When it came to having kids I always knew I wanted to nurse and my bigger fear was that I wouldn’t be able to for some reason or another. Luckily, that wasn’t an issue. Sure with baby number one, while I was sitting in the hospital sore and uncomfortable it was difficult. But once I was home and could get comfy I was able to figure it out in no time.
Nursing promotes bonding with your little one, provides many health benefits such as passing along your antibodies to protect your baby, and saves a ton of money. These are the essential every nursing momma needs:
I didn’t even know about this until I was talking with one of the nurses while holding my newborn baby. Of course she mentioned this as we were changing from the delivery room to the room we were staying at and not paying attention that closely. Then it was trying to remember what exactly she said and take some guesses on how to spell it. My husband figured it out though and it was waiting for us when we got home. Now you can use the link here.
The second time around I got my count up to 3, keeping one at each place I’d set up, my bedroom, living room, and my desk for work. One problem is – they are a little top heavy and prone to tipping. That’s why there’s one with a base and lid. While I never purchased them, I probably should have. While compared to the price of the other it’s more expensive, it’s also nothing when you look at the savings compared to formula.
2. Milk Collection Containers & Storage Bags
Genetics are definitely on my side and add in using a Haakaah my stand up freezer looked almost creepy with the amount of milk stored. These were my favorite storage bottles and containers. My production was enough that at a certain point I’d start freezing it at 8oz increments that way I knew the amount in every bag (and yes I know the bags say 6oz, what can I say, I’m a rebel).
3. Nipple Balms at Home & on the Go
This is one of those things to have and apply BEFORE you need it. Cracked nipples suck. If they feel dry, apply it. I recommend both of these – one for your purse and one by where you nurse. It’s supposed to be safe for the baby to suck on, but if you’re like me and want to be as low risk as possible you can always put it on after your baby eats if they’re starting to feel a little dry.
4.Receiving Blankets aka Burp Cloths
Eat then burp. I’ve got some cutesy little burp clothes, but they’re so tiny they quickly become useless. These receiving blankets on the other hand became all I used. They have great coverage so your shirts (or lap if you prefer to burp your baby that way) stay clean. Oh and they’re cute :). Even now when I don’t have anyone nursing there’s still some in the diaper bag for whatever. Buy a huge stack of these and you’ll be thankful!
I was pregnant with my first kid during covid. I worked 100% remote and was able to nurse with relative ease, but even I used a few bottles. For one, there’s going to be some time you’ll go out without the little baby. Even if it’s just 10 minutes down the road – and dad or the babysitter does not want to be without a way to feed the baby! I also just wanted to take a moment to mention that if your baby uses a bottle you have to pump. Somehow I managed to not hear this advice before baby #1. I had a nice supply of milk and one night my husband stayed up all night and fed him every time- he only went 1-2 hours between feedings. It was so nice getting that extra sleep but then I could tell something was wrong with my milk supply the next day. That’s when I learned about it, and it took a little bit to get back to normal but in the end all was well. Still, don’t forget to pump.
Those are what I consider essentials, but here’s a couple extras that are worth having too!
Ok these are a little awkward, but I’m super uncoordinated as is, so when it came to the few times I found myself nursing in public (doctors offices oh and the time we decided to take a trip to Mackinaw when my baby was 2months old) using a Haakaa just felt weird to me. Instead I’d push one of these in my bra of the side I wasn’t nursing on and no mess no fuss. The extra milk I’d then pour into a milk container and go on my merry way.
I’m personally not as sold on these but many of my friends swear by them. I think it’s worth having and seeing if it works for you. Figuring out how to get comfortable, especially when they’re itty bitty and need that neck support makes all the difference in making nursing easy. If it’s not for you, it still makes a nice seat or something to interact with when they’re learning to move. If you do get one, you’ll probably want to buy some extra covers too.
I didn’t even know about this until I was talking with one of the nurses while holding my newborn baby. Of course she mentioned this as we were changing from the delivery room to the room we were staying at and not paying attention that closely. Then it was trying to remember what exactly she said and take some guesses on how to spell it. My husband figured it out though and it was waiting for us when we got home. Now you can use the link here.
The second time around I got my count up to 3, keeping one at each place I’d set up, my bedroom, living room, and my desk for work. One problem is – they are a little top heavy and prone to tipping. That’s why there’s one with a base and lid. While I never purchased them, I probably should have. While compared to the price of the other it’s more expensive, it’s also nothing when you look at the savings compared to formula.
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