Breastfeeding can be such a sweet part of motherhood, but let’s be honest—it can also involve a lot of sitting, a lot of nursing, and a surprising amount of time spent in one position.
You don’t need a huge collection of breastfeeding supplies to make nursing work. But a few thoughtful things can make those long nursing sessions more comfortable, more enjoyable, and a little more like time for you, too.
These are some of the nursing essentials I like to keep close by.
My Breastfeeding Essentials for Mom
An Insulated Water Bottle
Staying hydrated while nursing is important, and having a large insulated water bottle right beside me means I don’t have to get up every time I’m thirsty.
I especially love having one that keeps my water cold for hours. Because somehow, the moment you get comfortable with a nursing baby in your arms is exactly when you realize your water is across the room.
Lip Balm
Lip balm is one of those tiny things that I appreciate having nearby.
Breastfeeding somehow makes you notice every little discomfort, and dry lips are not something I want to think about during a long nursing session.
Wireless Headphones or Earbuds
A nursing session can also be a little pocket of time to listen to something you enjoy.
Podcasts, audiobooks, music, or simply something calming can make the time feel more relaxing. Wireless headphones are especially convenient because there aren’t cords getting in the way while you’re holding your baby.
Phone Charging Station + Apple Watch Charger
A phone charging station with a stand has become one of those surprisingly practical things.
During long nursing sessions, my phone can stay charged and upright nearby without needing to be held. And having a spot for my Apple Watch to charge at the same time makes the whole setup even more useful.
It’s a small thing, but hands-free is always welcome when your hands are already full.
Kindle
A Kindle is another favorite for nursing sessions.
It gives me something enjoyable to read without needing to hold a book open with both hands. It’s especially nice during those quiet moments when baby is nursing and I have a little time to myself.
A Book for Moms
I also like having an actual book nearby.
There is something lovely about having a book that isn’t about getting more done, organizing the house, or becoming a better version of yourself. Sometimes a mom just needs something enjoyable to read.
A Case With a Kickstand
If I’m using my phone or another device while nursing, a case with a kickstand makes things much easier.
I can prop it up rather than holding it, which leaves both hands available for baby. Again, it’s a very simple little convenience—but those are often the things that make motherhood feel easier.
Nursing Pillow
A comfortable nursing pillow can make a big difference in positioning and physical comfort.
When you’re spending so much time feeding your baby, supporting your arms and bringing baby into a comfortable position can help you avoid feeling like you’re constantly hunched over.
Washable Breast Pads
Breast pads are a practical nursing essential, and I prefer washable, reusable organic breast pads.
They’re something I like to keep on hand and simply wash and reuse rather than constantly reaching for disposable ones.
Nipple Cream or Balm
A good nipple balm is another comfort item I like to have nearby.
I use a 100% natural balm that is safe for baby, so it can be part of my nursing routine without adding another thing to worry about.
Sometimes the smallest comfort items are the ones you appreciate most.
A Small Basket
The easiest way I’ve found to keep all of these things from slowly migrating around the house is a small basket.
Water bottle, lip balm, nursing pads, nipple balm, headphones, snacks, and whatever else I’m using can all stay together.
It creates a simple little nursing station without requiring a complicated system.
Snacks: Lactation Cookies and Lactation Drink
And, of course, snacks.
I like having lactation cookies and a lactation drink within reach when I’m nursing. They’re convenient, easy to grab, and give me something enjoyable to have during a long feeding session.
Having a few nourishing snacks nearby also means I don’t suddenly realize I’m starving after I’ve finally gotten baby settled.
Everything Shown in This Nursing Essentials Pin
Washable/reusable organic breast pads
Phone & Apple Watch charging station
You Don’t Need Everything
One of my favorite things about putting together a list like this is remembering that you don’t actually need all of it.
Breastfeeding doesn’t require a perfectly stocked nursing station or a house full of special products.
Maybe a water bottle and nursing pillow are the things that make the biggest difference for you. Maybe you love listening to an audiobook while your baby nurses. Maybe having your Kindle nearby makes those late-night or afternoon sessions feel a little more enjoyable.
The goal isn’t to buy more.
It’s simply to make this season of motherhood a little more comfortable for Mom, too.
Because caring for your baby and caring for yourself don’t have to be two separate things.
Make Your Nursing Space Work for You
Choose a few things that genuinely make your nursing sessions easier, put them in one convenient place, and let that be enough.
Motherhood doesn’t need another complicated checklist.
Sometimes a comfortable pillow, cold water, lip balm, a good book, and a snack are more than enough to make a long nursing session feel just a little better.
You deserve to feel cared for while you’re caring for your baby.
