Different Milk Collectors: Passive vs. Active – Which One Is Right for You?
- Anna Kogan
- Oct 17, 2024
- 4 min read
As a mom and a lactation consultant, I know how valuable every drop of breast milk is! Whether you’re looking to catch extra milk from letdowns or need a more efficient method to collect milk while nursing, milk collectors can be a game-changer. But not all milk collectors are created equal. They generally fall into two categories: passive and active. In this post, I’ll walk you through the differences, give you examples, and explain their benefits so you can choose the best option for your needs.
What Are Milk Collectors?
Milk collectors are small, handy tools that help breastfeeding moms collect extra milk without the need for a full pumping session. They come in two main types:
Passive Collectors: These simply catch any milk that leaks or flows during letdowns while nursing on the other breast. They don't actively pump or create suction beyond the initial latch.
Active Collectors: These use light suction or a pump mechanism to actively collect milk. They may help increase milk flow and work more like a gentle pump while nursing.
Passive Milk Collectors
Passive milk collectors are perfect if you just want to collect milk that naturally drips or leaks during feedings. They are typically smaller, lightweight, and simple to use.
Active Milk Collectors
Active milk collectors go beyond simply catching milk – they use light suction or an active pumping mechanism to help stimulate milk flow. They are perfect if you want to collect a bit more milk or get extra stimulation during a letdown.
Here are some options of Milk Collectors I like using myself and advise their use for my clients:
The Haakaa Ladybug is one of the most loved passive & active milk collectors. It’s discreet and fits into your bra, making it easy to catch any milk that leaks while you're nursing or going about your day.
Benefits:
No suction needed (but can be used if you want to), just place it on the breast, and it will catch the letdown.
Compact and portable, perfect for wearing inside a bra.
Stores up to 2.5 oz of milk at a time.
While Haakaa is often considered a passive collector, the classic model adds a bit of suction to help maximize the milk collection during letdowns. Moms simply squeeze the body to create a light suction, and it collects milk from the unused breast while nursing. You can watch my video explaining how to use it comfortably.
Benefits:
Light suction helps maximize letdown collection.
No cords or batteries.
Can collect up to 4 oz of milk.
Made of medical silicone which is easy to squeeze and use.
The Milk-Saver is another great passive option designed to be worn inside your bra to catch leaking milk. It’s particularly popular for its slim profile, which makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Benefits:
Slim and fits discreetly in your bra.
Prevents wasting any milk during letdowns.
Easy to use and clean.
Comes in a pair.
The Boon Trove is a flexible silicone milk collector that sits snugly inside your bra and passively collects any milk that leaks while you nurse or pump on the other side. You can also turn it into active milk collector by applying pressure on the collecter while attaching it to your breast.
Benefits:
Simple, passive collection and active one.
Soft silicone makes it comfortable to wear.
Secure lid to prevent spills.
Large opening and round edges which makes it really comfortable to use.
You can get one or a pair of them for each side to use simultaneously.
The new Pump Pod is a standout in the active collector category. It uses a unique design that allows only the nipple to go inside a small tunnel, avoiding the Haakaa-style areola suction. This design is great for moms who feel discomfort with traditional milk collectors that pull in too much tissue.
Benefits:
Unique design that focuses suction just on the nipple.
Comfortable for moms who don’t like areola pull.
Can be used for both passive collection or light suction.
This versatile collector offers both passive and light active suction, depending on how you use it. The Idaho Jones collector is great for moms who want a bit more flexibility in how they collect milk.
Benefits:
Soft silicone is gentle on sensitive skin.
Can be used inside the bra for passive collection or with light suction.
No cords or batteries needed, making it great for on-the-go use.
How to Choose the Right Milk Collector for You
The right milk collector for you depends on your breastfeeding goals and comfort level. If you’re mainly looking to catch drips and letdowns while feeding on the opposite side, a passive collector like the Haakaa Ladybug or Milkies Milk-Saver may be perfect. These are convenient, easy to wear, and great for everyday use.
If you want to actively collect more milk during letdowns, or if you need a little extra stimulation, an active collector like the Haakaa Classic or Pump Pod may be more your style. These provide gentle suction that can increase milk flow, without the need for a full electric pump.
For moms who want flexibility, consider an option like the Idaho Jones collector, which allows for both passive and active collection depending on your needs.
Ready to Choose Your Milk Collector?
I’ve linked these collectors above so you can easily find them on Amazon and choose the best one for your needs. Remember, every drop of breast milk counts, and milk collectors are an amazing way to make sure none of it goes to waste!
If you have any questions or want personalized advice on how to use these collectors, feel free to reach out or book a 1:1 consultation with me. Let’s make your breastfeeding journey easier and more efficient!