Breastfeeding in Public: Confidence, Calm, and Finding What Works

Breastfeeding in Public: Confidence, Calm, and Finding What Works 

by Elspeth founder of Yummikeys

Breastfeeding is natural, healthy, and legally protected in the UK — yet many mums still feel uneasy about breastfeeding in public. Whether it’s the quick glance from a stranger, the awkward juggle with clothing, or a baby who won’t stay latched, public feeding can feel anything but calm.

I know this feeling well. When my youngest son was a baby, he was what you’d call a “busy feeder.” He loved to feed, but he also loved to look around, grab at things, and pull on and off the breast — usually at the exact moment I was trying to settle in a café or at the park. What should have been a peaceful feed often turned into stress about how much I was revealing and whether anyone was watching.

Why Breastfeeding in Public Feels Hard

For many mums, this is the reality. Babies are curious by nature, especially as they grow. They don’t know that pulling off mid-feed leaves mum feeling exposed. They don’t realise that wriggling or tugging can make us want to rush through the feed rather than relax into it.

The result? Many mums avoid feeding in public, feel anxious when they have to, or cut breastfeeding journeys shorter than planned. Confidence makes all the difference — and sometimes, a small practical change can transform the experience.

My Story: From Frantic to Calm

With my youngest son, feeding in public became overwhelming. Out of sheer necessity, I began searching for breastfeeding accessories that could help. What I really needed was something safe and tactile for his little hands, so his mouth could stay focused on feeding.

That idea became the very first breastfeeding necklace from Yummikeys. Made from stainless steel beads that are completely safe for babies to hold and chew, the necklace gave him something to fiddle with during feeds.

The effect was immediate: instead of popping on and off, he would stroke the cool beads, stay calm, and stay latched. Our feeding sessions — even in public — went from frantic to peaceful.

How a Breastfeeding Necklace Helps

Many mums have since discovered the same benefits. A nursing or feeding necklace can:

• Keep baby’s hands occupied, reducing distractions.
• Encourage a stronger, more consistent latch.
• Increase the duration and length of feeds.
• Help mums feel more comfortable and less exposed.
• Create a soothing, bonding ritual during feeds.

Of course, a necklace isn’t the only solution — some mums prefer feeding covers, special tops, or simply time and confidence. But for me, this simple tool changed everything.

Every Breastfeeding Journey is Unique

It’s important to say: there’s no “right” way to breastfeed in public. Some mums feel comfortable feeding anywhere, anytime. Others prefer privacy. Some use covers, others don’t. Some breastfeed for months, others for years. Every journey is valid, and every mum deserves support.

The key is finding what makes you and your baby feel calm and confident — whether that’s a breastfeeding necklace, a quiet corner, or simply reminding yourself that you have every right to feed your baby wherever you are.

Why We Need to Share These Stories

Too often, mums feel like they’re the only ones struggling. We see serene Instagram posts of public feeds and wonder why our reality feels so much messier. The truth is: most of us face challenges.

That’s why it’s so important to talk about breastfeeding openly, share tips that work, and celebrate tools that help mums feel supported. Sometimes it’s the smallest things — like a necklace designed out of necessity — that give another mum the confidence to keep going.

Finding Calm in the Chaos

Looking back, I realise the necklace was never just about beads and steel. It was about finding calm in the chaos of early motherhood. It was about giving my son a way to focus and giving me the confidence to feed him wherever we were — unapologetically.

So if you’re navigating breastfeeding in public right now, know this: you’re not alone. Whether your baby is calm or curious, whether you cover up or not, whether you breastfeed for three months or three years — your journey matters. And you deserve to feel supported every step of the way.

And if you ever spot a mum feeding in public, offer her a smile. Sometimes that little gesture is all it takes to remind her she’s doing brilliantly.

With thanks to Elspeth from Yummikeys