You’ve decided you want to try to breastfeed your baby but you don’t know what you’ll need. I remember thinking in my early pregnancy that I would need a nursing shawl/cover. I didn’t realize I would also need a nursing bra, nursing/breast pads and I really didn’t think about everything I would need if I wanted to pump. I researched and researched and compiled all my resources together and eventually discovered a few more things as I started nursing. This is a list that’ll help you gather your things in preparation to having your baby.
If you want to breastfeed, you will need:
- Nursing Bras
- Nursing Pads
- Nipple cream aka Lanolin cream
- Nursing cover/shawl
- Nursing Tank – not absolutely necessary but worth it
- Breast shield – if needed – you should consult a lactation consultant before use.
- Breast shells – in needed
If you’re going to pump in addition to breastfeeding or if you’re going to exclusively pump, you will need:
- Pump – your health insurance company should provide free or discounted breast pumps
- Pump valves, tubes and flanges (these come with a pump)
- Pumping bra
- Pump bag – if you go back to work or need to pump in different locations
- Breastmilk cooler with ice pack – if you go back to work or need to pump in different locations
- Baby bottles + nipples
- Baby bottle detergent
- Bottle Sterilizer
- Bottle Warmer
- Breastmilk storage bags
- A mini refrigerator – a great option if your office allows it and you don’t have access to a refrigerator during work hours