Let’s start with what’s most important: At the most basic level, all that’s really required for breastfeeding is you and your baby. But as experienced mamas ourselves, we know that breastfeeding isn’t always that straightforward. It’s a beautiful thing that can come with steep learning curves, trials, and sore nipples. Which is why we’ve put together this list of products that you don’t necessarily need to have, but can make your breastfeeding journey a little bit easier. Remember: You got this, mama.
Nursing Pillow
If you’re planning to breastfeed, you’re going to be spending a lot of time nursing baby, so being comfortable while doing so is essential. A quality nursing pillow will keep baby propped up so you can avoid being hunched over for hours each day while feeding. The Boppy is a great, affordable option. Plus, it makes for an easy place to safely set baby down in those early months. If you’re looking for a more aesthetic option, this is the most beautiful nursing pillow on the market (the tassels? swoon!)—just be aware that the style comes with a higher price point.
Nipple Cream
Breastfeeding mamas can experience many challenges and a common one is sore, dry, or cracked nipples—especially in those early days and weeks. Applying nipple cream before or after feeding or after showering can help protect and heal. This is a great organic and hypoallergenic option.
Silverettes
And speaking of sore nipples, these silver-based nipple guards are a cream and chemical-free option for soothing nipples. Just place them over your nipples in between feeding sessions (held in place by a quality nursing bra) and let them work their magic without the fuss of dealing with sticky ointments or creams.
Nursing Bras
Which leads to our next must-have: a good nursing bra (or three or five). Something that no one tells you about breastfeeding? You’ll probably end up wearing a bra 100% of the time, so it’s important to invest in some good ones that are breastfeeding-friendly. At nighttime, a soft yet supportive option that’s easy to pull down for those middle of the night feeds is great. During the day, options that provide a bit more structure like this cute scalloped bra or this widely beloved favorite from Kindred Bravely are nice to have.
Nursing Pads
To save yourself from having to wash your nursing bra more than you need (because new moms have enough laundry to do as it is), you might consider getting nursing pads. Especially in the early days, it’s common for breasts to leak milk throughout the day. Instead of letting your bra (and maybe even your shirt) fall victim to leaked milk, nursing pads are a great way to soak up any spillage. These washable, organic pads are reusable and come with a waterproof bag, or you can opt for disposables.
Nursing Cover
While moms can breastfeed no matter where they are, some prefer a more private experience when nursing in public. A quality nursing cover not only offers privacy on-the-go, but it can help with distracted eaters and provide other uses while you’re out and about (think: stroller cover, blanket, high chair cover or even a makeshift burp cloth when you’re in a pinch). Our very own Solly Nursing Cover is lightweight, buttery-soft, and beautiful.
Water Bottle
If you’ve never nursed a baby before, let us help prepare you for what to expect: You’re going to be extra thirsty. The reason? Breast milk is about 90% water. In other words, a big water bottle is a necessity. This 50-ounce option was specifically designed with breastfeeding mamas in mind and even features a hook for keeping crucial items such as pacifiers on hand. You can’t go wrong with this $27 leakproof bottle either.
Manual Breast Pump
Breast milk is often referred to as liquid gold and ask anyone—no one wants to see liquid gold go to waste. Having a manual breast pump such as this one nearby while feeding can allow you to catch any letdown milk as well as express pump manually. These wearable milk catchers are great for letdowns as well.
Breast Pump
Whether you’re returning to work, pumping exclusively, or choosing to pump in addition to nursing, a breast pump can be a helpful tool for breastfeeding mamas. Plus, health insurance providers are required by law to provide coverage for breast pumps. This article from our partners at The Lactation Network is a great starting guide for ordering a breast pump through insurance. And this post from Karrie Locher is helpful for understanding different kinds of pumps and how to choose the best one for you.
Breast Milk Storage Bags
If you’re pumping or using a milk catcher for your letdown, you’ll want something to store your breast milk in. You can’t really go wrong when it comes to picking out storage bags, but this 100-count pack should last you awhile. Another nice-to-have is a storage organizer to avoid bags of milk haphazardly stacked throughout the freezer.
Milk Supplements
Truthfully, there isn’t any solid data to support that supplements can increase milk production, but some mamas claim anecdotally that they have benefited from them. Legendairy Milk produces supplements such as Cash Cow and Liquid Gold that contain ingredients such as milk thistle, alfalfa, and goat’s rue which are said to help stimulate milk production.
Nursing Cart
Finally, because it’s helpful to have a one-stop shop when you’re nursing at home 24/7, keeping all of your nursing supplies easily accessible in a tiered nursing cart can be helpful. Stock it with all of your breastfeeding supplies, along with burp cloths, diapering essentials, and tools you’ll use regularly such as baby nail clippers.
More Registry Must-Haves
Building out the rest of your baby registry? We know how overwhelming it can be, which is why we put together a registry guide for first-time parents. Consider it your comprehensive guide to everything you need for the first six months with baby!
