Breastfeeding is no small task and pumping shouldn’t add more to your already-full plate. It’s a necessity for lots of moms, whether they exclusively pump, work outside the home, or just want the peace of mind of backup milk. And we know that pumps have come a long way since the days of lugging around a huge machine that sounded like construction equipment. Now, moms can pump while still tackling our day, thanks to the advent of the hands-free breast pump.
With that kind of convenience, it’s tempting to just grab the first one you see, but comfort is major here, and each pump offers something different. So take a look at some of our favorite hands-free breast pumps below to find one that almost does all the work for you! We’ve also included links to insurance coverage information, and really encourage you to check with your health insurance provider for your personal plan’s coverage specifics.
Editor’s Note: Some of the brand Instagrams linked below include nursing moms experiencing breast milk overproduction. If this is a trigger for you, feel free to jump right to the product links. Everyone’s breastfeeding journey is different, and absolutely all of it is worthy of celebration.
It’s 2024 and we refuse to be tied to our breast pumps. The WillowGo makes that so, so easy. It’s the wearable, fully in-bra pump (no bulky cords for us, thanks) with 15 levels of customizable, hospital-grade suction that can be adjusted per side.
With a tug-and-release latch that makes it super comfortable (rated 100% comfortable by real moms, according to Willow) 45° leak-proof mobility, and an app-connected control, you can pump and live your life at the same time. Dreams do come true! For information about WillowGo Pump insurance coverage, see here.
Medela is synonymous with quality breast pumps, so you’re probably not surprised to see them pop up on our list. There’s a good chance you’re familiar with their MaxFlow Breast Pump, which we’re big fans of (along with 3,800 Amazon reviewers!), but we’re loving the Medela Freestyle Hands-Free Breast Pump.
Medela
Along with being incredibly lightweight, the discreet pump fits right in your pocket while the anatomically designed cups stay comfortable and avoid localized compression. Connect with the Medela Family App for easy tracking and you have another breast pump win from the Medela geniuses. To check on insurance eligibility through Medela, grab more information here.
Nine adjustable suction levels and a fully hands-free design put the Momcozy V2 Pump high on the list of best breast pumps. It’s oh-so-quiet and the double-sealed flange keeps the cups secure.
Momcozy
The pump itself is so small and easy to tuck onto your pocket or waistband. It comes with 4 flange sizes and only 4 parts to clean, too. We’ll take that any day. Check out how Momcozy has collaborated with DME (Durable Medical Equipment). suppliers to get your pump covered by your insurance here.
Hospital-grade performance (a whopping -300 mmHg!) with a hands-free, in-bra design that lets you go anywhere while pumping makes the Elvie Stride a super popular choice among pumping moms.
Elvie
It’s available in the original Stride and the Stride Plus, which includes a 3-in-1 carrying case for moms on the go (aren’t we all?). Your pick. You can’t lose either way. To see your eligibility to save on Elvie breast pumps with insurance, more info is available here.
Like all Spectra pumps, the 9 Plus is hospital strength with a true ‘closed’ system, creating a barrier between outside contaminants and breastmilk. There are even several massage settings to make pumping as comfortable as possible. To explore insurance coverage on Spectra pumps, use their lookup tool here.
The TSRETE S12 Pump is one of the most affordable quality hands-free pumps available. It’s excellent even as a backup to keep at work or for traveling.
TSRETE
With an LCD display (all you have to do is look down to see what’s going on!), a memory function, and USB charging, this pump easily stands with its higher-end counterparts. Connect with your health insurance carrier about coverage for TSRETE pumps.
Although the original model of the BabyBuddha Portable Pump isn’t a traditional and discreet wearable, the Hands-Free Pump Collection Cups are available on their site for in-bra wear! You can also bundle the pump and the cups and save an extra $10.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
While you’re looking forward to the long weekend, consider this: Presidents Day is sort of the annual reminder that spring, blessed spring (especially for those of us still buried in snow) is close. We’re halfway through February (already? somehow?) and although it may still be cold outside, the long weekend is a good time to start looking ahead to springtime. Refresh, recharage, and reorganize—all springy vibes. And what better time to do all those things and get a discount on everything you need to do them than during the President’s Day Amazon Sale?
Whether you’re updating your living space, refreshing your wardrobe (make sure you’re donating those old clothes, mkay?), or planning ahead to spring break boredom-busting activities for your little ones, this weekend’s Amazon Sale is no joke. We’ve got discounts up to 81%, if not more, on a ton of goodies across all departments. And while you’re at it, make sure to check out all the Presidents Day Sales from some of our other favorite retailers here! We’re updating these lists all weekend long, so bookmark them both!
