Believe it or not, there's a lot more to breastfeeding than just placing your newborn at the boob [1] and hoping for the best. You might get lucky sometimes and require next to no gear in order to feed your child, but if you find yourself struggling to get your new baby to latch, feel that nursing itself is painful, or think you might want to empower other people in your home to take turns feeding your little one using a bottle [2], then you'll need to stock up on the essentials. While breastfeeding is technically free, sometimes you gotta just buy some stuff to support you.
Boppy Nursing Pillow and Positioner
The Boppy Nursing Pillow and Positioner [4] ($40) is a favorite for moms who have breastfeeding down but still want to relieve the pressure on their necks from holding their babies.
Spectra Baby Breast Pump
There are many breast pumps on the market, and oftentimes you should be able to get one through your insurance. But if you're looking for something that's hospital grade, consider adding the Spectra Baby Breast Pump [5] ($200) to your registry as a big-ticket item. If you plan on storing milk or bottle feeding, a pump is a must.
Medela Quick Clean Breastmilk Removal Soap
Breast milk can get thick and greasy, so you'll want something that makes cleanup a breeze, like the Medela Quick Clean Breastmilk Removal Soap [6] ($6, originally $8).
Munchkin High Capacity Drying Rack
You really only need this if you plan to do bottle feeding. Not only is the Munchkin High Capacity Drying Rack [7] ($13, originally $16) dishwasher-safe, but you can also dry nipples on the top shelf.
The Honest Company Nipple Balm, Soothe & Moisturize
Both breastfeeding and pumping can get painful. From cracked nipples to tiny lacerations on the areola, the The Honest Company Nipple Balm [8] ($11) can soothe and moisturize.
Contact Nipple Shield
If you're experiencing any tenderness whatsoever during the latch, try putting on a Contact Nipple Shield [9] ($7). They come in many different sizes so pay attention to sizing before ordering. Some moms even use shields to pump as another layer of protection.
Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags
There's a lovely amount of freedom that comes from handing someone else the baby and a bottle of your breastmilk. If you plan to store milk, or if you'll be returning to work and plan on pumping, the Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags [9] ($9, originally $16) are absolutely clutch.
Motherhood Maternity Plus Size Wireless Nursing Sports Bra
Motherhood Maternity Plus Size Wireless Nursing Sports Bra [10] ($22) provides all the support you'd expect from a sports bra while delivering the flexibility required for a nursing bra.
My Breast Friend Pillow
Another favorite is the My Breast Friend Pillow [11] ($40). It has a pocket to store things like water and nipple shields, and it has a cushion to keep the baby from rolling. Important to know that some mothers who have C-sections find that this pillow doesn't work for them.
CAKE Cotton Candy Seamless Nursing Bra
CAKE's Cotton Candy Seamless Nursing Bra [12] ($53) feels so luxurious that you'll hate laundry day.
Soma Water Bottle
Nursing and pumping make you incredibly thirsty. Plan ahead, and keep water nearby so you can access it easily. The Soma Water Bottle [13] ($30) is not only beautiful but it's made of a shatter-resistant glass.
Burp Cloths
Feedings get messy, so you'll want access to as many Burp Cloths [14] ($18) as you can get.
Arrow Nursing Cover
If you plan to nurse in public and want to cover up (which you absolutely do not have to do — nurse however you wish!), the Arrow Nursing Cover [15] ($23) is supereasy to maneuver.