There isn’t an entire book called The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding for nothing—it truly is an art. And for some of us artists, myself included, it just doesn’t come as naturally as we’d hoped. There are so many things I didn’t know before I started breastfeeding, from the cracked nipples to the awkwardness of doing it in public, but I was especially unaware that there are so many different breast and chestfeeding positions, not to mention the fact that you can pick and choose based on your unique needs.

Whether your breasts are large, you have twins, your baby won’t latch (same here), or you’re just really freaking tired (which you will be), rest assured that there’s a position for that. When feeds don’t go smoothly, or even when they do, it can be super empowering as a new parent to have a full menu of the best breastfeeding positions to pull from and know exactly how to maneuver them—and we’d bet you haven’t heard of a few of these. So stick with us. We’ve asked two lactation experts to explain how each position works and which to use for specific situations that may come up during your bodyfeeding journey.

The best breastfeeding positions start with a solid latch

Both experts agree that there’s no one-size-fits-all position when it comes to breastfeeding. Amy Peterson, IBCLC, a lactation consultant for Evenflo, says that while it can take great patience to get nursing going smoothly, the best breastfeeding position is one where the baby can latch effectively, the milk transfers well, and everyone is comfortable.

To get your baby latched and eating, the basic steps involve positioning yourself comfortably, positioning your baby close to you, supporting your breast, and attaching your baby to your breast, according to La Leche League International. Baby can be resting on a nursing pillow (a C-shaped pillow that often fastens around the parent’s waist), a regular pillow, or no pillow at all, depending on what works best for you. When attaching them, you want to start with their nose lined up to your nipple, then touch their chin to the lower part of your nipple, let them open their mouths, and pull them onto your nipple (it should be aimed at the roof of their mouth) with your hand forming a “second neck” to support them. Always be sure to bring the baby to your nipple height rather than leaning over them to avoid back and neck aches or sore nipples.

While the steps for getting into your breastfeeding position are pretty set, how you choose to hold your baby while nursing is totally up to you—and there are plenty of great options to try, practice, and perfect. The cradle hold is one of the most popular positions because parents so naturally hold their babies this way, says Molly Petersen, a certified lactation counselor with Lansinoh, but did you know you can nurse your baby like a koala, too? Petersen urges new parents to experiment and explore a number of styles that offer different benefits. Here are some of the best breastfeeding positions to try, from the tried and true to ones that probably aren’t on your radar.

First, the classics…

Cradle hold breastfeeding position

“The cradle hold is often very popular with new moms, as it is how we most often hold new babies and most people are comfortable with it,” Petersen says. “It works for all different breast sizes, and makes it easier to see if your baby is getting a good latch.”

Using a nursing pillow or regular pillow to support your baby, have them lie on their side facing your body with their hip and mouth level to your nipple. Baby’s head should be resting on your forearm with your inner arm and palm supporting their back and bum. To help your infant latch, try a “U” hold” or a “C” hold—meaning you can use your hand to support your breast underneath to make a U shape or hold it from the side like the letter C.

Cross-cradle hold breastfeeding position

For smaller newborns and preemies, or babies who aren’t yet experienced eaters, this position is a great choice because it provides ample support. Baby’s position is similar to the cradle hold, tummy to tummy across the width of your body, but they’re nursing on the breast opposite the arm you’re using to support them. So rather than supporting their head in the crook of your arm, you hold their lower body and bum in the crook of your arm and support their neck with your fingers (and your palm resting in between their shoulder blades). It’s helpful to have a comfy chair with armrests to support your elbows.

Football hold breastfeeding position

If you have twins and want to tandem breastfeed or are recovering from a c-section, you’ll want to get acquainted with the football hold. The only drawback, according to Peterson, is that you can’t see the baby’s bottom lip to evaluate the latch, so if you’re new to nursing or have had issues with latching you may want to have your partner, a friend, or a family member take a closer look while you’re feeding.

For this hold, find somewhere where you’re comfortable, supported, and upright, like a large chair or sitting against your headboard, Petersen explains. “Place a pillow on the side you will be feeding from or, if feeding twins, on both sides. Lay your baby on top of the pillow with their feet tucked between your elbow and your side and their head pointing toward your feet.” Just make sure the pillow is high enough to bring baby’s head to breast height so you aren’t hunching over. To support their head, use the arm on the same side they are lying to cradle their neck in your palm with your pinky and thumb curving towards their ears, Petersen says. Ensure that baby is tucked tightly next to your body and isn’t putting pressure on your tummy, adds Peterson.

…And the ones you probably don’t know about but should

Laid-back breastfeeding position

“Laid-back feeding has you sit in a reclined position supported by pillows, and your baby lays on your stomach with their head resting next to your breast,” says Petersen. “This position can be great for moms with a forceful let-down, as it allows the baby to better regulate milk flow.” The laid-back breastfeeding position is intuitive and comfortable, according to Peterson, which is why it’s so popular.

It also offers a number of benefits. “Laid-back positioning uses gravity to promote baby’s reflexes to kick in and help with latching,” she says. “It also takes advantage of gravity—baby is fully supported on mom’s body.” It can also be a form of tummy time for older babies who hold their necks up for part of the feed. Best of all, if your babe is suffering from a gassy tummy, this position can help offer some relief.

Related: Breastfeeding Essentials for Nursing Your Baby

Side-lying breastfeeding position

“Side-lying is a great position for babies who seem to pull away from the breast,” Peterson says. “It is also just an all-around relaxing position worth mastering.” If you’ve had a c-section, have larger breasts, or are doing nighttime feeds, the side-lying breastfeeding position may be the one for you, according to Petersen. This sometimes underutilized option is also just goals in general because you get to lie down, and honestly, that’s the dream when you have a baby.

So how do you do it? “In a side-lying position, you lay on your side with your head supported by a pillow,” Petersen explains. “Place your baby on their side facing you with their mouth lined up with your nipple.” You can then pull your bottom arm up under your pillow or head, whatever is most comfortable, and if you’re worried about your little one rolling away you can put a pillow or rolled-up towel behind their back. We have a feeling this will become a fast favorite.

Related: What If Breastfeeding Gear Was Actually Cool

Koala breastfeeding position

The koala breastfeeding position is a bit more acrobatic, but Peterson says just think of it like you’re sitting your baby up on a table. “Baby’s legs straddle mom’s thigh, and mom supports the baby for an upright feed. This can be beneficial if there are some oral motor weaknesses or oversupply issues,” she says. Petersen adds that “if your baby is smaller you can also use a small pillow or rolled-up towel on top of your leg to boost them higher and bring their mouth in line with your nipple.”

Koala is a great position for babies with reflux or chronic ear infections and parents with a forceful let-down because it better allows baby to control the flow of milk and the pace of the feed.

A cheat sheet for the best breastfeeding positions for any parent and baby

If you’re looking for the best breastfeeding positions for specific scenarios, here’s a list of common concerns and the nursing options to help you handle them.

Breastfeeding Positions for Newborns

With so much uncertainty in the newborn stage and while still trying to perfect that latch, it’s nice to lean on positions that feel extra secure for everyone. These positions provide a lot of support and optimal positioning to make it easy for your baby to latch.

  • Cradle Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Cross-Cradle Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Football Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Laid-Back Breastfeeding Position

Breastfeeding Positions for Reflux

If your baby has reflux you’re probably dealing with a lot of spit up. To reduce pressure in their tummy and for the milk to work with gravity instead of against it, breastfeeding positions where they’re sitting up with their head above their waist can help immensely.

