Relieving sore nipples during breastfeeding by letting them dry between feedings.

Sore nipples are a common snag in the early days of breastfeeding. If you’re supporting a mom who’s navigating those first weeks, one clear, practical tip keeps showing up: let the nipples dry between feedings. It sounds simple, but the impact can be big. Let me unpack why this works and how you can weave it into real-life care.

What makes nipples sore in the first place?

Breastfeeding is nature’s tempo — sometimes smooth, sometimes a little rough on the edges. Soreness often comes from friction, moisture, and skin sensitivity. A baby’s latch, how often the baby feeds, and even the fit of the bra can all matter. When skin gets irritated and stays damp, it’s easier for the area to stay inflamed. That moisture can soften the skin too much or trap bacteria and fungi, leading to more discomfort or even infections if the skin doesn’t get a chance to recover. So, the most immediate relief often comes from something as simple as letting the skin breathe.

Letting nipples dry between feedings: the main idea

Here’s the thing: air exposure is healing. By giving the nipple skin time to dry after a feed, you reduce the ongoing moisture and friction that keep irritation alive. Think of it as giving the skin a pause button so its natural healing processes can catch up. It doesn’t replace a good latch or a comfortable session at the breast; it complements them. When the skin has a chance to dry, it’s less likely to blister, chafe, or become overly tender.

How to do it in everyday care

• After a feeding, gently pat the breast dry with a clean cloth or let it air dry for a minute or two. There’s no need to rub or scrub; you’re aiming for calm air exposure.

• If a mom leaks between feeds, consider breathable options that don’t trap moisture. In many cases, letting the skin air out during short breaks helps more than keeping pads in place 24/7.

• Avoid soaps and harsh cleansers on the nipples. They can strip away the skin’s natural oils and make healing slower. A simple rinse with warm water is usually enough if cleansing is needed.

• If discomfort is high, a thin layer of expressed breast milk can be used to moisturize, then air-dry. It’s natural and gentle, and many moms appreciate using what’s already at hand.

• When air-drying isn’t practical between feeds (for example, during a crowded night shift or a long drive), ensure the skin isn’t kept constantly wet. Quick breaks to dry, even for a minute, can still make a difference.

Why this approach matters beyond just comfort

• It supports the skin’s barrier. The outer layer of skin acts like a shield. Dry air helps that shield stay intact and resilient.

• It avoids a feedback loop of irritation. Damp skin plus friction can perpetuate soreness. By breaking that loop, healing can progress more steadily.

• It complements latch and positional strategies. No single trick fixes everything, but when moms have both a comfortable latch and time for the skin to dry, soreness often decreases.

How this interacts with other strategies

• Regular breastfeeding with good latch is essential for milk supply and for efficient feeding, but it doesn’t automatically address soreness. You can have a great latch and still deal with irritated nipples if the skin isn’t given a chance to dry out.

• Changing breastfeeding positions is useful to redistribute pressure and reduce friction on any one spot. It helps prevent new sore areas from forming, but again, once soreness exists, drying between feeds becomes a priority.

• Breast pads are handy for leakage and discreetness, yet they trap moisture unless you’re mindful of air exposure. If pads are used, give the nipples a quick dry when feasible and choose breathable, skin-friendly options.

• If soreness isn’t improving after a day or two, or if unusual redness, warmth, or burning appears, that can signal an infection or thrush. In those cases, a healthcare provider can offer guidance, and a doula’s support can help a family navigate the next steps with confidence.

What to tell families you’re supporting

• Normalize soreness, then normalize relief steps. A lot of new parents think discomfort is just part of breastfeeding. It’s not inevitable, and relief is often within reach.

• Emphasize balance. Comfort comes from a mix of latch quality, baby positioning, and letting the skin dry. It’s not about one trick; it’s about coordinated care.

• Offer practical cues. For example: “After a feeding, try to give the nipple a moment to air-dry. If you’re leaking, switch to a breathable pad and keep the skin dry between feeds.” Short, concrete tips are easier to remember than long explanations.

• Respect rhythm and preference. Some families prefer more structured routines, others want flexible, on-the-go care. Meet them where they are and adjust as needed.

A few gentle digressions you’ll likely hear

• Many moms notice that nighttime feeds feel harsher because they’re often tired and shorter on air time for changing positions. In those moments, a quick air-dry between feeds can be especially valuable as a simple, soothing routine.

• Some moms try a tiny amount of lanolin-free nipple balm to reduce friction, but the balm should never be a replacement for letting the skin dry. If a balm is used, check that it is compatible with breast milk feeding and won’t create a barrier that traps moisture.

• It’s okay to experiment a little. If drying between feeds isn’t feasible in a particular stretch (think long road trips or hospital stays), focus on optimizing latch and ensuring comfortable positioning so friction is minimized during feeds, and then make time for air exposure when you can.

Signs it’s time to seek a clinician’s eyes

• If soreness persists despite drying efforts for more than 24 to 48 hours.

• If the skin becomes cracked, bleeds, or there’s a fever, redness spreading away from the nipple, or a painful, burning sensation that doesn’t ease.

• If you notice white patches in the baby’s mouth (possible thrush) or pain during nursing that doesn’t improve with the usual adjustments.

• In any of these cases, a clinician or lactation consultant can provide targeted guidance and, if needed, treatment.

What this means for you as a guide or supporter

• The core message to convey is practical and hopeful: let the nipples dry between feeds to support healing, while continuing to prioritize comfortable latch and gentle, adaptable care.

• You’ll be a steady, calm presence. Families often feel overwhelmed in those early weeks; simple, actionable steps paired with reassurance make a big difference.

• Keep a little toolkit handy in your conversations. Quick reminders about air-drying, breathable leakage options, and when to seek help make your guidance easy to recall.

Closing thoughts

Breastfeeding is a journey with many small choices that add up. Some days are all glow; others are a bit rough around the edges. When you normalize soreness and lift the lid on a clear, soothing remedy like letting the nipples dry between feeds, you give families a practical way to care for themselves and their baby. It’s not about chasing perfection; it’s about finding a rhythm that works, staying flexible, and listening to what the body is telling you.

If you’re supporting someone through this phase, you’re doing valuable work. A steady hand, practical tips, and a touch of empathy can turn a moment of discomfort into a moment of confidence. And as the baby’s milk comes with nourishment and closeness, so too can the care you offer become a comforting part of their story.

Key takeaway: let the nipples dry between feedings. It’s a simple, gentle practice that supports healing and comfort, while you continue to encourage a strong latch, mindful positioning, and attentive, responsive care.