Should you breastfeed in public? Most mothers know that breastfeeding is the most natural and healthy option for their baby. The problem is that nowadays mothers need to work, shop, take their other children places, and do a thousand other things; it’s hard to always be in a private area when your baby is hungry. Social norms make many women feel wrong feeding their children in public areas, but don’t let this stop you. There are several steps you can take to be discrete about feeding your child. You should also not let people stop you from doing what’s best for your children.
You have every right to breast feed in public. In fact, many areas have laws protecting breastfeeding mothers. However, you should take steps to respect the wishes of others and be discrete. Since many places haven’t yet set aside areas for private breast feeding, you may have to be creative.
Here are some tips for discrete feeding:
- Wear clothing designed for [tag-cat]breastfeeding[/tag-cat]. While they make special clothing just for this purpose, or you can improvise or modify clothes yourself.
- If possible, find a secluded area. If you can find a spare chair, that’s great. A spare dressing room or hidden corner is even better. If you are in a restaurant, you can ask to be seated in a confined area or simply be
seated near a wall and face your back to the crowd. If you can’t find anywhere else, you can always head to your car if you have one. - Use a cover. While many women use [tag-tec]baby blankets[/tag-tec], you can be even more discrete by wearing a jacket or large shawl to cover your baby.
- Practice. While it may seem silly, the best way to learn to breastfeed your child in public is to practice in front of a mirror while feeding at home. Try different positions and different coverings. This will help you know which positions are the best for feeding without showing too much.
- Ask for somewhere private. If you need to breastfeed at work, it’s not unreasonable to ask for somewhere to do it. Many employers would rather you feed in a break room or secluded area rather than in the middle of the
office. You can also look into laws in your area related to workplace breastfeeding.
While it’s normal to want to be respectful of other people, you do have rights. There are certain things you should never do.
- Never feed your baby in a restroom stall. Outer sitting areas in restrooms are fine. They are generally more comfortable for you and your baby; however, the actual restroom is not. Bathrooms are dirty and usually have an unpleasant smell. Adults don’t have to eat in restroom stalls; neither should your child.
- Don’t let people intimidate you. No matter how discrete you are, it’s inevitable that someone will still be offended that you choose to breastfeed. Inform people politely that you have a legal right to feed your baby in public. If you feel inclined, you can also add some of the damaging effects bottle feeding has on [tag-ice]children[/tag-ice]. If you feel uncomfortable saying things to strangers, there are breastfeeding rights groups that can provide you with cards to hand out to people who object.
Breastfeeding may be difficult, especially when you need to be in public, but keep in mind that it’s the best option for having a happy, healthy baby. And if it feels right for you and your baby then trust your instincts.
Is it legal to breastfeed in public?
Yes. Many areas have laws specifically protecting a mother’s right to breastfeed in public spaces. If someone objects, you can politely let them know you have a legal right to feed your baby. Breastfeeding rights groups can provide cards explaining the law that you can hand to anyone who confronts you.
How can I breastfeed in public discreetly?
A few steps make public nursing much easier. Wear clothing designed or modified for breastfeeding. Use a cover — a baby blanket, a large shawl, or a jacket placed over your shoulder all work well. Practice at home in front of a mirror while feeding so you already know which positions and coverings feel most comfortable before you need them out in the world.
Where can I find a private spot to breastfeed when away from home?
Look for a secluded chair, a spare dressing room, or a quiet corner. In a restaurant, ask to be seated near a wall so you can face away from the crowd. At a workplace, ask your employer for a private area such as a break room — many employers prefer this arrangement. If no other option exists, your car is always available.
Should I ever breastfeed my baby in a public restroom stall?
No. Restroom stalls are unsanitary and unpleasant for both you and your baby. Adults don’t eat in bathroom stalls, and there is no reason your baby should have to. An outer sitting area of a restroom can serve as a last resort, but the stall itself is not appropriate for feeding.
About the author
Maya Bennett
Meet Maya Bennett Maya Bennett is a pregnancy and parenting writer and a mom of two. After navigating two very different pregnancies of her own — and years spent reading, researching, and trading stories with other expectant parents — she fell in love with helping families feel ready for what’s ahead. At More4Kids, Maya turns the big questions and quiet worries of pregnancy into warm, practical guidance, from the first positive test through the tender early days with a newborn. She believes every parent-to-be deserves clear answers and a little reassurance along the way.
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