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Navigating all the products available to breastfeeding moms can be difficult, so we asked seasoned experts (that's right, real moms) to share their recommendations. Hopefully this will provide some guidance and make the process a little easier!
Nursing Pillow
The Boppy nursing pillow will save your arms! I use it nursing in bed or on the couch. I think it’s better than the one I have from Ergobaby, which is a lot firmer. The Boppy is nice because it’s very soft and you can mold it to your body. I’ve also heard Breast Friend is one of the best ones to get, but have personally tried these two.
Medela Pump
If you have insurance, your breast pump is covered! I received the Spectra from insurance, however, I prefer the Medela Pump. Get Dr. Brown's slow feeder bottles or the preemie bottles on Amazon (in case your baby prefers that flow). I’ve tried a bunch of other pumps, like the Naya and a few others, but keep coming back to the Medela because it works so well.
Willow
For Leia, I plan on using the Willow, which you can take anywhere. Many moms I know use it pumping in meetings and no one knows. It’s silent and discreet. I plan to use it when traveling or when I’m out and about. However, for morning and night pumping, I always default to the Medela when I need to pump quickly and effectively.
Nipple Cream
Motherlove Nipple Cream is a plant-based cream is organic and soothes any discomfort that comes from the early days of nursing. In my experience, if you’re having pain past the first couple weeks of nursing, you may want to see a lactation consultant as your baby may not be latching properly. Breastfeeding shouldn’t be a painful experience.
Pumping Bra
A Hands-Free Pumping Bra is KEY! You will lose your mind pumping without it. You can multitask while wearing it which saves so much time (and your arms).
Diaper Pail
The Dekor Classic Hands-Free Diaper Pail & refills is a cost-effective diaper pail that creates less waste and is completely hands-free—all you do is step on the pedal. It also traps the odor inside so the nursery doesn’t get stinky. The Dekor Plus Pail can hold 60 diapers!
Drying Rack
The Munchkin High Capacity Drying Rack is a baby bottle drying rack allows different sized bottles to dry at once. All of the bottle parts are in one place after washing.
Bottle Cleaner
Purchase a Bottle Cleaner to ensure you’re properly cleaning the bottle each time one is used. You’ll want a cleaner with a long brush head.
Bottle Sterilizer and Dryer
The steam from the Baby Brezza Baby Bottle Sterilizer and Dryer kills 99.9% of germs. Sterilize everything from bottles to pump parts.
Bottle Warmer
Warm your baby’s bottle in a short 90 seconds with the Munchkin Fast Bottle Warmer. Microwaving can cause loss of nutrients and is a general no-no, so it’s necessary to invest in one of these.
Breast Milk Storage Bags
I use Milkies Breast Milk Storage Bags. They freeze flat which is helpful for storing and have a double zipper to ensure no leaking occurs.
Burp Cloths
Aden & Anais makes super soft burp cloths with cute prints. These double as a bib!
Pacifiers
The Philips Avent Soothie Pacifiers is a trustworthy brand of pacifiers; they are given out at hospitals across the country. Amazon sells them for a very reasonable price. That said, you may want to test and try a few different brands as each baby is unique and their mouths may prefer a specific shape.
Pacifiers
In case you need or want to use formula, HOLLE is a good one to have on hand from Germany. Even if you’re breastfeeding, it’s good to have one box on hand in case you don’t make enough milk in the beginning. It’s better to be prepared rather than having to buy one with sub-par ingredients.
