By Hilary Metcalfe
When I was preparing for breastfeeding, I had all the standard gear—a pump, nursing bras, lanolin cream, muslin cloths. I thought I was ready.
But what no one told me? The things that actually make breastfeeding easier aren’t the obvious ones. They’re not found on every baby registry or packed in a hospital bag. They’re the small, everyday essentials that stop exhaustion from turning into burnout, that make feeds more comfortable, that remind a mum she deserves care too.
So here’s the real checklist. The must-haves no one talks about—the ones I wish I’d known from day one.
1. A Warm Drink That Supports You as Much as You Support Your Baby
Breastfeeding isn’t just about producing milk—it’s about replenishing what’s lost. Every feed pulls hydration, minerals, and energy from the mother’s body. And yet, so many of us forget to drink enough—or drink just water when our bodies need more.
What helps: A tea that hydrates, restores minerals, and supports postpartum recovery.
Must-haves:
✔ The SABI Breastfeeding Herbata – A deeply replenishing infusion with moringa (rich in iron & calcium), oat straw (for nervous system support), and fennel (to aid digestion & milk supply).
✔ The SABI Mama Infusions Set – A variety of teas for different postpartum needs—hydration, stress relief, and energy balance.
✔ Frank Green Insulated Bottle – A one-handed, spill-proof water bottle to keep by your feeding station.
Pro tip: Keep a warm drink within arm’s reach at all times. You won’t remember to drink unless it’s right there.
✅ 2. A One-Handed Snack That Stops the Blood Sugar Crashes
Breastfeeding burns through 500+ calories per day—yet somehow, mums eat less because they’re too busy feeding their babies.
I lost count of the times I sat down for a feed, starving but unable to move. By the time I finished, I was shaky, irritable, and exhausted.
What helps: Protein-rich, quick snacks that are one-handed and nutrient-dense.
Must-haves:
✔ The SABI Breastfeeding Herbata – With cinnamon to help stabilise blood sugar and moringa for postpartum recovery.
✔ Pip & Nut Almond Butter Squeeze Packs – Portable, mess-free nut butter packs for quick protein.
✔ The Coconut Collaborative Yoghurt – A dairy-free, probiotic-rich snack that’s easy on digestion.
Pro tip: Keep a snack basket next to your feeding chair. If you have to get up, you won’t eat.
3. Magnesium & Weighted Warmth for Deep Relaxation
No one tells you how much tension breastfeeding builds up in your body—aching shoulders, tight neck, stiff back. And because feeding keeps cortisol (the stress hormone) high, even when you get a chance to rest, you might struggle to relax.
What helps: Weighted warmth, magnesium, and sleep-supporting rituals.
Must-haves:
✔ The SABI Calming Herbata – A lemon balm and chamomile blend to lower cortisol and prepare the body for rest.
✔ Blästa Henriët Wheat Bag – A weighted heat pack for back, shoulders, or stomach pain relief.
✔ Nourish London Magnesium Body Butter – A magnesium-infused lotion to relieve muscle tension and improve sleep quality.
Pro tip: Apply magnesium and use a heat pack after the last feed of the night. Your muscles will finally relax, and sleep will come easier.
4. A Go-To Response for Unwanted Advice
Breastfeeding comes with opinions. So. Many. Opinions.
From “Are you sure they’re getting enough?” to “You should try a bottle so they sleep longer.”—everyone has something to say.
At first, I felt like I had to explain myself. Then I realised—I don’t owe anyone an explanation for how I feed my baby.
💡 What helps: A kind but firm go-to response.
Your magic phrase:
✔ “We’re doing what works best for us, but thanks for checking in.”
Pro tip: If it’s a family member who means well, hand them a cup of The SABI Breastfeeding Herbata and change the subject.
5. A Reminder That You’re Not Just a Milk Machine
Breastfeeding is all-consuming—it’s easy to feel like your body exists only for your baby.
Some days, you’ll feel like a goddess, creating liquid gold from your body. Other days, you’ll feel touched out, exhausted, and just wanting your body back.
What helps: Small moments that bring you back to yourself.
Must-haves for self-care:
✔ The SABI Breastfeeding Herbata – A ritual of nourishment just for you.
✔ Haeckels Bio Restore Balm – A deeply hydrating balm for postpartum skin recovery.
✔ Hush Silk Eye Mask – For deep rest, even during daytime naps.
Pro tip: Say yes when people offer to help. You don’t have to do it all alone.
Because the Real Essentials Aren’t Found in Baby Shops
If you’re breastfeeding—or supporting someone who is—forget the endless baby product lists.
Instead, give her what actually helps:
✔ A warm, nourishing cup in her hands.
✔ A snack before she realises she’s hungry.
✔ A moment of rest where she doesn’t have to give—only receive.
Because the best essentials aren’t things—they’re reminders that she is seen, supported, and cared for, too.
HORMONAL & PROUD
Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI is changing the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and even, pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.
We invite you to get to know your body and its cycles better –– to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormones to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. We are here to help with the information, understanding and natural tools to support your body and the emotional process along with it.
