How Long to Breastfeed: A Guide to Milestones and Wardrobe
Breastfeeding is a unique journey for every mother, with the duration varying depending on medical recommendations and your personal needs. The question "How long should I breastfeed?" calls for a personalized approach that takes into account both medical advice and your practical daily needs.
At 23 Mai Paris, we support moms every step of the way during their breastfeeding journey. This guide helps you understand the different stages and adapt your wardrobe accordingly, making it a smart, long-lasting investment.
For more information, see our article Breastfeeding: 20 tips for enjoying this journey with peace of mind.
Official recommendations on the duration of breastfeeding
Before we talk about clothing, let’s take a look at the guidelines provided by healthcare professionals.
What the experts say:
| Organization | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| WHO (World Health Organization) | Exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months, then a combination of breastfeeding and formula until at least 2 years of age |
| HAS (French National Authority for Health) | Exclusive breastfeeding for at least 4 months, ideally 6 months |
| French pediatricians | Require a duration of at least 6 months |
The reality in France:
- Average duration of breastfeeding: about 4 months
- 70% of mothers breastfeed at birth
- 40% are still breastfeeding at 3 months
- 25% at 6 months
Important to remember: These figures are averages. Your journey is unique, and the "right" duration is the one that works for you and your baby.
The key stages of breastfeeding
Step 1: Exclusive breastfeeding (0–6 months)
This is the most intense period. Your baby is feeding exclusively on your milk.
What this means in everyday life:
| Appearance | Reality |
|---|---|
| Frequency of feedings | 8 to 12 a day (sometimes more at first) |
| Duration of feedings | 15 to 45 minutes each |
| Nighttime feedings | Usually 2 to 4 per night |
| Accessibility required | Maximum, at any time |
Your clothing needs:
- Very frequent breastfeeding
- Maximum comfort (you spend a lot of time sitting while breastfeeding)
- Convenience above all (sometimes with one hand, sometimes in the dark)
- Soft materials for contact with baby
Discover our Breastfeeding t-shirts for available slots during this busy period.
Step 2: Mixed feeding and introducing solid foods (6–12 months)
The baby is starting to eat solid foods, but milk is still important.
What this means in everyday life:
| Appearance | Reality |
|---|---|
| Frequency of feedings | 4 to 6 a day |
| Nighttime feedings | 1 to 2 per night (varies) |
| Key moments | Morning, before naps, evening, night |
| Accessibility required | Important, but more predictable |
Your clothing needs:
- Access is still necessary, but less urgent
- Option for more formal attire (often required for work)
- Versatility for switching between home, outings, and work
Step 3: Extended breastfeeding (12–24 months and beyond)
The baby eats like a big kid, but breastfeeding is still a time for comfort and bonding.
What this means in everyday life:
| Appearance | Reality |
|---|---|
| Frequency of feedings | 2 to 4 a day |
| Key moments | Morning, evening, night, comfort |
| Accessibility required | On-demand, often at home |
Your clothing needs:
- Just a few nursing pads are all you need
- Can be paired with classic clothing
- Versatile pieces that can still be used after weaning
Step 4: Gradual weaning
The transition to weaning, at your own pace.
What this means:
- Gradual reduction in feedings
- Often, the evening and nighttime feedings are the last ones
- An emotional transition for mom and baby
Your clothing needs:
- Keep 1–2 breast milk storage bags on hand for the last feedings of the day
- Transition to a classic wardrobe
Adjusting your wardrobe based on how long you plan to breastfeed
Planning ahead for your goals helps you invest wisely. Here are our recommendations based on your project.
Short-term breastfeeding plan (3–6 months)
Recommended number of pieces: 5–7
| Room type | Quantity | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding t-shirts | 3–4 | Daily basis |
| Breastfeeding pyjamas | 1 | Nighttime feedings |
| Sweatshirt or cardigan | 1-2 | Versatility |
Purchasing strategy:
- Opt for timeless basics (black, white, gray)
- Choose styles that will still look good after weaning
- Choose affordable prices
After weaning: Tops with subtle cutouts, wrap tops, and cardigans remain perfectly wearable as everyday clothing.
To find out exactly how many pieces to buy, check out our article How many nursing clothes do you really need?
