Happy World Breastfeeding Week to all you nursing mommas out there! I have experience breastfeeding two children now, and I have to say, my journey has been quite different between my two girls. I did talk a bit about those differences here where I also shared a challenging pumping situation – something that just seems to come with the territory of being a nursing mother.

The whole breastfeeding experience can be difficult at times (pain, demand, stress, lack of supply, etc.), but there are some products that have made the experience much easier and more manageable, in my opinion. It always helps to be prepared, so I’ve come up with a list of 10 Must Haves for Nursing Moms.

1. Nursing Pads

I couldn’t live without nursing pads for the first few months of breastfeeding both of my girls. Leaking was just all too common, not to mention the major mess a let-down could make! Also, I found that the softest versions of nursing pads helped to create a barrier between a bra for those really sore nipples.

• Lansinoh Disposable Nursing Pads were a staple of mine. These are very soft and super absorbent, not to mention, incredibly easy to use with the adhesive.
• I pretty much switched over to Organic Bamboo Nursing Pads after the major leakage had stopped. These are also very soft and absorbent, and I love that I can wash and reuse them. How environmentally friendly!
• If you’re very sore, you can try some nipple barrier creams such as Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter.

 

2. Comfortable Nursing Bra

Getting a few comfortable nursing bras is key. Let me tell you, I had some difficulty finding my size in the type I was looking for — darn, because Target nursing bras are so great and affordable! I even went through the trouble of having a few altered to fit when I realized the bra itself was just too darn uncomfortable to wear. Here are a couple of super soft options that can also serve as a hands-free pumping bra {something I often rely on!}.

• The Dairy-Fairy Arden All-in-One. This bra is practical, comfortable and stylish. Worth every penny.
• Bravado Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra. The reviews speak for themselves!
• If you do choose a nursing bra that doesn’t serve the dual purpose mentioned above, be sure to get one of these hands-free pumping bras too!

3. Nursing Pillow

I relied on additional support to comfortably nurse both of my girls. There are a few really great options out there. Don’t be afraid to try a couple to see what is most comfortable for you.

• Boppy Nursing Pillow and Positioner The boppy pillow is a classic option. It does need a pillow cover, which can be very fun to pick out.
• My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow The back support on this is genius!
• Infantino Elevate Adjustable Nursing Pillow I do not have this nursing pillow, but based on my nursing style and holds, I want to try this one!

4. Nursing Cover

I couldn’t live without my nursing cover. We are always on the go, so I like to have a cover handy, especially now that I am nursing a little one while keeping an eye on my toddler.

• This Arrow Nursing Cover has a feature that I love – the rigid neckline. This gives me the ability to peak down to see what we are doing or check on my little love without sacrificing any privacy.

5. Breast Pump

• I also couldn’t live without my electric Medela Breast Pump. This pump is designed to hold up even for the momma who has to pump several times a day and comes with a good set of parts and accessories. The carrying bag is perfect! Be sure to check with your insurance before purchasing this on your own. Many insurance companies now cover the cost of a pump upfront, and others may reimburse you for your purchase.
• I did also use a manual pump in the beginning stages when I just wanted to pump off a small amount. This was most often during engorgement when I needed to get to a more comfortable state of being. It was quicker and easier than getting the whole set up out which contains far more parts that would require washing.

6. Pumping Parts

• Extra parts for the Medela system! Make sure you order the correct size breast shield.
• Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage bags. If you’re pumping, these will be extremely helpful. I always prefer to store and freeze milk in bags rather than containers – huge space saver.

7. Cleaning Supplies

• If you’re washing by hand, I love my Grass Counter Top Drying Rack and always use a Bottle Brush with a good dish soap.
• If you’re looking for a quick clean, I use a couple items:
  • Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags. These are a lifesaver. You simply add a couple ounces of water in the bag, along with all your pumping parts, put it in the microwave for a few minutes and your items come out sterilized. This has been a nice option for cleaning items at work.
  • Medela Quick Clean Breast Pump and Accessory Wipes have also been a great, efficient product to do a quick clean when I don’t have the time to hand-wash. Again, this is nice at work when I try to get by using the same pumping parts for the day.

8. Bottles

   If you’re pumping, you’re going to need bottles to feed your little one the milk you have so graciously expressed. We have had two babies with some tummy, reflux or colic issues, and have found that Brown’s bottles work the best for us. There are a variety of types – both plastic and glass, short and tall, and regular or wide neck.

9. Water Bottle

   There is something about breastfeeding that makes me SO thirsty. I always have a bottle of water on hand, even during those middle of the night feeds. I prefer to have an option that closes easily and has some sort of straw so I don’t have to worry about knocking it over or spilling.

• CamelBaks are a great option and have a lifetime guarantee. PS- The CamelBak kid versions are adorable! Maven has one ?

 

10. Prenatal Vitamins

    It’s incredibly important to continue to stay healthy as a mom, and particularly as you nurture your baby through breastfeeding. Mothers should continue to take their prenatal vitamin, and it is often suggested to take a prenatal vitamin variety throughout your childbearing years. There are a lot of options for you, but here is one suggestion:

• BEST Nest Prenatal Vitamins. Always be sure to check the serving size. Some prenatal vitamin options require you to take 2-4 pills per day, and I typically do not like those options.

The experience of breastfeeding is different for every mother and even varies from child to child. Regardless of your experience, you momma, are a rockstar. Whether you chose to simply try breastfeeding your baby, whether you nursed for days, weeks, months or years, I give you all praise.

 

What are your breastfeeding experiences? Do you have any other must-haves? I’d love to hear from you.

 

 

Photo source: Amazon.com