Feeding baby is a special time for bonding and a beautiful opportunity to have a quiet moment with your little one. However, whether you breastfeed or bottle feed, it can be stressful when you leave the house and it’s feeding time. Breastfeeding can add additional pressure if you haven’t mastered nursing in public. A hungry baby will wait for no one, so read on to find out how to confidently or confidentially breastfeed your little one on the go.

Research Locations

Before you and your little one step out, you could make a note of which places are appropriate for nursing. You may want to do your own research to find out what places will be accessible to you as a breastfeeding mama!

The ideal spot for public breastfeeding would have comfortable back support and seclusion. A quiet spot allows you and baby to relax and focus on nursing. If you are in public with nowhere to go, you can turn your body so your feeding baby isn’t so exposed.

Generally, shopping malls and department stores have designated areas with comfy chairs just for moms to pump or breastfeed peacefully. If you’re not able to access a women’s lounge or family zone in a mall, a fitting room works great in a pinch.

Another place you can nurse your babe at is the café. Most cafes have a relaxing ambiance that is perfect for nursing. Typically, cafes aren’t too busy, so you can breastfeed without being bothered. Other café patrons will be too occupied with studying or working so you can gain some confidence in public breastfeeding.

If you are traveling, airports also have private areas and lounges for you to comfortably nurse and change your baby while waiting for your flight.

Dress for the Occasion

There are many versatile tops you can wear if you plan to nurse. Having convertible clothing will make the breastfeeding life easier. You won’t have to lift up your top and expose your belly.

It’s not necessary to buy nursing tops when it comes to breastfeeding. Sometimes, you’ll be able to find what you need right in your closet! Many mamas find that stretchy bras, like a sports bra, works well for breastfeeding. You wouldn’t have to do any bra unfastening. A hungry baby can’t wait!

Layering with a camisole and a loose top that can be easily lifted or pulled to the side, will also do the trick! Shirts that can easily be unbuttoned are also great for nursing moms. Dressing for nursing lets you discretely feed your little one swiftly, so you can get back to doing whatever you were doing.

Another item to consider bringing are nursing pads. Any breast milk leaking will be absorbed by those nursing pads, which is great if you’re on the go.

Your closet may not have the right outfit for breastfeeding. You can always bring a nursing cover in your diaper bag or purse!

Bring a Nursing Cover

A nursing cover goes over your shoulders and has enough room for baby to latch. There is plenty of room for baby to nurse and breathe, and so you can take a glance at your little cutie! Bringing a nursing cover is a personal choice, since it provides a nice layer of privacy for public breastfeeding.

Sometimes, you aren’t able to find a private area to breastfeed. Bringing a nursing cover will help your baby breastfeed discreetly.

Milk Snob has adorable covers that are perfect for new moms to use. Their covers are stylish, comfortable, and functional. Their covers, which have 4-way stretch assures for comfort while nursing. Their covers also provide shade, privacy, and protection against weather.

Many nursing covers are designed with versatility in mind. There are many different fabrics and patterns you can choose from, so you can find the one that works best in your environment.  

Milk Snob’s covers can be used for nursing and covering for your seat, but it can also be used for shopping carts, high chairs, and swings. Since the covers are so multifunctional, they make a great staple for your diaper bag.  

Since nursing covers line are used in so many different ways, it’s important to keep the fabric clean for baby. Noodle & Boo’s Baby Laundry Bundle will keep your nursing cover clean! Both the Ultra-Safe Laundry Detergent and Ultra-Soft Fabric Conditioner feature Noodle & Boo’s signature Crème Douce scent.

Noodle & Boo’s products are Hypoallergenic, non-toxic, cruelty-free, pediatrician-tested and dermatologist-tested. Since the Baby Laundry Bundle is made without dyes, formaldehydes, phosphates, phthalates, or 1.4 dioxane, it’s perfect for washing your sweet baby’s delicate clothing.

Practice with Mom Friends

If you are still hesitant about nursing in public, have a mom friend come with you! She doesn’t have to be breastfeeding, but it’s great to have company with you. When you’re in a supportive environment you will be able to build confidence. Motherhood communities are essential for new and veteran moms alike.  

Local moms and even your relatives can give insight on places where they’ve been able to nurse their baby. You’ll even be able to learn their tips and tricks on making public breastfeeding a stress-free experience.

Practice at Home

Are you concerned about revealing too much skin when breastfeeding in public? You may want to practice in front of a mirror. When looking in front of a mirror while breastfeeding, you’ll see that your baby blocks your breast from being too visible, so this can be comforting.

When practicing at home, you can try different nursing covers and/or clothing to see what works best for you and your baby. If you decide to wear a nursing bra, you can practice undoing and redoing it one handed.

Every baby is different. Some babies don’t mind being covered when nursing, and some babies can’t stand it. Breastfeeding at home first will help you figure out what your baby is comfortable with.

Remember before you step out, it’s important to do your own research to find what spots are ideal for you to nurse your babe. Happy breastfeeding, Mama!

Resources:

Medela

What to Expect

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