What Is the Fold Method?

The fold method is the answer to many of the flange-fit concerns that pumping mamas raise. Instead of regularly inserting your cushion into the flange, which will reduce the flange size by 2mm, the fold method will reduce the flange size by 4mm. 

Users may consider trying the fold method if the flange still feels too big with the cushion inserted. Folding also works well for pumpers using flanges with shorter tunnels, such as the Elvie. It is also helpful for those who need a little bit more of the nipple visible to get the perfect alignment. Lastly, for moms with shorter nipples, the fold method prevents breast milk from working its way back underneath the cushion.

To fold, first take the tunnel part of the cushion and fold it back on itself. The cushion's tunnel should now be about half as long. Then, insert the cushion into your flange as you normally would. Finally, place your thumb inside the cone of the cushion and smooth it along the inside of your flange's cone so that the cushion's cone is flush flat against the flange's cone. Check out the video below for a demonstration!