I read Susan and Sharon's messages with much interest - and was encouraged.
Although we are starting to get a few small battery-operated electric pumps
in the shops, I use the cylinder pumps exclusively because I find they
really work! I like them, for the reasons mentioned - I find them very
effective because the mom can control the amount of suction and the duration
of suction, and because they are so simple (no nooks and crannies) they are
easy to keep clean.  It's almost got to the stage that if I can't "fix" the
problem with one of these pumps, then I don't consider it can be fixed!
(there are always exceptions of course) but I really like them.  My only
reservation is the nightmare I have ensuring a reliable supply of the things!

Pamela Morrison IBCLC, Zimbabwe