With my first baby, I was beyond surprised with how much time I spent just nursing in those first couple of weeks. It took both of us, baby and I, quite some time getting the hang of breastfeeding.

But honestly, it was great because I always had an excuse to rest for a moment when I needed it. And boy did I need it.  There were times when I thought I could literally fall asleep standing up I was so tired!

So not only was it nice to be able to just sit and rest while nursing, many times I would not want to get up, or even move much, because once baby was latched on, I didn’t want to risk him coming unlatched!  As I said, it took us awhile to get the hang of things and latching was one of the main things that took some time to master.

So keeping a breastfeeding basket nearby made those first few months when baby wants to breastfeed constantly so much easier, and helped me to make resting a priority.

So what did I have in my breastfeeding basket?  Here are some things I included, as well as some new ideas I’ve thought of:

Reading Material

The Bible, devotionals, and magazines were the main things I had in the basket for reading materials.  I liked to have things that could be a short read in case baby got fussy or I got tired.  Whatever you enjoy reading is what I would recommend having in your basket.

Scripture Cards

Moms in all seasons of life need God’s Word for sustainability, encouragement, and peace. Scripture cards are a quick and easy way to read God’s Word and implant it in your heart.   I like to pick a few cards at a time and just focus on those scriptures for a week or so, reciting them over and over in my mind as I rock and nurse my sweet babe.  Or sometimes I will say them aloud to the little one in my arms. 

I have made some printable scripture cards for pregnancy and labor, but they are actually perfect for any season of your life when you need the reminder and reassurance that God’s got you!

Water Bottle

When nursing you will be surprised how thirsty you can get. By having water ready to go within reach you lessen the number of times you need to call for help or interrupt your nursing baby so you can quench your thirst.  Plus, drinking water regularly, especially while nursing, is a good health habit to have.

Snacks

Another thing you will notice is that breastfeeding can make you hungry too. Fill your basket with healthy, high protein snacks (snack/protein bars are great for this) that you can enjoy while nursing your baby.

Diaper Changing Supplies

Supplies for a diaper change are essential to keep in your nursing mother’s basket. This will make that change easier so you can relax and not get up and going until you and baby are ready. Add disinfecting wet wipes to clean your hands after changing baby and maybe a plastic grocery bag for the dirty diapers.

Basic Hygiene Items

Basic hygiene items you need often are a great addition. Think tissue, hair ties, lotion, lip balm; having these handy will make your life easier while nursing. You want to see to your own comfort or you will not enjoy nursing your baby. If you have anything you take regularly like tums to help with heartburn leftover from baby be sure to include those as well.  If you use essential oils, have your favorites in the basket too.

Breast Pads and Nipple Cream

Breast pads and nipple cream are vital for your breastfeeding basket. Breastfeeding can be less than comfortable in the beginning. Keeping tools like a Tricare Breast Pump for your nursing comfort will raise your chance of success. 

Remote Control

If your usual nursing spot has a TV in the same room, having the remote control within reach could be helpful.  Whether you want to catch up on some of your shows or put the TV on to occupy your other children, having the remote nearby is a good idea.

Cell Phone

While I would encourage you to use the time you nurse your baby as some relaxing downtime, sometimes that is not always going to be the case.  And that’s okay.  Moms are busy people that wear many hats and perhaps you need to answer some emails, schedule appointments, or make your meal plan for the week (there are some great apps for that).  Or maybe you just want to check out and surf social media or play a game, and that’s okay too.  It’s also handy to have your phone nearby in case you need something and can’t get up (of course this would only work if your husband is at home or older children have their own phones).

What items do you think would be helpful and handy to have in a breastfeeding basket?

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