The thing I loved most was being able to go outside, visit public places, or simply move around my home and feel free to breastfeed whenever needed — without any fuss or stress. At home, having a “system” in place made all the difference. Knowing exactly where things were and having certain essentials on hand helped me feel physically comfortable and emotionally relaxed. Whether I was plopped on the couch or sitting on the foam playmat, I could feed my baby with more ease, more joy, and far less pain or discomfort.

This is the list of what you need for breastfeeding and pumping — sticking to the essentials that make life simpler and more comfortable. It’s the perfect place to start. Let’s go!

1. Nursing Shirts and Nursing Tank Tops

Why You Need It:
You’ll live in these — literally. An easy-access nursing tee shirt, long sleeve nursing top that looks good to wear outside and with any pants, or a flowy nursing tank top lets you feed or pump without the juggling act. Wear an easy sports bra or your favorite nursing bra with these.

It saves time, keeps you stylish, makes you comfortable, and helps you stay discreet anywhere, anytime. No elastics, no ruffles, no decorations…just classic nursing clothing you can wash and wear, over and over. (You’ll be baby feeding over and over…so trust me on this!)

When & How Often You’ll Use It:
Every single day (and night). You’ll wear them under clothes, to bed, around the house, and on errands. They are often loose fitting to wear from nesting during preganacy, to after baby is born.

Wear these tops. to work, and pump as needed. You need to be sure to have some staples because it helps make the commitment to nurse your child, stay even stronger.

Pro Tip:
Go for soft, breathable cotton-blend fabric like Bun Maternity’s USA-made nursing tanks and t-shirts — designed to be easy, practical, loose fitting, and move with your changing body.

2. Nipple Cream or Balm

Why You Need It:
The first few weeks can be rough. A good nipple balm soothes irritation, prevents cracking, and promotes healing — without needing to wash it off before feeding.

When you are new to nursing or pumping, there is friction. Period. So nipple cream from the minute you pack your birth bag is a must have.

When & How Often:
Use after every feeding or pumping session, especially in the early postpartum days (like even day 1).

Pro Tip:
Choose one that’s doctor recommended, hypoallergenic, free of additives, preservatives, and has no parabens. Ask your doctor for any questions with specific brands and ingredients if you are not sure or are looking for something specific.

4. A Reliable Breast Pump

Why You Need It:
Whether you’re back to work, building a freezer stash, or just want your partner to take a feeding shift, a pump is essential. It helps maintain supply, or boost milk supply, and gives you flexibility.

You’re going to want this before the baby arrives, and need it from Day 1.

When & How Often:
Use daily if you’re an exclusive pumper or working mom; occasionally if you’re mostly nursing.

Pro Tip:
Hospital-grade electric pumps are best for consistent daily use. There are a few to choose from, but Medela and Spectra are super solid choices. They work, have good customer care, and a reliable.

Manual pumps are great for quick relief or travel (I keep one in the car).

A hands free breast pump is awesome to support working mothers, help boost milk supply when needing extra sessions, and also to be able to roam the house freely.

5. Milk Storage Bags or Bottles

Why You Need It:
You’ll need somewhere safe and sterile to store that liquid gold. Storage bags save freezer space and are easy to label and thaw. Don’t use any bags for this. This is liquid gold mamas, so use reliable, approved, and food grade bags to store breastmilk.

When & How Often:
Use every time you pump.

Pro Tip:
Freeze milk flat to save space, and always label with the date and time pumped. Some sources say you can freeze breastmilk up to six months in a regular freezer, but using the breastmilk sooner than that is better. Try to store the bags in the coldest part of the freezer.

6. Breast Pump Cleaning Supplies

Why You Need It:
Keeping parts clean prevents bacteria growth and milk residue build-up that can ruin your milk’s safety.

When & How Often:
After every pumping session.

Pro Tip:
Keep a pump cleaning kit by your sink — bottle brush, drying rack, and pump wipes for when you’re on the go.

8. Breastfeeding Pillow

Why You Need It:
A quality nursing pillow helps position baby comfortably and takes the strain off your arms, shoulders, and back during long feeds. This is such a must! You’re neck and pretty much whole body will thank you.

Plus, you need the right position to nurse baby in and a good nursing pillow offers that support you need (and supports the baby’s head and neck so they are comfy). Now you’re ready…go nurse on the couch, in bed, in a chair, in the car, outside, and wherever baby is hungry.

When & How Often:
Every feeding, especially during newborn weeks.

Pro Tip:
Choose one with a washable cover and firm support that keeps baby at breast level.

9. Burp Cloths and Baby Wipes

Why You Need It:
Babies spit up — often. Burp cloths save your clothes and furniture. Baby wipes help with those inevitable messes, spills, and leaks.

When & How Often:
Every feed, especially in the early months.

Pro Tip:
Keep a stack in every nursing station — bedroom, living room, diaper bag.

Don’t go for fancy kinds…just get some cotton muslin burp cloths. These absorb the best, hands down. If you choose all the printed, sythetic fiber ones then they won’t absorb very well.

10. Water Bottle and Snacks

Why You Need It:
Breastfeeding burns calories and can leave you dehydrated. A big, reusable water bottle and quick one-hand snacks keep your energy up.

Plus remember, you have to stay hydrated to keep milk supply up.

When & How Often:
Every time you nurse or pump — hydration and calories help maintain milk supply.

Pro Tip:
Keep lactation snacks like oat bites, nuts, or dates nearby so you never forget to refuel.

11. A Light Blanket

Why You Need It:
If you prefer extra privacy while nursing or pumping in public, or just to keep baby feeling cozy while they are nursing, a breathable cover gives everyone comfort and confidence. A swaddle blanket is actually ideal or somthing small and portable.

When & How Often:
Whenever you’re out and about.

Pro Tip:
Choose a lightweight, cotton-muslin type, soft blanket that can roll up compactly and travel with you. Stay away from wrap around ones that become car seat covers as they are often made with less-breathable sythetic fibers, and are sewn tubular so they don’t allow as much movement or positioning.

12. Warm Compress

Why You Need It:
Warmth helps with letdown and relieving engorgement or clogged ducts. Gentle, warm massage encourages milk flow and comfort.

When & How Often:
Use before or during nursing/pumping sessions as needed.

Pro Tip:
Reusable gel packs or a warm rice sock do the trick — no fancy gadgets required.

13. Hands-Free Pumping Bra

Why You Need It:
A casual, easy hands free pumping bra lets you pump while typing, eating, scrolling, or even resting your arms. You’ll thank yourself later.

When & How Often:
Every pumping session.

Pro Tip:
Choose a zip-front or adjustable style that fits both your daily pump and comfort preference.

14. A Good Diaper Bag or Pump Bag…or just a big, cool tote bag

Why You Need It:
You’ll need something roomy enough for milk, pump parts, and snacks — all while looking put-together. Sometimes an easy, big blessed mama tote bag works just perfectly.

When & How Often:
Every time you leave the house.

Pro Tip:
Look for insulated pockets for milk storage and separate compartments for clean/used parts.