Frugal Mom: DIY Soothing Breast Pads for Nursing Moms

Catherine McDiarmid-Watt | Thursday, December 03, 2020 | 3 comments
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Image: First meal, by HoboMama on Flickr
Aching breasts? Need some relief?

Cut out four 6 inch circles of a soft 100% cotton (prewashed) fabric, such as cotton knit, flannelette or double layers of gauze.

You can use recycled T-shirts, worn-out cloth diapers, etc.

Cut with pinking shears, if you have them, for a nice edge.

Image: Cut out four 6 inch circles of a soft 100% cotton (prewashed) fabric, such as cotton knit, flannelette or double layers of gauze
Drawing by Catherine McDiarmid-Watt

Put two layers of fabric on top of each other, right sides out.

Sew a 1-inch circle in the middle of your circles.

Sew about 1/4 - 1/2 inch from the edge, with a zig-zag or serger, a double row of straight stitch, or even hand-stitching - 3/4 of the way around each circle.

Now fill with rice, flax or whole oats, just enough without being bulky. The pad should still be able to lay flat.

Next, add just a bit of your favorite spice or scent, or even dried flower petals - not too much.

Image: Bamboobies Boob Ease Soothing Therapy Pillows | combine the softness of Bamboobies with warming and cooling relief with an all-natural gel-free ultrasoft bamboo pillow filled with flax seeds
Bamboobies Boob Ease
Soothing Therapy Pillows

Close up remaining 1/4 of the circle. Repeat, using the second two layers.

Now make a second set of breast pads, because you are going to love these!

To use these pads: Simply heat or chill, then slip inside your bra.

Cooling comfort soothes sore new mama nipples and breasts.

Store a set of breast pads in the freezer for cool comfort - especially helpful for use shortly before feeding to slightly numb sore nipples - it will relieve that initial latching-on pain.

Or wear them to bring out flat and inverted nipples - which makes it easier for baby to get a good latch.

Gentle warmth opens clogged ducts and helps to increase milk production.
Warm up a set of breast pads in the microwave - start with 20 seconds and check to see if they are warm enough.

(Don't make them too hot, or you can burn your delicate breast tissue.)
These are very comforting when used on sore nipples after a feeding, or to place over a plugged duct.


Image: Lansinoh Soothies Gel Pads for Breastfeeding Mothers | provide instant, cooling pain relief
Shopping Suggestions:
Soothies Gel Pads

Breastfeeding Relief - Hot/Cold Breast Therapy Packs

Earth Mama Angel Baby Tube Booby

Lansinoh TheraPearl Breast Therapy Pack

Bamboob-ease Soothing Therapy Pillows

TendHer Reusable Soothing Breastfeeding Gel Pads







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Catherine

About Catherine: I have been writing my Frugal Baby Tips since 1982, when I was a young divorced mom of two - for my baby product company, Born to Love. I am now mom to three grown up sons, and a grandma - and happily married to a wonderful man. We have rescued two little dogs, Denny and Dexter - and a rescue cat, Bella.

Taking care of baby and mom needs naturally, does not have to cost a whole lot of money! Money-saving tips on diapering, diaper washing, safety, sling and baby carriers, toys, clothing, nursing, menstrual needs, traveling with kids, and more!

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3 comments

  1. Anonymous says:

    Thank you thank you thank you so much for posting this. I have been searching for diy breast heating pads and everything always seems too complicated. Thank you for making this beyond simple. My breast are going to appreciate it. Lol

  2. Unknown says:

    I've seen alot of the pre-made pads use flax seeds, have you tried these rather than rice?

  3. Unknown says:

    Thank you so much for this! I just wrote a post about breastfeeding essentials and found you as an awesome resource for mommas out there!

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