If you are breastfeeding and you start to feel sore, cracked or just plain tired on your nipples, you are not alone. Almost every mom goes through that stage and that is where silverettes come in. These tiny silver cups have become a favorite among breastfeeding moms because they help soothe and protect your nipples while they heal. In this write up, I will break down exactly how to use them, why they work, and a few pro tips I wish I had known earlier.
What Are Silverettes?
Silverettes are small pure silver cups in the shape of dome. They are placed over the nipples between feedings. You should think of them like a little silver shields that protects your skin from rubbing up against your shirt or bra.
Naturally, silver has antibacterial and healing properties that help prevent infection and at the same time promotes faster healing. As a mom when I used it, I noticed less pain and few cracks with a few days of using them. They are reusable, easy to clean, and has no chemical in them. Just smooth and science.
Why I Use Silverettes?
During the first few weeks after you have given birth, your nipples actually go through a lot. They can become sore easily due to tight bras, latching problems, and cluster feeding. Silverettes acts like a barrier they give your skin time to recover and breath.
The are perfect for:
- Cracked or bleeding nipples
- Sensitive skin
- Preventing friction from clothing Even if your nipples are fine now, using Silverettes early can help prevent soreness later.
How to Get Started
1. Clean Them First
When you are about to use it for the first time, make sure you sterilize your Silverettes. Run them through a steam sterilizer or boil in water for about 5 minutes. After you are done, use a clean towel to dry it. No need to add soap when it is bein use for the first time.
2. Prepare Before You Wear
When you are ready to wear them, a few drops of breast milk should be manually poured into each cup. That milk serves as a natural healing lotion. Then gently place the cup over your nipple the hollow side faces in, of course.
3. Keep Them Comfortably Secure
You do not need any suction or tape. All you have to do is wear a soft nursing bra or tank top to hold them place. They should feel snug but not tight. If they pinch or leave marks, loosen your bra or check your size.
When and How Long Should I Wear Them?
The truth is you can wear it as long as you want if you are comfortable in them. You can wear Silverettes anytime between feeding. When I was lactating, I use to wear them all day but some lactating mothers will prefer a few hours either way works fine. The key is how consistent you are. The longer the nipples are protected, the faster they can heal. Make sure you always remove them before pumping or nursing, then rinse, dry, and reapply afterward. It becomes second nature after a day or two.
Tip: if you leak milk often, slip a breast pad outside the Silverette (never inside), so the silver stays against your skin.
How to Clean Silverettes
Cleaning it is easy. After using it for a few times, rinse the cup in warm water and with a mild soap, then pat them to dry. Doing it at least once a day, gives them more thorough clean. When they start to appear dull or tarnished, make a quick polish by mixing a drop of water and a pinch of baking soda, rubbing gently, then thoroughly washing and drying them. Avoid harsh cleaners or scrubbing pads they will scratch the silver and make it less comfortable.
When you are using them, store them in a clean, dry place (most brands include a small pouch).
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Keep it simple: Do not add creams or ointments inside the cups. They can react with silver and reduce its benefits.
- Stay consistent: Wear them regularly for the first week. Many moms notice a difference within 48 to 72 hours.
- Avoid pressure: If your bra is too tight, the cups might dig in. Loosen it up or wear a soft cotton one.
- Take breaks if needed: If your nipples feel better or you want some air time, remove the cups for a while there is no strict schedule.
Common Mistakes you Should Avoid
- Wearing them over nipple cream: This can tarnish the silver and trap moisture, leading to irritation.
- Forgetting to clean them: Even though silver is antibacterial, milk residue can still build up.
- Ignoring ongoing pain: If your nipples still hurt after several days, talk to a lactation consultant. Silverettes help heal, but they can’t fix a poor latch.
Real Mom Experiences
I have seen countless moms wear these little sups. One new mom told me she started using them on day two after she gave birth. By day five, her cracks had healed, and she could breastfeed pain free again. Another mom said she used them preventively and never developed soreness at all.
One thing you should know is, not everyone will have the same experience. If your pain is caused by an improper latch or an infection, Silverettes can help relieve symptoms, but you will still need to fix it by finding the root of what is causing the infection.Still, most moms agree they make a huge difference in comfort and confidence while breastfeeding.
When to Stop Using Them
There is not exact time limit to it. You can stop once you feel your nipples feel healed and comfortable, or continue as long as you like. Some moms keeps using them for months and others during their early weeks. If you notice redness or pressure marks, take a break or check your health. And if you have clogged ducts, skip them until the swelling eases they can feel tight in that case.
Final Thoughts
Take it from a mom who has been there breastfeeding is beautiful, but it is not always easy. Some days your nipples feel like they are on fire, and that is okay. Silverettes were a total game-changer for me. These little silver cups gave my skin a chance to heal and let me keep nursing without tears.
They are simple, natural, and honestly, worth every penny. If your nipples are sore or you just want to stay ahead of the pain, give Silverettes a try. They may be small, but the relief they bring feels huge.
FAQs
1. Do Silverettes really work?
Yes! Many moms report reduced pain and faster healing within days. Their antibacterial properties protect your skin and promote recovery.
2. Can I sleep with them on?
You can, as long as your bra isn’t tight. If they feel uncomfortable at night, just remove them.
3. Do I still need nipple cream?
Not usually. A few drops of breast milk in each cup are all you need—it’s nature’s best moisturizer.
4. Can I use them from day one?
Absolutely! Using them early can prevent soreness before it even starts.
5 .Will they last through multiple babies?
Yes! With proper care, one pair can last for years.
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