The must-haves that help you feed comfortably and confidently from day one Whether it’s your first baby or your third, the early days of breastfeeding are a learning curve for both you and your baby. It’s beautiful, but it can also be messy, emotional, and unpredictable. The good news? With a few smart essentials and a little preparation, you can make those first weeks more comfortable and calm. Here’s your go-to breastfeeding checklist—written by mums, for mums—with practical tools and gentle advice that truly make a difference.
Feeding Essentials
Start with the basics that support comfort, recovery, and confidence.
- Nursing bras: Choose two or three wire-free, comfortable options with easy access clips.
- Breast pads: Have both washable and disposable options for day and night.
- Silver Nursing Cups: The Lactivate® Silver Nursing Cups help soothe and protect sore nipples naturally—a true day-one essential.
- Nipple balm: Pick a lanolin-free, baby-safe formula for quick relief.
- Burp cloths / muslin squares: Keep several on hand in every room.
- Ice & Heat Packs: The Lactivate® Ice & Heat Packs can help with engorgement, blocked ducts, or easing let-down.
Pro tip: Keep one set of heat packs in the fridge and another in the freezer, so you’re ready for both cooling and warming relief.
Pumping and Milk Storage
Even if you’re planning to exclusively breastfeed, it’s worth setting up a pumping station before your baby arrives.
- Silicone collector or pump- to use instead of a nursing pad or catch let down on the opposite side when feeding
- Breast pump: A hands-free or wearable pump, such as the Lactivate® ARIA Pump, offers flexibility and freedom.
- Extra pump parts: Keep a spare set so you’re not constantly washing between sessions.
- Bottles- with slow flow teats if bottle feeding
- Storage bags or reusable containers: Label each one with the date and volume.
- Permanent marker or labels: Write clearly before freezing.
- Portable milk warmer: Makes warming expressed milk faster and easier.
Pro tip: Freeze milk in 60–90mL portions so it defrosts faster and reduces waste.
Organisation and Setup
Feeding takes time, but you can save a lot of it by keeping things organised and within reach.
- Nursing Caddy: A Lactivate® Nursing Caddy keeps your essentials in one place. Move it easily between rooms.
- Comfortable chair: Choose a supportive seat that you can sit in for long periods.
- Side table: Keep water, snacks, and your phone close by.
- Night light: Soft lighting helps with calm, sleepy feeds.
- Drying mat: Use a clean towel or mat for drying pump parts.
- Large water bottle: You’ll drink more if it’s already beside you.
Pro tip: Set up two “feeding stations”—one in your main living area and another near your bed for night feeds.
Postpartum Comfort and Recovery
Your comfort matters as much as your baby’s. Taking care of yourself helps your body heal and supports your feeding journey.
- Peri Bottle: The Lactivate® Peri Bottle makes postpartum care simple and soothing.
- Peri Ice Strips: Provide gentle cooling and relief after birth.
- Soft loungewear: Choose breathable, easy-access tops and a comfortable robe.
- Support pillow: Helpful for longer feeds or postural support.
- One-handed snacks: Lactation cookies, muesli bars, nuts, and fruit are ideal when you can’t get up.
Pro tip: Keep a snack stash in your caddy—oats, dates, and nuts are milk-supply friendly and easy to eat while feeding.
Mindset and Support
Feeding is as much emotional as it is physical. Having support and realistic expectations makes all the difference.
- Lactation consultant: Save their number in your phone before you need it.
- Support groups: Join a local or online breastfeeding community.
- Rest reminders: Sleep and hydration are your best supply boosters.
- Perspective: Every mum’s journey is different—there’s no single “right” way to feed your baby. Seek support as mums are not supposed to learn how to breastfeed in isolation- create your village to support you.
- Request a mealtrain- an excellent alternative to a baby shower
You don’t need every gadget on the market—just the tools that make you feel comfortable and supported. A little preparation now can make those early weeks calmer and less overwhelming. When you sit down for that first feed, you’ll be glad you took the time to set yourself up for success.
