Angled Breast Shields.
Ever wondered what moron invented a pump shield where you had to keep leaning forward every fifteen seconds so the milk would drip into the bottle like one of those Dippy Birds? Pumpin Pal’s Super Shields remedy this. They also help prevent plugged milk ducts.
Chic Nursing Tops.
Power lunch nurse with your little one if you’re lucky enough to have childcare close to work. So many nursing tops are just plain matronly. The exception is Japanese Weekend. You’d never know these stylish tops have secret compartments for easy boob access. Two must haves for are the d & a cross-front top in black and the surplice nursing top—available in several hip prints. For the dress that converts to evening, try Glamourmom’s version of the little black nursing dress.
Your Milk Supply Back-Up.
Before you head back to work, start stockpiling milk in your freezer. There will be days where stress takes its toll and you don’t need the added angst of worrying you won’t have enough milk. Every four months, you’ll want to use the nearing expiration date milk and freeze some fresh milk to keep a constant surplus in the freezer. My favorite way to do this is using the Lansinoh Storage Bags, which are hailed as the thickest. I tried several bags and found Lansinoh’s spout to transfer more milk to the bottle and less on the kitchen counter. The double zipper seal prevents leaks and there’s a “tamper evident safety seal” in the event some prankster at work tries to swap your fresh-squeezed with the coffee creamer.
A great way to keep your frozen milk separate from your frozen yogurt in the freezer is the Easy Store & Thaw Milk Organizer.
Baby Bag.
These days, diaper bags double as high-end purses. If you’re carting a baby back and forth to daycare, you’ll want a diaper bag that goes with your cosmopolitan lifestyle. One that says progressive, not suburban, stay-at-home mom is the chic one OiOi Oriental Posy Messenger Bag. Its splashes of bold oriental blooms in black and white are accented with a stunning red lining and accessories can dress up to even a black tie affair. The Skip Hop Duo Denim works well for casual Friday or your much needed weekend.
