Our Top Tips & Tricks for Nursing Moms to Breastfeed in Public With Ease
7 minute read
The fourth trimester is a beautiful time to nest at home with your newborn as you get into the swing of all things feeding, burping, rocking and changing…
But at some point, you may desire to get out of the house with your little one. Whether it’s to attend a baby yoga class or run some errands to pick up some baby essentials, you may need or want to breastfeed your baby while you’re out in public.
Yet, many moms feel a bit anxious and nervous about nursing in public — especially if they’ve never done it before.
With these helpful tips, tricks — and a little bit of practice! — you’ll be on your way to comfortably nursing your baby with confidence, anytime and in any place.
Benefits of Breastfeeding in Public
If you already feel comfortable with the idea of breastfeeding your baby in public — that’s wonderful! But if you’re feeling a little intimidated about the idea, it can be helpful to look at the benefits of feeding your baby in public:
- You can nurse whenever your baby is hungry!
- You have everything you need to feed your baby — anytime, anywhere.
- You have more freedom during the first few months — or years! — of your baby’s life.
- Getting out of the house with your baby to connect with family, friends, nature, or simply to do an activity you enjoy may help to decrease your feelings of isolation, boost your mood, and increase your feelings of happiness.
- Feeding your baby on the go may help you to breastfeed your baby for longer. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about the first 6 months, with continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years of age or longer (Center for Disease Control).
If you’re open to the idea of breastfeeding your baby in public — you’re in the right place! Let’s take a look at some simple tips and tricks to help you feed your little one with ease — no matter where you are.
Learning to Breastfeed in Public
Here are some easy ways to get started:
First, practice at home.
During the first few months with your little one, it’s likely you’ll have quite a few visitors stopping by to meet your sweet bundle of joy. This is a great way to begin practicing breastfeeding in front of other people and a wonderful opportunity to experiment with what works best for you and your baby.
You can try feeding your baby in your living room, dining room, even the backyard! It may take a little while for your baby to get used to being covered or for you to keep yourself covered up! Wear a nursing top or have your nursing cover or muslin blanket ready to go.
And if it doesn’t work out — simply excuse yourself to your child’s nursery to finish feeding your little one. You can always try again another time.
Practicing breastfeeding at home in front of a mirror is also a great way to see how much of your body is exposed. This can be helpful to adjust how you’re feeding your baby so that you feel as covered as possible.
Next, practice at someone else’s home.
Once you’re comfortable feeding your baby at home in front of others. Try feeding your little one at someone else’s house. This could be as simple as going over to your best friend’s house for a morning coffee or having a playdate with another mom that has a child your baby’s age.
You’ll get to practice packing the supplies you need — if any! — and try breastfeeding your baby in a different environment… One that’s different from what you’re used to at home, but still feels safe and comfortable.
This will take some of the pressure off feeding your baby while you’re away from home without the complications of truly being “out” in the “real” world.
Finally, venture out!
And when you’re feeling ready…try venturing out with your baby and feeding them while you’re on the go.
Maybe you want to take your little one on a walk to the park, to storytime at the library, or you need to run to Target to pick up a few baby things.
You can keep your first outing super short and sweet. With the practice you’ve already gained — and these helpful tips! — you’ll be able to confidently feed your little one at ease.
How to Breastfeed in Public Discreetly
When it comes to feeding your baby in public, you may be feeling anxious about how to keep yourself and your baby covered as much as possible.
To breastfeed in public, first you want to find a discreet spot to feed your baby.
Some great spots to feed your baby while you’re out in public are:
- Nursing room/lounge (many companies, businesses, stores, and airports have these!)
- Your car (especially if the windows are tinted!)
- Dressing room
- Spare room/bedroom with a couch or bed
- A quiet park bench
- A blanket on the grass under a tree
And if you’re not sure where to feed your little one… Don’t be afraid to ask where you can breastfeed your baby. Most people are more than happy to accommodate your needs — and in fact, most states have laws stating that you’re entitled to breastfeed in public.
