Tips for Breastfeeding in Public and Where to Find a Cute Nursing Cover, Scarf, or Sling
If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, the chances are that sooner or later your baby will get hungry while you’re out in public. Public breastfeeding has been a hot topic recently, with plenty of people on both sides of the debate – but the fact is that babies have to eat and breastfeeding is a normal, natural, and healthy way to feed them. In Australia, it is your right as a mother – not a privilege – to breastfeed your infant anywhere, anytime. If you have any qualms about doing so, here are some tips that may help set your mind at ease.
Be informed
It is entirely legal for you to breastfeed your baby in public. You are not only feeding your baby the healthiest food possible, but you are also setting a positive example for future parents or uninformed passers by who might see you. If anyone harasses you, know that you are within your rights and do not have to tolerate any bullying.
Choose the right clothes
The right clothing for public breastfeeding makes you feel comfortable and allows for easy access to your breasts. Loose shirts, tops that button down the front, and specially-designed nursing clothes are all good options. If you are feeling self-conscious about your postpartum tummy, try wearing a pregnancy belly band to conceal the area.
Use a breastfeeding cover
A nursing scarf or breastfeeding sling offers discretion and comfort while adding style to your outfit. The Parenting Garden offers a range of nursing accessories to make your job easier, even when feeding in public. The adorable KissKiss HugHug Breastfeeding Cover draped around your neck to provide a cover-up that can help you feel more comfortable and discreet. Or choose the KissKiss HugHug 2 in 1 Breastfeeding Scarf, which comes in a range of stylish colours and patterns and does double duty as a fashionable scarf and, when needed, breastfeeding sling.
Practise at home
Practising in front of a mirror is an excellent way to become more familiar with nursing in public without showing too much skin. As your baby nurses, he or she will most likely cover most of the area you’d like to conceal anyway, and you can also experiment with belly bands or tank tops under your clothes to see how you get the best coverage and what makes you feel comfortable.
Choose the right place
First and foremost, find a spot where you’ll be comfortable. Somewhere with back support is best, as well as a less-visible spot, if you’re concerned about discretion. You may be able to find an arm chair beside a large plant, the inside of a restaurant booth, a fitting room, or even a park bench. However, don’t worry too much about finding the perfect spot – wherever you and your baby are comfortable is fine.
At The Parenting Garden, we offer quality baby supplies and equipment with a customer satisfaction guarantee. We are always happy to help with information or advice, so feel free to give us a call.