What I Wish I Knew: The Baby Feeding Essentials Your Registry Actually Needs

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Let’s talk feeding.

Whether you’re planning to breastfeed, pump, formula feed, or just figure it out as you go (hi, that was me), it helps to have the essentials ready. I put this list together to help you build a registry that covers all the feeding possibilities—because the truth is, it doesn’t always go how you thought it would.

You might breastfeed. You might pump. You might supplement. Or you might just go straight to formula and everyone will be just fine.

Here are the baby feeding essentials I’d make sure you have on hand:

Baby Feeding Essentials For Breastfeeding

I naively thought breastfeeding would be the obvious, natural, easy route.

I had no idea.

Breastfeeding is natural, sure—but that doesn’t mean it comes naturally. It’s physical. It’s emotional. It can be painful, confusing, and overwhelming. I was not prepared for the cracked nipples, the latch struggles, or the anxiety over my supply. I was not prepared to be an on-demand milk machine.

Suddenly you have a new full-time job no one trained you for. The lactation consultants at the hospital were actual angels sent to me. If you’re struggling or just need support, I highly recommend connecting with a certified lactation consultant — they can make a world of difference in those early days.

Here’s what else you might need:

Haakaa
If you’ve never heard of this magical little silicone pump, just trust me—it catches milk from the other side while you’re nursing. There was a bit of a learning curve for me (figuring out the angle and suction), but once you get it, it’s a zero-effort way to save milk that would’ve otherwise gone to waste.

A good nursing pillow
Your arms get tired fast. I loved mine for both breastfeeding and bottle feeds. (Boppy or My Brest Friend are the classics.)

Nipple cream
It takes some getting used to. Coconut oil, or anything safe for baby to ingest works—just put it on after every feed and thank yourself later. Motherlove was recommended by a friend and quickly became my favorite.

Silverettes
IYKYK.

Nursing bras or tanks
When breastfeeding, I refused to mess with clips. Especially in the early days when comfort was SO important. This Kindred Bravely nursing bra is so soft and easy (no clips), especially at night.

Baby Feeding Essentials For Pumping (Even Just Sometimes)

Electric breast pump
Most insurance plans will cover one breast pump. Get the Spectra S1, specifically the blue one that plugs into the wall. Wearable pumps don’t give as much output, but are more convenient for working and on the go. I’d recommend the Momcozy M5 as your secondary pump if able to get two.

I used Aeroflow Breast Pumps to check my insurance eligibility, order my pump as well as additional supplies.

Hands-free pumping bra
While I want my breastfeeding bras simple and comfortable, holding the flanges while pumping is absolutely miserable and completely ties you down unless you’re strapped in. I first cut holes in some old sports bras and then I loosened the purse strings and sprang for this hands-free adjustable pumping bra from Kindred Bravely. This bra lets you actually do things while pumping, and is super flattering.

Extra pump parts & bottles
You’ll be washing these constantly, so backups are your friend. You do not need the same brand as your pump, but they should specify if they’re compatible. These are reasonable Spectra compatible parts. Lesser known fact – insurance often ALSO covers these!

Milk storage bags
Great for freezing your stash. Don’t forget to label with the date. Once again – check with insurance! I received more than I was able to get through before I quit pumping. Lansinoh have a double zipper seal and lay flat for freezing. I found Motif to be a bit more sturdy.

Cooler bag + ice packs
Especially helpful if you’re going back to work or traveling. Momcozy strikes again with one of my favorite products. Alternatively, I love this small insulated bag which also works for bottles and comes in a ton of colors and patterns.

Baby Feeding Essentials for Formula Feeding (Or Preparing Just In Case)

A small can of formula or sample packs
You don’t need a giant tub unless you know your baby likes it. Some brands even offer free samples! I supplemented before weaning at six months, and we went with Bubs Goat Infant Formula.

Babybrezza
Don’t waste any more time, just get this. I sat on this for a long time before we jumped ship to formula, and when we did, it made it SO easy to prep warm bottles on the go or pre-measure night feeds. It’s like a Keurig for milk.

Bottle Basics You’ll Need Either Way

Whether you’re pumping breast milk, using formula, or doing a bit of both (been there!), there are a few bottle-related essentials that you’ll want on hand no matter what.

Bottle warmer or sterilizer (optional)
I’m going to be really honest – I did not find these necessary. I had a sterilizer, but you need to wash the bottles and parts before running it. Most modern dishwashers will wash and sterilize, and you really only need to sterilize before first use.

Momcozy has this convenient machine that does it all – but it’s quite pricey, so evaluate your needs before you splurge.

I recommend getting your bub used to drinking milk at any temperature, so they don’t refuse it when you’re on the go with limited choices. Sometimes you also just need a bottle quick. I find it easiest to run the bags under hot water for a minute.

A few bottles
You don’t need to register for a dozen right away—start with 2–3 different types and see what your baby actually likes. (Some babies are… opinionated.) We received a few samples and gifts and landed on MAM bottles. Their pacifiers are great as well!

Bottle brush
Cleaning bottles and pump parts can be a pain—anything that makes it easier is a win. These functional brushes are super cheap and all you really need. And then this Boon Cacti Bottle Cleaning Brush Set is just cute.

Drying rack
I underestimated how much space bottles and pump parts take up. As a type B mom we spent some time laying everything out on towels, and we should’ve bought a drying rack sooner to help organize the chaos. Between pumping and anti-colic bottles, the parts are many! This OXO Tot rack is spacious, sturdy, and easy to clean.

A Little Feeding Station Goes a Long Way

Wherever you plan to feed—your bed, a rocker, the couch—make it cozy. Keep these close:

• Muslin burp cloths
• Stanley water bottle (for me)
• Snacks
• A phone charger
• Hatch sound machine (and nightlight) – probably one of my favorite registry gifts.

You’ll spend a lot of time there, especially in the beginning. Might as well be comfy.

Don’t Forget to Feed Yourself Too

When we’re building a baby feeding station, it’s easy to focus only on bottles, burp cloths, and all the gear our little ones need. But here’s the thing I wish someone had told me earlier—you need a setup for you too. Breastfeeding and pumping take a huge amount of energy (literally hundreds of extra calories a day), and I can’t tell you how many times I sat down to feed the baby and realized I was starving or completely parched.

That’s why I keep snacks and drinks stocked right where I feed or pump. Having something quick and nourishing within reach makes such a difference for your energy and your milk supply. If you’re looking for ideas, I put together a full post with my favorite breastfeeding and pumping snacks, drinks, and daily habits—including the Boobie* Superfoods products that became lifesavers for me.

Last Thing: However You Feed Your Baby—You’re Doing Great

Feeding is such a personal journey. Sometimes it looks exactly how you imagined, and sometimes… it really doesn’t. Your baby will be fed, snuggled, and loved either way—and that’s what matters most.