SAFAVIEH Amsterdam Collection Area Rug | 81% Off
Amazon
Add some spring to your step (literally) this season with the Amsterdam Collection Area Rug. If this Ivory/Multi style isn't your cup of tea, there are 10 other options to choose from, along with different sizes to fit your space. Regular Price $640.00/Now $122.38!
Keep an eye on your little one, even when they're still in a rear-facing car seat. It's easy to assemble and install, plus it's been crash tested. Almost 18k Amazon reviewers love this one. Regular Price $69.99/Now $15.99!
Dyson V11 Outsize + Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | 32% Off
Amazon
This baby is Dyson's biggest smart vacuum, and regardless of your home size, if you have kiddos and/or pets, a vacuum that's too big doesn't exist. It has double the run time (up to 120 minutes), and optimizes suction and run time based on floor type. It also comes with a bunch of accessories, so if there was ever a vacuum to be stoked about, this is it. Regular Price $949.99/Now $642.00!
With so. many. colors. to choose from, and a great price, we're grabbing a few of these sets. Can't ever have too many leggings, right? Regular Price $60.99/Now $39.99!
These babies started trending a few years ago and haven't lost steam since. They're wildly comfortable, available in multiple colors, and are gender-neutral. Regular Price $35.99/Now $20.38!
Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil | 29% Off
Amazon
We love Korean skincare, and this double-cleansing must-have is gentle, non-stingy (if you know you know), and reduces skin congestion. Regular Price $19.00/Now $14.15!
It's not possible to have enough colors in this comfy tracksuit set. And with 32 hues to pick from, you'll be able to snag all your faves. Regular Price $50.99/Now $31.99!
Protection from bumps on the faucet is important, and this whale-shaped bathtub faucet cover mitigates bonks and bruises. Regular Price $14.00/Now $9.99!
Ninja CW202RD Foodi NeverStick PossiblePot | 38% Off
Amazon
The one pot to rule them all, the PossiblePot replaces a stock pot, Dutch oven, saucepot, roasting pan, baking dish, strainer, braiser, deep fryer, spoon-ladle, serving dish, steamer, and lid. Regular Price $129.99/Now $79.99!
The 7-position car booster from UPPAbaby grows with your kiddo: from 40–100 lbs, and 38–57” in height. Multiple colors are available, too. Regular Price $179.99/Now $116.99!
It's so surprising how much details like this chic bench elevate your space and make you feel like a grown-up. End of the bed, entryway, living room—wherever you need something to counteract all the Legos and crayons. Regular Price $99.00/Now $47.34!
The First Years American Red Cross Digital Infrared Forehead No-Touch Thermometer | 80% Off
Amazon
There really won't ever be a time when you won't need a thermometer in the house, just in case (especially when you have kids). This one is no-touch for both adults and little ones, plus it can also measure bath water and formula temp. Regular Price $48.99/Now $9.99!
Sharpie Creative Markers feature paint-like ink that won’t bleed through paper and create vibrant marks on light and dark surfaces including paper, metal, wood, ceramic, glass, rock, and canvas. Plus, there’s no priming required or need to shake—just uncap and go. Regular Price $23.49/Now $19.99!
Better than shoe racks or those plastic over-the-door pocket things that are guaranteed to tear, this box-style shoe organizer easily stacks and the transparent design lets you grab the pair you're looking for in no time. Available in multiple colors. Regular Price $89.99/Now $32.99!
Silk pillowcases help protect your hair and skin from dryness, frizz, sleep lines, and breakage. You have your choice of a ton of colors to match your bedroom. Regular Price $35.99/Now $24.37!
Ray-Ban Women's Rb4378 Square Sunglasses | 20% Off
Amazon
Time for a sunglasses upgrade? Now's the time to grab these sleek, classic Ray-Bans, especially since spring will be here before we know it. Regular Price $178.00/Now $142.40!
Statement mirrors are having a moment right now, and we're not mad about it. They make the room feel bigger, lighter, and dare we say, just plain cooler. Available in several sizes and metal finishes. Regular Price $89.99/Now $69.99!
momcozy Breast Pump S12 Pro Wearable Wireless Breast Pump | 41% Off
Amazon
Designed for a 'barely there' feel and spill-safe flanges, the momcozy S12 Pro is wearable, wireless, and ultra-portable. Regular Price $189.99/Now $111.99!
LEGO DUPLO Classic Brick Box Building Set | 20% Off
Amazon
Every kiddo needs their own DUPLO set and this 65 piece set is perfect for gifting or just to start their building adventure. Regular Price $29.99/Now $23.99!
