Which breast pumps are these duckbill valves compatible with?
These duckbill valves are compatible with Baby Buddha, Freemie, Hygeia, Medela Pump In Style Max Flow, Freestyle Flex, Swing Maxi, Sonata, and Freestyle (with Aaya connector), Motif Luna, Spectra S1, S2, 9 Plus, Synergy Gold, and Zomee Z1 and Z2 pumps.
What does the pull tab actually do?
It gives you something secure to grip when removing the valve, so you're not pinching a slippery, milk-covered tip with wet hands or trying to get a grip with long nails. It's a small design change, but it makes day-to-day handling noticeably easier.
Is a small gap at the tip of a new duckbill valve normal?
Yes. A slight opening or separation at the tip is common right out of the pack and isn't a defect. It doesn't reduce suction once the valve is installed and your pump is running, since the suction itself closes the gap during use.
How do I know if my duckbill valve needs replacing?
With your pump assembled and running, watch the tip of the valve. It should seal shut gently under suction. If it looks loose or stays open while pumping, that's a sign it's time for a fresh one.