1. Medela Freestyle Pump –about $350; go here for stores.
I started out with a Pump in Style, heretofore the gold
standard of home breast pumps. Mine was nine years old (you can buy new kits to
keep things sterile) and still worked great. But when it was time for a new
one, I opted for this brand-new Medela pump with a hands-free option. I am
still in awe of it: for one thing, although it’s more powerful than the larger
pump I was using, it’s about the size of a stopwatch. It’s also programmable,
and has a rechargeable battery. And did I mention the hands-free thing? My only issue: the snap-together pumps take longer to clean than the old-school pumps, and seem more prone to spillage. And of course,
it’s pricey – but for my money, if you’re planning on breastfeeding, this pump is one smart investment.
2. Bella B Nipple Nurture Cream - $8.39 for 2 oz on Amazon
You can use olive oil to soothe cracked and sore nipples,
but this smooth, delicious-smelling cream is a much more pleasant option. And
in contrast to several others I tried, the baby seemed to like the taste.
3. Lansinoh
Nursing Pads - $7.49 for 60 on Amazon
Of the brands I tried, these were the definite winner:
they’re large, absorbent and – thanks to a plastic backing – the milk doesn’t
leak through them. My only quibble is that they’re individually wrapped,
resulting in lots of unnecessary packaging. On the other hand, it makes them
easy to throw in your purse. Lansinoh also makes great breastmilk storage bags.
Next up: let's talk diaper bags.
- Gwynne Watkins
