable. It does not require batteries or an outlet. This makes it a popular choice for middle-of-the-night feeds or for parents who want a break from the noise of an electric pump.

The Principle of Supply and Demand

To understand how a Haakaa can increase your milk supply, you must understand how your body makes milk. Lactation is a supply-and-demand system. When milk is removed from the breast, your body receives a signal to make more.

If your breasts remain full, a protein called Feedback Inhibitor of Lactation (FIL) builds up. This protein tells your body to slow down production. When you use a Haakaa to remove extra milk while nursing, you are essentially telling your body that the "demand" has increased.

Over time, your body responds by increasing the "supply." By removing that extra ounce or two during each feed, you may see a gradual increase in your daily total. It is a gentle way to boost production without the intensity of a full power-pumping session.

Step-by-Step: How to Attach Your Haakaa

Many parents simply squeeze the bottle and stick it on, but there is a specific technique that provides a more secure fit and better suction. Following these steps can help you get the best results.

The Inverted Flange Method

Fold back the flange: Take the wide, circular top of the pump and fold it back so it looks like a mushroom cap.
Squeeze the base: Squeeze the bottom half of the pump firmly to remove the air. This creates the vacuum.
Center your nipple: Place the opening of the pump directly over your nipple. Make sure it is centered to avoid discomfort.
Flip the flange back: While still squeezing the base, flip the folded-back flange forward onto your breast.
Release the base: Gently let go of the base. You should feel a firm but comfortable tug.

Adjusting the Suction

If the suction feels too strong, you can break the seal by placing a finger under the flange and trying again with a lighter squeeze. If it feels too weak, or if it feels like it might fall off, use the inverted flange method again with a deeper squeeze.

Key Takeaway: A secure seal is essential for both comfort and milk removal. If you feel pinching or pain, re-center the nipple and reduce the suction.

Using the Haakaa While Nursing

The most common way to use a Haakaa to increase supply is to attach it to the side you are not currently nursing on. When your baby latches and begins to suckle, they trigger your let-down reflex.

By having the Haakaa attached to the opposite side, you take advantage of that hormonal surge. The suction helps the milk flow more freely into the collector.

Why This Boosts Supply

Increased Frequency: If you use the collector during every daytime feed, you are effectively "pumping" 8 to 10 extra times a day.
More Efficient Drainage: The gentle vacuum helps drain the breast more thoroughly than leaking alone.
Hormonal Support: Being near your baby and smelling them helps release oxytocin, which makes the pump more effective than if you were using it alone.

What to Do Next

Start by using the Haakaa during your first feed of the morning, when supply is usually highest.
Ensure your baby is positioned comfortably before attaching the pump to the other side.
Once the milk stops flowing or the pump is full, carefully remove it by pressing on the breast to break the seal.

The Epsom Salt Hack for Clogged Ducts

Sometimes, a dip in supply is caused by a clogged milk duct. A clog can prevent milk from flowing through a specific area of the breast. The Haakaa can be used as a therapeutic tool to help clear these blockages.

Fill your silicone pump with warm water and about one tablespoon of Epsom salt. Attach it to the affected breast using the suction method described above. The combination of warmth, salt, and suction can help draw the clog out.

Many moms find that clearing a clog leads to an immediate improvement in comfort and a return to their normal milk volume. If you have a fever or the area is red and hot, please consult your healthcare provider, as these can be signs of mastitis. You can also read more about keeping your milk supply up while pumping.

Creating a "Double Pump" Experience

If you use a single electric pump, you can use the Haakaa on the other side to save time. This turns your single pump into a double pump setup. Research suggests that double pumping can stimulate more prolactin (the milk-making hormone) than single pumping.

Even if you prefer to nurse on one side and pump on the other, the Haakaa is a great tool for the "nursing" side if you need to switch things up. It provides a flexible way to ensure neither side goes unstimulated for too long.

When to Use the Haakaa for Maximum Impact

Timing matters when you are trying to increase your supply. Most parents find that their milk volume is highest in the early morning hours, between 3:00 AM and 8:00 AM. This is due to natural circadian rhythms and higher levels of prolactin at night.

Using your silicone pump during these early morning sessions will likely yield the most milk. If you are looking to build a stash quickly, don't skip the morning collection. Even if you only get half an ounce, those small amounts add up over the course of a week.

Supporting Your Supply from the Inside Out

While the Haakaa provides the physical demand needed to make more milk, your body also needs the right building blocks. You cannot "pour from an empty cup," and lactation requires significant energy and hydration.

Hydration and Nutrition

Drinking enough water is critical. We often recommend keeping a dedicated water bottle nearby during every nursing session. For many moms, plain water can get boring, so our Pumpin Punch™ or Milky Melon™ hydration drinks can be a delicious way to stay hydrated while also consuming lactation-supportive ingredients. Explore the full selection of lactation drink mixes.

Nutrition also plays a huge role. If you are exhausted and not eating enough calories, your body may struggle to keep up with the demand. Milky Mama was founded to provide nursing parents with convenient, nourishing options like our Emergency Brownies. These are packed with oats, brewer’s yeast, and flaxseed — ingredients traditionally used to support a healthy milk supply.

For a closer look at ingredients such as oats, brewer’s yeast, and flaxseed, explore Milky Mama’s ingredient guide.

Herbal Support

If you have tried increasing demand with the Haakaa and focused on nutrition but still feel you need a boost, herbal supplements may help. Many of our customers find success with targeted blends available in our lactation supplements collection.

