How to Create a Comfortable Breastfeeding Space at Home
- Abbey Gray
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
Whether you're nursing around the clock in the newborn days or squeezing in a quiet feed before nap time, having a dedicated breastfeeding space can make a big difference in your comfort and confidence. As a lactation counselor and mom of two littles, I've learned that a well-stocked, cozy setup doesn't need to be fancy—it just needs to be functional for you.
Why a Breastfeeding Space Matters
Breastfeeding takes time (hello, cluster feeds), and it's much easier to settle in when you have everything you need within reach. Setting up a cozy, supportive space can reduce stress, encourage relaxation (which helps with milk flow!), and allow your support system to step in and help too.
What to Include in Your Breastfeeding Space
Whether it's a chair in your bedroom, the nursery, or a corner of the living room, here are a few essentials to include:
1. Comfortable Seating
Choose a chair or spot where you can sit for long stretches—bonus points if it reclines or glides. Add a nursing pillow for extra support. The Boppy Nursing Pillow and the My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow are popular options that provide ergonomic support during feeds.
2. Back and Foot Support
Proper posture is key to avoiding neck and back strain. A small ottoman or stool can support your feet and help you stay comfortable during longer feeds.
3. Hydration and Snacks
Breastfeeding is thirsty work! Keep a large water bottle nearby—like this tumbler that's easy to handle one-handed—and add high-protein snacks like trail mix or granola bars to keep your energy up.
4. Soft Lighting
A dimmable lamp or night light is perfect for middle-of-the-night feeds without fully waking baby—or you.
5. Entertainment and Essentials
Whether you're scrolling, streaming, or tracking feeds, it helps to have your phone within reach (and charged). A little basket for tech or a charging station can help keep things organized. Additionally, keep some breastfeeding affirmation cards nearby for positive reminders during your feeding sessions.
Stocking a Breastfeeding Cart
Want to keep your essentials mobile? I highly recommend setting up a breastfeeding cart! It's one of my favorite tricks to simplify postpartum life.
You can roll it from room to room, keep it stocked with go-to items, and refill it easily. Here's a link to the rolling cart I recommend.
Breastfeeding Cart Essentials:
Nursing Pads: To manage leaks between feedings.
Burp Cloths: Essential for cleaning up after feeds.
Haakaa with Lid: A manual silicone pump to catch let-down milk from the non-nursing side (the side that you already nursed from).
Medela Hand Pump: Handy for quick pumping sessions without setting up an electric pump.
Gentle Hand Wipes: For quick clean-ups before and after feeds.
Extra Onesies or Baby Sleepers: In case of spit-ups or diaper leaks.
Hand Sanitizer: To keep your hands clean, especially during flu season.
Notepad or Feeding Tracker: If you prefer jotting down feeding times and notes by hand.
Large Water Bottle / Tumbler: Staying hydrated is crucial for milk production.
Shelf-Stable Snacks: Like granola bars or nuts to keep your energy up.
Phone Charger: To keep your device powered during long feeding sessions.
Calming Items: Such as lip balm, essential oil rollers, or breastfeeding affirmation cards for a positive mindset.
Make It Yours
There's no one-size-fits-all setup. Some parents love cozying up in the nursery, while others stick to the living room to be closer to the action. You might even have more than one "station" depending on the time of day!
Whatever works for you, the goal is the same: support your body, reduce stress, and make feeding your baby a little more peaceful.
Need More Breastfeeding Support?
Whether you're expecting your first baby or navigating feeding with a newborn, my Breastfeeding With Confidence class is here to support you. This self-paced, on-demand class is designed to help you feel empowered, informed, and ready—without the overwhelm.
Happy feeding!
XO, Abbey
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