2020 Breastfeeding Essentials

Disclaimer: Some of the following products were sent for the purpose of testing them out for review. These products are highlighted by the use of an asterisk (*) beside them. This post also contains affiliate links which are indicated by the use of a dagger (†). All review words and opinions are my own. All photos are copyright property of Me Becoming Mum.

Breastfeeding has come relatively easy for me, and I have loved every second of breastfeeding my children over the years. I know, however, this isn't the case for everyone. Just in time for World Breastfeeding Week 2020, I'm bringing you my top products for breastfeeding. Hopefully these products can help make your life easier, and help you enjoy a successful breastfeeding journey.

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To wear

Comfortable breastfeeding clothes

Bright, colourful, comfy jumpsuits

I absolutely love Frugi*… My children have worn their clothes, I use their soft, bright muslins and I even have clothes for myself. Trust me when I say, there is nothing more comfortable and perfect for breastfeeding than their lush jumpsuit. It's one of the nicest things I have ever owned (even if going to the loo is a bit of a strip-tease experience!)

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Soft, easy-to-wear, breastfeeding dresses

Whilst most people may ask for expensive gifts, like fancy jewellery and the latest tech for their birthdays, I asked for breastfeeding-friendly clothes. My in-laws obliged and bought two lovely dresses from JoJoMamanBebé. The best part is, when you're out and about, no one would know the difference!

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A selection of breastfeeding-friendly bras

One of the most important things you can invest in, is a decent breastfeeding-friendly bra. You want to be able to easily pop it off for feeding times and have support and comfort when you’re not breastfeeding. My go-to is Molke (formerly Billy Bums). When I found them, I absolutely fell in love. I'm not going to lie, I haven’t looked back, and have worn them through the years even when not breastfeeding!

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Jewellery

Twiddle necklaces

All breastfeeding mamas will know the pain of nipple twiddling and skin scratching of baby's super sharp talons. My advice? Invest in a Nibbling teething necklace from Kiddies Kingdom* which is my go to not just for my son to hold onto while I'm breastfeeding but also perfect for him to chew on as he's teething! They come in a number of different designs and colours and I could quite literally have one to match every outfit.

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Ring

You may remember in my Christmas Gifts for her post last year I shared about Hold’s swirl reminder ring*. It is not only lovely to look at; but it has been a Godsend when it comes to remembering which side I need to feed from next. Baby brain is most definitely a thing, and with up to 4 hours or so between feeds a reminder is very much needed. They have loads of different designs all engraved and beautiful.

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Bracelet

The Aska maternity movement bracelet* is an ideal gift for mamas during pregnancy and beyond. You can move the little sterling silver charm alonf the beads of the bracelet to count baby's movements during pregnancy… but that's not all. Use it as the perfect nursing accessory too. Simply move the bracelet from one wrist to the other to help you remember which side you need to feed from next.

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For comfort

Breastfeeding pillow

I love my Theraline maternity pillow; and whilst I still use it upstairs for night feeds, a smaller breastfeeding pillow is better for downstairs. Having a breastfeeding pillow not only aids with getting your baby into the correct position for feeding, but helps you and baby to be more comfortable too. I use a Theraline Plushy Moon (which is kind of like a l bean bag and works so well) and it also is small enough to travel when we go elsewhere. Pre-lockdown I used it at family member's homes and even in a hotel!

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Breastpads

One thing you need to know about breastfeeding: it's not all perfect moments bonding with your baby (although there is that too!) Let down milk is a thing… and it can cause leaks. These leaks can happen when your baby is feeding from one side, or goes slightly longer than usual between feeds… and in the first few weeks after birth simply because your milk is settling in. The solution? Breastpads. They prevent embarrassing wet patches on your tops and if you go for Baba+Boo reusable breastpads* they are even better. They are soft and much more comfortable than their disposable alternative. In addition they are better for the environment as you can pop them in the wash and use them again.

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Breatfeeding essential oils

I am in love with essential oils. I use them when making homemade cleaners, putting together my reusable wipes and now as breastfeeding support. Bosom Buddies breastfeeding oils* from the Natural Birthing Company are great for making compresses and helping with different less favourable aspects of breastfeeding such as sore nipple and engorged breasts.

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For expressing

A breast pump and/or breastmilk collector

I'll be honest, I use both! I have a Tommee Tippee breast pump and Lansinoh breastmilk collector*. My pump is great for collecting milk quickly and in larger quantities. My breastmilk collector can be used to collect milk whilst feeding Munchkin; meaning not a single drop is wasted, even the let down milk which would usually leak into my breast pads. The best part is Lansinoh’s Breastmilk Collector is available to purchase from Amazon† and is budget friendly too.

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For baby

Muslins

You will want a lot of these. Trust me when I say you can never have too many (especially if your baby has reflux like Munchkin does). They are great for everything from cleaning up dribbley faces to mopping up milky mess when your baby over feeds. You can pick them up everywhere from supermarkets to clothing retail stores but I have to say my favourite are rainbow muslins from Frugi*.

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So, this week, as we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week, you now have a list of my top essentials to help you on your breastfeeding journey.

For more blog posts about new babies from photoshoots to must have products, check out the category here. Do you have a favourite product your used with your newborn? Let me know in the comments below.

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