They're popular for a reason. InkJoy Gel Pens dry fast (bye, smearing!), are ultra-comfy, and come in smooth-writing vibrant colors for school, work, planners, grocery lists...Regular Price $40.99/Now $19.40!
Working from home being the norm has changed a lot about how we operate day to day. It's much easier to just stay put, but this easy walking pad from UREVO helps get your blood flowing even when you can't leave your computer just yet (though we highly recommend you make stepping away from time to time regularly!). It's also super quiet and easy to store under the bed or couch. Regular Price $329.99/Now $199.97!
Amazon Exclusive! The Kin by Tuft & Needle mattress stays cooler and much more supportive than traditional mattresses, and it's backed by a 100-night sleep trial (confident of them, right?). Available in Twin-California King sizes. Regular Price $549.00-$849.00/Now $439.20-$679.20!
Ulike IPL Home Laser Hair Removal Device | 21% Off
Amazon
Spring is on its way and shaving is definitely not trending. The Ulike IPL device is an Amazon #1 seller because it's so effective. Virtually painless, you'll notice hair reduction in as few as 3 weeks, plus you can still shave while you're doing treatments (unlike waxing where you have to let your hair grow out over and over again). It's a one-time investment for permanent hair removal. That's right. We said permanent. Regular Price $329.00/Now $259.00!
Choose from a wide variety of pre-designed templates including 1000+ symbols, 60+ frames, and a variety of fonts through the app and get to labeling all the things. Regular Price $36.99/Now $26.99!
THE GYM PEOPLE Womens' Half Zip Pullover | 36% Off
Amazon
We could live in this pullover (and maybe a few of us do). It comes in a bunch of colors and isn't too long or too short. Regular Price $46.99/Now $29.99!
DripDrop Hydration Electrolyte Powder Packets | 25% Off
Amazon
With 3x the electrolytes and half the sugar of traditional sports drinks, these handy little powder packets are perfect for warm weather, illness, workouts, soccer practice, and beyond. Regular Price $35.99/Now $27.13!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
These backpacks and suitcases will make you actually look forward to traveling with your kids
Traveling is fun, but traveling with kids? Let’s just say it isn’t always a dream come true. That’s why having luggage that works for you is a must. From versatile backpacks and lightweight carry-ons to large suitcases that pack tons of room for several kiddos, we’ve rounded up the best travel gear for parents. Keep scrolling to get prepped for your next family vacation!
If you’ve ever boarded an airplane with a baby, you know that the amount of stuff a small person needs is in inverse proportion to their size. Diapers, wipes, a change of clothes for all parties, snacks, a breast pump, and more and more and more—they all need to fit into your carry-on bag. That’s where No Reception Club comes in to save the day. The narrow shape makes it easy for any parent to carry and the stylish black exterior makes it more of an everything bag than a diaper bag. Our favorite feature is the flexible organization system with two “shelves” that velcro securely into the main compartment.
Just because you're carting around diapers and burp cloths, doesn't mean you want to give up on style. We love this backpack because it has enough structure to protect your laptop plus space for snacks and an outfit change for both you and your kid. It also has our favorite feature: the luggage pass-through.
Looking to ditch the suitcase entirely? This bag is for you. Roll up your clothes and you can easily fit enough to get you and your tiny travel partner through a long weekend or more. We like this option for parents traveling solo with a kid because it keeps your hands free to push a stroller or tend to a little one.
You only need one bag when traveling––this one! Solo New York’s hybrid backpack easily transforms into a tote bag with hideaway straps that will meet your complete itinerary needs. Our editors love the padded laptop compartment, ample interior pockets and a back panel that slides over your luggage handle to make those airport runs a breeze. The lightweight bag also comes with padded feet to protect the bottom while on the go and stylish gold hardware.
Not only does this backpack look super stylish, but it’s made with water-resistant polyester, has an interior spot for a laptop and five interior pockets for chargers, books, pens and more. There’s a secret side pocket to keep your phone, and there’s a clip in the front pocket that is perfect for keys. The pull cord on the interior lining adds extra protection from theft while traveling too.
Available in coral orange and ocean blue, this adorable backpack will be your go-to carryon choice as it has just the right amount of pockets for all your gear and plenty of space to store those extra diapers and snacks you always need.
While not an official backpack, this tote does it all. Don’t schlep 3 bags through the airport when she can have just one that does it all! A Black + Woman-owned brand known for their bag with all the room you need to pack your necessities, the Minkeeblue Nilah tote offers zippered compartments that keep shoes and other essentials separate from other items, making it the perfect solution for working or traveling moms looking to make life easier.
