The Ultimate Nursing Cart Checklist: Must-Haves for New Moms
If you’ve been scrolling through mom blogs or Pinterest lately, you’ve probably come across the viral nursing cart. It’s everywhere—and for good reason! When I found out I was pregnant, a nursing cart was one of the first things I added to my registry. And let me tell you, it quickly became my absolute favorite baby item. Not only is it super convenient to roll around the house, but it’s also a breeze to keep organized and stocked.
So, what exactly goes into a nursing cart? Let’s dive into my nursing cart checklist, must-have essentials that’ll keep you prepared and make your breastfeeding journey a whole lot easier.
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1. Breast Pump
I went with the Spectra S2 Plus—this hospital-strength double electric breast pump is a powerhouse. It’s not cordless, so you do need to plug it into an outlet, but after weighing the pros and cons (and getting some advice from my mom friends), I decided this was the one for me. Whatever breast pump you choose, make sure to get familiar with it ahead of time—purchase, wash, sanitize, and learn how to use it before the baby arrives!
2. Haakaa
This little silicone breast pump is a game-changer! Don’t waste that precious liquid gold—use the Haakaa to collect extra milk from the breast you’re not feeding on. I have both the breast pump and the ladybug breast milk collectors, and they’ve been lifesavers.
3. Nursing Pads
Leaky boobs are just part of the deal. Nursing pads are small, round pads that you slip into your bra to catch any extra breast milk. You can choose between disposable or reusable, depending on what works best for you. You can get reusable nursing pads or disposable ones, I have both
4. Swaddles
Swaddles are like the Swiss Army knife of baby gear. They can be used as a blanket, burp cloth, nursing cover, makeshift changing pad, and so much more. I’ve found them to be essential, and I’m sure you will too. I have both the Muslin Swaddle Blankets and These Swaddle sleep sacks that make wrapping baby a breeze! I highly recommend getting them.
5. Burp Cloths
Speaking of messes, you’ll definitely want to stock up on burp cloths. Grab a few packs so you’re not constantly running out and doing laundry. Trust me, you can never have too many.
6. Nipple Balm
Breastfeeding is beautiful, but it can also be tough on your nipples, especially in the beginning. Earth Mama Nipple Butter has been a lifesaver for soothing cracked and dry skin. Don’t skip this one!
7. Snacks
You’re going to get hungry—really hungry. There’s nothing worse than being stuck under a sleeping baby with a grumbling stomach. Stock your cart with easy-to-grab snacks like protein bars, granola, dried fruit, nuts, bananas, crackers, and pretzels.
8. Water
Breastfeeding thirst is real! No matter how good your intentions are, you’ll somehow always lose track of your water bottle. Keep your nursing cart stocked with water bottles so you’re never left parched.
9. Hair Elastics
You know you’re a mom when you can’t find a hair tie when you desperately need one. Keep a few on your cart so you can quickly pull your hair back when baby’s in your arms.
10. Chapstick
Dry lips are the worst, especially when you’re busy with a newborn. Toss a Chapstick in your cart and thank yourself later.
11. Diapers and Wipes
Having diapers and wipes within arm’s reach makes those middle-of-the-night changes so much easier. Toss a few diapers and a pack of wipes into your cart, and don’t forget to add some doggy poop bags for easy disposal without having to leave the room.
12. Diaper Rash Cream
Keep diaper rash at bay with a good cream. I love Pipette Baby Diaper Rash Cream—it’s gentle and effective. You can also use Pipette baby balm for more hydration on sensitive skin that tends to dry out.
13. Pacifiers
Pacifiers can be a lifesaver for soothing your baby. Keep a few handy in your cart for those fussy moments.
14. Thermometer
You’ll want a thermometer on hand for those just-in-case moments. It’s better to be prepared than to scramble to find one in the middle of the night.
15. Baby Nail Clippers
The best time to trim those tiny nails is when baby is nursing. Keep nail clippers in your cart so you can easily get the job done when the moment strikes.
Nursing Cart Organizers
If you love keeping things organized (like I do), here are a few ideas to keep everything in its place:
- Storage bins from Target
- Baskets from Amazon
Where to Buy Your Nursing Cart
If you’re looking to snag your own nursing cart, here are a couple of great options:
And there you have it my Nursing Cart Checklist—a foolproof guide to putting together a nursing cart that’ll make your life so much easier!
What’s in your nursing cart? Do you have any must-have items or clever tips to share? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your ideas!
P.S. How to Get Your Breast Pump Free Through Insurance: A Step-by-Step Guide