  • Koala Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Laid-Back Breastfeeding Position

Positions for Breastfeeding Twins

Twins require some maneuvering where breastfeeding is concerned. If you’re feeding them in tandem, you need positions where they can fit on either side of you comfortably or be laid on top of one another in a parallel position. You can do one position at a time, or combine two (e.g. simultaneously using the football hold for one and cradle hold for the other).

  • Football Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Parallel Cradle Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Laid-Back Breastfeeding Position

Breastfeeding Positions for Gas

Similar to reflux, to help your gassy baby it’s best to keep their head above their waist. In feeding them while basically sitting up, there’s less potential for extra air to build up in their tummies.

  • Koala Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Laid-Back Breastfeeding Position
woman breastfeeding
iStock

Breastfeeding Positions After C-Section

These positions are all about comfort for parents while they heal after having major surgery, which means keeping babies away from their incision.

  • Football Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Side-Lying Breastfeeding Position

Breastfeeding Positions for Large Breasts

Those with large breasts may have a hard time breastfeeding because of visibility issues (not being able to see how the baby is latching) and a sore neck and back from certain breastfeeding positions.

  • Side-Lying Breastfeeding Position
  • Cradle Hold Breastfeeding Position
  • Laid-Back Breastfeeding Position

Picking the best breastfeeding position is super personal and will probably include some trial and error. If you’re having issues latching or finding the best position for you and your baby, you can always reach out to an IBCLC lactation consultant in your area to help with your journey.

Once baby is fed and happy, make sure to capture all their firsts—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

Discover new favorites with these Black-owned online businesses that sell must-have items for pregnant women, new moms, babies, and toddlers. From pregnancy necessities and breastfeeding support to baby clothes, books, and toys, these companies were built with quality and representation in mind. If you’re heading to a baby shower soon, this list has lots of great options for both mom and baby.

Lucy Lue Organics
Made with premium organic cotton, these stylish, solid-colored baby essentials are made to last from season to season, and to be handed down. Check out the timeless bodysuits, bloomers, rompers, pants, tops, hats and more.

Shop at lucylueorganics.com

Sun & Lace
Each of these adorable moccs, boots, oxfords, mary janes, and bella janes (their signature style) are handcrafted by owner Briana in her Wisconsin studio. These are heirloom-quality shoes in neutral colors with sweet and stylish details.

Shop at sunandlace.com

Kammy Kids
This is the place to find graphic bodysuits and t-shirts with sayings you’ll love: “little love,” “best friend,” “new to the crew,” “big bro” and our favorite, “milk’n it.” These will take your Insta photos to a whole new level.

Shop at kammykids.com

Junobie
These breast milk bags just changed the pumping game. They’re made from 100% food-grade silicone, they’re reusable, and they’re safe for the dishwasher, microwave, freezer or oven. With milk bags, boxes, jars and cups, they have everything you need to store your liquid gold.

Shop at junobie.com

What Little Wonder
Dress up your nursery with these modern and bohemian knit blankets, perfect for tummy time, cuddles, naps, and reading. Also great for staying warm during stroller walks.

Shop at whatlittlewonder.com

Yinibini Baby
We especially love the cute designs that are hand-screen-printed on organic cotton onesies. In addition to baby clothes, Soyini George’s shop also sells bibs, books, toys, teethers and more.

Shop at yinibinibaby.com

Happy Mango
Get baby gear, nursery necessities, toys, clothes, and everything you need for bathing and feeding. The Black-owned business sells top brands and offers a baby registry you can fill with items on your wishlist.

Shop at shophappymango.com

Tippy Tot Shoes
A great spot to buy luxury shoes for your favorite babies, from crib shoes to walking shoes. Search the stylish selection of classic, vintage, and retro styles for timeless kicks you’ll love.

Shop at tippytotshoes.com

Coco’Pie Clothing
Celebrate black girl beauty with these cute clothes, pillows, and accessories for babies and young girls. The website also sells natural hair care to keep those gorgeous locks healthy and nourished.

Shop at cocopieclothing.com

KaAn’s Designs
The Greens family owns this parenting lifestyle brand of tees and accessories for kids and the whole family. Check it out for cool sayings, holiday collections, and matching outfits for siblings, mommy & me, daddy & me, and more.

Shop at kaansdesigns.com

Kido
Shop by age for clothing, books, toys, activities and more at this family-owned shop based in Chicago. Run by married creatives Doug and Keewa, he designs prints for shirts while she drives the vision and curates the shop.

Shop at kidochicago.com

Miles and Milan
Minimalist yet fashion-thoughtful is the aesthetic of Shennel Fuller’s shop of clothing basics and fashion pieces. The casual joggers, hoodies, tees, and sweatshirts come in solids and simple designs. One cute bodysuit made Oprah’s Favorite Things list.

Shop at milesandmilan.com

The Rooted Baby Co.
“Rooted in love. Rooted in culture” is the mantra behind this online shop celebrating the founders’ Ghanaian background. The baby items are designed with authentic African print fabric or are inspired by the Ghanaian people. Find bows, swaddles, gift boxes and more.

Shop at rootedbabyco.com

Ade + Ayo
Enjoy the beauty of African design with these baby and toddler clothes, accessories and toys. Founder Temidayo Adedokun designs and curates the collection of beautiful and practical items.

Shop at adeandayo.com

Minibrook
We love these stylish clothing essentials for kids. The mix-and-match solids and stripes are the epitome of casual cool and built for playtime.

Shop at minibrook.co

Brave + Kind Bookshop
Shop for inclusive board books, picture books, chapter books and cool toys and accessories. The book bundles takes the guesswork out of shopping for gifts.

Shop at braveandkindbooks.com

Tinkypoo
The colorful designs on these diapers feature super cute babies who are Black, Brown, Asian American and Pacific Islanders. In addition to being adorable, they’re absorbent and made with plant-based ingredients. Available in newborn to size 4.

Shop at tinkypoo.com.

Stina & Mae
Founded by new mom Mishell Ekunsirinde when she couldn’t find a changing mat she liked, Stina & Mae sells organic, high-quality products for modern mamas and babies, including mats, snuggle blankets, nursing pads, bibs, burp cloths and cotton wipes. Buy items individually or choose a beautiful gift box curated with eco-friendly baby essentials.

Shop at stinaandmae.com

Cozy n Cute Kids Boutique
The kids’ clothes at the Cozy N Cute Kids Boutique are cute, comfortable, and always on trend. You’ll find cool sayings, sweet ruffles and fun prints you and your child will love. This online kids clothing store was founded by Priscilla Wesson, a Black mom with two daughters from Long Island, NY. She launched her online shop in June 2020 and focuses on practical everyday styles for young kids, with affordable prices, great deals and top-notch customer service.

Shop at cozyncutekidsboutique.com

Milky Mama
Milky Mama was created by Krystal Nicole Duhaney, a registered nurse, board-certified lactation consultant and breastfeeding mother of two. She began her business making lactation cookies and has branched out into brownies, iced tea, lemonade, smoothie mix and herbal supplements, all to help women maintain their milk supply. The website also offers breastfeeding support from a team of lactation consultants, doula services and a Moms at Work Program to assist corporations in supporting breastfeeding employees in the workplace.

Shop at milky-mama.com

Pretty Please Teethers
When mom Kelli had trouble finding safe, stylish, natural handmade items for her babies, she decided to make and sell her own. Her teethers, pacifiers, pacifier clips, rattles, bibs and snack cups are functional and beautiful with minimalist flair, in soft and stylish colors. All of the products are handmade and designed in Utah and made from food-grade silicone and natural beechwood.

Shop at prettypleaseteethers.com

Mila Christina
The beautiful and durable cashmere (yes, cashmere!) baby bodysuits from Mila Christina help regulate body temperature and are soft on baby’s sensitive skin. These gorgeous turtleneck bodysuits come in soft, classic colors and have buttons at the bottom and up the turtleneck for easy on and off. Founder and creative director Ollia Njibaloh created the bodysuits to keep her own daughter warm and comfortable.