Lady Leche™: Formulated for those who want to support supply without certain common herbs.
Pumping Queen™: A popular choice for those looking to maximize their output during expression sessions.
Dairy Duchess™: Designed to help support both milk volume and fat content.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice before starting any new supplement.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

While the Haakaa is simple, there is a learning curve. Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your experience much smoother.

1. Too Much Suction

It is tempting to squeeze the base as hard as possible to get more milk. However, excessive suction can cause bruising or damage to the delicate breast tissue. It can also pinch the milk ducts shut, which actually stops the flow of milk. If it hurts, it is too tight.

2. Not Securing the Pump

Babies are famous for "the kicker." One well-placed foot can knock a full Haakaa right off your breast, leading to spilled milk and a lot of frustration.

The Solution: Use a hands-free pumping bra to hold the Haakaa in place, or tuck it securely against your body or the nursing pillow.

3. Replacing a Full Pumping Session

The Haakaa is excellent for collecting extra milk, but it is generally not a replacement for a high-quality electric or manual pump if you are trying to replace a full feed. If you are away from your baby, you will likely need the active stimulation of a standard pump to maintain your supply.

4. Forgetting to Clean It

Since the pump is one piece, it is easy to clean, but it must be done thoroughly. Milk fat can create a film on the silicone over time. Wash it with warm, soapy water after every use and sterilize it regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Troubleshooting a Low Haakaa Output

If you attach the pump and nothing happens, do not panic. This does not necessarily mean you have a low supply.

Some parents do not have a strong let-down reflex that responds to passive suction. Others find that their breasts are very efficient and only release milk when a baby is actively suckling.

Try these tips to encourage flow:

Apply a warm compress to the breast for a few minutes before nursing.
Gently massage the breast while the Haakaa is attached.
Use hand expression to get the milk moving before you seal the pump.
Ensure you are relaxed. Stress can inhibit the oxytocin needed for a let-down.

Handling and Storing Your Collected Milk

The milk you collect in your Haakaa is high-quality breast milk. Because it is often collected at the beginning of a feed, it may contain more "foremilk" (which is higher in lactose) than "hindmilk" (which is higher in fat).

However, if you are using it throughout the day, the total nutritional profile balances out. You can combine milk from different sessions once they are at the same temperature.

Pour the milk from the Haakaa into a clean storage container or bottle.
Place it in the refrigerator.
Once the new milk is cold, you can add it to your existing stash from that day.
Label your bags with the date and the amount.

Key Takeaway: "Every drop counts." Even if you only collect 0.5 ounces at a time, that is 4 ounces at the end of the day if you nurse 8 times. That is a full bottle for your baby!

How to Tell if Your Supply Is Increasing

Since you are using the Haakaa to increase supply, you want to see if it is working. Keep in mind that it can take 3 to 5 days of consistent use to see a change in your body's production.

Look for these signs:

Your breasts feel fuller before a feed.
You are collecting more milk in the Haakaa than you were a few days ago.
Your baby seems more satisfied after nursing.
You notice more "gulping" sounds during the feed.

The best indicator that your baby is getting enough milk is their output. If they have at least 6 heavy wet diapers in a 24-hour period and are gaining weight appropriately, your supply is likely on the right track.

When to Seek Professional Support

While the Haakaa is a wonderful tool, it is not a cure-all for serious lactation challenges. If you are concerned about your baby's weight gain or if nursing is consistently painful, it is time to reach out for help.

A Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can help you evaluate your baby's latch and ensure they are transferring milk effectively. Sometimes, a supply issue is actually a latch issue. We offer virtual lactation consultations at Milky Mama to provide you with expert, compassionate support from the comfort of your home.

You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. Whether you need a plan for increasing supply or help with a specific concern, professional guidance can give you the confidence you need. Milky Mama also offers online breastfeeding courses for parents who want additional education.

Conclusion

The Haakaa is more than just a milk saver; it is a versatile tool that can help you reach your breastfeeding goals. By taking advantage of your natural let-down reflex and increasing the demand on your body, you can gently and effectively support your milk supply. Remember to be patient with yourself and your body. Every journey is unique, and you are doing an amazing job providing for your little one.

Consistency is key: Use the pump daily to see the best results.
Prioritize yourself: Hydration and nutrition are the foundation of a healthy supply.
Safety first: Ensure the suction is comfortable and the pump is secure.

Your breastfeeding journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Use the tools available to you, trust your instincts, and know that we are here to support you every step of the way.

For more support and the best lactation snacks and supplements, explore our full range of products at Milky Mama. We are here to help you nourish your baby and yourself.

FAQ

Can I use a Haakaa to increase milk supply if I don't leak?

Yes, you can still use a Haakaa even if you do not naturally leak on the opposite side. The gentle vacuum suction of the pump helps stimulate the breast and can encourage a let-down that might not have happened otherwise. Over time, this extra stimulation can help signal your body to produce more milk.

Is the Haakaa as effective as an electric breast pump?

A Haakaa is generally not as effective as a high-quality electric pump for fully draining the breast or replacing a feeding session. It is designed for passive collection and gentle supplemental expression. If you need to express a full meal for your baby or are dealing with a significant undersupply, an electric pump is usually the better choice for active stimulation.

How often should I use the Haakaa to see an increase in supply?

To see a noticeable increase in supply, try using the Haakaa during at least 3 to 5 nursing sessions per day, especially in the morning. Consistency is more important than the amount you get in a single session. Using it regularly throughout the day keeps the demand high, which encourages your body to keep the supply up.

Will using a Haakaa take milk away from my baby during the feed?

Subscribe & Save: 10% off

SHOP NOW

About Milky Mama

Support

Stay Connected