Nursing your baby is one of the most natural maternal acts, but there are some breastfeeding accessories that can make your experience more comfortable, more efficient and can allow you to focus more of your attention on your precious new baby.
Easy-Access Bras and Tanks
The most important item on your list should be a selection of nursing bras that fit well and are supportive. Experiment with the different styles to determine your preference—some have clasps that release for nursing and others simply pull to the side. You’ll want your bra to accommodate a nursing pad and you should have at least 3 or 4 so you’ll always have a clean one on-hand. Brands like Bravado and Bella Materna now offer many styles that are actually pretty to look at too (previously unheard of for nursing bras!).
Nursing Tanks are also an indispensable part of your nursing wardrobe. With a built-in bra, they’re comfortable to sleep in and provide easy, no-fuss access for late-night feedings. They can also be worn under clothes in lieu of a nursing bra as they offer plenty of support, as well as extra coverage so you don’t have to expose your tummy while nursing.
Stylishly Functional
Before you invest in a lot of tops that are designed specifically for nursing, take a look in your closet—you may already have some great options. Your pre-pregnancy or maternity button-down shirts, wrap tops, soft henleys, or deep v-neck shirts can all work well when worn with a good nursing bra or tank. This is a great way to extend the life of your maternity wear, especially if you’re not quite back to your pre-pregnancy size just yet.
Privacy Please
Even though all your modesty probably went out the window after being poked and prodded in the hospital, there will be times when you want to keep a feeding just between you and your baby. For those times, a “Hooter Hider” by Bébé au Lait is the perfect cover—their cheerful fabrics provide discretion, while allowing you and your baby to see one another. Keep one in your diaper bag to use if you’re caught with a hungry baby in a public place or use it when company comes a-calling so you don’t have to miss out on the conversation.
Hands-Free Pumping
If you’re planning to return to work and will be expressing milk frequently or even if you just plan to pump occasionally so someone else can help out with feedings, you may want to pick up a hands-free pumping bra. This hard-working bra attaches to your breast pump shields and allows you to use your computer, talk on the phone or tend to your baby, all while pumping. This ability to multi-task becomes invaluable when you’re a busy new mom!
Make Yourself Comfortable
You can use a pillow from your bed or sofa while breastfeeding your baby, but a specially-designed nursing pillow might be easier to find a comfortable position with. Most styles curve around your waist to provide a cushy space to support your baby on his or her side while nursing or just relaxing.
Leak-Proof Pads
Nursing pads are essential for preventing unsightly leaks between feedings. While there are a variety of basic nursing pads to choose from, products such as Lilypadz® offer a unique alternative to traditional, disposable nursing pads as their silicone rubber material gently adheres to the breast, effectively stopping leaks altogether. When washed and cared for properly, one set can last for up to 2 months, and are particularly convenient when swimming or when wearing tighter fitting tops that would show normal disposable pads.
Handy Snacks
Nursing moms can burn hundreds of extra calories a day, so keeping healthy snacks easily accessible can help you stave off hunger attacks and help maintain your milk supply. Look for easy-to-pack snacks such as all-natural Belly Bars by Nutrabella which are high in protein and chock-full of folic acid, healthy Omega-3s, Omega-6s, and other vitamins. They come in delicious flavors and are the perfect size to throw in your diaper bag for those uncontrollable urges to eat something immediately.
Editorial provided by Allyson Lane and Kelli Little, owners of Kick Maternity in Houston, Texas, a unique boutique of stylish clothing for maternity, nursing and beyond.