Shop at milachristina.com

Healthy Roots Dolls
Show your love for curly girls with a Zoe doll from Healthy Roots Dolls. The company’s first doll, Zoe is 18 inches tall with a soft cloth body torso and vinyl limbs. Best of all, her gorgeous dark, curly hair is washable and styleable! Leave her hair down or put it in braids, puffs and other beautiful styles. Founder Yelitsa Jean-Charles was inspired to create more diverse toys while studying illustration at the Rhode Island School of Design. With a grant from Brown University and support from Kickstarter backers and other groups, she made her dream come true, and now creates dolls like Zoe that make lots of little girls’ dreams come true.

Shop at healthyrootsdolls.com

The Stork Bag
We love this pregnancy gift created by Ericka N. Perry for bringing a smile to mamas: Pregnant women receive a cute, reusable bag full of useful products handpicked by moms, geared toward the trimester, postpartum, or to moms expecting a rainbow baby after a pregnancy loss. The company also sells pregnancy journals, baby products, body products, and more.

Shop at thestorkbag.com

King + Lola Kids 
Jasmine Walker started her kids fashion business while pregnant with her second child and completing her MBA degree. King + Lola sells children’s clothing and accessories, including eco-friendly and upcycled items. The products are all made in the USA with fabrics from around the world. The company gives back to charities and nonprofit organizations.

Shop at kingandlola.com

Little Muffincakes Baby Boutique
From blankets and bibs to burp cloths and bodysuits, the products from Little Muffincakes Baby Boutique are adorned with sweet images of Black kids at play. Through relatable imagery and high-quality products, they aim to promote self-acceptance and self-esteem.

Shop at littlemuffincakes.com

HarperIman
The mother-daughter duo behind HarperIman dolls are committed to designing dolls of color that reinforce to children of color how important, smart, talented, creative and beautiful they are. Choose from keepsake dolls, baby dolls, tea party dolls, more to love dolls, or order a custom doll, when available.

Shop at harperiman.com

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. 

Jump to:
WillowGo
Medela Freestyle
Momcozy V2
Elvie Stride Plus
Spectra 9 Plus
TSRETE S12
BabyBuddha Portable

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.

WillowGo Pump

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.

hands holding wearable breast pumps
Willow

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.

WillowGo Pump ($349.99)—Buy Here!

Medela Freestyle Pump

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.

a brown purse with a Medela Freestyle pump inside next to glasses and lipstick
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. 

Medela Freestyle Pump ($249.99)—Buy Here!

Momcozy V2 Breast Pump

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.

woman pushing a stroller outside while wearing a wearable breast pump under her white tank top
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.

Momcozy V2 Pump ($199.99)—Buy Here!

Elvie Stride Plus Pump

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.

a product image of an elvie stride hands free breast pump and phone app
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.

Elvie Stride & Stride Plus Pump ($269.99+)—Buy Here!

Spectra 9 Plus Portable Pump

Spectra has climbed to the gold standard of breast pumps in recent years between their S1 Plus Rechargeable Electric Breast Pump, the S2 Electric Pump, and the Spectra Synergy Gold Double Adjustable Pump. One of the newer additions to the Spectra fam is the portable S9 and it’s definitely taken off.

Spectra

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.

Spectra 9 Plus Portable Pump ($145.85)—Buy Here!

TSRETE S12 Pump

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.

pink wearable TSRETE breast pumps
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.

TSRETE S12 Pump ($89.99)—Buy Here!

BabyBuddha Portable Pump

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.

a product image of the BabyBuddha breast pump
BabyBuddha

This is definitely one small-but-mighty pump, thanks to the 15 different settings and unique suction patterns. It’s also extremely quiet, so you won’t miss a beat. For insurance coverage information, check out the BabyBuddha information page here.

BabyBuddha Portable Pump ($169.99)—Buy Here!

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.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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

a two piece dining set on a colorful geometric rug
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!

SAFAVIEH Amsterdam Collection Area Rug | 81% Off ($122.38)—Buy Here!

Rear-Facing Car Seat Mirror | 77% Off

baby reflection in car rear facing baby mirror
Amazon

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!

Rear-Facing Car Seat Mirror | 77% Off ($15.99)—Buy Here!

Dyson V11 Outsize + Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | 32% Off

dyson vacuum
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!

Dyson V11 Outsize + Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | 32% Off ($642.00)—Buy Here!

4 Pack Leggings with Pockets | 34% Off

bottom half of women wearing leggings
Amazon

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!

4 Pack Leggings with Pockets | 34% Off ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Pillow Slide Sandals | 43% Off

Amazon

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!

Pillow Slide Sandals | 43% Off ($20.38)—Buy Here!

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil | 29% Off

bottle of face wash
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!

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil | 29% Off ($14.15)—Buy Here!

PRETTYGARDEN 2pc Tracksuit | 37% Off

Amazon

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!

PRETTYGARDEN 2pc Tracksuit | 37% Off ($31.99)—Buy Here!

Skip Hop Baby Bath Spout Cover | 29% Off

a blue whale shaped faucet cover over a bathtub faucet
Amazon

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!

Skip Hop Baby Bath Spout Cover | 29% Off ($9.99)—Buy Here!

Apple AirTag 4 Pack | 20% Off

four Apple Air Tags in a row
Amazon

Keep track of it all: keys, wallets, luggage, pets, kids...you name it and AirTag can keep up with it. Regular Price $99.00/Now $78.99!

Apple AirTag 4 Pack | 20% Off ($78.99)—Buy Here!

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!

Ninja CW202RD Foodi NeverStick PossiblePot | 38% Off ($79.99)—Buy Here!

UPPAbaby Alta High Back Booster Seat | 35% Off

grey child's car booster seat
Amazon

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!

UPPAbaby Alta High Back Booster Seat | 35% Off ($116.99)—Buy Here!

Ball & Cast Upholstered Bench | 52% Off

black upholstered bench at end of a bed
Amazon

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!

Ball & Cast Upholstered Bench | 52% Off ($47.34)—Buy Here!

The First Years American Red Cross Digital Infrared Forehead No-Touch Thermometer | 80% Off

box containing no-touch thermometer
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!

The First Years American Red Cross Digital Infrared Forehead No-Touch Thermometer | 80% Off ($9.99)—Buy Here!

Disney Pixar 'Up' LEGO Set | 19% Off

Disney Pixar 'Up' Movie Lego Set
Amazon

Not only is this build super cute, but it also won't make you cry. Unlike the movie. Ahem. Regular Price $59.99/Now $48.49!

Disney Pixar 'Up' LEGO Set | 19% Off ($48.49)—Buy Here!

Sharpie Creative Markers | 15% Off

a person using Sharpie markers on black paper
Sharpie

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!

Sharpie Creative Markers | 15% Off ($19.99)—Buy Here!

XL Shoe Organizer Boxes | 63% Off

stack of shoe storage boxes
Amazon

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!

XL Shoe Organizer Boxes | 63% Off ($32.99)—Buy Here!

Silk Pillowcases 2pk | 32% Off

Amazon

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!

Silk Pillowcases 2pk | 32% Off ($24.37)—Buy Here!

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!

Ray-Ban Women's Rb4378 Square Sunglasses | 20% Off ($142.40)—Buy Here!

Arched Full Length Mirror | 22% Off

room with standing mirror resting against wall
Amazon

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!

Arched Full Length Mirror | 22% Off ($69.99)—Buy Here!