This sleek tech organizer keeps all your cords and electronics in one place! This would even fit perfectly in any of the backpacks above. The Bee & Kin Tech Organizer is perfect for traveling or while on the go for work. If you need help with keeping your things in one place, this is sure to do the trick!
If you need help keeping your belongings together as you zip around the airport, then you’ll love this Travel Belt! All you has to do is neatly secure your personal bag to your carry-on or checked luggage handle!
Breeze through the airport with the sleek and durable Platinum Elite Carry-On Expandable Hardside Spinner fro Travelpro. This lightweight option makes it possible for littles to transport it themselves due to the exclusive PrecisionGlide™ System, made up of 8 MagnaTrac® self-aligning wheels. Plus, each one comes with extrenal USB A & C ports that can connect to your own power bank.
We love this 20" carry-on as it easily stores your laptop on the zip-down side so you don't have to carry it in your backpack. It also has plenty of room for 3-5 days worth of clothes. The hard shell will stand up to wear and tear and the spinner wheels made for a smooth ride through the airport.
If you are short on space to store your luggage at home, this is the luggage for you. It collapses to 4 inches for east stowing under your bed. Plus, you'll love the seven color options.
Your luggage takes a beating no matter how expensive it is, so why not opt for a budget-worthy option that still gets the job done? Our editors love the no muss, no fuss luggage from Amazon Basics that bring simple yet functional style to your travels. This hybrid bag is large enough to carry what you need, but small enough to fit as a carry on when you don’t want to check luggage. It has internal organization, a front tilting pocket, spinner wheels and a two-level adjustable, ergonomic handle.
Traveler’s Choice New London II Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage
The sleek look of this bag is just part of the draw but its functional features have us bringing it with us whenever we travel. Pack it with the expanders closed and you’ll have plenty of space to add on souvenirs to bring home. The zippers are super sturdy and will stand up to lots of use.
Best Checked Luggage for Parents
Atlantic Convertible Medium to Large Checked Expandable Hardside Spinner
You'll love the colorful options in this collection (Sunshine Yellow! Coral Orange! Ocean Blue!) and its ability to expand to fit all those souvenirs you just HAD to have. Two handle heights means the kids can take a turn pulling it.
Away luggage is the crème de la crème when it comes to traveling. This particular suitcase checks all the boxes: nice medium size, water resistant exterior, expansion capabilities for up to an extra 1.75″ of space plus an internal compression system so you can squeeze in everything you need.
We love the split design of this luggage that has two same-sized compartments, perfect for opening on that luggage rack in your hotel room. It comes in carry-on and large carry-on (to accommodate international carry-on rules), as well as medium and large sizes for checked baggage.
Luggage has gone through a transformation over the years and that means no more crazy heavy bags that break your back before you even pack! This huge suitcase is one of our favorites because it only weighs eight pounds and is large enough to pack multiple people’s worth of clothes. It’s a spinner, has an adjustable handle and plenty of room to pack everything you need.
This work horse of a suitcase packs a ton of bells and whistles. From a built-in lock and integrated interior pouches to the two-inch expandable zipper, you can stash all your gear for your vaycay and then some!
—additional reporting by Gabby Cullen & Karly Wood
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
These deals are so good, we don’t even mind that the long weekend is over and all the leftovers are gone. Looking for an insider’s guide to Cyber Week deals and early access sales? You’ve come to the right place.
Everything from stocking stuffers, housewares, and apparel to tech, cooking, subscription services, and more is deeply discounted this week, and we’re giving you insider access to the best steals so you can plan your shopping accordingly. And if you’re looking for gift ideas for everyone on your list? Well, we’ve got those too.
So get your game faces on, your gift list open, and your microwave ready for leftovers. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and all the Cyber Week deals are right here. Keep an eye on this post! We’re updating frequently!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
From indoor gardens and satin pillowcases to indulgent skincare and eye-catching accessories, these gifts for moms are perfect for her
Moms are amazing at so many things, but sharing their own wish lists during the holiday season isn’t always one of them. That’s why we’ve gone ahead and rounded up the best gifts for moms—and we mean every type of mom. Between ways for her to relax, options for beautifying her space, and just-for-fun goodies, you’ll find something she’ll love to unwrap this year. (As moms ourselves, we are experts at this sort of thing.) Read on for our picks to make their holiday merry and bright—and feel free to send an item or two our way if you’re feeling extra generous!
Clinique Cult Classic Lip Duo
Clinique
No two lip colors are more iconic than Clinique's Black Honey and Pink Honey Almost Lipsticks. They're universally flattering (seriously, every skin tone), so moms everywhere will adore this perfect-for-everyday-wear set.
