5 ways to ensure the most comfortable feed for you and your baby

1. Set up your perfect feeding space

You can feed your baby anywhere you like, but there are definite benefits to creating a calm, comfortable space in your home that you can use for feeds, especially at night. As they grow older babies get more aware, and once they’re interested in the world around them, they can easily get distracted during feeding. Creating your own private sanctuary will help you both focus on the task at hand.

Dim the lights, remove any distractions like the TV, bright lights or excess noise, and finish with the most important thing: a comfortable nursing chair. The luxurious, stylish chairs from Il Tutto are designed specifically with feeding in mind, so you’ll find arm rests at just the right height for feeding, a high back and comfortable padding to provide plenty of support for postpartum bodies, and a recline, rocker or gliding action so you can lean back in the most comfortable position, or rock your baby as you feed.

2. Practise different positions

Although it might be what you’ve come across most frequently in films and books, not everyone finds the traditional “cradle” hold the most comfortable for feeding. If you’re breastfeeding, don’t be afraid to change things up and try different positions. Different body types (both mum and baby) may benefit from different holds, and what worked for your friend or family member may not be right for you.

In terms of where to start, the rugby ball hold, where your baby lies against your side with their feet towards the back of the nursing chair, is a popular option. A good nursing chair like those by Il Tutto will be designed to support parents no matter which position they choose, just adjust the recline and position yourself to suit. Older babies or those suffering from reflux may enjoy sitting more upright on your knee in what’s sometimes called the “straddle” hold. Provided your baby is safe and supported and you feel comfortable, there’s no “right” way to feed, so feel free to experiment and adjust to suit you both.

3. Settle in for a long night

Although some babies can get all the milk they need in just a few minutes, in the early days (and months) you may find yourself feeding for hours on end. So don’t be afraid to set up a feeding station for yourself too. Stock up on snacks to keep your energy up – flapjacks, fruit, granola bars and nuts are all great but nobody will judge you for choosing a chocolate bar, either. Make sure you have plenty of water: a big cup with a long straw that you can keep nearby and lean over to drink is ideal.

There’s also no shame in keeping creature comforts like your phone, tablet or kindle nearby so you can listen to a podcast or read a book once you’ve found the perfect position to feed. Il Tutto’s electric nursing chairs even have USB ports built-in, so you can charge your device as you feed, or plug in another helpful item like a white noise machine or bottle warmer.

4. Talk to the experts

Breastfeeding is amazing, but not everyone who wants to do it has a straightforward journey. From mastitis to tongue tie, there can be myriad reasons why you are struggling and it’s totally normal to feel worried or overwhelmed in the beginning.

There’s no shame in reaching out for help: your midwife or health visitor may be able to give you initial guidance, and most areas also have free drop-in feeding clinics where you can go for more support and assistance. You can also call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212 or try your local La Leche League leader. If budget allows, Independent Lactation Consultants can offer tailored help – try the Lactation Consultants of Great Britain website to find an IBCLC near you who may be able to do a home visit.

5. Treat yourself

You’re going to be spending a long time sat in your feeding chair, so make sure you treat yourself to comfy clothing while you’re stocking up on all those baby sleepsuits. You’ll probably spend the early weeks in your maternity PJs (or, let’s be honest, just your pants) but buying some great quality loungewear or nursing tops will make you feel a bit more like yourself further down the line.

When it comes to the chair itself, don’t be afraid to invest in something you love, that matches your style. Il Tutto’s nursing chairs come in neutral coloured, luxury fabrics including bouclé, all of which are STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX^® certified and built to last. Once your child is completely weaned there are plenty of ways to keep using the chair – after all, it’ll be the comfiest spot in the house and would be a great place to curl up and read a book or sip a coffee.

To find out more about Il Tutto nursing chairs, visit the Il Tutto website. Price start at £399.

Use code madeformum15* for 15% off il Tutto nursing chairs.

*Valid until 25 December and can’t be used with any other offer or discount code