22 Of The Best Breastfeeding Hacks Nursing Mums Need To Know

Welcome to our blog, new moms! Breastfeeding, especially for the first time, is often seen as the most natural thing in the world. But let’s be honest, it comes with its challenges and a significant learning curve. Whether it’s mastering the two-shirt method for discreet feeding or finding a good latch, it can take up a lot of time and effort in the early days with your new baby.

Here are our favorite breastfeeding hacks that will make your life easier!

1. Nursing Tanks

Nursing tanks are perfect for wearing when out and about in public. As they provide more modesty while feeding. The nursing clip allows you to drop the cups as required, while keeping your stomach and midriff area covered up.

Choose a tank with snaps or buttons on one side, so you can unclip it to nurse quickly and easily. A well made supportive nursing tank will not require a nursing bra to be worn underneath. 

Breastfeeding tanks are available in a variety of fabrics and styles at most maternity stores or online.

2. Nursing Shirts and T-shirts

Nursing shirts and t-shirts are ideal for breastfeeding. They provide you with more coverage around the stomach area, while also giving you quick access to your breast through a cleverly designed opening in the front of the shirt .

Wear clothing that allows for easy access to the breast and avoids too many layers. Tops that have buttons, zips and nursing access make for a less complicated and a stress-free feed.

3. Mammary Minders

It is important to ensure your breasts both get drained and get fed from equally, as this will help to avoid block ducts and other engorgement issues.

Mammary minders allow you to tag the side of the nursing bra after feeding, to help remind you from which side you fed your baby last.

4. Keep a hair tie (or something else colorful) on the wrist of the last breast you fed on

To keep your baby from feeding on only one breast, you will need to switch back and forth between which side your baby is feeding. Always start your breastfeeding session on the breast you last expressed milk from.

If, for example, you started on the right breast before switching to the left, and then switched back to the other side again, make sure you start with that side when you do your next feed.

As you nurse, place a hair band on your wrist to remind yourself which breast to feed from next. Make sure you switch the hair tie to the other side while you’re feeding. This will ensure that you start on the correct breast next time around.

This is one of those clever little breastfeeding hacks that helps keep remembering which side you need to feed on next time super simple.

5. Nursing Cover, Slings, Scarfs

Nursing covers and slings and scarfs can be useful when feeding in public. They act like a shield and provide privacy and discretion. Breastfeeding in public can intimidate at first, but it will get easier with time.

6. Nursing Breast Pads

Nursing pads have been designed to help protect lactating mothers from embarrassing leaks onto outerwear. Always carry spare sets of nursing pads in your handbag to ensure you stay dry throughout the day.

Absorbant nursing pads come in disposable options that can be thrown away after use or washable options that can be used time and time again after washing. The choice is yours to make.

7. Reusable Water Bottle

Sipping water throughout the day will help keep you hydrated during breastfeeding while also helping your body produce more breastmilk than if you didn’t drink any fluids. Keep extra water bottles around your house and in the babys changing bag. This way you will always have access to lots of water. 

8. Lactation Cookies

One of the most important parts of breastfeeding is getting enough food, and lactation cookies are perfect for a snack or light breakfast. Breastfeeding women need an average of 500 more calories per day than non-pregnant females. Lactation Cookies are simple to make and provide that extra energy needed during this time in your life! Plus, they can help improve the amount of breast milk you produce.

Breastfeeding moms should eat at least one a day for the increased energy and milk production.

9. Lactation Boos Smoothies

Lactation Smoothies are a great way to get in that extra 500 calories per day, as well as helping with milk production. Breastfeeding moms should drink at least one Lactation Smoothie throughout the week for increased energy and improved milk production.

10. Breast Milk Storage Bags

When storing breast milk, Breast Milk Storage Bags are an excellent choice. Breastmilk storage bags allow you to save the precious liquid gold in a leak-proof bag and even carry it with you on the go! The special liner inside doesn’t let liquids seep through so your milk stays fresh all day long.

11. Breastfeeding Apps

There are many wonderful apps available that help us organise our daily life. Should you be this way inclined, download a breastfeeding app to help keep a track of feeding times, etc. With apps you can keep a breastfeed log which may help you identify and breastfeeding issues. You will always have access to your information which could be useful if you need to speak to your health visitor or lactation consultant about something as you’ll have all the info you need with you. 