Easiest way to make someone cozy this season? This Holiday Sock Gift Box. Inside, there’s the comfiest socks in the history of feet, with foot-hugging arch support, seamless toes, and three different frosty friends, all bundled up.
Talk about instant-chic. Obsession-worthy is an understatement when it comes to this drapey cardi that can be worn with everything from loungewear, jeans, dresses—name it.
It's as if a pinch bowl and a cool kitchen decoration merged together. The Salt Sphere keeps spices within reach and includes a magnetic swinging lid to keep things fresh. Available in 2 finishes.
Artist Julie Thevenot designs glass jewelry that gives the illusion of flowing water. These stunning earrings are an absolute showstopper with the opalescent sheen.
Small essentials get stowed safely away and tied securely with the leather tie for easy access, anywhere. Pick from one of the 8 lovely colors and add their initials with foil-embossed customization.
Her bedtime routine is about to become a lot more luxurious with the Kitsch Satin Pillowcase. It's gentle on hair and skin, helping to prevent frizz, dry skin, and sleep creases. They're also available in a bunch of different colors and prints.
Share joy. Connect generations. Do it all privately. Tinybeans is the photo sharing app that makes sharing your pictures with only the people you want to see them easy. You can easily and privately capture and organize your kiddo’s best moments and milestones in a single platform. Its intuitive interface, along with features like photobook creation and easy customization, make organizing and searching for memories a breeze. There's no better time of year to capture memories.
Art-meets-crafts with this artist-created 800-piece puzzle. A percentage of each Jiggy Puzzle sold goes directly to the artist, and the puzzle comes in a reusable glass jar and includes a tube of puzzle glue, a straight-edge tool to spread the glue, and a print of the art to follow.
No matter what your style is, this textured, movement-inspired vase will fit right in. It's such a unique piece and is available in short (pictured) or tall.
Made for moms who love having hours of energy, mental clarity, and focus (actually, who doesn't want those things?). This brain-boosting, mildly caffeinated set is stacked high with powerful adaptogenic herb and plant ingredients that are third-party tested for quality and efficacy. Formulated to skip stress, crash, and jitters, too.
Whether she's a jetsetter or just loves to be cozy, there's no beating this responsibly-made cashmere travel set that includes socks, sleep mask, and blanket. Available in 3 colors.
Coupe glasses are having a moment, and we're not mad about it. They're beautiful, functional, and gives major Gatsby vibes. They come in a set of 4 in three color options.
In black, merlot, or bourbon, this sling bag is perfect for everyone. It can be dressed up or down and is super comfortable to wear. The included zip pouch and exterior phone pocket makes it a bag they'll use for years.
With 12 different sheet masks for all skin types, designed to hydrate, firm, and boost radiance, this is a great way to help her add some much-needed self-care into her life.
No one deserves to waste time more than mom, and with over 200 pages of fun time-wasting activities, she'll have no problem avoiding adulting for a while.
We adore functional + adorable, and the Rollink Flex delivers. Available in multiple colors and 4 sizes, it collapses to just 6" for easy storage, plus it's so easy to maneuver through airports (or wherever you're going).
BAGGU's best-selling reusable bag can hold up to 50 lbs (or 2-3 plastic grocery bags worth of stuff), and it folds down to a 5"x5" pouch so it can go everywhere with you. Comes in multiple colors and prints.
It's a dress. It's a hoodie. It's your new favorite cozy piece. Wear it with sneakers, with tights, with leggings, and the defined waist is oh-so-flattering. Available in multiple colors and in POPFLEX's signature yummy fabrication.
This organic Matcha soak has tulsi and eucalyptus essential oils for a subtle, bright and creamy scent, making your bath ultra-moisturizing and indulgent.
The number of hours we spend shaving over the course of a year adds up (and it's kinda depressing, to be honest). The Air3 IPL handset offers a quick 12 minute treatment, skin-cooling technology for a nearly-painless experience, and results in only 3 weeks.
Wooden Spoon Herbs x Cap Beauty Light Ray Tincture
Cap Beauty
This tincture is designed to reveal radiance and luminosity from the inside out. Made with a unique blend of herbs and superfood to hydrate, plump, and nourish for your clearest gleaming glow by taking just a few drops a day.
The Stagg EKG electric kettle created in collaboration with Fellow means not only do you get a fabulous Stagg kettle; you get it in this special limited-edition Broccoli color.
Moms are notorious for forgetting to take care of themselves. Make it easier for them with the genius that is Ritual Women's Multivitamin. It leads the pack in absorption, uses a 'beadlet in oil' technology that combines oily and dry ingredients in one caplet, and the mint essence keeps everything feeling fresh when you take it.
