Nursing Covers: Take It or Leave It?

on July 28, 2009 at 12:32 PM

I was never really completely comfortable breastfeeding in public so I tried to do it as discreetly as possible. I would have loved to have received this week's Take it or Leave it as a shower gift. What about you?

Item: Bebe Au Lait Nursing Cover

Cost: $35

What it does: If you're modest about nursing in public, it allows you to do so discreetly—and in style. Unlike a blanket or towel, the nursing cover secures at your neck so it stays in place and you can position yourself comfortably.

Pros: It's designed with a rigid neckline so even though it covers everything, your baby can still see you and has plenty of breathing room (plus the fabric is nice and light). It helps new breastfeeding moms take the time to have the baby latch on without stressing about whether she's being gawked at.

Cons: Some babies may not like being enclosed. If you think you'll be comfortable breastfeeding in public, you probably don't need this product.

What do you think?

About the author Suzanne Murray

is the Parenting & Political editor at The Stir/Moms Matter 2012.

Filed Under: take it or leave it

Comments (13)

kitten_shuga

on Jul 28, 2009 at 12:57 PM

With my first son, I would have rather not had this item, however, this time around I would love to have one! I will be having the baby in the middle of a college semester, so I will be taking him to class with me while he is still tiny. This cover up would probably make me feel more comfortable nursing in a room full of college students.

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ethans_momma06

on Jul 28, 2009 at 2:22 PM

I think it depends on the baby and where we go! However I do think I would prefer this to just a recieving blanket over top, and is probably a lot more modest while new mom and new baby are getting the hang on it.

So I am definatly not saying no!

JessecaLynn

on Jul 28, 2009 at 2:29 PM

When I nursed my dd, I used it anytime I was around people. I loved it. Although as she got older when she was done she would just wriggle out from under it before I got covered up. It was great though and went everywhere with me.

sstepph

on Jul 28, 2009 at 3:37 PM

I wish I had one when he was younger! Now, he wouldnt stay underneath it! I've hardly Breastfed in public because I am not thaaat compfortable. BUT I did have to when we were at the aquarium and they had NO WHERE to go and the place was packed, so there I was sitting on the toilet in the ladies room feeding my son. I wish everywhere had a place for BF'ing mothers!

christaberk

on Jul 28, 2009 at 4:33 PM

I bought one when my LO was only 5 weeks old, and it proved to be invaluable. I can use it wherever we go, providing my little girl with the nutrition she needs and the comfort she deserves.

Pooky0815

on Jul 28, 2009 at 7:55 PM

I am 18 years old I think I will have enough people staring at me in public as it is already no need to add any more! I would totally like to have one. I had not thought of this yet!

Lynette

on Jul 29, 2009 at 12:17 AM

I had something similer(and cheaper). I like them in the early days when you and baby are getting the hang of nursing. But after that I would rather go w/out the cover. The cover draws more attention.

RanaAurora

on Jul 29, 2009 at 2:10 PM

I'm going to get one because while I don't mind others nursing without a cover, I personally am too modest to be comfortable doing it, and these covers make a slip-up less likely than just using a blanket.

on Jul 29, 2009 at 2:11 PM

OH, and you can buy nursing covers at Target for less than that. Hooter Hiders. The neck isn't stiff, but it works fine.

brokenmelody

on Jul 31, 2009 at 4:43 PM

Part of me thinks these shouldnt be necessary. I mean its the most natural thing it the world! But if it makes a mom feel more confident in breastfeeding then I guess it's a good thing. Personally, I didnt use anything like this with my first. If someone gave me one of these I think I would return it.