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Moms need tools to assist them in doing their job as the mom. So, when it comes to breastfeeding, the right tools can make all the difference. The first question is where to shop for great tools, especially with a new baby and limited time? Our answer: Walmart.com. It’s a lot like your neighborhood Walmart store with an incredible variety of high-quality products and, of course, Every Day Low Prices. Plus, Walmart.com offers unique features like in-store pick-up, ratings and reviews, and even lower prices you can’t get anywhere else.
The second question is: what tools do you need?
Cover up – No longer do you need to toss a baby blanket across your chest and over your shoulder with the invention on nursing covers. Yes, I was the mom with the tossed-over-the-shoulder blanket pre-invention days, trying to feed a baby while fighting with a blanket that would slip off as baby kicked it. So, these new nursing covers are a must-have tool for breastfeeding your little ones.
Boppy – Nursing Cover, Olivia Floral
This Boppy Nursing Cover features a unique SlimLine ring, which helps you track which side you fed your baby from last time. Featuring a full-coverage design, it allows for discreet nursing almost anywhere and is designed for nursing babies from newborn to 12 months of age. Machine washable, this Boppy Nursing Cover is also easy to care for. It folds into a mini pouch for easy portability.
Comfort- End your body discomfort while nursing by using a nursing pillow. My advice is choosing one that can be used beyond the nursing session and can be used as a support cushion such as this one from Laschco:
Leachco – Cuddle-U Nursing Pillow and More with Slipcover, Caterpillar
Leachco – Cuddle-U Nursing Pillow and More with Slipcover, Caterpillar is a multipurpose pillow with various functions and uses. This unique support system has the benefits of a bouncer with the comfort of your caress. Combining an adjustable seat wrap with U-shaped design creates a duo that ensures baby’s support as well as safety. This U-shaped nursing pillow eases muscle strain and allows for easier feeding times. It converts from a nursing pillow to a support cushion or play seat as your little one grows. It allows your infant to lay reclined, while the safety strap system holds wigglers in place. Proper positioning encourages digestion and helps to reduce reflux. Use it as a comfy tummy time cushion or a sit-up support when baby begins to sit. It includes a 100% cotton cover, which is easy to clean and maintain.
Save it Store it – For working and on-the-go moms, a breast pump is a must have. This gives you the ability to still breast feed your baby by pumping your milk and storing it for later use.
Philips AVENT Single Electric Breast Pump with Breastfeeding Starter Kit
The Philips AVENT Comfort Single Electric Breast Pump was designed for a more comfortable position. Sit naturally with no need to lean forward while the soft massage cushion gently stimulates your milk flow. Choose from 3 settings – low, medium, or high – to get the most comfortable milk flow for you. It’s compact and lightweight with fewer parts, so it’s easy to use. All parts, excluding electric parts, are dishwasher safe.
Clean and Dry – No mom enjoys looking down to discover she has soaked her top with the all too familiar leaking milk. Yes, breastfeeding does have its embarrassing moments if we don’t think ahead. Use nursing pads to avoid milk leakage soaking through onto your clothes and stay clean and dry. They are available to disposable or re-useable one you can wash.
Gerber NUK Ultra-Dry Nursing Pads, 60ct
These Ultra-soft Gerber NUK Nursing Pads can help keep you dry and comfortable. The Ultra-Dry Breast Nursing Pads feature a multilayer liquid retention inner lining for maximum absorption. The flexible pads have ultra-soft edges and fit the breast for nearly invisible protection. The pads also contain a waterproof outer lining to protect your clothes by keeping them dry. Keep yourself from worrying about embarrassing leaks with Gerber Nursing Pads.
Medela Washable Bra Pads
Medela Washable Bra Pads can easily be added to any existing brassiere. They are soft and designed for all-day comfort. Created with breast-feeding moms in mind, they are ultra-absorbent, so you don’t have to worry about leaking or staining your clothing with them in place. They also quickly absorb moisture to help promote airflow for healthier skin. The contoured, no-shift design holds these breast feeding pads in place, giving you peace of mind when you want to go out and exercise or when you need to look just right for an important presentation at work. Because they’re made of 100 percent cotton, they stay soft.
Relief – Yes, there is a little down side to breastfeeding. But the benefits outweigh the downsides. So if and when you find your breasts have become sore due to breastfeeding your little one, don’t live with it and try using a soothing cream created especially for nursing moms.
Lansinoh
– Value Bundle – Lanolin Breast Cream Bundle, 2-Pack
For breastfeeding mothers, Lansinoh Lanolin Breast Cream is essential. Experience soothing relief with this pure healing cream, the only topical endorsed by La Leche League. Hypoallergenic and completely natural, Lansinoh does not have to be removed prior to breastfeeding.
Use Online Resources
Frustrations or concerns in the late night or early morning and not sure what to do? Head to your computer and discover websites and organizations that are there to answer your breastfeeding questions, that are there to encourage us along the journey, and that are there all hours of the day and night. No, they may not be our live best friend, but we can read and discover answers we are in need of while the world is still sleeping.
Breastfeeding sites
- www.llli.org The international La Leche League website
- www.bfmed.org The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine
- www.breastfeeding.com Breastfeeding resources including videos, forums, etc.
- www.lowmilksupply.org This site hosts information, support and answers for moms struggling with low milk supply.
- http://milkshare.birthingforlife.com/ A resource site for moms looking to give or receive breast milk.
- www.drjacknewman.com Dr. Jack Newman’s site has breastfeeding resurces including videos, articles and more
What tools have you found most helpful while breastfeeding your little ones?