How to Create a Breastfeeding-Friendly Home Environment

By Hillary Sadler, RN, MSN, IBCLC

Hey there, mamas! I’m Hillary, the founder of Baby Settler. I know firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges that come with breastfeeding. As a labor and delivery nurse, feeding specialist (lactation consultant), and mom of four, I’ve experienced a lot and seen it all (almost!). Today, I’m here to share some practical tips on how to create a breastfeeding-friendly home environment to set you up for success.

Preparing the Physical Space

Create a Comfortable Nursing Area: Creating a cozy nook just for breastfeeding can make all the difference. Ambiance really is key! You’ll want to find a comfortable chair or couch where you can sit for extended periods without discomfort. I highly recommend adding a supportive pillow and a footstool to help you maintain a good posture. You might also want to consider having a table within reach where you can place your water, phone, burp cloth, and anything else you might need. Make this space inviting with soft lighting and maybe even some calming music or your favorite essential oils. Consider using a nursing pillow to help position your baby and reduce strain on your arms and back; the right nursing pillow really can make all the difference in the first six weeks while you and your baby are figuring things out. 

Ensure Accessibility of Supplies: Keep all your nursing essentials within arm’s reach. This includes nipple cream, breast pads, burp cloths, and anything else you might need. A breastfeeding basket or caddy can be a lifesaver, allowing you to move everything from room to room easily. Don't forget to have a water bottle and your favorite snacks on hand. Staying hydrated and nourished is essential for maintaining mental and physical wellness when it comes to breastfeeding. Consider Natalist’s Hydration & Energy Electrolyte Drink Mix for caffeine-free & sugar-free energy support, as well as their Postnatal Multivitamin to support you and your baby’s nutritional needs during breastfeeding.‡

Creating a Supportive Atmosphere

Educate Family Members: Involve your partner and family in your breastfeeding journey. You’re not meant to do it all alone. Educate them on the basics of breastfeeding and how they can support you. This might mean helping with household chores, bringing you water and snacks during nursing sessions, or simply offering words of encouragement. Encourage them to learn about the benefits of breastfeeding and understand the challenges you might face. A well-informed support system can make a huge difference.

Reduce Stress and Distractions: Create a calm and quiet environment for your nursing sessions. This might mean setting boundaries with visitors or finding a quiet corner of your home where you can retreat. The goal is to minimize stress and distractions so you can focus on bonding with your baby. Consider using a "do not disturb" sign during nursing sessions to ensure uninterrupted time. Reducing screen time and creating a relaxing ambiance with soothing music or aromatherapy can also help. If you are feeling stressed or uncomfortable when nursing, it can cause a delay in your letdown and this can make breastfeeding more difficult for both you and your baby. 

Encourage Positive Reinforcement: Encourage your partner and family to offer positive reinforcement. A supportive comment or a simple acknowledgment of your hard work can go a long way in boosting your morale. Remind them that emotional support is just as important as practical help. Even better, send them the link to this blog! 

Establishing a Breastfeeding Routine

Feed on Demand (on cue): Pay attention to your baby’s hunger cues and feed on demand rather than sticking to a strict schedule. This approach helps ensure your baby is getting enough milk and can also help with establishing a good milk supply. Look for early hunger cues like rooting, sucking on hands, or lip-smacking, and respond promptly.

During the first 6 weeks of breastfeeding, it’s really important to feed on cue. I hesitate to suggest how often to feed during this time because many moms interpret that as a scheduled feeding plan, which I don’t recommend. But your baby and your breasts need feedings at least 8 times in each 24-hour period. The feeds might be every 1½ hours, every 2 hours, or every 3½ hours.

Your baby will feed most efficiently and effectively when you’re feeding on cue. That means your baby will feed the fastest, get the fullest, and sleep the longest. It doesn’t mean you’ll be an open buffet for the remainder of the time you choose to breastfeed. I promise! If you’re interested in learning more about the connection between feeding and sleep you can read more about it in my book: Babies Made Simple. The good news is you CAN breastfeed and have a baby that sleeps through the night! It just takes strategy and a good foundation you can build on. 