This starter set comes with everything you need to grow fresh herbs from your kitchen year-round: a complete Auk, 4 packets of seeds, coco soil, plant chip, and nutrients.
These handmade, sustainable California wines are boxed in chic packaging that creates 84% less waste than glass (while holding 2 full bottles) and keeps your wine fresh for up to 6 weeks. There are multiple options to choose from, too.
Meet the gorgeous balm that looks just like lipstick but won't actually dry out your lips (your winter skin will thank you). Available in 8 flattering shades.
For the new mom, the Elvie Stride is a massive timesaver. The best connected control on-demand and hospital-grade suction in-bra. With Elvie's smart, specialized breastfeeding app, you can fully manage your pump without so much as readjusting your shirt.
Speaking of cheese, Curdbox includes a delivery of 3 cheeses, 3 pairings, information on all of them, and more. You can also include wine with your subscription gift.
'You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir' by Maggie Smith
Amazon
A story about finding beauty no matter where you are or what you're going through, in a way only Maggie Smith could write. Just read the absolutely glowing reviews.
If there's anything more relaxing than a hammock, we haven't found it yet. The Signature is the most popular hammock from Yellow Leaf, woven with extra-soft yarn that's cozy and durable. There are multiple places to hang this baby, too, inside or out.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
New mom Elyse Myers is offering her (noncomprehensive) list of must-have postpartum products, and everyone with a newborn needs to see this
If you don’t already follow Elyse Myers on social media, why not? She’s absolutely hilarious and will make you smile every day. But she’s also one of the realest moms on social platforms. She just gave birth to her second baby, and in a now-viral video, she’s sharing some of her postpartum essentials that are saving her during round two (because even when it’s your second time, you still barely know what you’re doing).
“I’m nine days postpartum. Here is a non-comprehensive list of things that are very helpful for me postpartum—and also with newborn life—that I didn’t buy the first time around but I wish that I would have now that I’m using the second time around,” she says in her video.
The first is adult diapers, which, if you know, you know.
“Don’t even waste your time with the pads,” Myers says, which, if you know, you know.
The second thing she lists is a Peri bottle.
“The hospital is going to send you home with a peri bottle to help clean yourself when you go to the bathroom. If you can, just get one that’s upside down,” she says, with a picture onscreen of a bottle with an upward-facing nozzle. “Buy a separate one. Because then it squirts up at you so you’re not doing gymnastics when you’re going to the bathroom.”
Myers notes, as products #3 and #4, that the hospital will also send you home with pain and itch relief spray and witch hazel pads, but that it’s a good idea to stock up on both at home because you will run out.
The fifth item she mentions is a “quick-clean” sanitizing bag from Medela.
“You can reuse these 20 times,” Myers explains. “I exclusively pump and bottle feed, so I am constantly needing to wash my pump and wash bottles and I don’t want to wait for the dishwasher.” Instead, she says, she uses the sanitizing bags, which she can use in the microwave like a “mini dishwasher.”
Some of her other recommendations include a donut pillow for sitting on, a hospital-grade breast pump, and the Haakaa Ladybug, which she notes is shorter than the original Haakaa and more convenient because it doesn’t hang down while she uses it to collect breast milk. The last thing she recommends is a mini fridge to keep in the bedroom for storing milk for middle-of-the-night feedings, which saves her and her husband trips up and down the stairs and helps them get back to sleep faster (a game-changer when you have a newborn, of course).
As Myers notes, there are tons of other things she could share, because the list of things new moms could recommend to others is endless. But these do all sound like top-tier recs, and if they’ve helped her, they’re sure to help other moms.
I was lucky to be pregnant alongside one of my best friends. She was two weeks ahead of me and we shared a philosophy: we talk about everything. On any given day, the ping-pong match that became our text thread looked a little something like this:
Her: Where did you buy your compression socks? Your OB suggested them for flights, right?
Me: Do you think it’s bad I woke up on my back?
Her: New adds for our research list: delaying the first bath, and cord blood banking. Have you looked into either?
Me: How did you know it was baby hiccups when you felt them?
You better believe I hung on every word of her OB-GYN appointment recaps too, as I waited for my own. I wanted to know how did it go, what did you learn, and most importantly… what happens next?
(Photo: Me and my pregnancy partner-in-questioning)
As her 40-week mark moved closer and closer, I couldn’t shake the visual that she and I were standing at the top of a giant slide. Her, ready to push off and shout to me what the ride was like, as she soared towards the bottom.
I found having her as a guide for what was ahead to be calming, and made me feel like I was in “control” (cue the laughter, I know). I’m all about sharing what worked for me in the hopes it helps someone else, so here we go!
