Breastfeeding & Bottle Feeding: The Honest Guide for New Mums

Whether you're breastfeeding, formula feeding, or combining both — here's everything you need to know without the guilt.

Fed is best — always

Before anything else: however you choose to feed your baby is the right choice. This guide is here to help you make an informed decision, not to judge.

Breastfeeding

Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for most babies, with antibodies that help fight infection. The NHS recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months where possible.

What you'll need to get started

Nursing bras — get fitted in the third trimester
Breast pads — disposable or washable, you'll go through dozens in the early weeks
Nipple cream — Lansinoh is the gold standard, available from Boots
Nursing pillow — reduces back strain enormously

Breast pumps worth knowing about

The Elvie Stride Plus (£299) is wearable and hands-free. The Medela Swing Maxi (£169 from Boots) is the clinical gold standard. For occasional use, the Haakaa Silicone Pump (£13) is brilliant.

Formula feeding

Formula feeding is a perfectly valid choice — whether by preference, necessity, or combination with breastfeeding.

Bottles to consider

The Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature set (£30 from Argos) is the UK bestseller. The MAM Anti-Colic bottles are excellent for gassy babies. The Dr Brown's range is worth trying if reflux is an issue.

Combination feeding

Mixing breast and bottle is absolutely possible with the right approach. Wait until breastfeeding is established (usually 4–6 weeks) before introducing a bottle to avoid nipple confusion.

Add your feeding essentials to your Bump & Bundle registry and share with your family before the baby arrives.