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!

momcozy Breast Pump S12 Pro Wearable Wireless Breast Pump | 41% Off ($111.99)—Buy Here!

Freezer-Safe Glass Food Storage Containers 12pk | 44% Off

set of glass food storage boxes
Amazon

Dishwasher safe, oven safe, microwave safe, freezer safe...is there anything these glass storage containers (+lids!) can't do? Regular Price $69.95/Now $38.95!

Freezer-Safe Glass Food Storage Containers 12pk | 44% Off ($38.95)—Buy Here!

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!

LEGO DUPLO Classic Brick Box Building Set | 20% Off ($23.99)—Buy Here!

Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens 20ct | 53% Off

package of 20 pens in assorted colors
Amazon

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!

Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens 20ct | 53% Off ($19.40)—Buy Here!

UREVO Under Desk Treadmill | 39% Off

Amazon

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!

UREVO Under Desk Treadmill | 39% Off ($199.97)—Buy Here!

Kin By Tuft & Needle 10-Inch Mattress | 20% Off

platform bed on rug against teal green wall
Amazon

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!

Kin By Tuft & Needle 10-Inch Mattress | 20% Off ($439.20-$679.20)—Buy Here!

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!

Ulike IPL Home Laser Hair Removal Device | 21% Off ($259.00)—Buy Here!

Mini Bluetooth Label Maker | 27% Off

Amazon

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!

Mini Bluetooth Label Maker | 27% Off ($26.99)—Buy Here!

MySmile Teeth Whitening Kit | 27% Off

box of teeth whitening products
Amazon

10 minutes. No sensitivity. Teeth up to 10 shades whiter. 27% off. Win. Regular Price $32.95/Now $23.95!

MySmile Teeth Whitening Kit | 27% Off ($23.95)—Buy Here!

THE GYM PEOPLE Womens' Half Zip Pullover | 36% Off

woman wearing a grey 1/2 zip pullover
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!

THE GYM PEOPLE Womens' Half Zip Pullover | 36% Off ($29.99)—Buy Here!

DripDrop Hydration Electrolyte Powder Packets | 25% Off

box of dripdrop electrolyte drink powder packets
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!

DripDrop Hydration Electrolyte Powder Packets | 25% Off ($27.13)—Buy Here!

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.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Look at any book, scroll any website, and consult any friend, and you’ll get a million different ideas of what ‘postpartum essentials’ really means. But, since we’re all moms around here in different seasons of motherhood, we’ve got the real mom lowdown on the postpartum essentials we really couldn’t do without. And we’ve even included some prenatal favorites to keep you going as you head toward the next stage of your mom journey.

Of course, anything you see on this list (or any others, really) shouldn’t be taken as medical advice. Always run things by your healthcare provider if you have any questions. That said, these postpartum goodies are some of the most tried-and-true out there. From nursing camis that save you some laundry time to cooling pads that soothe your healing body and everything in between, we’ve put together our faves for keeping comfortable, managing pain, taking care of yourself, and even staying organized while you get to know your newest family member. (There are even some great gifts for new moms on this list, so if you’re looking for products to really help out the new mom in your life, we’ve got you covered!).

Postpartum Essentials

Frida Mom Instant Ice Maxi Pads

Frida Mom on Amazon

Looking for some major relief? These 2-in-1 cooling and absorbent maxi pads are made with witch hazel (no funky chemicals here) and instantly cool and soothe sensitive bodies following delivery. They're full-coverage, too, to minimize leaks!

Frida Mom Instant Ice Maxi Pads ($18.97)—Buy Here!

Ingrid & Isabel Cooling Nursing + Pumping Bra

woman wearing nursing and pumping bra and displaying functionality
Ingrid and Isabel

Ingrid & Isabel's seamless cooling bra features an innovative technical fabric with cooling minerals to wick away moisture and keep you feeling cool and dry. It includes drop-down cups and openings for pump flanges, plus it's compatible with wearable pumps. It's your 3-in-1 postpartum bra: support, nursing, and pumping-ready! Available in black and sand.

Ingrid & Isabel Cooling Nursing + Pumping Bra ($50.00)—Buy Here!

Beli Women Prenatal

bottle of Beli Women prenatal vitamins
Beli

Not all prenatals are created equal. The Beli Women Prenatal is designed for when you're hoping to conceive, during all three trimesters, and the early months of motherhood. It's gentle on your tummy, too. What other prenatal does it all? Beli also has a subscription option, so it's one less thing you have to think about every month.

Beli Women Prenatal ($50.00)—Buy Here!

Thena Sitz Bath Soak

Thena Natural Wellness on Amazon

Extra-soothing and can help speed up recovery, this sitz bath soak is extra-gentle. Made with organic coconut oil, organic sweet almond oil, therapeutic lavender, and grapefruit essential oils to deeply hydrate while the fine-grain salt dissolves extra fast so you don't have to wait to relax.

Thena Sitz Bath Soak ($26.95)—Buy Here!

Hydrating Mom Fuel Electrolyte Drink Mix

Mommy Knows Best on Amazon

Listen, new moms. It's vital that you stay hydrated. Of course, that's always true, but it's especially easy to forget when you're nursing, running on less sleep, and healing from labor and delivery. Mom Fuel is formulated for moms, it's caffiene-free and includes lactation support, all in an on-the-go packet. Mix it with a little extra water if you prefer a milder flavor.

Hydrating Mom Fuel Electrolyte Drink Mix ($14.99)—Buy Here!

Bodily C-Section Box

Bodily

Bodily really knocked it out of the park with this box. The kit contains 12 research-backed products, including goodies for hospital and home, so you can be covered from the big day to every moment of your healing journey. The Bodily Belly Band, nursing pads, cozy socks, nipple gel pads, mesh undies, and a lot more. There's also the Care for Birth Box if you don't need the Belly Band.

Bodily C-Section Box ($139.00)—Buy Here!

Lansinoh Pain Relief Spray

Lansinoh on Amazon

This 4% lidocaine spray works upside down (genius) and takes the edge off perineal pain. It also includes witch hazel and aloe vera.

Lansinoh Pain Relief Spray ($6.57)—Buy Here!

The Poppy Diaper Purse

Poppy

The Poppy Diaper Purse is a modern and minimalist take on the diaper bag. It replaces the bulky and big diaper bags that can be a huge pain and instead, includes a mini diaper bag with a dual-purpose design. Divided into two sections, the Poppy has a dedicated baby diaper compartment and a personal purse compartment, too. Multiple zippered and open pocket options, including an elastic pocket for baby wipes! Available in 4 colors, and fun straps (sold separately) to customize yours.

The Poppy Diaper Purse ($160.00)—Buy here!

Portable Bidet

Easy@Home on Amazon

If you want, or need, to leave the house during your postpartum recovery, your healing regimen still can't take a backseat. This handy little portable bidet doesn't look like one, but works to effectively keep your postpartum hygiene in check no matter where you are. They also made sure the design mitigates leaks, because that's pretty much the last thing you need right now.

Portable Bidet ($13.99)—Buy Here! 

Ingrid & Isabel Wrap Nursing Cardigan

Ingrid and Isabel

You'll want to live in this one. A cardigan that adjusts to your bump and can be worn long after. It pairs perfectly with a nursing cami, too!

Ingrid & Isabel Wrap Nursing Cardigan ($98.00)—Buy Here!

nyssa Fourthwear Postpartum Recovery Underwear

nyssa

Super soft, belly hugging (read: supportive!) underwear with a dual-layer, 360° pocket design to securely hold ice or heat therapy between the legs, at the site of c-section, and around the back where postpartum recovering bodies need it most. Available in multiple sizes and bundle options (remember what we said about laundry?).

nyssa Fourthwear Postpartum Recovery Underwear ($39.00+)—Buy Here!