Standard breastfeeding plan (6–12 months)
Recommended number of pieces: 8–12
| Room type | Quantity | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding t-shirts | 4–5 | Smooth rotation |
| Dressy tops (blouses) | 1-2 | Returning to work, going out |
| Sweatshirt/sweater | 2 | Mid-season, winter |
| Breastfeeding pyjamas | 1-2 | Nights |
| Breastfeeding dress | 1 | Used Items |
Purchasing strategy:
- Invest in quality (these parts will last a long time)
- Plan for seasonal fluctuations
- Mix basics with dressier pieces
As you return to work, check out our nursing tops discreet and elegant.
Extended Breastfeeding Program (12–24 months and older)
Recommended number of pieces: 10–15
| Room type | Quantity | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding t-shirts | 4–5 | Sustainable foundation |
| Dressy tops | 2–3 | Versatility |
| Sweatshirts/sweaters | 2–3 | All seasons |
| Breastfeeding pyjamas | 2 | Rotation |
| Breastfeeding dresses | 1-2 | Specials, Summer |
Purchasing strategy:
- Invest in high-quality, durable items
- At 23 Mai Paris, our collections are designed for extended breastfeeding, featuring durable fabrics and adjustable styles
- Plan for all seasons (you’ll experience at least two summers and two winters)
Discover also our nursing sweatshirts comfortable and durable.
The smart calculation: An investment of €400–600 for 15 high-quality pieces over 24 months = €17–25 per month. That’s less than a traditional wardrobe that’s regularly updated.
The transition to weaning: updating your wardrobe
Gradually phase out nursing clothes
| Weaning phase | Feedings per day | Essential nursing clothes |
|---|---|---|
| Start of weaning | 3–4 | Complete wardrobe |
| Weaning in progress | 2–3 | 3–5 pieces are enough |
| End of weaning | 1–2 (usually in the evening or at night) | 1-2-piece set + pajamas |
| Post-weaning | 0 | Your pieces become timeless classics |
Songs that stick with you after you've moved on
Some nursing clothes can still be worn perfectly well afterward:
For more information, see our article Mom, but not just that: Finding Your Place as a Woman After Having a Baby.
| Room type | Usability after weaning |
|---|---|
| Wrap top | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Timeless, feminine |
| Wrap dress | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stylish, versatile |
| Long cardigan | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Versatile |
| T-shirt with subtle cutouts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Not very visible |
| Sweatshirt with side zipper | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Casual style |
| Flowy blouse | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ If invisible openings |
Testimonials: Different Durations, Different Approaches
Shortened breastfeeding: Don't regret the effort you put in
Marine, Léa's mom:
"I had to stop breastfeeding at two months for medical reasons. I had bought five pieces from 23 Mai Paris. Thanks to their timeless designs, I still wear them today as classic tops. The wrap top has become my favorite staple."
The bottom line: Even if you breastfeed for only a short time, your investment won't go to waste if you choose versatile pieces.
Moderate breastfeeding: finding the right balance
Camille, Louis's mom:
"I breastfed for 8 months. I had planned to buy 10 pieces, and that was just right. I was able to mix up my outfits between staying at home and going back to work at 4 months. My nursing blouses went completely unnoticed at the office."
Key takeaway: Having a few dressy outfits ready from the start makes it easier to return to work.
Extended breastfeeding: getting the most out of your investment
Sophie, Théo's mom:
"I breastfed for 18 months using the same growing wardrobe. I invested in quality pieces from the start, and they saw me through every stage, from birth to weaning. In the end, the cost per month was very reasonable."
The takeaway: Quality pays off in the long run.
Summary table: Investment based on your project
| Estimated duration | Number of pieces | Estimated budget | Cost per month |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3–6 months | 5–7 | €150–250 | €25–50 |
| 6–12 months | 8–12 | €300–€450 | €25–€45 |
| 12–24 months | 10–15 | €400–€600 | €17–30 |
| 24 months and older | 12–15 | €500–€700 | <20€ |
Note: The longer the breastfeeding period, the lower the monthly cost. Quality then becomes a cost-effective choice.
Conclusion
How long you breastfeed is a personal choice, and there’s no one “right” answer. Whether you breastfeed for 3 months or 3 years, the important thing is that it works for you and your baby.
By planning your wardrobe in advance based on your breastfeeding plans, you’re making a smart investment in pieces that will truly stand the test of time. At 23 Mai Paris, we create nursing clothes designed to last and stay looking great even after weaning. Because a thoughtful approach maximizes comfort, style, and value.
Browse our nursing wear collection and find the pieces that will accompany you on your journey.
