It’s hard to wrap your head around exactly what you’ll need for breastfeeding and pumping, and for those who plan to return to work outside the home and want to continue nursing, there’s a whole other set of complicating factors. Luckily, there are a ton of products, supplies and accessories available to help make breastfeeding easier and more comfortable!
For this post, we’ve partnered up with expert Molly Pross, founder of Bump Bestie, to put together a list of 10 must-haves for nursing moms. Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottlefeeding, these items will come in handy! Check out Molly’s top picks below:
Essentials For Breastfeeding & Bottle-Feeding Moms
I’m SO excited to be working with Lorena, co-founder of Majka, who is expecting baby #2! Along with a baby come the usual questions of what the best products are, safest to use, etc and it’s no surprise that the baby product market is overwhelming, ever-changing and evolving.
As a baby planner and product expert, I pride myself on finding the latest and greatest as well as the best products for my clients based on unique lifestyle, budget and values. In a little over a year, there are so many amazing new products, along with some tried and true, so if you’re in the market for products to support your feeding journey, check out my updated favorite products below!
Nipple Balm
Cora Nipple Balm
You may recognize this modern women’s wellness brand whose mission is to revolutionize the female experience. Starting with organic period and bladder care, Cora introduced a line dedicated to maternal care which includes their plant-based nipple balm for the lanolin-averse. This balm heals and hydrates with just six natural ingredients!
Nursing Pillow
Nook Sleep Niche Nursing Pillow
My general rule of thumb in when to purchase organic vs conventional is length of exposure. The longer a baby is exposed to a surface or product, the more they absorb so considering how often they’ll be nursing, bottle-feeding or in general lounging up against something, the more organic/non-toxic, the better. I love this pillow for this reason which uses a blend of organic materials and eucalyptus.
Burp Cloths
Muslin Burp Cloths
The same organic rule goes for burp cloths – another material that baby will be leaning against or breathing in for extended periods of time, I love these affordable, breathable muslin options from Amazon.
Milk Flow
La Vie Lactation Massager
This milk expression tool helps improve milk flow and relieve pain caused by engorgement, plugged ducts and other breastfeeding symptoms. What’s great is that this is rechargeable and can be taken on-the-go so no need to find a heat source to stimulate flow for mom’s prone to blockages.
Nursing Bra
Simple Wishes Hands-Free Pumping Bra
This is one of my tried and true! With over 3,000 Amazon reviews, this is the reigning champ of pumping bras and for good reason! Before getting this I cut holes in a sports bra but they ripped after a while – that’s when this came in which just made life hands-free and SO much easier. If you plan on pumping with a traditional plug-in pump, then this is a must-have!
Nursing Cover
San Francisco Baby Organic Nursing Cover
I’m not a huge fan of the car seat covers that turn into nursing covers. Convenient? Yes, but slightly claustrophobic. Instead, I really love this style that is open with better visibility of your baby.
Nursing Chair
Babyletto Kiwi Recliner and Swivel Glider
The wingback-style (great for resting heads!) Kiwi Glider Recliner takes the phrase “rest and recharge” to a whole new level with its built-in USB port, swivel motion and back and forth gliding. The chair is Greenguard Gold Certified meaning it meets stringent requirements for healthier indoor environments and is free of chemical flame retardants.
Nursing Pads
Kindred Bravely Organic Nursing Pads
Leaking is common especially in the first few months of breastfeeding when your milk supply is adjusting. Or if you have an overabundant milk supply, some women may leak for the duration of their breastfeeding experience. Nursing pads are great to protect your clothing and to prevent stains. These organic, reusable pads are super absorbent disc-like pads that are placed in your bra to soak up any milk that leaks. These are also great to slot in after applying your nipple cream to provide relief.
Breast Shells
Medela SoftShells
Every breastfeeding or pumping mom needs a set of these. These are designed for women who have inverted nipples, sore nipples or leaky breasts. If your nipples are sore and damaged, you can use these to protect them from being touched by your clothing. Exposing your nipples to the air will help them to stay dry and heal. They’re also a great way to collect milk while your milk supply adjusts.
You can treat and heal your nipples but if you’re experiencing pain, then something may not be right. Get help from a Lactation Consultant or La Leche League Leader who can help with latching difficulties, painful nursing and low milk production.
Majka Lactation Bites
Lactation Bites (3pack)
Ok so these are not your run of the mill lactation cookies! These are so much more. I consider the bites to be what we would call a ‘Ttwofer.’ Not only are they great for new mom’s who are trying to increase their milk supply, but also to fuel her in those early days and months when she is depleted – hormonally, nutritionally and emotionally. So for busy moms, both the Majka bites and the protein powder are great to stash in your fridge and pantry.
Additionally – and from my own experience – these are also great snacks for the kiddos! As a mother who has extended breastfeeding (breastfeeding beyond 12 month) and is super busy, I rely on easy, healthy snacks and my toddler loves them too!
What are your favorites?!
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About The Author
Molly Pross is the founder of Bump Bestie, a modern baby planning, gear consulting and maternity concierge service that eases the transition to parenthood. Reenvisioning baby prep for the modern parent, Molly provides personalized support and peace of mind to expecting families as they navigate an unfamiliar and exciting time in their lives. A sought-after non-toxic lifestyle expert, Molly also works with families to create a healthy home and educates families on how to reduce toxic exposure by empowering them with information and practical alternatives that optimize the health of their family and environment. Based in Los Angeles, Molly works with clients both locally and virtually, nationwide. Headshot image credit: Mamaniela Photography
