Breastfeeding comes with a learning curve. The right products won’t make it effortless, but they will make it significantly more comfortable. Here are the 10 essentials worth having from day one.
If you want the quickest path to the most important purchases, start with best breast pumps, newborn feeding station, and best baby bottles for newborns. That gets you to the highest-urgency gear first.
Momcozy M5 Wearable Breast Pump
Check Price on Amazon →1. Breast Pump
Even if you plan to breastfeed exclusively, a pump lets you build a freezer stash, relieve engorgement, and share feeding duties with your partner.
Top picks: Momcozy M5 (wearable), Spectra S1 (electric)
Momcozy M5 — Price: ~$70 Pros:
- Fully wearable and hands-free
- Whisper-quiet
Cons:
- Lower max suction than hospital-grade pumps
Spectra S1 — Price: ~$160 Pros:
- Closed system with strong, consistent suction
- Trusted by lactation consultants
Cons:
- Not hands-free without a pumping bra
See our full breast pump guide →
2. Nursing Pillow
A nursing pillow brings baby to breast height so you’re not hunching over for every feed. Your back will thank you.
Top pick: Boppy Original Nursing Pillow — the most popular option for good reason.
Price: ~$35
Pros:
- Keeps baby at the right height to reduce back and arm strain
- Versatile — also used for tummy time and sitting support later
Cons:
- Cover sold separately on some versions
Who it’s for: Any nursing or bottle-feeding parent who wants to reduce strain during long feeding sessions.
3. Nipple Cream
Sore nipples are common in the first few weeks. A good lanolin cream helps heal and protect.
Top pick: Lansinoh HPA Lanolin — used by lactation consultants worldwide, safe for baby.
Price: ~$10
Pros:
- Safe for baby — no need to wipe off before nursing
- Soothes and protects cracked or sore nipples
Cons:
- Lanolin is not suitable for those with wool allergies
Who it’s for: Any nursing mom experiencing soreness in the first weeks of breastfeeding.
4. Nursing Pads
Leaking between feeds is normal, especially in the early weeks. Nursing pads prevent embarrassing wet spots.
Options:
- Disposable: Lansinoh Stay Dry (convenient)
- Reusable: Bamboobies (eco-friendly, softer)
Price: ~$8–$15 for disposable packs; ~$15–$20 for reusable sets
Choose based on whether you prefer convenience or reusable materials.
5. Milk Storage Bags
If you’re pumping, you need a safe way to store breast milk. Look for bags that are pre-sterilized, leak-proof, and clearly labeled.
Top pick: Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags — stand upright, easy to label, and widely trusted.
Price: ~$15
Pros:
- Pre-sterilized and double-sealed to prevent leaks
- Stands upright in the freezer and has a write-on label area
Cons:
- Single-use only — creates plastic waste over time
Who it’s for: Any pumping parent who needs reliable, widely available milk storage bags.
6. Haakaa Silicone Pump
This simple silicone pump attaches to the opposite breast while you nurse to catch letdown. It’s inexpensive and surprisingly effective for building a stash.
Top pick: Haakaa Gen 2 — 4oz capacity, with a suction base so it doesn’t tip over.
Price: ~$14
A silicone pump is a simple add-on if you want to collect letdown without setting up a full electric pump.
7. Nursing Bras
Regular bras make breastfeeding awkward. A good nursing bra has clips that open with one hand for quick, discreet access.
Top pick: Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime — bestseller on Amazon with thousands of 5-star reviews.
Fit and clip design matter more than brand here, so prioritize comfort and support.
8. Burp Cloths
You need more than you think. Babies spit up after almost every feed.
Recommendation: Get at least 10-12. Muslin ones are soft and wash well.
Burp cloths are a low-cost item worth buying in bulk from a material you like.
9. Nursing Cover (Optional)
If you plan to nurse in public, a lightweight nursing cover gives privacy without overheating baby.
Top pick: Bebe au Lait Nursing Cover — breathable muslin, adjustable neckline so you can see baby.
This is optional and depends on your comfort level with public nursing.
10. Water Bottle
Breastfeeding makes you incredibly thirsty. Keep a large water bottle nearby at all times — seriously.
Top pick: Stanley Quencher 40oz — the one every breastfeeding mom seems to own.
A large insulated bottle is useful even if you choose a different brand.
Comparison Table: Quick Reference List
| Product | Why You Need It | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Breast pump | Flexibility + freezer stash | Must-have |
| Nursing pillow | Saves your back | Must-have |
| Nipple cream | Heals soreness | Must-have |
| Nursing pads | Prevents leaks | Must-have |
| Storage bags | Store pumped milk | Must-have |
| Haakaa | Easy stash building | Nice-to-have |
| Nursing bras | Convenient access | Must-have |
| Burp cloths | Spit-up coverage | Must-have |
| Nursing cover | Public nursing | Optional |
| Water bottle | Hydration | Must-have |
FAQ
What breastfeeding essentials should I buy before baby arrives?
Start with a nursing pillow, nipple cream, nursing pads, burp cloths, and a few milk storage bags if you plan to pump. You can wait on extras like a nursing cover or silicone pump until you know your routine.
If you’re also building the whole feeding area, the next most useful read is newborn feeding station.
Do I need a breast pump if I plan to exclusively breastfeed?
Not always, but many parents still want one for flexibility, building a small freezer stash, or sharing feeds with a partner. Check insurance first because many plans cover a pump.
How many nursing bras do I need?
Two to three comfortable nursing bras is enough to start. Fit can change after milk comes in, so avoid buying a full set before you know your size.
Are reusable nursing pads better than disposable pads?
Reusable pads cost less over time and feel softer for many parents, while disposable pads are convenient for travel and heavy leaking. A small pack of each is a practical starting point.
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