Postpartum Wrap

Amazon

The name of the postpartum game is 'Support' (both physically and mentally), so having a compression wrap like this one on-hand is a great idea. You can adjust it to the level you prefer and wearing a wrap can help speed up your healing!

Postpartum Wrap ($19.98+)—Buy Here!

Charcoal Donut Pillow

H. on Amazon

Back relief, hemorrhoid relief, and reduced perineum pressure are all in the cards when you have a solid donut pillow.

Charcoal Donut Pillow ($39.99)—Buy Here! 

Frida Mom Witch Hazel Perineal Cooling Pad Liners

Frida Mom on Amazon

Witch hazel is the hero product of postpartum recovery, and these cooling liners cover most maxi pads to reduce swelling and speed up healing.

Frida Mom Witch Hazel Perineal Cooling Pad Liners ($11.97)—Buy Here!

Maternity Hospital Bag Bundle

Seraphine

A super-soft, easy-fit pajama top with lift up nursing access, a comfy over bump pajama bottoms with a tapered leg, a maternity and nursing nightie with snaps at the front for easy nursing and skin-to-skin snuggles, and a cozy matching robe to keep you warm, covered up when you want to be, and excellent for busy hospitals or at home when you have visitors. 

Maternity Hospital Bag Bundle ($159.00)—Buy Here!

 

Prenatal Must-Haves

Pregnancy Yoga Ball

Trideer on Amazon

A yoga ball specifically designed to offer relief from back, pelvic, pubic, and round ligament pain, and may promote optimal fetal positioning for a smoother delivery. It's sturdy (max weight of 440lbs.) and is extra-thick to make sure you're totally supported. It's also great for use during postpartum recovery.

Pregnancy Yoga Ball ($28.99)—Buy Here!

Everywear Tank Dress

Ingrid and Isabel

You can't beat this level of versatility! The ruched silhouette shows off your growing bump and can be worn all through pregnancy and postpartum. Add a denim jacket, sneakers, a blazer...with multiple colors to choose from, you might not want to wear anything else for a long time.

Everywear Tank Dress ($69.99)—Buy Here!

SNAP Supplements Prenatal Vitamins

bottle of SNAP prenatal vitamins
SNAP Supplements

If there's going to be a prenatal vitamin in our list, and of course there is, it better be the best. SNAP Supplements Prenatal Vitamins make it easy to take care of your growing babe and yourself. Along with 15 vitamins and minerals with 100% daily value, they included ingredients to help prevent and alleviate nausea, so you can actually handle taking them. If you've been dealing with upset belly from prenatals, SNAP has you covered.

SNAP Supplements Prenatal Vitamins ($14.95)—Buy Here!

Copper Compression Socks Set of 4

Aoliks on Amazon

Soft on the inside and excellent for helping swelling, achy feet and legs, this set of 4 pairs of socks are available in a ton of colors, too.

Copper Compression Socks Set of 4 ($14.99)—Buy Here!

Bio-Oil

Bio-Oil on Amazon

Bio-Oil is one of the most popular prenatal (and postpartum, and whenever...) products out there. Why? Because it's super effective at moisturizing, helping your skin stay elastic and not itchy as your bump grows, and soothes it after delivery.

Bio-Oil ($27.99)—Buy Here!

U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow

Pharmedoc on Amazon

Whether you're struggling to sleep or just looking for some extra support, this pillow will be a major favorite. It's also awesome for sitting up in bed and reading, nursing, or even using a corner as a lap desk. Available in multiple colors and prints.

U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow ($44.95)—Buy Here!

 

 

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.

All images courtesy of retailers.

A quiet refuge from the crowds that sells anything you forgot at the hotel? Yes, please.

As any parent who’s done it knows, so much planning and money go into a Disney Parks visit, and throwing a baby into the mix makes things that much more complicated. Not only do you have to lug all their gear, extra clothes, food, diapers, a stroller, and so on, but what do you do if you forget something back at the hotel? That’s where the Disney magic comes in.

A lesser-known attraction at Disney Parks (but arguably one of the best!) is their amazing Baby Care Centers—fully staffed lounges that are just what you need after a day of juggling toddlers and long lines. These large, fully equipped spaces offer a quiet, air-conditioned place to feed and change your baby away from the crowds. If you forgot your baby food or ran out of diapers, you can also buy backups of anything you could need.

Here’s everything Disney Baby Care Centers offer:

  • Nursing room with rocking chairs
  • Changing room with tables
  • Toddler-size toilets (for Guests under 42” tall)
  • Feeding area with highchairs
  • Kitchen with sink, bottle warmers, filtered water dispenser, and microwave (select use only)
  • Vending machine or shop offering formula, baby food, juice, diapers, wipes, sunscreen, pacifiers, and over-the-counter medication
  • Main room with seating and Disney cartoons playing on the TV

The best news of all? It’s totally free to use the Baby Care Centers when you visit Disney. You’ll find them in Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World as well as in both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure at the California park. Just search “baby care” on the My Disney Experience app.

Read: A Disneyland Expert Shares Her Best Tips for Visiting with Toddlers

Mom Alyssa Sprake went viral on TikTok for her tour of the Baby Care Center at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

@alyssaksprake

The baby care centers are a game changer #babycarecenter #disney #disneyworld #disneybaby #baby #magickingdom #momsoftiktok #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #babycaretips #disneyplanningtips #disneyplus

♬ The Mad Tea Party – The Unbirthday Song (From “Alice In Wonderland”) – Karaoke Version – Urock Karaoke

Not only were we surprised by how roomy and clean this space is, but it had so many handy items for sale, including period products and deodorant for teens and parents.

TikToker @xonissi shared the Baby Care Center at the Disneyland property:

@xonissi

#Disneyland #Baby #Disneymom #BabyCareHacks #Disney #Mickey #Babygirl #BabyBoy #Diaper #Hughies #Pamper #Bottle #Momlife #DisneyDay #DCA #VacationTips #Travelingmoms #Disneylandlife #Disneyahacks #Babycarecenter #Babies #Infants #MotherHood #Parenthood #Nursing #Breastfeeding #Mainstreet #MagicKey #Baby

♬ Married Life (From “Up”) – Geek Music

One commenter replied that the kid-sized toilets were super helpful when they visited with potty-training toddlers and another explained that the pacifiers were a life-saver when they forgot their baby’s soother at home. They’re also a place where lost children are cared for by cast members until they’re reunited with their families.

In a pinch, you can find changing stations at other bathrooms in the park, but they can’t sell you that pack of wipes you lost along the way—and they certainly won’t give you that same magical feeling.

If you’ve been putting off the day when you clear the clutter from your kids’ room, it’s time to take action. Tackle your kids’ bedroom or playroom—the spaces that require daily work to keep clean—with a real plan of attack. We asked the experts to weigh in and offer tips on how to clear the clutter and keep things organized (for real). From prepping for the big day to what you need to toss out, here’s our guide on how to clean out your kids’ room.

How to Prep for the Day You Clear the Clutter

1. Make a plan.

you need a plan to clear the clutter
iStock

A good way to start is to identify what you want to accomplish while cleaning. Are there a lot of old toys that can be given away to a friend or sold at a garage sale? Does your kid need more space for books? Write down the tasks you want to tackle, and you’ll feel better about the job.

2. Start where you are.
It’s the secret motivational boost for what can feel like a daunting task. As contributor Jennifer Landis recommends, any spring-cleaning project should start with one room, and look—you’ve got your kid’s room already picked out. Whether you tackle an all-purpose bedroom or have a designated playroom, grab your “to keep,” “to donate,” and “to toss” bags, and get going!

