Technically, your breasts and a good supply of milk are all you really need to breastfeed your baby. But to make the process easier on yourself you may want to invest in some basic nursing gear, such as nursing bras, a breast pump, and nipple cream.

Nursing Clothing

If you plan to breastfeed your baby, pick up a couple nursing bras with detachable straps that will help you get easier access to your goods as needed. Look for bras made from 100 percent organic cotton with no underwire.

You don't need a special wardrobe for nursing. Button down shirts, large T-shirts, and tank tops all work well for breastfeeding your baby. Choose shirts made from natural organic fabrics that wick moisture easily and are safe for your baby to rest against.

If you wear your baby in a sling, it will serve double duty as a blanket to cover your breasts during nursing. While it's not necessary that you cover up to nurse, you may feel more comfortable with some extra cover when you breastfeed your baby in public. Keep a spare receiving blanket in your diaper bag to give you and your baby some privacy. Or try the fun nursing cover like the Hooter Hider from Bebe au Lait (www.bebeaulait.com).

Breast Pumps

A breast pump allows you to pump your breast milk either to relieve engorgement or to store your breast milk for later feedings. A breast pump can be a costly expense, but if you plan on offering your baby breast milk it a bottle frequently, it may be a wise investment. Alternatively, you can borrow or rent a breast pump from your hospital or birthing center. Most offer both electric and hand pump models.

Nursing Pads and Nipple Creams

Nursing pads come in disposable or reusable varieties. The reusable ones are often made of cotton and are very absorbent. They can be washed and reused just like cloth diapers. Disposable pads, on the other hand, are made from bleached paper products and are generally not as soft as the fabric pads. In your baby's first few weeks, you will probably use nursing pads regularly to absorb leakage as your breasts adjust to your baby's changing needs. But as you and your baby establish a regular nursing routine, you may only need nursing pads at night, if at all.

You may also notice that your nipples become dry, cracked, and sore when you first start breastfeeding. Use a quality nipple cream such as Lasinoh Lanolin by Ameda, which is a safe, nontoxic cream that you can use to soothe aching nipples.