You may already be experiencing this, but the reality is, that as your pregnancy progresses, your OB-GYN appointments begin to feel more like drive-thrus than sit-downs. And that’s exactly around the time you’ll hear phrases like posterior placenta, newborn stem cell preservation, mucus plug, and foley bulb induction.
While these are new terms for the majority of us (and they sound intimidating), they’re not to be feared or rushed through. Your appointments are your appointments after all. So, from one new mom to the next, take your time. Command the room. If you need it, bring your partner, family member or friend as reinforcement. Most of all, ask every question.
To get you started, here’s a glimpse into the notes section of my phone organized by trimester. You’ll find topics to anticipate and questions to consider before your next OB-GYN appointment, no matter where you are in your pregnancy journey. Of course, pick and choose what feels appropriate for your situation.
We’re all on this ride together, friends—and I’ll be here waiting for you at the bottom of the slide.
First Trimester (0-13 Weeks)
The newness and fragility is palpable. This is a great time to gather questions as you wait for your first appointment and ultrasound.
When should my partner and I get tested for our blood types?
Are my prenatal vitamins giving me enough of what I need?
Can I keep up my exercise routine throughout pregnancy?
Are there foods I should avoid while pregnant?
How do I choose pregnancy safe skincare?
What should I be feeling during my first trimester?
When do you recommend I tell my boss I’m pregnant?
Second Trimester (14-27 Weeks)
As you work through all the necessary blood work and testing, tackle some of the bigger questions around your delivery, and explore your preferences. This is a nice time for a babymoon too!
What pregnancy classes should I take, and when should I take them?
Is cramping a normal feeling while pregnant?
Do I really have to sleep on my left side? Is it bad to sleep on your back while pregnant?
Start thinking about birth intentions (I avoided the word “plan”, adds too much stress!) :
What does a doula do, and do I want one?
Who will be in the room?
Review pain management options
What ambiance do we want in the room (lights dimmed? music?)
Gearing up for the homestretch! Expect more frequent doctor appointments as the weeks progress. This is your time to decide on your birth “intentions” and postpartum care.
How long past my due date can I go before induction? Can you ask to be induced?
Cervical exams during pregnancy—pros/cons? Are they elective?
Reminder to decide on cord blood banking! When is our deadline, and what is the cord blood storage cost?
What are signs your water broke? How long after do you wait at home if it does?
What does a mucus plug look like?
Do you have pediatrician recs? When do we make our first appointment?
Start to freeze food! Any recommendations for the best postpartum meals?
What is the transition phase of labor?
What breast pump does my insurance cover? Should I get fitted for a breast pump now?
While there is a lot to consider (clearly!), I hope having this little list in your back pocket lets you feel prepared for your next OB-GYN appointment.
We’ve been waiting all year for this. Amazon Prime Day 2023 is July 11-12. It’s a big deal. Actually, lots of big deals. There are ridiculously good savings to be had when you shop, and even the days leading up to it include major sales drops courtesy of the Big A. Amazon is not playing around this year, either. And we get it—you’re being bombarded with emails and posts and splash pages. Overwhelming, to say the least. We know how hard it is to keep up with it all. We’re here to make it all much easier to get what you want, when you want it (and when it’s available).
This is a mega guide to Amazon Prime Day. We’ve made sure to divide it up by category, and our shopping editor will be updating this post as new deals drop. Make sure to bookmark this one, folks. These Prime Day deals start early and run though the 12th, so you’re sure to find something (or several somethings) that you’ve had on your list. If you’ve been waiting until “the right time”, here’s your sign. This is it.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
I brought my Elvie Pump to the show of the year… and let’s just say, everyone performed beautifully
I’m a new mom. And up until recently, my “new mom” sea legs and desire to live in an absolute bubble stopped me from partaking in anything spontaneous that pre-motherhood me would eagerly explore.
That all changed when I was gifted tickets to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Yep, that tour you’re seeing across every social media feed you scroll. Julia Roberts, Emma Stone, Aaron Rogers… our girl Taylor is single-handedly uniting generations across the continent for a masterclass in performance, dedication, and work ethic. (Can you tell I’m a fan?)
Needless to say, for us Swifties, this tour is a “find tickets, will travel” type of event. So the fact that we live in Georgia while this particular show was in Tampa was just a minor detail.
There was no way I was going to let sleep deprivation and new motherhood count me out, so after a fast and forceful YES, my husband and I started to prep for our very first road trip with our seven-week-old baby. To Tampa for Taylor we go.
The day before we were set to leave I went on a walk with one of my new mom friends, ready to laugh with her about how much I had packed for our first three-day weekend away.
