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Buying Guide: Breastfeeding Supplies

• Breast Pumps
• Breast Milk Storage
• Breastfeeding Accessories

The choice to breastfeed is certainly an important one. Breast milk is all natural, easy to digest, always at the right temperature, and always available. If you decide to breastfeed, you'll need a pump and storage containers, along with a few other accessories such as breast pads and a nursing bra. You'll also want to keep some bottles on hand for times when it's not convenient to nurse, or if you'll be away from baby at mealtime.

Breast Pumps
Breast pumps serve many purposes. They can provide relief from engorgement, they help ensure that milk is available even if you're not, and they give other caregivers the chance to share in the feeding experience. There are three types to choose from, so you're sure to find one that will suit your specific needs.

Manual Breast Pumps
Lightweight, compact and portable, you squeeze a handle on this type or pump to draw milk from the breast. Most feature fingertip adjustable suction, so you can find the setting that's just right for you. A manual pump is most suitable for moms who will be nursing exclusively and will only be pumping a few times a week at most.

Battery-Operated Breast Pumps
A bit more convenient than manual pumps, this version uses battery power to automate the pumping process. This will allow you to pump more milk in less time, and will save you from the hand and wrist strain of using a manual pump. This style of pump is great for busy moms who will need to pump more often than moms who are available to nurse exclusively.

Electric Breast Pumps
An electric pump is the best choice for working moms who will need to pump daily for quite some time. Many of them come with a feeding system that will allow you to pump, store, and feed from the same container. Electric pumps can be a bit louder and heavier than manual and battery-operated pumps, but they often give you more control over the suction level and speed. Moms who need to pump frequently find that electric pumps are faster and more comfortable to use. You'll also find that many electric pumps can be converted into battery-operated or manual pumps.

There are also double pumps that can express milk form both breasts simultaneously, as well as rental pumps available through hospitals or pharmacies. A rental pump may be a good choice for you if you plan on pumping exclusively, or if you are trying to maintain your milk supply after a multiple birth.

Browse our full selection of breast pumps.

Breast Milk Storage
Once you pump, or express your milk, you'll need to store it. The best way to store your milk is in plastic or glass feeding bottles with tight-fitting caps. There are also bags and liners made especially for storing breast milk. You may want to opt for a complete feeding system which will allow you to pump, store, and feed from the same bottle. Whichever type of container you choose, be sure to label and date your milk accurately. Breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, or in the freezer for 3-6 months. You can thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in warm water. The nutrients in breast milk will be killed in the microwave, so never heat or thaw breast milk in the microwave. Thawed breast milk should be used within 24 hours, and should never be refrozen.

Breastfeeding Accessories
Along with a reliable breast pump, there are a few other items that can further enhance the experience of breastfeeding, adding to baby's comfort and to yours as well.

• Nursing pillows are designed to fit around your abdomen and provide extra support for baby. They can also help to ease the neck and back strain nursing mothers may experience.
• Nursing stools are footstools that help to raise your lap, putting you in a more comfortable and relaxed position and taking the strain off of the mid and lower back.
• Nursing bras feature a detachable cup for more convenient nursing and pumping.
• Breast shells, or shields, consist of a plastic ring that goes over your areola and a plastic dome that covers the ring and keeps the fabric of your bra away from the nipple. They protect sore nipples and allow air to circulate around the nipple, which can aid in the healing process. Breast shells can also help draw out flat or inverted nipples.
• Breast pads are a must for nursing moms. Contoured and absorbent, they protect your clothing from embarrassing leaks and staining. You can choose from washable or disposable styles. All of them are designed to fit inside a regular or nursing bra with a natural appearance.
• Breast creams help to soothe and heal sore nipples, and can provide some much needed relief. For added convenience, look for a cream that won't have to be washed off prior to feeding.
• Nursing shawls and wraps provide extra privacy when nursing baby, and can give baby an added sense of comfort when nursing in unfamiliar or busy surroundings.

Breastfeeding is a wonderful commitment to providing your child a natural and healthy diet. An enriching and bonding experience, many experts agree that the benefits of breastfeeding can last a lifetime. If you plan to breastfeed, be sure to add a breast pump and other breastfeeding accessories to your registry. They are items no nursing mother should be without, and you and baby will both enjoy the extra comforts at mealtime.

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