Breastfeeding is a wonderful and natural way to nurture your baby, but it can sometimes be tricky in public. Nursing covers have become a popular choice for mamas who want a bit of privacy and comfort while breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or pumping anywhere they go.
What is a Nursing Cover?
A nursing cover is essentially a strip of fabric that allows you to nurse your baby with a sense of privacy.
Types of Nursing Covers?
Nursing Apron
These resemble an apron with a tie around the neck. They generally have a structured neckline so you can see your baby and are made in a lightweight cotton or muslin fabric.
Nursing Poncho
A poncho simply slips on over your head to provide all round coverage while feeding.
Nursing Scarf / Shawl
A nursing scarf drapes around your shoulders and baby and can be worn like a regular scarf around your neck when not nursing. Many also include strategically placed buttons so it can be worn like a poncho and allow you to adjust the amount of visibility and privacy needed.
Do I need a Nursing Cover?
A nursing cover isn’t essential. Some mamas are comfortable breastfeeding in public, and others are more at ease with a little privacy. Some babies nurse more easily with a cover as there is less distraction from their surroundings.
Why Use a Nursing Cover?
There are several benefits to using a nursing cover:
Privacy
Whether breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or pumping in the spare office at work, a nursing cover offers some privacy.
Confidence
For a first-time mum, breastfeeding in public can leave you feeling a little exposed. By having a nursing cover, this can give mama a confidence boost to be able to breastfeed whenever and wherever baby is hungry.
Bonding
As babies recognise colours and patterns early, a nursing cover provides an insulating and familiar environment and lessens any distractions.
Versatility
Most covers are multi-use, being able to also be worn as a scarf, shawl, poncho or even as a baby carrier or pram cover. They can also be draped strategically when those inevitable leaks occur.
What to Look for in a Nursing Cover?
Ease of Use
When baby is hungry and crying, you’ll want a cover that is easy to pop on easily and quickly.
Fabric
Most covers are made in a cotton or viscose fabric that is soft and breathable. Also consider the season as during summer you’ll want one that is very lightweight like a cotton muslin.
Design
Pick one that suits your own personal style so that you’ll be comfortable wearing it.
Comfort
Look for ones that are easily adjustable for your coverage and comfort preferences.
Washing
Choose one that is machine-washable, this is not something that you’ll want to hand-wash or dry clean.
3 of the Best Nursing Covers
- Easy to pop on and the sleeves keep it in place
- Stripes are forever popular and looks good with everything
- Soft and gentle stretch jersey fabric
- The neckline allows you to maintain eye contact with your baby
- Lightweight and breathable muslin fabric
- Chic, delicate prints
- Comes with a matching storage pouch
- Versatile piece that can be worn as cape or scarf
- Buttons allow you vary the visibility and privacy
- Available in a variety of colours and prints
The right breastfeeding cover can make the experience of nursing in public more enjoyable and stress-free.
Pro Tip: Practise using the nursing cover at home - make sure that you know how to adjust it and that baby is comfortable with being covered before trying it in public.
