Creating a Nursing Station
If you are planning to breastfeed, a nursing station or breastfeeding basket is an essential! This is something you can create in the last few weeks of pregnancy to help with a smooth and restful postpartum. Resting post-birth is high priority. Having a nursing station near-by will help especially with the late night feedings so that you do not have to get up and search for things that you need in the moment. Keep this basket on a night stand or table next to your bed.
We have put together a list of our favorite items. Add your own personal touch!
Nursing Station Essentials List
Disposable or Reusable Breast Pads: You may not realize it now, but you will go through a lot of breast pads once your milk is in. You will want to have plenty on hand. If you are using reusable pads, it is nice to have a pack of disposable on hand in case you run out while they are in the wash.
Snacks and a Water Bottle: You will find that while breastfeeding, you are very hungry and thirsty! Making milk is a lot of work. Your body burns up to 500 calories per day just making milk. Staying hydrated is very important. Be sure to always have a full water bottle nearby. Put some non-perishable snacks in your basket such as: trail mix, protein bars, dried fruit, and jerky.
Nipple Cream: In the first few weeks of breastfeeding, your nipples may be tender. Putting nipple cream on after each feeding can help. We love the Motherlove brand!
Diapers and Wipes: Have a few diapers and wipes available for those late night changes. You do not need to change your baby’s diaper every time they wake, but there will be plenty of times that they do. There is no need to go into a separate room to do this!
Extra Change of Clothes: Whether it is spit up or a diaper leak, it’s inevitable that newborn need a few outfit changes throughout the day. An extra baby blanker will come in handy too!
Entertainment: Those long hours at night while your baby is up can feel lonely. Think about reading a good book, watching a movie or TV series or even join a postpartum Facebook group to browse. This can help occupy the time and take your mind off of not being able to sleep during the time that you normally would.
Some Other Ideas:
hair ties or a hair clip
baby nail clippers
journal and a pen
your phone or a tablet