Breastfeeding shopping list
Breastfeeding is learned skill, and it can sometimes be daunting or frustrating. I’ve helped dozens of moms learn how to nurse, and compiled a list of helpful items to have on hand to make the journey smoother.
Nursing bras are a necessity. Look for bras that have no underwire, that aren’t scratchy (lace might be pretty, but it’s impractical), and are easily washed and don’t have to be hung to dry. If you’re concerned about fit, you can try a maternity clothing store. They will usually have someone on staff to help you measure and plan for an increased breast size once your milk comes in. (If you’re in Southcentral Alaska, I recommend the Providence Maternity Boutique).
Leaking milk is par for the course with breastfeeding. Whether you choose to use disposable or washable nursing pads is entirely up to you; there isn’t a “better” option, just what you prefer.
For moms who want to collect colostrum prior to birth, this is a great all-in-one pack to help you achieve that goal.
Most insurance companies will cover an electric breast pump, but the Haakaa is great for collecting overflow without needing a lot of extra equipment or set up. When you’re nursing on one side, both of your breasts will let down milk at the same time, and the haakaa can collect the excess from the breast not currently in use. It can then be frozen and saved for later.
Protect your nipples! Nursing can be a shock to sensitive skin that is not used to it, and without care, can split and bleed. Both of these options are safe for your baby to ingest and don’t need to be cleaned off before nursing. Use nipple cream liberally, every time you nurse!
When your milk is first coming in, if you have a plugged duct, or are dealing with engorgement, a hot or cold pack can be incredibly soothing. I love having these on hand to prevent having to scramble for something else that will work.
Similar to the Haakaa above, this is a hands free version!
Any time you have extra breast milk, you will need a place to store it. These bags are strong and freezer friendly. Just write the date with a sharpie and you’re good to go!
There are hundreds of kinds of bottles available, and you may find that one brand or type works better for your family than another. I would suggest having one or two on hand, and then if they don’t work as well as you like, try a different kind. Make sure for a brand new baby that you are using a newborn nipple, which will let the milk through slower and prevent your baby from choking on a fast flow.
Both of these microwave sterilizer bags are a fantastic replacement for boiling bottles or using up valuable countertop space with a specialized sterilizer. Depending on if you prefer disposable or one that will last for months, either are great options for keeping your bottles clean.
There are lot of different herbal remedies available to help boost and encourage milk production. This brand is one that I have seen recommended most often by doctors and midwives.
Nursing is hard work, and you deserve a treat! And if you’re going to treat yourself, why not much on a cookie that can help with your milk supply? Full of brewers yeast and other ingredients used over the years to help boost milk production, you can munch away knowing you’re getting double duty out of your snack.
Christine Rogers is a birth, postpartum, and bereavement doula and childbirth educator. She is the owner/operator of Draw Near Doula Services and serves in-person in Anchorage, Eagle River and the Mat-Su Valley region of Alaska. A mom of four, she works hard to ensure every client she serves has a positive and empowering birth experience. She can be reached online at www.drawneardoula.com, or emailed directly at drawneardoula@gmail.com.
Looking for more birth planning resources? Check out my free Birth Preferences Worksheet and free Guide to Choosing A Care Provider!