3. Move out.
If it’s been a while since you’ve vacuumed under that epic fort in the corner, it’s time to move things around—or at least to the middle of the room. It’s not only the best way to clean out nooks and crannies, but you’ll be more mindful of what you bring back in.

Related: The Secrets Professional Organizers Use to Stay Sane & Clutter-Free

What to Toss While You’re Cleaning

1. Random tiny toys.

Nik via Unsplash

 

All those little plastic toys your kids get while cruising the petite party circuit? If it hasn’t found a place of honor in your kid’s play rotation yet, toss it.

2. The last of the baby gear.
Do you still have a nursing pillow in the closet? How about an activity gym or a Bumbo seat? If you’re done adding to your family, it may finally be time to pass these on to newer mamas or donate to those in need. And upcycle! Add flair to formula or diaper wipe containers for extra storage or paint those baby food containers for a color wheel crayon organizing system. Check out more clever ways to upcycle old baby gear.

3. Anything broken.
No matter what project you’ve undertaken, little feels better than being on a roll, so start with easy toss-ables, such as anything broken. That play purse that lost its handle. Those three missing parts that don’t add up to anything. Crayon stubs you know you’ll never melt into little DIY gifts. Clear all that clutter and enjoy the immediate breathing room.

4. Stuffies that aren’t lovies.
We’ll admit it, this one is going to be a battle, but if your little hoarder is old enough to rise to the task without suddenly growing inseparable from each stuffie you attempt to discard, then this presents a wonderful opportunity to donate those in good condition.

5. Too-tiny clothes and shoes.
Kids grow fast in the early years. Before we know it, the pants are too short and the shoes are tight. Take honest stock of what your kid wears (oftentimes it’s a few favorite outfits), and purge what’s outgrown, stained, or simply not your kid’s style. You can even go the capsule wardrobe route, check out our tips on how to make it happen here.

6. Odd socks. 
It’s a mystery as to where they all go, but we do know that socks love to disappear. Accept the fact that, for some reason, they’re gone, and toss the solo sock. You’ll have more space in your drawers and it’ll make laundry day much more pleasant.

7. The endless piles of paper.
Royal crowns from birthdays gone by? Notebooks long ago scribbled in? Coloring books of yesteryear? How about all those school Valentines or party favors? Take a quick flip through for anything indicative of early artistic genius, then recycle, recycle, recycle.

8. Outdated wall decor
Have you changed your preschooler’s wall art since you set up the nursery? Every few years, it’s nice to switch things up. If you’re still planning to add to your family, put the sweet baby giraffe print in storage with the Rock ‘n’ Play, and update the walls. Etsy has thousands of affordable printables, or you can clear wall space for an educational mural from Wallsauce. Here are other great ways to design a kids’ room that grows with them.

9. Ripped, broken books and board books (if your kids are beyond the baby stage).
Like little bodies outgrow clothes, big minds and imaginations outgrow books. If your bookworm’s shelves are bursting, it’s time to save a few sentimental titles and donate the rest.

How to Keep It Clean After You Clear the Clutter

1. Pick up regularly.

Now that most of the hard work is over, save time in the future by going through this clean-up process regularly, especially after birthdays and holidays, as NEAT Method recommends. Read on for other great pro tips and secrets to organizing success from moms.

2. Don’t micromanage the small stuff.
Toys and parts often migrate under the couch, appear underfoot, and end up right on your last nerve. While these Shopkins and snap-ins may be tiny, they need a big home. Rather than spend time every day re-assigning them to individual containers, consider one big bin or this fun Swoop Bag, which also works wonders for LEGO, train sets, and play food. The best part? Clean-up is a cinch, even for mini-mess makers.

3. Don’t go overboard on storage.
It’s a little counterintuitive, but hear us out. We are all for stylish, sensible ways to organize—and storage solutions are certainly keys to a clean room—but any additional containers are bound to fill up. Work with what you have to minimize excess—the answer isn’t always to store it.

4. Save the sentimental stuff.
Parents, we are one of the biggest reasons it’s so hard to clear out what our kids have outgrown—physically and developmentally. It’s emotional! We remember when he walked off to his first day of kindergarten in that sweatshirt or that toy dinosaur she carried everywhere for a year. Select choice pieces for cool and surprising ways to repurpose the sentimental stuff.

5. Upcycle “new” toys.
With everything streamlined, the last thing you or your budget want to do is rush to fill it up with new stuff. The next time the kids beg for the latest, get creative! Sand-filled juice boxes make for awesome stacking blocks and corks morph into stamps. There are loads of great reasons why you should be upcycling anyway.

6. Use the “out of sight, out of mind” method. Have a place to stash the toys they haven’t played with in a while and give yourself a time limit. If the time has passed and no one has asked for it, you can donate or toss it. Get more on how to make this work here.

7. Let (some) clutter go.
At the end of the day, it’s a kid’s room. It should look like a kid lives, plays, and imagines there, which means extra stuff is sometimes just part of the fun, messy wonder of it all. So relax, and remember that the next time clutter accumulates.

Ahh, new motherhood. You go from dreaming of the day your baby will arrive to holding that tiny, wriggling bundle in your arms and thinking, “What the heck do I do now?” Hang tight! We’re here to help. We asked experienced moms to tell us one thing they wish they’d known when they first became parents, and they really delivered—from wisdom on sleep to life-changing self-care tips, and getting perspective on those intense early days. But the one thing they all agreed on is the most important of all: that you’re doing an amazing job.

Adjusting to Mom Life

“In the beginning, I wish I knew how to roll with it, not get frustrated, and that I would need lots of patience…. I was used to being in control and having some order to my life. My kids came into the picture and all of that was thrown out the window! Now they’ve broken me in and I roll with everything, but I remember that part being really hard for me.” — Kathy

“If I had a dime for every time I did something that I said I would never do when I was a know-it-all childless woman, I’d be rich.” — Jessie

“Do NOT let all the do’s & don’ts of parenting discourage you. As long as you keep your baby safe, healthy, and nurtured… you are doing a beautiful job. DON’T compare yourself to other moms! It’s not healthy!” — Ruthie

“I wish I had spent my time reading about postpartum rather than pregnancy books. During pregnancy, you have a doctor guiding you. But postpartum, you pretty much are on your own, and getting a counselor does not mean you are a bad parent.” — Reyna

“The most profound thing I heard and will never forget… Your baby was attached to you for 9 months. For the first 6 months of their life, they don’t actually realize they are still not a part of you! Love on that baby like they are still attached to you.” — Tara

“You will be a crazy emotional wreck (and a total a-hole at times) for the first ~6 months, but that’s okay because you just created another human being in your body.” — Sanaz

Getting Through Those Tough Moments

“I wish I had known that sometimes babies cry for no reason. They are not broken, and you didn’t do anything wrong. It will eventually get better; just breathe and try to comfort your new human!” — Melissa

“Take each stage as a stage. If things are really hard, just breathe. Your baby will hit a new milestone in a few weeks and things will change. The first year is like a book with all these mini-chapters, and you’ll be on to the next one before you realize it.” — Erin

“He isn’t GIVING you a hard time; he’s HAVING a hard time. (The wisest words I ever received from my mother-in-law.) It has helped me every single day of motherhood to keep their needs and moods in perspective.” — Elizabeth

“There are no mistakes, you learn as you go, and trust that you and your baby will figure it out and grow together. I thought I was so prepared with the books, asking mommy friends and relatives, and at the end of it, I just threw that all out and took those deep breaths and went with it.” — Sheilah

Related: 21 Everyday Victories New Parents Should Celebrate

Breastfeeding: So Much Harder Than It Seems

“It’s okay to breastfeed and be comfortable enough to do so in public. Took until my third child to be able to do so and have no shame or embarrassment.” — Brittany

