The best thing about breastfeeding is that two of the most important things you need you already own and are completely free. However, there are a several products that will make a big difference in making your experience of breastfeeding easier, more enjoyable and in my opinion essential to get off to the right start!

There are hundreds of products on the market for breastfeeding moms, yet only a handful of “essential” items you really need to get started. In my video “Breastfeeding Essentials”, I list and review the different products that are most important to have at home before you come home with your baby.

Here they are:

Nursing Bras
Comfortable, properly fit nursing bras are essential when you are breastfeeding. Your nursing bras are more than just clothing, they are your equipment! You want to have at least two days worth of bras. They get dirty when you are breastfeeding and you will have to wash them every day. Some people prefer to have a third set to keep in their drawer in case they don’t get to the laundry every day.

Nursing Pads
You will need nursing pads to wear inside your bras, especially for the first couple of weeks. The pads will keep your bras cleaner and prevent you from leaking breast milk on to your clothes. I recommend getting both disposable and washable pads. Wearing paper 24 hours a day against your skin is not a good idea, so wearing your washable pads at night/when you are home, and your disposable paper ones when you go out will be your best choice.

Nipple cream
Get a good nipple cream, preferably one that is organic with Calendula in it. Using organic products is important, especially wherever you put your baby's mouth. Take your nipple cream to the hospital and use it after every feeding to help prevent soreness.

Nursing Loungewear / Pajamas
Having something comfortable to wear that you can easily open for nursing will be essential. You want something that gives you full breast exposure. It is difficult to breastfeed a newborn through a small opening or having your shirt tucked under your chin in the baby’s face.

Breastfeeding Pillow
Make sure you get one that is specifically designed for breastfeeding, is sturdy, and is going to stay up at the breast level to keep your baby in the perfect latch and position. Having a good nursing pillow with you in the hospital is very important as you first learn how to successfully breastfeed your baby.

Nursing Stool
Bending your knees higher that your hips when you are sitting and breastfeeding will put you in the right position for a proper latch and take the pressure off your lower back. Leaning over to breastfeed will strain your back, neck and shoulders. The stool will keep you sitting up straight.

• ‹ Having the Right Bra for Pregnancy and ...
• Breastfeeding, Birth Control & Baby Spacing ›