We often get asked for advice by pregnant mothers, on what
products are the absolute essential baby gear that they need to
purchase, in preparation for the new baby, and coming home with a
new baby.
We're mums too, and give advice based on our knowledge , and
what we did when our children were born.
Boobs Will Leak
So you'll need some type of breast pad to absorb leaks so
that you don't wet all your t-shirts. This can be embarrassing,
annoying, and a real hassle. Here at Breastmates wool breast pads
were our founding product. Then we developed some hemp breast pads
which have a slightly higher absorbency and are easier to wash and
dry. So these would be essentials. But you might not be into the
"reusable washable" thing, so then you could try some disposable
breast pads.
Boobs are Going to Get Bigger
So you'll need to get some maternity bras. These are special
bras designed for breastfeeding, where the cup drops down so that
you can give baby the boob, but you don't have to remove your bra.
Just measure yourself to determine your size, and order one or two
bras (and if you really want to indulge yourself we have matching
knickers too). It's easy to measure yourself to determine your bra
size, you just need a tape measure, and our online bra size
calculator. Please note that bra sizes do change between different
brands. The HOTmilk bras are just
gorgeous, you must check them out!
The best time for a breastfeeding bra fitting is 36-38 weeks
pregnancy, or about 2 weeks after baby is born after you have
finished the initial engorgement.
You Don't Want to Flash Everyone
You don't want to expose yourself when breastfeeding your new
baby, so you might want to consider looking at some of our nursing tops which are
designed to help you discretely breastfeed baby. We have several
styles, from singlet nursing
tops, casual breast feeding
tops, maternity
PJ's (great for hospital), and more dressy-smart type breastfeeding
clothing. If you don't want to purchase a whole new wardrobe,
then you might like to look at Belly Bands which
just cover flabby jelly post-partum bellies so at least that is not
all on display when you lift up your clothing to feed baby. Merino
wrap ponchos are also a handy wardrobe accessory.
Nip's Might Get a Bit Sore
Yes, nipples can get a thrashing with a baby latching on them.
So you will definitely need some nipple cream. Nipple cream should
be applied after every feed, and can help to prevent cracks, grazes
and sore nipples. We suggest the Purelan Lanolin Nipple
Cream
Nappy Brain
Yes it is true you will really loose some brain cells and
memory! The handiest little thing, also inexpensive, that I have
come across is the Mothers Minder Nursing Bracelet. Its a silicone
wristband with a sliding time scale. You can use it to keep track
of the times that you fed baby. Sure some people will laugh at this
post and say "i know when the baby is hungry, they will be crying",
but trust us! This little gadget gives you one less thing to worry
about and remember!! Its also a great baby shower gift.
Okay, so those are the absolute essentials.... But it does
depend on your family and your activities so take at look at the
rest of our breastfeeding products online.