“Breastfeeding hurts in the beginning, and that’s normal. Imagine washing your calloused hands 30 minutes straight every 2 hours—they’d crack and bleed too! Your nipples are nowhere near as calloused as your hands, so be patient with yourself and baby because it’s a learning process.” — Jeni

“Don’t be discouraged or beat yourself up if your milk supply doesn’t come in like you want or expected. Or if your baby simply isn’t interested. Just keep trying and don’t give up… if that’s what you choose. And if it’s just not working for you and/or baby, then allow yourself to bottle-feed without the guilt!” — Jamie

Related: Breastfeeding Essentials for Nursing Your Baby

Sleep: That Thing You Used to Do Whenever You Wanted

“Not all babies are wired to sleep through the night. I don’t sleep through the night, and neither does my kid. Professionals actually consider sleeping through the night to be 5 hours, not 8 or 12.” — Erin

“You will hear, ‘Sleep when the baby does,’ but for some of us, that is impossible. Ask for help and have a trusted hero [to] give you a few hours of sleep!” — Lauren

“You never know what you’re going to get. Try and rest as much as possible but don’t stress if you can’t. There is always the chance you get a sleep-through-the-night-early baby.” — Sarah

Related: Baby Sleep Guide: Expert Advice & What to Expect the First Year

Getting Used to That Postpartum Body

“Your body will change. Some of those changes are permanent, some are fleeting, some of them hurt, some will take you months to notice. Embracing the changes—good and bad—is the best way to get through them. (I named my hemorrhoids…it felt better than crying every day… just saying.) And at the end of it all, you will be stronger than you ever knew possible. — Paige

“The hair loss! Not once during or after my pregnancy did anyone talk about the possible postpartum hair loss. I thought I was losing all of my hair.” — Madison

“I wish I had known that I would pee a little every time I sneezed for the rest of my life.” — Katie

Related: The Weirdest Permanent Body Changes after Pregnancy

The Importance of Self-Care

“It is okay to let baby cry for a couple minutes. It’s okay to shower and leave them in the crib even if they are crying (if they are crying, they are ALIVE!). And it’s okay to go out and leave baby home with dad. (All learned the hard way.)” — Bella

“Postpartum anxiety is real! Get help and don’t be ashamed. Sometimes, you can’t help how you think and feel. You’re not alone.” — Marisol

“Don’t underestimate the power of support. If you don’t have that built-in (family, friends), hire someone whose main focus is to support you.” — Jacquie

“Remember: Under 2 years, playdates aren’t for them, they’re for you.” — Liz

“YOUR health is still most important. Take care of your needs too.” — Morgan

“Have a good friend who you can call and cry about your actual life, but who you can call too and talk about how amazing your baby’s development is, and how proud you are.” — Tania

“Learn to program your coffeemaker. Such a great self-care thing to do at the end of the day to have something nice in the morning!” — Rachel

Related: A Tribute to All the Moms Who Do Less

a group of first time moms pushing strollers in the park in a city with coats on
iStock

Leave The House During Those Early Days (Yes, Really!)

“Go out to dinners with your significant other/spouse and baby while they’re not mobile and sleep a lot. It feels daunting to go out in public with a newborn, but that’s when they’re the easiest! And you and your partner can keep the connection going!” — Haruko

“They’re easier when they don’t move. Like, a ton easier. You won’t realize how easy they were until they’re 2 and 3 and you’re pregnant again realizing you feel going to Disneyland seems so doable with a baby that doesn’t move. Life with a newborn seems so simple in retrospect.” — Jeni

What to Buy & What Not to Buy

“Get a simple high chair with no little nooks and crannies — like the IKEA high chair. It is so hard to clean the fancy five-position chairs.” — Sasha

“Don’t buy pajamas with buttons. They are a nightmare! Zippers will make life easier, especially for those diaper changes in the middle of the night.” — Carolyn

“Put Tucks or witch hazel pads in the fridge or freezer. All of your angry parts will thank you.” — Lesley

How Fast It Goes…

“Now that mine is 25 and my grandbaby is 4, the one thing I miss most is the sweet innocence when they are so small. That you are their entire world. Enjoy the cuddles, the softness of their voices, even their tears. It goes so quickly, and before you know it, they’re independent and more interested in everything BUT you.” — Lisa

“I wish I knew that it would be over in the blink of an eye. The first three years are so intense and hard on your marriage and on you mentally…. It feels boring and like you chose the wrong thing, but you aren’t supposed to admit that. So you smile and talk about how it is the best thing that ever happened to you. And it is. But some days you want to choose something else. And then it’s over. Then they eat their food and sleep through the night. They go to the potty and to school. Then those precious baby snuggles turn into a mommy who needs one more snuggle but the baby is too busy. The kids want to go on playdates and sleepovers. They want to spend Saturdays having sleepovers with friends and you are left shuttling them around and missing the days when you could coo at your sweet little baby. Don’t fast-forward. Don’t skip the moments. Don’t tune out and wonder where you’re meant to be or if there is something bigger out there for you. There’s not. This is it and it’s really, really short.” — Trish

You’ll want to know exactly how many cups you can have and what to look out for if your baby has caffeine sensitivity

There’s nothing that a morning cup of joe can’t fix—well, a crying newborn, but at least it’ll give you more energy to soothe them and go about your day. And you’re probably going to need all the fuel you can get while settling into new motherhood, whether you’re craving a gingerbread latte from Starbucks or an americano from your local coffee shop. But if you’re planning on bodyfeeding your baby, we’d guess there’s one big question on your mind: can you drink coffee while breastfeeding?

To get to the bottom of this, we asked the experts whether consuming caffeine while breastfeeding or chestfeeding is safe for both you and the baby—and exactly how much of that sweet, sweet energy juice you can have each day.

Can you drink coffee while breastfeeding or chestfeeding?

Breathe in a big sigh of relief because the answer is yes, you can drink coffee while nursing. Phew! What’s important is moderation and keeping an eye on your baby for any potential caffeine sensitivity, says Ashley Georgakopoulos, IBCLC, a certified lactation consultant and lactation director at Motif Medical.

How much coffee can you drink while breastfeeding?

You’re probably painfully aware of exactly how many cups you were allowed to drink while expecting, and the good news is you can have a little more once baby is on the outside. “During pregnancy, the recommendation is no more than 200 mg of caffeine a day,” says Dr. Denise Scott, a pediatrician and JustAnswer expert. “Caffeine intake while breastfeeding should be limited to 200-300 mg daily, which is equivalent to 2-3 cups of coffee.”

Georgakopoulos agrees, saying you should cap your caffeine intake at 300 mg per day. To put that into perspective, an 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee has around 96 mg of caffeine, a cup of black tea contains 47 mg, a shot of espresso has 64 mg, and a can of Coca-Cola has 32 mg.

Every body reacts differently to caffeine, especially if you’ve weaned yourself off of it for pregnancy, so if you start to suspect that your Grande latte is messing with your sleep, consider drinking even less.

Do babies ever react to caffeine? What are the signs and symptoms?

The way a baby responds to your beloved java generally varies based on the individual. And while caffeine does pass into breastmilk, your baby only gets around 1.5% of the amount of caffeine that you drank, according to La Leche League Canada.

“Agitation, crankiness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, and a change in stool are common side effects that a mother might see in her baby,” explains Nicole Peluso, IBCLC, who manages lactation education at Aeroflow Breastpumps. “Some caffeine side effects are more difficult for a mother to observe in her baby, such as heart arrhythmias.” Peluso adds that this isn’t common, but if you notice any of these symptoms or feel like something isn’t right, you’ll want to consult your pediatrician to see what’s going on.

