Checklist of Breastfeeding Essentials for First-Time Mothers

Many people think that breastfeeding only needs two things: a breastfeeding parent and their little one, which is actually true, but from our experience, more than two items are required to make the journey a lot more comfortable. Other than sound machines and swaddle blankets, what breastfeeding supplies should first-time mothers add to their shopping list? There’s heaps of information on the internet, so we’re getting straight to the point. We’ve put together an ultimate checklist of top products to make breastfeeding easier.

1. Nursing Bra

Nursing bras are among the very first and most essential gear every breastfeeding mother should have. During gestation and after birth, your breasts are subject to frequent changes —they increase in size, become more sensitive, and need extra support. Invest in a premium-quality nursing bra that gives the right amount of support without being too tight or uncomfortable. It also prevents breast pain, sagging, and blocked milk ducts. Your bra should have key features: inner removable paddings, nursing drop clips, an elastic waistband, fabrics like cotton, elastane, or nylon, and be wire-free.

2. Breastfeeding Pillow

A breastfeeding pillow offers the ideal position for a nursing baby. It wraps around the belly and is firm enough to support the little bundle of joy at the chest level, compared to a normal bed pillow, which is too soft and thin. The additional support means that the mother won’t have to lean forward or struggle with the numbness in their arms during long sessions of cluster feeding. Prefer one that has comfortable lumbar back support and a flattering surface.

3. Bottle Brushes

You might not know that every single part of the pump and bottle needs regular cleaning. A bottle brush is a specifically designed tool for cleaning pump sections and baby feeding supplies. The majority of brushes are a combination of sponge and bristle, a design that’s suitable for properly scrubbing narrow spaces. An expert's advice: Add a pair of mini brushes to the shopping list. You’ll be stunned at how they clean the smallest spots—and they’re also practical down the line for washing straws or sippy cups.

4. Hands-free Pumping Bra

If you really want to make pumping sessions productive or more comfortable, use a hands-free pumping bra. It can be a nursing bra that is compatible with pumping or a particular pumping-only bra, like the popular adjustable Skye Pump Bra by Lovemere. This handy item helps moms multitask instead of being stuck holding the pump flanges to the chest for an average of 20+ minutes in one session.

5. Nipple Cream

In the first few weeks of breastfeeding, it is normal for a new mom to have sore nipples. Therefore, applying nipple cream/lotion just after nursing or pumping (and before taking a shower) helps protect and heal. Plus, it’s completely safe for kids. Putting this item on this checklist might seem pointless, but these tubes and tubs are quite helpful, and giving them as gifts will save a parent from having to buy them. Ask your doctor which company's nipple cream is best. In case you’re doubtful about whether nipple cream is necessary, coconut oil is the best alternative for moms, and it can be easily bought.

6. Drying Rack

After cleaning the pump parts and bottles with a brush, it’s suggested to let them air-dry. A drying rack is another tool that’s specially designed for breastfeeding that sucks up all the excessive amount of water, wrangles all those small things, and keeps them in order. Philips and OXO sell simple racks with numerous posts and pegs, while Boon’s “grass” racks are very functional with a unique design.

7. Cooler bag

Breast milk can only stay fresh at a room temperature of 77°F (25°C) for up to 4 hours, so carrying breast milk while on the move calls for an insulated cooler bag. Try to purchase soft-sided bags that come with ice packs; they are the best option. There are so many brands of cooler bags on the market, like Medela and Ameda. Available in a couple of quirky designs and featuring cooling packs integrated into the walls of the bag. To use them, just fold and store them in the freezer.

In Closing

The phase of breastfeeding can be made easier only with high-quality products, but the most paramount thing on the checklist is to devote time to yourself and your child. Just take it easy and enjoy every moment of motherhood. Remember that your baby is not going to express their affection for you by the worth of the clothes or the cost of the gear you have but will always cherish the nourishment of your breast milk. Brands like Lovemere understand it deeply and create products that support you through pregnancy, postpartum, and the breastfeeding phase with care.