7 of the best breastfeeding products every mom needs to try

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and rewarding journey, but let’s be real—it’s not always easy. From sore nipples to late-night feedings, every mom faces her own set of challenges. The good news? The right products can make all the difference! Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, these seven game-changing breastfeeding essentials will help make nursing more comfortable, convenient, and stress-free. Ready to discover the must-haves that can transform your breastfeeding experience? Let’s dive in!

nipple shields

These babies saved me when my youngest and I were going through thrush. Even in the earliest days of breastfeeding, I could’ve benefitted from these. They are a silicone cover that sits on top of the breast so that there’s a barrier between your baby’s mouth and your nipple. There’s also a cutout for baby‘s nose so it isn’t covered while feeding. Although the nipple shields are intended for short-term breastfeeding use, you’ll be glad you did. They are an item that’s covered by FSA/HSA, and is a low-priced item that can be reused after proper sterilization.

silverettes

Silverettes provide comfort to breastfeeding mothers through the healing properties of silver. They are a cup for your nipple and areola, and are worn under your breast pad and bra. You drop a few drops of breast milk into the silverettes, and let the magic happen. I recommended these to a new mom and she said she felt relief within the first day of using them! I only used them with my third, and I regret not trying them sooner. The pain of the early days of breastfeeding, an improper latch, or an infection can take a mother’s breastfeeding journey off the rails.

coconut water / pink drink

Hydration should be your best friend in general, but is especially important while breastfeeding. I first heard about the Starbucks Pink Drink on Pinterest when looking for ways to boost my milk supply with my firstborn. They are a tasty treat that’s very low on caffeine (there’s some tea in it). I would grab a small one and see if it’s to your liking. If not, you can try coconut water as it’s filled with electrolytes and can be a refreshing break from water.

There are copycat recipes out there for the Pink Drink – I tried at home and didn’t have much success. Maybe befriend a barista and have them tell you the secret!

slm water cup

Since hydration is your best friend, I would invest or use a thermos or insulated water bottle/cup to keep yourself hydrated. The more water that you see, the more you’re able to consume and the less you have to refill. In the first days of breastfeeding after birth, you WILL be thirsty. I took this cup with me to the hospital because I like my water ice cold, and it prevents the iced water they give you from getting lukewarm.

saline wipes

Saline wipes were first introduced to me with my third born by the lactation consultant at the hospital. She recommended to wipe after a feed to keep the nipples clean. Since your bras and nursing pads can retain moisture, this is the perfect environment for yeast to grow which causes thrush. I invested in these individually wrapped wipes recently, and use them before and after each feed. I use one and cut it in half to reduce waste.

hydrogel nipple pads

For sore nipples, or for when they may need some TLC, you can use hydrogel nipple pads. The hydrogel has a cooling effect which is soothing to a sore boob, and they can be used multiple times within a 24 hour period.

haaka

The Haaka is a manual breast pump that sits on the boob with suction and will take extra milk from the other boob when you are feeding. When your milk supply is building up, or if you’ve gone a few more hours between feedings than anticipated, they can become full and engorged. The Haaka is a nice way to reduce the load. I use the Haaka on the alternate boob for the first 5 minutes of the feed, just in case baby is hungry and wants more after the initial feed. It’s a great way to begin storing a milk supply. I can easily fill up 1 to 2 6oz bags of breast milk a day.

What are some of your favorite game changing breastfeeding products? Tell me in the comments and I’ll write a second post about those 🙂

With love