Breastfeeding Part 1: Breastfeeding Supplies

Posted On: 2010-03-29

You have chosen to breastfeed and there are plenty of supplies you will need to invest in. Most of these you can/should get prior to your new bundle arriving.

Here are the products in order of need:

Nursing Bra: I highly recommended that you go for the comfortable bra first. Pick out a non-padded, non-underwire, cotton bra that is comfortable in your 9th month of pregnancy but can still adjust bigger. Some articles I've read say that you don't actually get any bigger after birth, but I did/was. Since then I have had to purchase smaller bras twice as I lost the baby weight. After the baby is born purchase at least 3-4 more bras that fit and even check out some of the bras with padding and under wires.

Disposable or reusable nursing pads: These are pads that will either collect leaked milk or prevent milk from leaking. 

Disposable Nursing Pad: I prefer Lansinoh over Medela because the Lansinoh are slightly bigger, not pleated, and are not as visible through my clothing. They move around a lot at night though.

Reusable Nursing Pad: I really like the LilyPadz (See full Product Review). In summary they allow me to sleep at night without wearing a bra, I can swim in them, I don't have to clean anything off prior to breastfeeding (I believe Lansinoh has one but the goop has to be cleaned off first and who has time for that?), lastly they are not visible through clothing.

Spit Up Cloths: Yes, this is still for moms! As you and your baby learn to latch correctly (and let down at the right time) you will need to use a cloth of some kind to absorb leaks and prevent milk from shooting into your baby's face. No joke, the first time this happens you will probably not realize what is going on, then you will, and then you'll laugh and clean it up.

Breastfeeding Cover: I really wish I could make a solid product recommendation here but I honestly have never tried using a cover. What I do know from my research is that you want to purchase one that has a wire built into the top that is sturdy and bendable: this will help you monitor the breastfeeding without having to lift on the fabric repeatedly. 

What I used was a 30"x40" receiving blanket. The good thing is that I already owned receiving blankets and they are handy, granted they are large enough to make you feel covered up. The real issue came when my son began pulling the blanket off while nursing!  I haven't been able to use one for many months.

 

More on this topic coming this week:

Mon- Part 1: Breastfeeding Supplies

Tues- Part 2: Pumping Supplies

Wed- Part 3: When Milk Comes In

Thur- Part 4: Pumping/Storing Milk

Frid - Part 5: Tricks and Tips