Previously only included in our Find Your Flow Feeding Kit, this must-have breast care essential is now available on its own.

Nursing moms have a lot in common: Dizzying feeding and nap schedules; wondering which top will avoid a logistical clothing nightmare; and of course, how to best care for their breasts, which can sometimes feel like a job of its own––and when we need relief, we need it now.

Plugged ducts and engorgement are most common in the four to six weeks following birth, which is also how long it can take to fully establish breast milk supply. Hot & Cold Breast Packs provide quick, much-needed relief from engorgement, sore nipples and other discomforts, but they can also gently encourage letdown.

Whether you’re weaning or establishing your feeding routine, discomfort can arise at any time on your feeding journey. Be prepared with the soothing, in-bra, breast care solution that will not only make feeding more comfortable, but will also help you maintain your supply and set you up for long-term feeding success or help you wean safely and comfortably.

When and how to use

Willow Hot & Cold Therapy Packs are designed to wrap around the breast for full coverage and maximum relief. Colors will change to indicate temperature: white to indicate warmth, which encourages letdown, and purple to indicate cool, which provides relief from pain, swelling, and engorgement.

What to know about cold usage

• Prep packs by placing them in the freezer for at least four hours; you’ll know they’re ready to go when they turn purple 

• Before use, slide the packs into their covers to ensure there's a barrier between the cold surface and your skin. For added convenience, using them with a bra will help keep them securely in place during your session

• Limit each session to a maximum of 20 minutes for the well-being of your skin

What to know about heat usage

• Prep packs by microwaving them or putting them in boiling water. If warming in the microwave, heat each pack individually 

• You'll know they're ready when they turn white, but the following is a general guide to follow:

• 700-watt microwaves: 16 seconds

• 1,000-watt microwaves: 13 seconds

• 1,250-watt microwaves: 11 seconds

Other important details

While Willow's Hot & Cold Therapy Packs are fantastic allies in your breastfeeding or pumping journey, it's crucial to follow a few guidelines for optimal and safe use:

• Avoid overheating by limiting microwave sessions to a total of 20 seconds––it's the sweet spot for warmth without risking damage to the pack

• Always test the pack before direct skin contact to ensure it's at a safe temperature for your skin. Safety first!

• Whether you’re using the packs warm or cold, keep your sessions within a 20-minute window. It's a golden rule to prevent any unwanted injuries

• If you have sensitive skin, skin insensitivity (numbness), or any open wounds in the breast area, it's best to steer clear of these packs. Be sure to consult your doctor or health care professional with any additional questions related to skin concerns

• If you experience extreme or chronic pain, develop a fever, or have worsening symptoms, discontinue use and reach out to your doctor or healthcare professional

The best breast care combos

As mentioned, breast care is practically a full-time job in the early days, and there should be no shortage of tools in the toolbox! We have an entire collection of breast care items to give all nursing and pumping moms a multitude of comfortable options. Moms especially love Soothing Silver Nursing Cups to use between nursing and pumping sessions, and our Find Your Flow Feeding Kit is the ultimate breast care essential for all nursing moms.

The end goal: comfort

We know from research (and firsthand experience!) that painful pumping and nursing is not only detrimental to milk flow, but it’s also one of the quickest ways that moms cut their feeding journeys short. While, as moms, we’d do anything for our children, it’s bad for everyone involved if our breasts and nipples are not healthy enough to finish a comfortable feed––especially if it leads to mastitis. Willow Hot & Cold Therapy Packs are just one of the many solutions for self care in the days of nursing and pumping, and we’re committed to helping you find that perfect flow.