Breastfeeding Essentials: What You Actually Need (And What You Don’t)

The difference between a smooth breastfeeding journey and an overwhelming one often comes down to investing in the right support and resources. While the breastfeeding market is flooded with countless products promising to make your journey easier, the truth is you need far fewer items than most new mothers think. With 83.9% of American mothers initiating breastfeeding, it’s crucial to understand which supplies actually support successful breastfeeding and which are simply marketing hype.

Through my years of working with new mothers, I’ve discovered that having too many breastfeeding supplies can actually complicate your journey rather than simplify it. As a lactation consultant, I focus on evidence (and practice) based essentials that truly make a difference in successful breastfeeding. This approach saves money and reduces the mental load of managing unnecessary items during an already challenging time.

Many new mothers feel pressured to purchase everything marketed as a “breastfeeding essential.” However, successful breastfeeding depends more on proper support and technique than on having every available gadget. I’ve helped thousands of mothers establish successful milk supply with just a handful of carefully chosen items.

This guide is different because it focuses on evidence-based necessities rather than trendy products. I’ll share what you need and explain why each item is essential when you’ll use it, and most importantly – what you can confidently skip. This practical approach comes from clinical experience and understanding new mothers’ real challenges.

Before we dive into the specific items, it’s important to note that every breastfeeding journey is unique. While this guide covers the universal essentials, you may find that some optional items become necessary based on your specific situation, such as returning to work or managing specific breastfeeding challenges. I’ll help you understand how to make those decisions when the time comes.

Let’s break down the essentials into clear categories: must-have items that support successful breastfeeding, optional items that might be helpful in specific situations, and items you can confidently skip. This organization will help you create a focused, effective breastfeeding station without unnecessary clutter or expense.

Core Breastfeeding Essentials

Understanding which items are truly essential can significantly impact your breastfeeding success. With 46.3% of mothers exclusively breastfeeding through three months, having the right core supplies becomes crucial for maintaining this commitment. Let’s focus on the evidence-based essentials that actually make a difference in your breastfeeding journey.

Nipple Care and Protection

Proper nipple care is fundamental to maintaining comfortable, sustainable breastfeeding. Through my experience working with countless mothers, I’ve found that having the right nipple care supplies can make the difference between continuing or stopping breastfeeding due to discomfort.

There are many opinions out there on nipple creams. I remember being handed a tube of Lansinoh cream with lanolin after the birth of all three of my children and being told “you have to use this.” The truth is, if you are having to constantly use nipple cream, there might be a problem. I also recommend avoiding lanolin-based creams because there are women allergic to it.

Instead, a high-quality cream, such as Earth Mama Nipple Butter, can be great for keeping your nipples from getting too dry and helping with minor cracking and damage (though if you are experiencing any of this, please reach out for a lactation consult). You can also use plain coconut oil or even breast milk!

However, one of my favorite items are Silverettes. These are silver cups that promote nipple healing. I’ve seen some lactation consultants phooey on these, but I’ve not only seen them work wonders with clients but with myself as well. They are a pricier item, but they top my list.

Quality breast pads are your next essential item. I recommend having both disposable and reusable options on hand. Disposable nursing pads are excellent for heavy leaking phases or when you’re out, while reusable ones are more comfortable for regular home use. The key is changing them frequently to maintain proper nipple health and prevent any moisture-related issues. If you are prone to yeast infections, you may want to be more cautious about these.

Milk Collection and Storage

Effective milk collection and storage supplies are vital, even if you’re not planning to pump regularly. From my clinical experience, having these basics on hand before you need them prevents stress and ensures you’re prepared for any situation.

A reliable breast pump is essential for most mothers. While your specific needs might vary, I recommend having at least a basic pump for occasional use (or emergencies). With my second child, I was suddenly pushed into pumping, and I had nothing on hand. I wish I had gotten one before the emergent need for one! Choosing the right breast pump depends on your specific situation – whether you’re returning to work, exclusively pumping, or just need occasional relief.

