What's in my changing bag?

When I'm venturing out of the house or leaving little L with grandparents I'm always trying to make sure that I have everything L would need. Sometimes my bag looks like a mess and I can't find what I'm looking for but I know that all the essentials are there, even a spare nappy is always there in case I don't have any at home :-)

So here is what I carry:

• Breastfeeding cover in case I need to feed L when out and about
• Teething toy and teething liquid as poor L is struggling with either molar or canine teething coming through
• Straw bottle with water for when L is thirsty 
• Toys to entertain L
• Changing mat to make L's changing comfy and clean 
• Small towel to wipe wet bum
• Baby wipes to wipe dirty surfaces, hands and bum
• Nappy and nappy bag 
• Leg warmers in case if L wants to crawl but wears a cute outfit I don't want to ruin
• Antibacterial hand gel in case if I have to pick up something dirty or wipe surfaces
• Bib for dribble or eating
• Food and snacks, they are not on the picture as I pick on the day what I'm going to take. Normally I would have a jar, a pouch, biscuit and a pack of puffs.

I don't normally put my phone in the bag as I prefer it to be closer e.g. in a pocket, and I don't have a purse as someone stole my purse before few times and I feel safer without one, but I do carry a little bit of cash in my pocket.

Mamamoosh Milkscarf- breastfeeding cover review

When I was pregnant with L I was very determined to breastfeed and still am. The most uncomfortable part of the whole breastfeeding experience for me was the idea of breastfeeding in public. 

Since L was born we had numerous visits from midwives, breastfeeding support workers, health visitors, doctors, family members who were particularly interested in my breastfeeding technique, as you can imagine my dignity went out of the window. But I didn't want for it to be a norm, I just couldn't imagine myself sitting somewhere in the park or in front of others and whacking my breasts out.

Mamamoosh were kind enough to provide me with the Milkscarf (£29.99) in mink.

"So easy to put on you can even do it one- handed, while you're still holding your baby. Made from soft, light jersey the Milkscarf has a semi- rigid neckline so you can look down and maintain eye contact with your baby as she feeds in complete privacy".

How does it work?

The Milkscarf is a 2 in 1 item, it can be an every day scarf and a breastfeeding cover. 

For discreet breastfeeding you just need to put a neckstrap over your head, cover yourself and baby with the rest of the Milkscarf and Voila! Neckstrap itself has a flexible boning around the neckline which allows you to see your baby.

                                        

What I liked:

- The principle is great, you don't need to tight anything, it's just simple as it looks. 

- I was really impressed by the width and length (60cm x 150cm) of the scarf. For me it is very important as I didn't want any parts of my body to be on show. 

- It is very compact when you don't need to use breastfeeding cover and fits in my changing bag perfectly with other baby's bits and bobs. 

- I picked mink as it is a neutral colour and doesn't attract attention, as it is available in a range of colours you can pick what suits you best!

- After several washings it looks very good, apart from few fluffy bits on the neckline but it's my fault as I tumble dried it. 

What I didn't like:

- Neckstrap on several occasions failed me, maybe due to my awkward sitting posture I didn't see L and I had to ask my husband to pull the material so that I can see if we have a latch. Mind you in the car I didn't have any problems at all with it when was feeding L. - Even though Milkscarf is made of a stretchy, soft, breathable jersey fabric I felt that the material stuck to me and interfered with baby's feeding.

I can certainly recommend Milkscarf, regardless of my experience it is a great breastfeeding cover and I will continue using it, as it is my little helper!

Disclaimer: I was sent the above item for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.

Breastfeeding accessories Wish List

This Friday it's all about breastfeeding accessories, as you know from my previous Wish Lists I try to find the best options price wise, here is what I have found and think could be necessary as I'm planning to breastfeed. If I miss anything please do let me know!

Breast pads:

1. ASDA Little Angels Breast Pads- £1.00

2. Wilko Mum to Be Maternity Breast Pads 40 Pads- £1.50

3. Mothercare Washable Breast Pads- £4.99

Nipple cream:

Lansinoh HPA Lanolin Nipple Cream (40ml)- ToysRUs, Kiddicare, Mothercare £9.99

Nursing bra (I'm a fan of practical things hence only black bras):

1. Emma Jane Seam Free Maternity & Nursing Bra- More 4 Mums £11.00

2. Emma Jane Padded T-shirt Nursing Bra- More 4 Mums £15.00

Breastfeeding covers:

1. Palm & Pond Infant Breastfeeding Cover - Red Cherry Design- Daisy BabyShop £6.95 (variety of other designs)

2. Mamascarf Breast Feeding Scarf Black- Kiddicare £12.50

I didn't mention muslings, nursing pillows as I am planning to use what I have at home as I believe that towels and flannels can be used instead of muslings and normal pillow can be used as a breastfeeding pillow.

Disclaimer: I have a written consent from all brands mentioned to use above pictures.