Have some of these to hand when breastfeeding your baby to help make life a little bit easier
1.Breast pump
If you need to relieve engorged breasts, or are stashing milk for a night feed, you』ll need a breast pump. Whether you opt for a hand pump (cheaper) or go for an electric version (quicker), it’s a useful item for your breastfeeding kit.
2.Nipple cream or balm
Soothe sore nipples with a moisturising balm that will help you avoid the dryness that can cause cracked nipples and irritated skin.
3.Breast Pads
In the early days when your breasts are particularly engorged, it’s handy to put breast pads into your bra to soak up any milk that leaks out. Yep, that does happen.
4.Maternity Bra
To make it easier when feeding your baby every few hours, wear a maternity bra. It has cups that you can unclip from the strap so your baby can reach the nipple without you having to remove bras etc. What’s more, today’s maternity bras can be as glamourous as a regular bra
5.Breast vest
If you want to wear your pre-baby clothes (or have discovered all of your breastfeeding tops are in the wash), you can convert a top or t-shirt into a breastfeeding friendly top by wearing a Breastvest underneath. The specially shaped vest covers up your post natal tummy, but stops just underneath your bust so you can lift up your t-shirt easily to feed and don』t have to worry about trying to pull your top down low.
6.Breastfeeding cover
While it’s not imperative to cover up while you』re breastfeeding, if you』re feeling self-conscious, you can drape a cardigan, large muslin or ever a special breastfeeding cover over you.
7.Bedside sleeper
To help with night feeds, a bedside cot is ideal. It means you can slide your baby across for without having to get out of bed, so it’s also handy if you』re not particularly mobile after birth or have had a c-section. This bedside crib sits flush with your mattress and one side drops away, making a safe extension bed for you and your baby. It’s also available to rent with a new mattress and fabric panels. Bednest Bedside Cot, £299, nctshop.co.uk.
8.Breastfeeding pillow
Ideal for resting your baby on while you feed, a pillow can be a great support and ensures your baby is at the right height so he can feed well. The pillow can also be used to support your baby so he can sit up unaided. Try the Chicco Boppy pillow, £34.99, Amazon.
9. Nipple shields
For badly cracked nipples that are stopping you from breastfeeding, nipple shields can provide temporary relief. However, they shouldn』t be used in the long-term as they can prevent your baby suckling correctly, which could affect your milk supply. Medela Contact Nipple Shields are made from soft silicone which is odourless and tasteless for your baby (£8.99, Mothercare).
10.Milk storage bags
If you』re breast pumping to keep milk for later, you can store them in plastic bottles (that have been pre-sterilised) or breast milk bags. They need to be strong, durable and leak-proof. Try Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature milk storage bags, £6.99 for 36, Mothercare.
11. Muslins or burp cloths
Ideal for mopping any dribbles from your baby, leaks from you or for draping over your shoulder when you』re burping your baby. We like the ones from Myleen Klass』 Baby K range at Mothercare, £9.99 (3 pack).
12.Breast compresses
For engorged breasts that feel sore, or to soothe pain if you have plugged ducts or mastitis, try a hot or cold breast compress. You can create your own using a muslin soaked in warm or cold water, or you can buy a specially shaped gel compress.