For milk storage, you’ll need:

• High-quality storage bags with double-sealed edges
• Breast milk storage containers for refrigerated milk (I’m a big fan of the the Ceres Chill!)
• Labels and a waterproof marker for dating milk

The quality of your storage supplies directly affects your stored milk’s safety and longevity. I’ve seen too many mothers lose precious milk to broken bags or improper storage containers. Invest in reliable options from reputable brands, even if they cost slightly more.

Essential Comfort Items

While I maintain a minimalist approach to breastfeeding supplies, certain comfort items are genuinely essential for maintaining your well-being during the breastfeeding journey. These items support your physical comfort and help maintain a sustainable breastfeeding routine.

Breast therapy packs that can be used hot or cold are invaluable. They help with everything from encouraging letdown to relieving engorgement and preventing blocked ducts. Look for packs specifically designed for breast use, as they’ll contour properly and maintain temperature effectively.

A good water bottle and healthy snack station are also crucial. Proper hydration directly impacts your milk production and overall well-being. I recommend keeping a large water bottle with a straw (easier to drink while nursing) and healthy, easy-to-eat snacks within reach of your primary nursing locations. I personally am a big Owala fan, but I’ve also become partial toward some breastfeeding specific water bottles that have recently come on the market:

• Mom Jug – this one has a spinner on top to remind you of what side to drink of and a handy hook for pacifiers. Use the code thebreastfeedingmama for 10% off.
• EasyJug – this one has an AMAZING long straw so you don’t have to have your water bottle falling over on your bed!

Remember, these core essentials form the foundation of your breastfeeding toolkit. While other items might be added based on your specific needs, these basics will support most mothers through their breastfeeding journey. Focus on quality over quantity when selecting these items, as they’ll be used frequently and must withstand regular use.

Optional But Helpful Items

While the core essentials form your foundation, certain optional items can significantly improve your breastfeeding experience in specific situations. With 19.4% of breastfed newborns receiving supplementation within the first 48 hours, having the right optional tools can help you navigate unexpected challenges while maintaining your breastfeeding goals.

Pumping Accessories

Certain accessories can make the process more efficient and comfortable if you’re planning to pump regularly, whether for work or personal preference. Through my experience supporting working mothers, I’ve identified specific items that consistently prove valuable for regular pumping.

Quality pumping bras become essential for regular pumpers. While not necessary for occasional pumping, they’re invaluable for mothers who pump multiple times daily. Look for options that offer both support and easy access, with durable materials that withstand frequent washing.

Additional pump parts can significantly reduce stress around pumping schedules. Extra sets mean less urgent washing between sessions and ensure you’re never caught without clean parts. I recommend having at least one extra set of:

• Flanges in your correct size
• Valves and membranes
• Collection bottles or containers

For mothers who pump at work or travel frequently, a dedicated pump bag with proper insulation becomes incredibly useful. These bags are designed to protect your pump while providing organized storage for all necessary accessories and keeping milk at safe temperatures.

Storage Solutions

Effective milk storage becomes crucial as you build your supply. While basic storage bags are essential, additional storage solutions can make managing your milk inventory much more efficient.

A dedicated freezer organization system helps track milk rotation and prevents waste. Consider investing in storage bins or organizers specifically designed for breast milk storage bags. These systems help you easily implement first-in-first-out rotation and quickly assess your supply.

For daily use, having multiple small cooler bags can prove invaluable. They’re perfect for transporting milk from work to home, or for storing milk during outings. Look for options with good insulation and enough space for ice packs.

If you’re building a significant freezer stash, consider these helpful additions:

As I’ve previously mentioned, I am a big fan of the Ceres Chill. This breast milk chiller makes it easy to pump milk and keep it at safe temperature, pool it (if you choose to) and store milk conveniently. It’s probably the #1 product the moms I work with who pump seem to love.

Remember that while these items can make your breastfeeding journey more convenient, they’re not absolute necessities. Your decision to invest in any optional items should be based on your specific situation, routine, and budget. Many mothers successfully breastfeed without these additional items, while others find them invaluable for their particular circumstances.