Related: Can you get a tattoo while breastfeeding?

Additionally, caffeine consumption may affect the quality of breastmilk. Coffee intake of more than 450 mL daily (approximately two cups) may decrease breastmilk iron concentrations and result in mild iron deficiency anemia in some breastfed infants, according to the Drugs and Lactation Database.

Since most babies are born with sufficient iron for their first six months of life, this isn’t usually a problem until they’re older, according to the CDC. After that time, breastmilk no longer provides sufficient iron, and even less so if you’re consuming tons of caffeine. So it’s best to keep your coffee in check while nursing and make sure your little is getting sufficient iron from solids.

Is it better to drink decaf coffee while breastfeeding?

Most decaffeinated coffee still has caffeine in it but much less than traditional black coffee or espresso. According to La Leche League Canada, a 250 ml cup (8 oz.) of decaffeinated coffee contains between 3 and 15 mg of caffeine. This means you can either have more coffee throughout the day or enjoy your usual amount of coffee with significantly less caffeine, limiting the chance of any negative side effects. But it’s totally up to each parent since experts agree that drinking some regular coffee isn’t a concern.

What is the best time of day to have caffeine while nursing?

You’ll want to have your caffeinated beverage a few hours before you intend to breastfeed. “Caffeine peaks in the breastmilk an hour after consumption, so if you enjoy your cup a few hours before breastfeeding, that will help keep taste changes (and caffeine content) to a minimum,” says Dr. Navya Mysore, primary care doctor in New York City.

Additionally, Peluso adds that opting to drink coffee and other caffeinated beverages in the morning (before noon) will give both mom and baby the best chance of getting restful nighttime sleep. It’s also a good idea to limit caffeine intake when your baby is cluster feeding since there’s less time between feeds and this usually happens at night.

Are the guidelines different for newborns and premature babies?

“Babies who are premature, under six months, or have other health issues may be more likely to be sensitive to caffeine compared to older babies as they take longer to clear caffeine from their system,” says Dr. Mysore.

Caffeine guidelines are the same across the board, but remember that every baby is different, and if you suspect that yours might be sensitive to caffeine give your doctor a call to discuss decreasing your consumption.

What other foods and beverages contain caffeine?

To keep your total daily caffeine intake in check while breastfeeding, here’s a list of some other sources of caffeine, some of which you may not have realized:

  • White and green teas (15-39 mg for 8 oz.)
  • Soft drinks (30-35 mg for 8 oz.)
  • Dark chocolate bar (80 mg caffeine per bar)
  • Energy drinks (70 mg for 8 oz.)
  • Yerba mate or guarana (85 mg for 8 oz.)
  • Some over-the-counter medications (like pain relievers, cold remedies, and diuretics) also contain caffeine.

You can rest assured that no one is coming to pry that lukewarm cup of coffee out of your deeply exhausted hands. Just stick to the recommended amount, watch your little for signs of sensitivity, and check in with your pediatrician if you think something’s not right.

The best baby tracking apps do the hard work of remembering so you don’t have to

When you’re a sleep-deprived new parent, how are you supposed to remember when you last fed your baby, how long they slept, or even when they were immunized and for what? Especially during those first few months when leaving the house freshly showered and in spit up-free clothing is considered a near miracle. Here’s the good news. You don’t have to. Some of the best baby tracking apps out there help exhausted parents stay on top of every milestone, feeding, diaper change, nap, and so much more.

1. Baby+

baby+ pink background on a smartphone is a baby tracking app
Philips

With Baby+ parents can track their child's height, weight, and head circumference through interactive graphs, and log information on feedings, diaper changes, sleep, and new teeth to get a better understanding of baby's routine. You can also keep track of baby's milestones and upload photos, as well as help baby relax at night or during feeding time with lullabies and white noise.

Available for iOS devices and on Google Play.

2. Sprout Baby

You can use the Sprout Baby app to record your child's health history (illnesses, symptoms, temperature, medications), as well as to keep track of feedings, bottles, pumping sessions, and diapers. The app features a handy printable report with your child's health data that you can bring to doctor's visits. There's also a memories section for recording milestones and other special moments, which you can then export to an eBook.

Available for iOS devices.

3. Talli

This best baby tracking app includes a device with a white top and wood bottom

This baby tracking app is a little bit different. It pairs with a stylish device that comes ready to track baby's sleep, bottle feedings, diapers, pumping, and more right out of the box. And it's customizable too, so you can determine which of baby's many activities you track. The companion app is fully integrated to let parents track all sorts of data, see trends, invite family members and caregivers to contribute, and view past events. It's also Alexa enabled, for those moments when you don't have your hands free.

Available for iOS and on Google Play.

4. Tinybeans

Tinybeans is one of the best baby tracking apps

Yup, we've got an app! If you're looking for a secure place to store your baby photos, look no further than Tinybeans. You can edit pics before posting and share them with a select group of family and friends, who can comment on and join in the excitement of all your adorable new memories. The app will prompt you to post (to keep eager relatives appeased) and also track baby's developmental milestones. 

Available for iOS and on Google Play.

5. BabySparks

three smartphone screens with a baby sleeping on one, shows best baby tacking app info

This development tracker informs you when children typically learn specific skills, compiled from sources including the American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. BabySparks also provides activities you can do with your child to support this development. The activities are organized by the area of development: gross motor, fine motor, cognitive, speech, sensory, self-care, and social-emotional, so you can focus on a specific area if you prefer. The app also offers a paid subscription option so parents can access parenting classes.

Available for iOS devices and on Google Play.

6. BabyTime

screenshots of the babytime app, one of the best tracking apps for parents of babies
BabyTime

All caregivers can track and record baby's activities in the BabyTime app. And since it's designed for one-handed operation, you can save all that valuable information while holding baby—a big plus. Track breastfeeding, bottles, sleep, and diapers, and use the slick charts to oversee baby's day or identify trends. There's also a night mode with a low-contrast background that's easier on your eyes.

Available for iOS devices and on Google Play.

7. Baby Connect

a best baby tracker app, three smartphones with apps to track baby's needs

Baby Connect records diaper changes, naps, moods, feedings, medicines, photos, activities, and displays it in graphs and charts to help you identify trends. Multiple users can access your kid's info so your babysitter, Grandma, and other caregivers can see what baby has been up to and keep you updated, too. And the voice integrations mean you can record important information, even when your hands are full.

Available for iOS devices and Android.

8. Baby Tracker

Screenshots of the Baby Tracker app, one of the best baby tracking apps
Baby Tracker

Love knowing when every little thing happened and when it might happen again? Baby Tracker keeps track of every element of your baby's day, including sleep, feedings, and diaper changes. You may even discover your newborn's natural daily routines and nap schedule by comparing a week's or a month's worth of days. You can also track and record memories, growth, medical history, milestones, and more.

Available for iOS devices and on Google Play.

9. Baby Feed Timer

a baby tracking app shows which side baby last fed on on an iphone

Nursing moms love the Baby Feed Timer app because you can record which side you fed your infant with last. Bottle-feeding parents love that you can keep track of just how much formula baby took each time. This baby tracking app will also tell you when it's time for the next feeding. Plus, it tracks diapers, pumping, medication administration, sleep, and solid feedings, making it useful past the first year.

Available for iOS devices and on Google Play.

10. Glow Baby

This baby tracking app for the first year tracks developmental milestones, feedings, diapers, sleep, baby's ailments, medications, and more. Use Glow Baby's timers to manage feeding and sleep schedules, and then head to the in-app community to chat with other parents and share strategies and successes.

Available for iOS devices and on Google Play.