How to choose a nursing necklace.

Today I'm happy to share some thoughts from Raelynn (shown to the left), owner of Mommy and Me nursing necklaces, and creator of some beautiful designs, on choosing a nursing necklace.  If you'd like to create your own, check out Angela's post for instructions.  At the bottom I've posted a picture of my old nursing necklace, which is a great reminder of those days.

The twisting, the pinching, the pull -- ouch!  How in the world can you alleviate the hair pulling and distracted twisting of a nursing baby?  Nursing necklaces can be a great solution.

Whether you're in the market for a bright, whimsical design or you'd rather go with something a little more subdued and stylish, there is something out there for everyone.  After making nursing necklaces for over three years, here are some recommendations I'd offer when you're ready to give one a try:

1.  Safety first.  You're probably feeling as though you can't take one more scratch, but it's important to buy something that will do its job and won't pose a choking hazard.  Make sure you are purchasing from a reputable company that has a proven track record and has invested the time and thought into their safety features and designs.  Look for their safety information, read through their purchase policies, and try to find a company that offers a breakage guarantee.

2.  Invest in quality.  Most moms are on a budget and are drawn to lower prices.  However, most nursing necklaces offered at cheaper prices use weaker beads and won't give you an all-around bang for your buck.  Try to find a retailer who makes an effort to offer good prices but also doesn't skimp when it comes to necklace composition and safety.  Compare photos from various vendors, really look at the nitty-gritty parts of the necklaces.  Invest in safety and functionality. 

3.  Consider your needs.  Depending on your baby's age and personality, you may need a totally different nursing necklace than me.  Do you have a gripper or a pincher?  A grabber or a twiddler?  Watch your baby while he nurses.  What does he do with his hands?  If your baby is a gripper or grabber, some of the more elegant, fixed-pendant designs may work for you, but if you have an extreme twiddler on your hands, you may want to look for a necklace that has moveable, engaging beads and will really keep him busy.  Plus, it's really great for tactile development! 

Whether you purchase a stylish Mommy Inspired Design or a playful Baby Inspired Design, wear it proudly!  Even after your nursing relationship has ended, your necklace can serve as a special reminder of that time you two shared.  Good luck on your search! 

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Comments

[Kelly]

Where did your nursing necklace come from? I love it!

[Eco Friendly Tara]

Nursing necklaces are great especially for the new breastfeeding mommy. I was given one with my 2nd child, which was my first time breastfeeding and It came in very handy with my hair pulling little girl! Now, nursing my 4th baby, he also seems to love the bright necklace!

[tanya@motherwearblog]

Kelly,

Thanks! I got it off eBay, probably 4 years ago. It's a Picasso which I love.

- Tanya

[onetinkerbell]

I'd never heard of or thought of this when I had Maeve almost 8 years ago, but then again I didn't need one - she used to stroke my breast while she nursed. She never pulled hair or pinched. I wish I'd had a nursing necklace with Gwyneth, though - she pinches! I'm definitely going to get one for the next baby (whenever that might be).

[Hobo Mama]

I'm tired of having my baby draw blood with his sharp little claws. :P I need to get one of these! Thanks for the tips. I love beading and would love to make my own but worry about the safety thing, since I've had many a selfmade necklace break apart on me (without being pulled by an 8-month-old!). So I think I'll have to buy one from someone with a track record. Did you wear yours all the time or keep it handy somehow for when you needed it? I'm thinking Mommy-inspired is better if it's a constant accessory.

[Jen]

Wonderful post! As someone who makes breastfeeding jewelry (Baby Friendly Beads) it's always encouraging to see folks talking about nursing necklaces. Great ideas and tips here. Thanks!