Congratulations, you're having (or have just had) a baby! Once the newness of it all settles in, you may decide to begin breastfeeding. (But don't forget: formula is perfectly fine for babies, too! [1]) We've gone ahead and put together a list of the leading products to help you get started, from pillows to nipple shields.
The Honest Company Nipple Balm, Soothe & Moisturize
Both breastfeeding and pumping can get painful. From cracked nipples to tiny lacerations on the areola, the The Honest Company Nipple Balm [3] ($11) can soothe and moisturize.
Motherhood Maternity Plus Size Wireless Nursing Sports Bra
Motherhood Maternity Plus Size Wireless Nursing Sports Bra [4] ($22) provides all the support you'd expect from a sports bra while delivering the flexibility required for a nursing bra.
My BrestFriend Nursing Pillow
If you're planning on breastfeeding, the My BrestFriend Nursing Pillow [5] ($40) is popular among the new mom set. (Important to know: some mothers who have C-sections find that this pillow doesn't work for them.) Another favorite is the Boppy [6] ($30). Both help you position the baby.
Babylist Bottle Box
You won't know until you meet your precious little one which type of nipple they'll prefer to use (assuming you'll be bottlefeeding at some point), so the Babylist Bottle Box [7] ($25, originally $44) is a great place to start. Rather than having to dart out in the middle of the night to purchase a new brand of bottle, this kit has all of the major heavy-hitters included: Dr. Brown's, Comotomo, Philips AVENT, Tommee Tippee, and Munchkin.
Spectra Baby Breast Pump
There are many breast pumps on the market, and oftentimes you should be able to get one through your insurance. But if you're looking for something that's hospital grade, consider adding the Spectra Baby Breast Pump [8] ($165) to your registry as a big-ticket item.
Medela Quick Clean Breastmilk Removal Soap
Breast milk can get thick and greasy, so you'll want something that makes cleanup a breeze, like the Medela Quick Clean Breastmilk Removal Soap [9] ($7, originally $8).
Munchkin High Capacity Drying Rack
You really only need this if you plan to do bottle feeding. Not only is the Munchkin High Capacity Drying Rack [10] ($13, originally $16) dishwasher-safe, but you can also dry nipples on the top shelf.
Contact Nipple Shield
If you're experiencing any tenderness whatsoever during the latch, try putting on a Contact Nipple Shield [11] ($7). They come in many different sizes so pay attention to sizing before ordering. Some moms even use shields to pump as another layer of protection.
Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags
There's a lovely amount of freedom that comes from handing someone else the baby and a bottle of your breastmilk. If you plan to store milk, or if you'll be returning to work and plan on pumping, the Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags [11] ($9, originally $16) are absolutely clutch.
CAKE Cotton Candy Seamless Nursing Bra
CAKE's Cotton Candy Seamless Nursing Bra [12] ($53) feels so luxurious, you'll hate laundry day.
Soma Water Bottle
Nursing and pumping make you incredibly thirsty. Plan ahead, and keep water nearby so you can access it easily. The Soma Water Bottle [13] ($30) is not only beautiful, but it's made of a shatter-resistant glass.
Burp Cloths
Feedings get messy, so you'll want access to as many Burp Cloths [14] ($18) as you can get.
Arrow Nursing Cover
If you plan to nurse in public and want to cover up (which you absolutely do not have to do — nurse however you wish!), the Arrow Nursing Cover [15] ($23) is supereasy to maneuver.