How to Dress for Breastfeeding

If you have made the choice to breastfeed, you must now dress for the task. Not every article of clothing is compatible with the needs of nursing moms. Being able to easily access the breast, perhaps even in front of others, requires looking carefully at your wardrobe and choosing the best options for keeping you modest and your baby fed.

Instructions

1

The easiest, although most expensive, solution is to buy clothing designed specifically for nursing mothers. The shirts have openings either on the sides or the front. The openings are covered with another layer of fabric that is easily moved while nursing.

2

If you don't have the money, or the desire, to buy new clothing for nursing, another option is to wear loose t-shirts. The shirt can be simply pulled up to allow the child to nurse. With a large t-shirt, the stretchy folds can then be pulled down a bit to cover the exposed breast without disturbing the baby. With this option, however, the lower part of the body may be exposed.

3

If you like the t-shirt choice, but do not like being exposed, try layering clothing. Have a stretchable tank top under your shirt that can be pulled under the breast while the t-shirt is pulled up. This extra layer will keep your skin from being exposed.

4

Button down shirts are also a viable option, but can be tricky. While it may seem logical to unbutton from the top down, the opposite is true. Unbutton shirts from the bottom to keep yourself more covered on top, while allowing easier access for your baby.

5

Dresses can difficult to wear when breastfeeding. Shirts and skirts are frequently better options. However, there are a few things you can do if you choose a dress. If you are wearing a jacket, you can unzip your dress and bring it down in front. Use the jacket to cover your back and a blanket to cover your front. The jacket can also be used to cover the front, if necessary. If your dress is lower cut, you may be able to move the fabric to the side to expose your breast, although this may call for a some unzipping.

6

Tighter fitting shirts can also work, if you are able to pull them up without causing too much discomfort. Try a combination of clothing for various situations.