You’ve probably spent most of your time researching big-ticket baby gear items like a stroller, crib or car seat. But if you’re planning on breastfeeding, you might also want to look into nursing covers (also sometimes called breastfeeding covers). Here’s why some moms love them and how to find the right one for you.
Why you might want a nursing cover
Nursing covers aren’t a must for breastfeeding moms, and whether or not you use one is a totally personal choice. But if you opt to breastfeed in public, a cover can offer a sense of privacy and make you feel more comfortable, especially in the early days when you and baby are still figuring the whole nursing thing out.
A nursing cover can also shield your little one from the sun or wind if you’re breastfeeding outside. Down the road, when baby becomes more aware of her surroundings, these covers might help her nurse with fewer distractions.
What to look for in a nursing cover
Unlike a crib or car seat, there aren’t any official guidelines or recommendations for nursing covers. There are plenty of solid breastfeeding covers out there, and picking the right option is really about finding one you feel comfortable wearing.
Ideally, your cover should be easy to use and adjust (no fumbling with a hungry, fussy baby, please!) and give you the coverage you want to nurse with confidence. The fabric should feel soft, touchable and breathable to ensure that your baby stays comfortable.
Also important: It should be machine-washable, because hand-washing spit up stains just isn’t something you need right now.
Types of nursing covers
Nursing covers come in a few different styles, and all have their benefits.
- Apron-style nursing covers slip over your neck and drape over your chest and stomach — imagine an apron without a waist tie.
- Wearable nursing covers are shawls, scarves or ponchos that you can wear throughout the day and convert into a cover when it’s time to nurse.
- Convertible nursing covers are usually wide fabric loops that can be used as a nursing cover, but also multitask as a car seat cover, high chair cover, shopping cart cover or blanket.
No matter what you’re looking for, there’s an option out there for you. Whether you’re in the market for an apron-style, wearable or convertible cover, here are the best nursing covers of the bunch.