If you’re new to the world of making breast milk, it can be pretty overwhelming! Some say it’s completely natural, but a walk down this aisle at the baby store can certainly say otherwise. So which breastfeeding products do you really need?
Well, I’m gonna say none. I know, I know. But breastfeeding really is natural and usually doesn’t require anything other than breasts and a baby (or babies – I nursed triplets!).
But sometimes it’s fun and even helpful to have some of these items on hand. Other times it does become a necessity to have some of these (or similar products). And you know what? That’s ok! You may be a breastfeeding products junkie and your bff may have none of these items. What’s important is that you and Baby are able to have the breastfeeding relationship that you want. If some of these items help with that, great!
Top 10 Breastfeeding Products
Milkies Milk-Saver Breast Milk Collector – This item can be super helpful if you find that one breast begins leaking while baby nurses from the other! You can collect the leaking milk and store for a future bottle!
Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags – If you pump a lot or a little, these bags are definitely my favorites! They’re BPA-free, too!
Breast Feeding Nursing Cover – If you think you may need a little privacy figuring out how to get baby to the breast, these covers can come in handy and Udder Covers are a great brand with lots of fun prints (great prices, too!)!
Organic Baby Teething Necklace – I’m looking forward to having one of these for this coming baby (a singleton!) for those toddler nursing days. I’ve heard it helps with the toddler gymnastics and doubles as a teether!
Medela Pump in Style Breast Pump – I’m partial to Medela since I used both a hospital-grade Medela pump and a consumer-grade Medela pump for the triplets before I breastfed them. You can see more breastfeeding pump options here and determine which pump may be right for you.
Boppy Pillow with Slipcover – I loved my Boppy when nursing my kiddos one at a time! Some women find they can simply use a regular pillow but I loved the firmness and contoured shape of the Boppy that brought my baby up around my body. And this print is just too adorable – I saw it at my friend’s the other day and had cover envy. 🙂
Organic Cotton Nursing Pads – Some type of nursing pads are usually in even the most minimalist breastfeeder’s bag! The cotton pads are so soft against sore nipples and have such a benefit over disposable pads (and they don’t crinkle and crunch when you hug someone, either!).
Nursing Bra – It took me a few tries to find a nursing bra I liked but once I did, that puppy got a workout! It supported me (pun intended) through my 31 months of breastfeeding! I would like to get one in black this time, too.
Easy Snacks – I kinda think this one is in a minimalist’s bag, too. I was always hungry while breastfeeding and easy, made-ahead snacks mean I can grab one and eat as I nurse! You can find lots more snack ideas for your nursing days here.
Organic Nipple Butter – For the times when breast milk isn’t cutting it for soothing or healing really raw nipples, this cream is all natural and organic (no synthetic ingredients used like commercial products!).
So there ya have it! Ten of the top breastfeeding products you might want or need.
Best hands free pumping strap. You can pump and nurse at the same time taking advantage of letdown, or dual pump. Can make it as tight as you like to aid in compression. It form fits to your body if it changes.