Breastfeeding is an incredible bonding experience, but let’s be real—it’s not always easy. From sore nipples to endless night feeds, the learning curve can be tough. The good news? A few simple hacks can make the whole journey feel smoother, more comfortable, and a lot less stressful.
Here are 10 everyday breastfeeding hacks every mom should know
1. Prep a Nursing Basket
Keep a small basket or tote next to your favorite nursing spot stocked with essentials—water, snacks, burp cloths, nipple cream, and your phone charger. That way, you’ll have everything within arm’s reach when your baby suddenly wants to feed (again!).
2. Master the Double Pillow Trick
Sometimes one pillow just isn’t enough. Try stacking your breastfeeding pillow with a regular pillow for extra support. It takes the strain off your back and arms, especially during long feeding sessions.
3. Track Feedings Easily
Whether you use a feeding app or a simple notebook, tracking which side you fed on last and how long can be a total sanity-saver in the early weeks. Bonus hack: wear a hair tie on the wrist of the side you just nursed to remember where to start next time.
4. Wardrobe Wins
Invest in a few comfortable nursing bras and tops you love. Easy access makes feeds less stressful. Especially when you’re out and about.
5. Keep Hydration Handy
Every nursing session can make you feel extra thirsty. Hack it by keeping a large water bottle at your main nursing spot. Some moms even set reminders on their phone or use bottles with time markers to stay on track.
6. Nipple Care Shortcuts
Soreness is common in the beginning, but there are easy ways to find relief. Use breast pads to keep your clothes dry, and let nipples air-dry after feeding. A good lanolin cream or cold gel packs can also work wonders.
7. Night Feed Survival
Middle-of-the-night feeds are tough, but you can make them easier. Keep a soft nightlight by your bed so you don’t have to fumble with bright lights. Stash a snack and a water bottle nearby for yourself—you’ll thank yourself at 2 a.m.
8. Pump Smarter, Not Harder
If you’re pumping, try this: wash pump parts once a day and store them in a sealed container in the fridge between sessions. It cuts down cleaning time. Pair this with a breast pump bra so you can multitask while pumping.
9. Support System Hack
You don’t have to do it all alone. Ask your partner to refill your water bottle, burp the baby after feeds, or take over some household chores so you can focus on nursing and recovery. Little things make a big difference.
10. Self-Care Matters Too
Breastfeeding takes a lot out of you—physically and emotionally. Give yourself grace, sneak in naps when you can, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. A calmer, happier mom makes for a smoother breastfeeding journey.
Every mom’s breastfeeding journey looks different, but these simple hacks can take some of the stress out of the process. With a little preparation and the right tools, you’ll feel more confident and comfortable day by day.
Looking for products that make breastfeeding easier? Check out our nursing essentials here.
You’ve got this, mama—you’re doing amazing!
