One of the things I knew for sure I would be doing when I found out I was pregnant was breastfeeding. With the amount of time that most pregnant women spend preparing for childbirth, I wish we spent just as much if not twice on preparing to breastfeed. Breastfeeding has definitely been a challenge. Our son latched on without any issues from the day he was born. However, the sleep deprivation is what got me with the late night feedings. It was hard but I would not trade it for the world.
In today’s post, I have partnered with Baby Cubby and I am highlighting some of the nursing essentials a breastfeeding mama needs. Baby Cubby has become one of my favorite go to sites for minimal essentials. As a first time parent, its so easy to spend money on things that you think you will need but end up not needing. I have been more conscious on what we spend on the baby and not get carried away. The extra money we save can go towards his college fund. This bundle is one of my favorites. It is basically everything you need all in one set.
Below are the list of items and linked to the Baby Cubby site where you can easily find them.
NURSING ESSENTIALS FOR THE NEW MOM
Medela Breastmilk Storage Solution – I started using this while I was on maternity leave. There were a few times I needed to run errands while my mom was here visiting and I could leave the baby home with her. This was handy especially during the times that I needed to head out and he was sleeping. She could just warm up a bottle and feed him if he woke up before I got back home. Now that I am back to work, I have been utilizing the storage solution.
Bamboobies (nursing pads) – these have been the best. Breast pads are a must because if you do not nurse your child in time or pump in time your breasts will leak. It is not pretty. I forgot to put a pair on one day at work and I leaked through my shirt. Luckily I was wearing a jacket that day and I was able to cover up my soaked shirt. I like the Bamboobies because they are washable. Once again, saving money.
Burp Cloth – these are a must, especially if you a child who spits up. I always have one handy because our son has a tendency of not swallowing milk when he is done nursing and it just falls out of his mouth.
Nursing Cover – A nursing cover has been one the best things I own. It is perfect for when I need to nurse him in a public place. It has come in handy in restaurants, on a flight to and from Chicago, the zoo, and a street festival. I also always keep a light muslin blanket with me as well just in case I forget my cover. It makes nursing in public much easier.
Medela Slow Flow Nipples – these were the second set of nipples I bought. For some reason our son refused all other nipples and will only drink out of a Medela bottle and nipples. I love these because they resemble the breast and have the same flow as the breast. Breast fed babies have been known to get lazy and not want to breast feed if they realize that they can get milk easily from a bottle.
What about you? What are your nursing essentials? Did I forget anything? Let me know in the comments below!