Breastfeeding in public
Breastfeeding is the perfect way to feed your baby when you’re out. Breast milk is free, fresh and requires no preparation.
Breastfeeding is part of everyday life – it’s not something that should be hidden away.
Breastfeeding is the perfect way to feed your baby when you’re out. Breast milk is free, fresh and requires no preparation.
The benefits of breastfeeding when you’re out
Travelling is easy
- Even if you get delayed, your baby’s food is always available. You can continue with your usual social, family and work activities, and take your baby with you.
There’s less preparation
- You don’t have to prepare formula, express enough milk for the time you’re out, or take bottles everywhere with you.
There’s less leaking
- You’ll be less likely to have leaking breasts when you’re out in public, as you can simply feed your baby when they’re hungry
It’s good for your milk supply
- Being able to feed anywhere, any time will help you keep up a good milk supply. Also, you’ll avoid the complications to breastfeeding that come from introducing artificial teats.
You’ll save time
- You won’t have to rush home or get to a private place when your baby needs feeding.
Where to breastfeed when you’re out
Once you feel confident feeding your baby at home, you can take them anywhere you normally go and feed them whenever they’re hungry.
Eating places:
- Cafés, restaurants and food courts are great places to feed your baby. If you’d like privacy, try sitting near a wall or corner.
Shopping malls
- There are often benches scattered around that you can sit on when feeding. Bigger shopping malls may have a special mother and baby feeding room you can use – but remember, you have the right to breastfeed in the mall itself.
Parks and open spaces
- Parks, beaches and reserves can be lovely places to feed your baby.
Churches, libraries and other public places
- Churches and libraries are usually very welcoming places for breastfeeding mothers. You also have the right to breastfeed your baby in any other public place.
Tips if you’re unsure about breastfeeding in public
New mums can sometimes feel like people are looking at them when they breastfeed in public. Here are some tips if you feel a little uncomfortable.
By breastfeeding in public you’ll be encouraging other mothers by showing them how easy it can be.
Be relaxed
- Enjoy this special time with your baby – most people won’t notice – or care – that you’re breastfeeding.
Get the support of friends and family/whānau
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For your first time breastfeeding in public, you might find it helpful to go out with a friend or family member. Ask them to sit with you in a café or on a bench in a shopping mall while you feed your baby.
Be comfortable
- Breastfeeding in public needs to be as easy as breastfeeding at home. Before you start, make sure you have somewhere to sit that is comfortable and has back support.
Practice before you go out
- Try breastfeeding your baby in front of a friend or the mirror to practice your technique and see what works best for you.
Wear the right clothing
- You can make things easier by wearing a breastfeeding or nursing bra that can be undone with one hand. Wearing tops that are easy to pull down or push up can also help.
Want to cover up?
- If you’re uncomfortable about possibly exposing your breasts or stomach, you can cover up using a large wrap, muslin, shawl or blanket draped around your shoulders. This will give both you and your baby privacy while you’re breastfeeding.
- Baby slings and carriers are other options for mums who are more comfortable covering up when they’re breastfeeding. Make sure your clothes are easily adjusted so you can feed your baby without having to take the sling off.
Page last updated: 05 December 2011
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