When considering optional items, evaluate factors like:

• Your daily routine and specific challenges
• Available storage space and organization needs
• Frequency of pumping or milk storage requirements
• Budget constraints and potential insurance coverage

The key is to choose optional items that genuinely support your specific breastfeeding goals and lifestyle, rather than acquiring items just because they’re marketed as helpful. Through my experience, I’ve found that thoughtful selection of optional items based on individual needs leads to better outcomes than attempting to acquire everything available.

Items You Can Skip

As WHO and UNICEF recommend initiating breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, many new mothers feel pressured to purchase everything marketed as “essential” before their baby arrives. However, my clinical experience shows that many popular breastfeeding items not only waste money but can sometimes interfere with establishing a successful breastfeeding relationship.

Marketing Myths vs. Reality

Through my years of supporting breastfeeding mothers, I’ve identified several items that are heavily marketed but rarely prove useful. Understanding why these items aren’t necessary can help you make more informed decisions and save money for truly essential items.

First on my list is the traditional nursing pillow. While controversial, I’ve consistently observed that these pillows often create positioning problems rather than solving them. They can lead to poor posture and suboptimal latch, potentially causing issues with milk supply and nipple comfort. Many moms become dependent on them and feel that they can’t even breastfeed without one. Instead, I recommend using regular household pillows that can be arranged to support your specific body type and needs.

Another heavily marketed but unnecessary item is specialized breastfeeding clothing. While nursing-specific clothing might be convenient, it’s not essential. I’ve found that layering regular clothing (a stretchy tank top under a loose shirt) works just as well and is more cost-effective. The two-shirt method provides the same privacy and accessibility at a fraction of the cost.

Money-Saving Alternatives

Many breastfeeding items can be replaced with more affordable alternatives that work just as well or better. Based on my experience working with thousands of mothers, here are some common items you can skip or replace:

Many mothers feel pressured to buy specialized breastfeeding furniture, like nursing chairs or gliders. While comfortable seating is important, any supportive chair with good back support and that can be reclined can work well. I encourage mothers to test different seating options they already have at home before investing in specialized furniture. I usually recommend moms lean back while nursing, and honestly, many of the fancy nursing chairs don’t always make this easy!

Another category to approach critically is supplemental breastfeeding supplements and cookies. While maintaining milk supply is crucial, most mothers can achieve this through proper nutrition and feeding frequency rather than expensive supplements. If you’re concerned about supply, working with a lactation consultant to address underlying issues is more effective than purchasing supplements.

While convenient and helpful for some parents, electronic breastfeeding trackers and specialized apps aren’t necessary for successful breastfeeding. A simple notebook or your phone’s basic note-taking app can track feeding sessions just as effectively. The key is monitoring your baby’s output and growth, not maintaining detailed feeding logs unless specifically recommended by your healthcare provider.

Some other items you can confidently skip include:

• Specialized bottle sterilizers (your dishwasher or boiling water works fine)
• Breast milk jewelry kits (wait until later in your journey if this interests you)
• Multiple types of nursing pillows
• Designer nursing covers

Remember that successful breastfeeding depends more on proper support, technique, and understanding of normal newborn behavior than on having specific products. I’ve seen mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals with minimal supplies, while others struggle despite having every available product.

If you’re feeling pressured to buy certain items, consider waiting until you’ve established breastfeeding and identified your specific needs. Many mothers find that their anticipated needs differ significantly from their actual needs once breastfeeding is established.

Preparing Your Breastfeeding Station

Setting up an effective breastfeeding station helps ensure successful feeding sessions while maintaining your comfort and energy. Since breastfeeding mothers need an additional 330 to 400 calories daily, having a well-organized station with easy access to nutrition and hydration becomes crucial for maintaining your milk supply and energy levels.

Organization Tips

Through my experience helping mothers set up their breastfeeding spaces, I’ve found that strategic organization makes a significant difference in the early weeks. The key is creating multiple mini-stations throughout your home where you commonly feed, rather than limiting yourself to one designated nursing area.