Every single item we use in a day was arranged, by category, on our kitchen table. I had written and re-written our checklist, outlined exactly how I wanted to pack up the car, and even mapped out where we could stop to feed and stretch along the drive. I’m currently breastfeeding and also bottle feeding, so I squeezed in extra pump sessions to prepare us with pre-portioned bottles of breastmilk to carry us through the weekend—and also cover for the time I’d be at the show. Cooler for the car, check.
We’re also learning our son’s preferences and wanted to be prepared for any scenario, like when he prefers to be upright after a bottle—Baby Bjorn Bouncer, check. Other times, he likes to nap on the couch next to us—Doc-a-Tot, check. Maybe my husband would want to take him on a walk—should we bring our stroller with both the bassinet and upright seat options? Feels like we need to! Check and check.
As it turned out, my friend was heading to the Nashville show just a few weeks later. Bonded by new-motherhood and now Taylor Swift, we laughed about our over-preparedness and placed our guesses for which secret songs Taylor might play. Then, she asked me a question that stopped me in my tracks.
Ok, but how the heck do you plan to pump at the show?
Wow, one major detail overlooked. I hadn’t listed it on any of my checklists.
As you know, this isn’t just a three-hour concert. This is a get to the stadium one-to-two hours early for merch, account for at least one hour of traffic no matter what time you leave, jam to one hour of openers, and get amped for a three-hour set kind of a concert. Fast math: that’s approximately seven hours (give or take your fandom).
At seven weeks postpartum, I hadn’t been out of the house for more than an hour at a time, let alone seven. What’s a girl gonna do? A nursing mom’s gotta pump!
Bringing in my very large, very loud hospital-grade breast pump was not an option.
Panicked, I sent an SOS to my mom friends, and in less than a minute, I received a response: I got you. Borrow my Elvie. Have fun.
Something I’ve learned about this incredible community of moms I have entered into is that they are fast and efficient. If you want a real review of something, text a mom. If you want honest feedback on whether something is worth your time or money, join a mom group, drop in the question, and marvel at the detailed, thoughtful, emphatic, and beyond-generous candor you’ll receive.
While everyone might choose their own path for how they do things as a mom, you can bet if a recommendation is sent your way, it’s been tested. Extreme pressure tested to be exact.
Dear Reader, I’ve Found Your Portable Pump
With less than 24 hours to go before my departure to Tampa, I picked up the Elvie Pump kit off my friend’s front porch. It was the perfect amount of time for an at-home test run.
My first impression was utter relief. It’s small, sleek, intuitive to assemble, and easy to clean—features that have become of the utmost importance to me.
Elvie Pump comes with two different-sized shields, which is invaluable as I’ve learned the hard way that pumping with the wrong-sized pump shields can cause real discomfort and damage.
“Reporting live from Taylor Swift with my Elvie Pump on. Success!”
My friend-to-the-rescue had also purchased and shared two extra bottles, caps, and valves, which translated to two pumping sessions at the concert without me having to wash anything.
I charged the hub and sterilized the parts. She hadn’t used the pump in five months, so I was really impressed with how quickly the two hubs charged up. And when I say this thing is hands-free, I mean it. The pump auto-transitions from massage to expression modes at the right time for your flow. It even turns off once the liquid level has reached capacity—quite a different experience from my ball and chain at-home pump.
I tried the Elvie on under my Lover-inspired Eras outfit and sent an all-caps THANK YOU FOR SAVING ME, THIS THING IS AMAZING text to my friend.
As a final step, I reached out to the venue to make sure there wouldn’t be an issue with bringing a small canvas bag with the pump inside. I chuckled at the quick response: “We have received a good amount of these requests. Please check in with security upon your arrival to receive a ‘medical bag tag’ and there will be no issue.” Clearly, there are a lot of us Swifties in our “pumping era.”
The concert was everything I wanted it to be and more. The real gift of it all was that my new reality and pumping needs didn’t pull me away from any part of the experience. I cried, I smiled so much my face hurt, I hugged a stranger, and I got to be present during every. single. song. Really, I got the chance to feel like me again.
So, from one new mom to the next, if you’re searching for a reliable, portable pump option that really works and lets you live like you used to, I got you. Get yourself an Elvie Pump and go have fun.
Your wallet is getting a holiday, too, thanks to these Memorial Day sales
Memorial Day weekend. The unofficial start of summer, the time to break out the grill and cold drinks, and the perfect excuse to indulge in some serious shopping. Whether you’re in the market for a new swimsuit or just looking to upgrade your home decor, Memorial Day weekend steals are the perfect opportunity to score some serious deals. To help you navigate the sea of sales, we’ve compiled a list of the best Memorial Day sales out there.
All the products and Memorial Day sales listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.