What to Wear When Breastfeeding in Public
As you prepare for an outing with your baby, it can help to plan ahead about what you’ll wear — especially on top! You’ll want to wear clothes that are comfortable for you and provide easy access to your baby.
Some great clothing options for breastfeeding in public are:
- Nursing top, nursing tank or nursing dress: These are specific clothes designed with breastfeeding mothers in mind. They often have hidden zippers, lift flaps, buttons, or snaps that make it easy and convenient for nursing sessions.
- Nursing bra: Nursing bras are intentionally designed with special clips or pull down fabrics so that you can easily breastfeed your baby without having to remove your bra.
But, you may already have some great breastfeeding friendly clothes already in your closet!
Button up shirts, zip-front jackets, wrap dresses, shawls, scarfs, and stretchy tops/tank tops are all great options for breastfeeding.
Pick out clothing items that are comfortable, made from a breathable fabric like cotton or jersey, and are super stretchy.
You can also layer your clothing to provide extra coverage. Wear a stretchy camisole or tank top under a looser, comfortable top. The looser top will cover your chest while the layer underneath covers your tummy when you feed your baby.
Using a Breastfeeding Cover
Photo of Itzy Ritzy Mom Boss 4 in 1 Cover | Image Source: https://www.itzyritzy.com/products/nursing-cover
Even with the perfect breastfeeding outfit… It may also be helpful to use a nursing cover or baby carrier to breastfeed your baby. This will ensure you’re super covered up while your baby is nursing and may help you to feel more comfortable breastfeeding in public.
Our favorite nursing cover made by Itzy Ritzy, can be worn as a breathable nursing cover or fashion infinity scarf. And you can even use it as an infant car seat cover or a shopping cart cover!
We also have some great wraps, slings, and baby carriers to choose from in the boutique.
How to Breastfeed in Public with a Muslin Blanket
If you forgot your nursing cover and your baby is hungry… You can always use a simple muslin blanket as an impromptu baby cover!
Here are two easy ways to transform your baby’s swaddle blanket into a simple nursing cover.
Option #1:
Tie a knot into one of the blanket corners. Tuck the knot under your bra strap or nursing tank on the shoulder opposite from the breast you’ll be using to feed your baby. Bring the blanket behind your neck, draping it over your exposed shoulder and breast.
Option #2:
Take two of the blanket corners and tie them together in a knot. Place the loop you’ve created over your head and bring the sides of the blanket over your shoulders to cover your chest.
More Questions About Breastfeeding in Public?
Many moms can feel nervous about breastfeeding in public. You may be worried about where to feed your baby, how to be comfortable when you’re away from home, and how to be as modest as possible.
You don’t have to feel alone or vulnerable as you navigate these questions.
Whether it’s a 1:1 consultation, a group class, or a breastfeeding group, we’d love to help support you along your journey and make sure you have the resources you need to feel confident and comfortable feeding your baby…anytime and anywhere!
Get the support for your breastfeeding journey at Babies in Bloom.
Breastfeeding Support for Mamas in the Vista Area (And Beyond!)
We’re here to give you the compassionate, professional help you need to support your sweet bundle of joy. Join us:
- Lactation Lounge: Free and open to all moms. This breastfeeding support group meets every Tuesday and Friday to provide encouragement and foster a sense of community. Registration is not required. The class is FREE and is facilitated by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
- Breastfeeding 101 Class: Learn techniques that will help you and your baby get off to a good start and avoid common problems. Topics include latch and positioning, knowing when and how much to feed your baby, and how to know that baby is getting enough. Partners are welcome and encouraged to join you!
- Breastfeeding for Working Mothers: Planning, Preparing, & Pumping: Gain confidence and learn that with a little planning, you can successfully continue breastfeeding well beyond maternity leave.
- Essential Breastfeeding and Lactation Supplies: Shop nursing covers, breastfeeding pillows, breast care supplies, pumps, and more!
Boutique Website: https://babies-in-bloom.myshopify.com/
Boutique Address: 127 Main Street, Vista, CA 92081
Boutique Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9 am – 4 pm (We are closed on Sunday!)
