Breastfeeding Accessories That Really Helped Me

Breastfeeding, for me, was one of those motherhood surprises that while everyone can tell you about it,  you just don’t really get it until you’re knee deep in it, going through the motions day by day.  It’s an emotional roller coaster from the time your supply comes in, to fighting through those first two weeks when your nipples are “toughening” up (ouch!!), the time commitment it requires and not to mention traveling and having to juggle all of your pump parts, cleaning tools, etc. It’s exhausting, but so rewarding at the same time. Much like motherhood.

I’ve spent the past 7 months with the mindset that I’ll just keep nursing for as long as it works for us. It’s been countless hours of pumping while driving to meetings, getting comfortable pumping next to a complete stranger on an airplane, coming off the mountain from skiing, twice a day, to peel off my zillion layers and find somewhere to pump and keep all of our equipment. It’s a LOT, but something I’m thankful to have been able to do this long.

These are some of the key pieces that helped me from day 1 up until now, almost 7 months. I firmly believe that “fed is best”, and plan to start transitioning to formula in the next month or so. With both girls I’ve never been the lucky mom that has a large supply and a freezer full of 3+ months of frozen milk. In the past month I’ve seemed to produce just enough for that day and the freezer stash from the beginning has slowly gotten smaller. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your family and this next step feels right for us!

nursing bras:
 this pair and this pair are all I’ve been wearing. You can’t beat their comfort, especially for the price. They’d be great to wear towards the end of pregnancy too! For active days, this sports bra has been my go-to.

care:
applied this natural cream constantly in the beginning! Toss in your hospital bag to bring with you

pump:
I used the Spectra S1* and never had any issues with it! Loved that it was quiet, small, portable and easy to clean
*definitely get one that doesn’t have to be plugged into an outlet!

One of my absolute favorite baby items has been the Haakaa! Seriously cannot rave about it enough and it’s so inexpensive. I got the lid version for quick & easy storage, but you can also get it without for only $12! I use this on whichever side I’m not currently nursing on and it catches all the letdown. I built a solid freezer stash for my first work trip using this alone! It doesn’t dip into the supply that your baby needs and just catches what you’d otherwise be losing anyways. Kicking myself for not having this with Olivia…

supplements:
I tested out Legendary Milk’s bundle and had the best results with the ‘liquid gold’. You take 6 capsules a day and within a day or two I started seeing an average of an extra 4-5oz a day. It all varies per person, but I wanted to share what helped me. Code ‘atgreenwell15’ will save you 15% off your purchase. I’m in no way associated with the brand or get a kickback. They were just kind enough to put a code together for my readers after I shared it on Instagram stores 🙂

storage:
these storage bags have been great for both babies! I freeze them lying flat so they take up less space. Store all the frozen bags in gallon ziplock bags in your freezer for easy containment!

travel:
this packable cooler collapses flat & has built in gel freezer packs so you don’t have to worry about adding extra ice packs. It’s been easy to bring when flying or to store in my car.
Also love this travel Boon kit. It’s been so nice to have this in hotel rooms when you want your cleaning tools and a space to let everything dry overnight.

clothes:
I never used nursing cami’s under tops and instead went with flowing tops that were easy to pull up or dresses that could pull down/to the side

nights: I loved this nightgown, this button-down set and this set you can’t go wrong with (pair with this robe for an easy extra layer)

dresses: a great dress to simply un-tie the shoulder straps, button front midi, strapless and looks so comfortable!

tops: I have a few button-down tops by this brand and they are the best! Super soft & have the perfect relaxed fit. Want this smocked option and love this draped top.

xx

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