Your primary breastfeeding station should include these essential items arranged within arm’s reach:

• Water bottle with straw (easier to drink while nursing)
• Healthy, one-handed snacks
• Nipple cream
• Clean breast pads
• Burp cloth or small towel

I recommend using a portable caddy or basket to organize these items. This allows you to easily move your supplies between different feeding locations in your home. The key is maintaining accessibility without creating clutter.

For mothers who pump, create a separate pumping station with dedicated supplies. Effective pump organization includes having clean parts ready and storage supplies easily accessible. Consider using clear containers or labels to identify clean versus used pump parts quickly, especially during middle-of-the-night sessions.

Accessibility Considerations

The success of your breastfeeding station often depends more on thoughtful placement than on having numerous supplies. Based on my clinical experience, here are key considerations for setting up your feeding areas:

Consider creating a nighttime feeding station that minimizes disruption to your sleep. Include only essential items and use dim lighting options to maintain a restful environment. This helps establish healthy sleep patterns while ensuring you have everything needed for night feeds.

Temperature regulation is another important consideration. Keep a light blanket nearby for your comfort, but avoid placing your station near direct air conditioning or heating vents. This helps maintain a comfortable environment for both you and your baby during feeding sessions.

For working mothers who pump, I recommend creating a mobile pump kit that’s always ready to go. This should include:

• Pump parts in a clean, sealed container
• Storage bags or bottles
• Quick-clean wipes for pump parts
• Small cooler bag with ice pack

Remember to consider your own comfort when setting up feeding stations. Proper back support is crucial for maintaining good posture during long feeding sessions. Rather than purchasing specialized furniture, focus on optimizing what you already have with strategic pillow placement and proper positioning.

Storage solutions should prioritize cleanliness and accessibility. Use clear containers or simple labels to organize supplies by category. This makes it easier to quickly identify when items need restocking and maintains a clean, organized environment.

Finally, consider creating a simple supply inventory system to track essentials. This helps prevent running out of crucial items and reduces stress during feeding sessions. A basic checklist or note in your phone can work perfectly for this purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

As we work toward meeting Healthy People 2030 goals for breastfeeding, many mothers have common questions about essential supplies. Here are the most frequent questions I receive in my practice, along with evidence-based answers to help you make informed decisions.

When should I start buying breastfeeding supplies?

I recommend beginning to gather essential supplies during your third trimester. Focus first on core items like nipple cream and breast pads. For items like pumps, check with your insurance provider early, as many breastfeeding supplies are covered by insurance. This allows delivery time and familiarizes yourself with equipment before your baby arrives.

How many breast pump parts do I really need?

One set of parts with careful washing between uses is sufficient for occasional pumping. However, if you’re returning to work or pumping regularly, I recommend having 2-3 complete sets. This reduces stress around washing and ensures you always have clean parts available. Check out my guide on sanitizing pump parts for proper cleaning protocols.

What’s the minimum essential kit for returning to work?

Working mothers need a reliable breast pump, 2-3 sets of pump parts, milk storage bags, a cooler bag with ice packs, and at least two hands-free pumping bras. This setup ensures you can pump efficiently while maintaining milk safety during transport.

Are reusable or disposable breast pads better?

Both have their place. I recommend having both types on hand. Disposable pads are excellent for heavy leaking phases and outings, while reusable pads are more comfortable and cost-effective for regular home use. The key is changing them frequently enough to maintain good nipple health.

How do I know if I need a breast pump?

Most mothers benefit from having at least a basic pump, even if they plan to exclusively breastfeed. It’s helpful for managing engorgement, maintaining supply during separation, and building a small freezer stash. However, the type of pump you need depends on your specific situation and goals.

What breastfeeding items are typically covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage varies, but most plans cover breast pumps and basic supplies under the Affordable Care Act. Some also cover lactation consultant visits and specialized supplies with a prescription. Contact your insurance provider early in pregnancy to understand your specific coverage and requirements.

Remember that while these answers provide general guidance, your specific needs might vary based on your situation and breastfeeding goals. Don’t hesitate to consult with a lactation professional for personalized recommendations based on your unique circumstances.