If you are like me and hate buying clothes that are maternity or breastfeeding specific this blog post is for you. Breastfeeding tops and maternity clothes are really expensive in my opinion and you really don’t wear them for very long. It doesn’t make sense to pay such a high price for these specialty items. Personally I don’t find them all that attractive or comfortable.
In a period of time when most women are grappling with who they are now and feeling a bit lost the one thing I loved was being able to wear clothing that help me feel more like me. The typical breastfeeding tops you will find with a generic google search was never really my style. I felt so uncomfortable in them. If you are feeling some of the same things here are some tips and tricks to make your current wardrobe work while breastfeeding!
Clothing That Are Naturally A Breastfeeding Top Already
There are many tops that already work really well as breastfeeding tops. Let’s go through a few different styles.
- Almost anything with real buttons allows you to get access to your breasts easily without any crazy maneuvering. Button front tops are comfortable for both you and your baby creating easy access to your breasts for feeding. However, you still may want to have a nursing cover or blanket if you don’t feel comfortable breastfeeding in public** without one.
- Wrap tops or Wrap dresses are often easy to pull to the side without damaging the clothing item or being difficult to get your breast out to allow baby to get a good latch. Again you may want a nursing cover or blanket to give yourself more coverage if nursing in public**.
- Deep V necks are similar to your wrap tops or wrap dresses. They are often easy to pull to the side without being in the way or damaging your clothing
- Oversized tops are easy to pull up and access the breast from the the bottom of your clothing. I It can still feel a little exposing (especially an area you might be somewhat sensitive about) when you pull it up to nurse. I will talk more about a simple 2 shirt method below to help you feel more modest when wearing these types of tops.
**I personally don’t think there is anything wrong with nursing out in public. Breastfeeding is a natural and normal thing that is what recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for up to 2 years of age. However, I understand everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to breastfeeding in public.
The 2 Shirt Method
The 2 shirt method is my favorite method for breastfeeding, allowing me to continue to wear my regular clothing during the nursing phase. I started doing this with my first daughter very quickly after she was born. She was born during COVID shortly after my mother in law living and my sister in law had just moved in so we could all quarantine together. I didn’t feel like I wanted to just be whipping my boob out all day and making them feel uncomfortable so I found a way around it.
Shortly after I learned that I was not the only one to discover this, but a popular instagramer was teaching women how to do it! You can check out her video from her blog here. Lindsay is an amazing advocate for breastfeeding and breastfeeding in a public setting. If you need some empowerment in your breastfeeding journey check out her page or instagram @thelittlemilkbar_.
What You Need For the Two Shirt Method
- Comfortable nursing tanks. I would have several considering the risks of spit up and boob leakage
- A top that is not too tight across the shoulders or chest and is easy to pull up and expose your breast
- Nursing Bra if you need more support.
NO NURSING COVER NEEDED!!
Check out my other post for all my recommended Breastfeeding Essentials!
Other Options For Feeding When in Public
If you are out and about and you want to breastfeed but prefer to do so in private, I have a secret for you. There is is great app by Mamava. They are a company that makes mobile breastfeeding pods. On their app they have a map with locations of different mamava pods or other lactation spaces added by users (ex: my local museum has a space for breastfeeding on the first floor and a separate space on their 4th floor.)
The app includes pictures of the location in some situations and details of what is available there (ie. sink, outlet, chair, etc). If you find a mamava pod you can connect with your bluetooth headphones for a more relaxing experience. I am currently checking my app and I have 3 locations within a mile from my location. This can help you when you are planning outings or need something unexpectedly. I personally love it when I travel.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding tops are not the most practical long term and can be rather expensive. If you want an alternative to typical breastfeeding tops these tips can help you make your current wardrobe just as effective for breastfeeding your baby. It will save you money and help you feel more like yourself. These practical alternatives can be implemented by any mom.
Jess is a registered nurse with over 6+ years of critical care experience for patients young and old and is the mother of two small children. After having her own children she felt inspired to provide mothers with real actionable guidance and education to make informed decisions throughout their pregnancy and postpartum experience.
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