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Breastfeeding is one of the most incredible gifts we can give our babies—and yet, it’s not always easy. With each of my children, breastfeeding has looked a little different. I’ve had to learn through trial and error, through tears and triumphs, and through a lot of prayer. Whether you’re preparing for your first baby or your fourth, here are my favorite breastfeeding must-haves and the grace-filled encouragement I wish someone had told me early on.
💕 My Breastfeeding Must-Haves
Whether you’re exclusively nursing, pumping, or a mix of both, these are the items I’ve relied on with each of my babies:
1. Nipple Creams
A good nipple cream is a lifesaver in the early days of nursing.
👉 Nipple Cream I love
2. Nursing Bras & Clothing
Comfortable, easy-access clothing makes a huge difference.
👉 My favorite nursing bras
3. Reusable Breast Pads
Leak protection without the waste!
👉 Reusable pads I use
4. Nursing Cover (Optional)
If you prefer some coverage while out and about, I love a nursing cover with a rigid neckline so I can still see baby and keep airflow moving.
👉 Nursing cover with arch neckline
🍼 Breast Pump & Milk Storage Must-Haves
I pumped regularly with my last baby due to weight gain concerns. These were key to making it work:
👉 I keep all my pumping essentials on the bottom tier of my Postpartum Cart Setup.
Helpful Extras:
- Milk Warmer for reheating stored milk
- Bottle Sterilizer to keep things clean and safe
🛏 Nursing Pillows
Support makes a huge difference, especially in the early weeks.
Boppy Pillow Setup:
My Brest Friend Setup:
Tip: Keep a burp cloth tucked nearby for quick cleanups.
🙏 Faith-Filled Encouragement for the Early Days
In those sleepy hours, nursing isn’t just feeding—it’s a place of connection. With your baby. With God.
What I Wish I Knew the First Time
With my oldest, I didn’t know to advocate for skin-to-skin or immediate nursing. He was taken from me too quickly, and I struggled to breastfeed for more than three months while working and supplementing with formula.
With my daughter, I knew a little more but still didn’t fully understand how to push for what I now believe matters most. I was able to nurse her for 22 months.
My most recent baby weaned earlier—likely because I was pregnant again and my milk changed. Each experience has taught me something new.
Now I know:
- Skin-to-skin immediately after birth is powerful
- I should be the first to hold my baby
- Advocating for your birth and feeding preferences is worth it
💬 Final Encouragement for New Mamas
You are not alone. Breastfeeding can be both holy and hard.
✨ What small item made the biggest difference for me?
Burp rags! Especially in the early days when nursing is messy, having a soft, absorbent rag within arm’s reach was a game-changer.
🙏 Pray while nursing!
Especially during cluster feeding. I would often pray while reaching for my placenta pills or tinctures—reminding myself that while those things are helpful, ultimately God sustains me. He met me there when I was depleted, sitting in the dark, pouring myself out for my child.
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