Set Up a Nighttime Feeding System: Make nighttime feedings easier by setting up a comfortable space close to where you sleep. This could be a nursing chair in your bedroom or even room sharing arrangements if that works for your family. The key is to make nighttime feedings as low stimulation and stress-free as possible. Consider using a bedside bassinet or a co-sleeper to keep your baby close but safe. Keep a dim light nearby to avoid waking up too much during nighttime feeds. You really want to keep nighttime feedings boring so your baby will eat and then go right back to sleep. 

Track Feedings: Keep a log of feeding times and durations to help you identify patterns and ensure your baby is feeding adequately. There are many apps available that can simplify this process. Tracking feedings can also help you communicate more effectively with your healthcare provider or lactation consultant about your baby's feeding habits.

Practical Tips for a Good Latch

Positioning and Latch Techniques: Different breastfeeding positions work for different moms and babies. Experiment with the cradle hold, football hold, and side-lying position to find what’s most comfortable for you. A good latch is crucial—ensure your baby’s mouth covers both your nipple and a significant portion of the areola. Use your free hand to support your breast and guide your baby's mouth to the nipple. Download our free guide: 8 Tips for Getting a Deep (good) Latch 

Signs of a Good Latch: Look for signs that your baby is latched on correctly: their mouth should be wide open, their chin should touch your breast, and you should see more of the areola above their upper lip than below their lower lip. If it doesn’t feel right, gently break the suction by slipping your finger into the corner of their mouth and try again. Listen for swallowing sounds (sounds like a cusp; you can listen for that sound here) and ensure your baby seems content after feeding and is gaining weight.

Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with latching, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant. They can provide hands-on assistance and help troubleshoot any issues you’re facing. Early intervention can prevent problems from escalating and ensure a more positive breastfeeding experience. 

Overcoming Common Challenges

Breastfeeding can come with its own set of challenges, from engorgement to low milk supply. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a lactation consultant if you encounter persistent issues. Remember, many problems can be resolved with the right support and guidance. Learn about common issues like mastitis, thrush, and tongue-tie, and how to address them effectively. I talk about all of these things in detail in my book. 

Balancing Breastfeeding with Other Responsibilities: It’s important to balance breastfeeding with other aspects of your life. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and delegate tasks. Taking care of yourself is crucial for your well-being and your ability to care for your baby. Plan ahead for meals and household chores, and accept offers of help from friends and family.

Taking Care of Yourself: Self-care is essential for every breastfeeding mom. Make time for rest, relaxation, and activities that bring you joy. Don't hesitate to take breaks and recharge whenever possible. Remember, a happy and healthy mom is better equipped to care for her baby.

Conclusion

Creating a breastfeeding-friendly home environment can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding journey. By preparing your physical space, fostering a supportive atmosphere, establishing a routine, and knowing how to achieve a good latch, you’re setting yourself and your baby up for success.

Freebie Alert! For more detailed guidance, check out my freebie: “8 Tips for Getting a Good Latch.” Download it here and get the support you need to ensure a positive breastfeeding experience.

Remember, you’re doing an amazing job, mama! Trust yourself and your instincts, and know that you’re not alone on this journey. 

About Hillary

Hillary is the CEO and founder of Baby Settler, the founding provider at Baby Settler Charleston, and an accomplished author. As a labor & delivery nurse, lactation consultant, and mom of four, she is passionate about supporting new moms through the rollercoaster of early motherhood. As the host of the Early-Momming Podcast, she dives into topics like birth, breastfeeding, postpartum life, and real-life early motherhood for millennial moms. For daily tips and community, follow her on Instagram @babysettler. Visit babysettler.com for more resources.

Exciting News! The new Baby Settler app is launching in September 2024, bringing all things early-momming to your fingertips in one searchable app. 

‡These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The information, opinions, and views presented in this blog reflect the views of the author and not necessarily of Natalist.