12. Cabbage Leaves

Cabbage leaves are a homemade remedy for when breast milk comes in and you need relief from sore nipples and engorged breasts.

Place the cold cabbage leaves inside of your nursing bra for immediate relief – the ultimate breastfeeding hack!

13. Zip-Lock Bags

Carry empty zip-lock bags with you. They are wonderful for storing used nursing pads and pumping parts.

This way you can avoid mess and smells from developing when out and about.

The Zip-lock bags can simply be emptied at home and washed out for use again at a later date.

14. Nursing Pillow

A nursing pillow is not just a pillow; it’s a lifesaver! This handy tool helps position your baby at the perfect height for breastfeeding, reducing strain on your arms, neck, and back. It can be especially helpful for mothers recovering from a C-section. Plus, it’s great for tummy time and as a prop as your baby grows.

15. Nipple Shields

 If you’re facing challenges like latching difficulties, flat or inverted nipples, or nipple pain, nipple shields can be a great solution. Made of thin, flexible silicone, they can help your baby latch more effectively while also protecting your nipples from further damage. It’s important to consult with a lactation specialist before using them to ensure they’re used correctly and effectively.

16. Nipple Cream

Lanolin Cream is Your Friend. Sore, cracked nipples can be a challenge. Lanolin cream is great for healing and is safe for the baby.

​17. Herbal Supplements

Certain herbal supplements like fenugreek, blessed thistle, and fennel are known to boost milk supply. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements, as they might not be suitable for everyone and could interact with other medications.

18. Electric Pump

If you’re a busy mom or returning to work, an electric breast pump can be a game-changer. It’s faster and more efficient than manual pumping, and many models offer different suction levels and patterns to mimic your baby’s natural nursing rhythm. Plus, some electric pumps allow for double pumping, saving you precious time.

19. Nursing Necklace

A nursing necklace, also known as a teething necklace, can be a fantastic tool to keep your baby’s hands busy while breastfeeding. These necklaces are made with baby-safe materials and can keep your little one from pinching or pulling your hair. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance the nursing experience for both you and your baby.

20. Cold Compresses

After a long nursing session, or if you’re experiencing engorgement, a cold compress can provide much-needed relief. You can use a chilled gel pack, a bag of frozen peas, or even a cold, damp cloth. The cold helps to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Remember to wrap the compress in a cloth to protect your skin.

21. Two-Shirt Method

For new moms who want to breastfeed discreetly in public, the two-shirt method is a fantastic hack. It involves wearing two layers – a tank top or a camisole under a regular shirt. When it’s time to feed your baby, you simply lift up the outer shirt and pull down the tank top, allowing easy access while keeping most of your torso covered. This method is not only convenient but also helps you feel more comfortable and private when breastfeeding in public places. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain your modesty without compromising on your baby’s feeding schedule.

22. Warm Washcloth

A warm washcloth can be a breastfeeding mom’s best friend, especially during those early days. Applying a warm washcloth to your breasts before a feeding or pumping session can help stimulate milk flow and let-down. This gentle warmth encourages milk ducts to open up, making it easier for your baby to get a good latch and for you to express more milk. It’s particularly helpful if you’re experiencing engorgement or if your milk flow seems slower than usual. Plus, it’s a comforting ritual that can relax both you and your baby, turning each feeding into a more soothing experience.

The Ultimate Breastfeeding Course

If you are having difficulty, breastfeeding then this course may be able to help you. You’ll be breastfeeding like a pro in 90 minutes.

A simple step-by-step program that covers everything you need to know in 13 easy-to-watch lessons.

Here are a few things you’ll learn when you enrol:

• The biggest mistake women make that can sabotage breastfeeding
• The most effective breastfeeding position to get a deep latch
• 2 simple ways to ensure your baby is getting enough milk
• A powerful strategy to make more milk whenever you need to
• 7 places to seek and find your super support tribe
• …and much more!

There are 13 videos included which you can stream on demand and across all devices. Perfect for learning in your pyjamas!

You’ll also get The Ultimate Trouble Shooting Guide PDF, Ultimate Class Notes PDF and the Little Black Book Of Breastfeeding Secrets PDF. Read more about the ultimate breastfeeding class here.